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Mystical Markings #1
The Things We Find
Some things are better left alone
Dane Jones works from home with only his three dogs for company. When he stumbles onto a social media page about urban exploring, he’s curious about different sites around Sacramento that look like they’d be interesting to investigate. He starts chatting with Griff Warren, and after a few conversations he’s even more excited to go.
Griff Warren has been to a few deserted places with a friend from work and his small group of urban explorers. But he’s never gone alone, and the guy he’s been chatting with is so enthusiastic to go, it’s contagious. They plan to go to a warehouse and while there, experience something they can’t explain.
Dane and Griff were looking for an adventure, but they find more than they bargained for at a deserted farmhouse on the river. When Dane finds an old toy discarded in one of the rooms, both of them are thrown into a world neither understands. Full of cursed objects, strange markings, and powers, neither knows how to handle. Lucky for them, Griff’s Friend knows exactly who can help. #MMParanormal, #UrbanFantasy #Friendstolovers
Dane Jones works from home with only his three dogs for company. When he stumbles onto a social media page about urban exploring, he’s curious about different sites around Sacramento that look like they’d be interesting to investigate. He starts chatting with Griff Warren, and after a few conversations he’s even more excited to go.
Griff Warren has been to a few deserted places with a friend from work and his small group of urban explorers. But he’s never gone alone, and the guy he’s been chatting with is so enthusiastic to go, it’s contagious. They plan to go to a warehouse and while there, experience something they can’t explain.
Dane and Griff were looking for an adventure, but they find more than they bargained for at a deserted farmhouse on the river. When Dane finds an old toy discarded in one of the rooms, both of them are thrown into a world neither understands. Full of cursed objects, strange markings, and powers, neither knows how to handle. Lucky for them, Griff’s Friend knows exactly who can help. #MMParanormal, #UrbanFantasy #Friendstolovers
166 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2022
39 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
October 6, 2024
I am so conflicted about how to rate this book!
On one hand - the narration was absolutely *terrible*. Teeth gratingly awful - the voices for the side character Sofia was shrill and shrieky and weird. The intonations were odd. The pacing was odd. Also, the book had some pretty extreme instalove going on, without the normal info that makes me believe that more.
AND YET.
The setting and plot were *awesome*. I want more urban exploration books. I could have done with more descriptions of the scenery, it kinda sounds like maybe the author watched some videos about urban exploration and then wrote the book? But still. Super fun. And at the end of the audio, when audible played the first chapter of the next book - I was still hooked and am very tempted to buy it and read it.
All in all, giving this 3 very confused stars.
On one hand - the narration was absolutely *terrible*. Teeth gratingly awful - the voices for the side character Sofia was shrill and shrieky and weird. The intonations were odd. The pacing was odd. Also, the book had some pretty extreme instalove going on, without the normal info that makes me believe that more.
AND YET.
The setting and plot were *awesome*. I want more urban exploration books. I could have done with more descriptions of the scenery, it kinda sounds like maybe the author watched some videos about urban exploration and then wrote the book? But still. Super fun. And at the end of the audio, when audible played the first chapter of the next book - I was still hooked and am very tempted to buy it and read it.
All in all, giving this 3 very confused stars.
October 5, 2022
Exploration for the Bold of Heart . . .
Dane Jones and Griff Warren meet online and but their attraction can even be felt there before they meet in person. Urban exploration fascinated Dane, and he gets Griff excited about the prospect as well. The two of them end up, however, in something beyond their expectations when the supernatural takes over and invades their lives.
Exploring a huge warehouse and later an “empty” old farmhouse where the discovery of a toy increases the tension and will put the readers on the edge of their seats. With cursed objects and magic around them, they have no idea how to respond nor escape. Does Sophia know anything about what is happening? Why do Sophia and Dane have some kind of alleged protection marks on them? Can they find a way out of this place (hopefully alive)? Can Janis offer them some insight about the veil and what has been happening to them?
It’s a good thing there were humorous parts to tone down the creepy tension that starts to give the reader goosebumps. Having a good imagination (in a reader) isn’t always “fun” when a book is written well with awesome descriptions that put you into the story itself, so the timely breaks were helpful.
Dane Jones and Griff Warren meet online and but their attraction can even be felt there before they meet in person. Urban exploration fascinated Dane, and he gets Griff excited about the prospect as well. The two of them end up, however, in something beyond their expectations when the supernatural takes over and invades their lives.
Exploring a huge warehouse and later an “empty” old farmhouse where the discovery of a toy increases the tension and will put the readers on the edge of their seats. With cursed objects and magic around them, they have no idea how to respond nor escape. Does Sophia know anything about what is happening? Why do Sophia and Dane have some kind of alleged protection marks on them? Can they find a way out of this place (hopefully alive)? Can Janis offer them some insight about the veil and what has been happening to them?
It’s a good thing there were humorous parts to tone down the creepy tension that starts to give the reader goosebumps. Having a good imagination (in a reader) isn’t always “fun” when a book is written well with awesome descriptions that put you into the story itself, so the timely breaks were helpful.
October 9, 2022
“Dane and Griff were looking for an adventure, but they find more than they bargained for at a deserted farmhouse on the river. When Dane finds an old toy discarded in one of the rooms, both of them are thrown into a world neither understands.“
Really enjoyed this story! Dane and Griff were well written characters. They both meet in an online forum dedicated to exploring old abandoned urban buildings.
They meet in person for the first time exploring an old factory that’s relatively safe. There’s underlying flirting and banter while exploring. Until they have a creepy experience that have them running. They next meet in agree to meet in person to visit an old house. This is where the story really picks up and Dane learns something about himself. Only after enduring a freaky experience.
The plot was well done. The pacing was wonderful. The chemistry build up between Dane and Griff was on point. Definitely looking forward to reading more about Dane and Griff and this new reality they’ve been thrown into.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2022
This is the first book in this new series and let me tell you, it sucked me in from the very beginning.
Dane and Griff know nothing of the paranormal nor do they want to. Unfortunately for them, they're not going to have much of a choice. They're lives are about to change in a real scary way.
This book catches your attention from the very start and keeps you intrigue. Dane and Griff's characters are great (even though they are rather clue list) and story line flows smoothly.
Great beginning to a new series. Really looking forward to the next book in this series.
I've received a ARC of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily leave my honest review.
Dane and Griff know nothing of the paranormal nor do they want to. Unfortunately for them, they're not going to have much of a choice. They're lives are about to change in a real scary way.
This book catches your attention from the very start and keeps you intrigue. Dane and Griff's characters are great (even though they are rather clue list) and story line flows smoothly.
Great beginning to a new series. Really looking forward to the next book in this series.
I've received a ARC of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily leave my honest review.
September 30, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 👻stars . An intriguing start to the book and its noted this is in Griff's pov for their story.
Dane's excited to go exploring when he'd found an urban explores group and starts to chat with Griff.
Griff 47 was a welder and nervous about wearied things happening.
Exploring an abandoned warehouse as simple right..... nope. But they still want to explore more.
They find an abandoned farm and Dane is in real danger.
A great book to read with adventure and the occasional ghosties. This is a similar to the authors other Valley Ghost Series which I really liked too. A great HEA ending.
I received an GRP advance reader copy and this is my honest thoughts.
Dane's excited to go exploring when he'd found an urban explores group and starts to chat with Griff.
Griff 47 was a welder and nervous about wearied things happening.
Exploring an abandoned warehouse as simple right..... nope. But they still want to explore more.
They find an abandoned farm and Dane is in real danger.
A great book to read with adventure and the occasional ghosties. This is a similar to the authors other Valley Ghost Series which I really liked too. A great HEA ending.
I received an GRP advance reader copy and this is my honest thoughts.
March 6, 2023
Intriguing story - looking forward to more!
October 5, 2022
Some interesting ideas didn't quite pan out for me in this latest story by Maxwell.
The setup of the story was interesting, with Dane and Griff meeting through a shared interest in urban exploring. However, when the two start exploring they run into some paranormal events almost immediately. From there, the two find themselves faced with even more horrifying events with the assistance of some friends of Griff (who know a bit more about paranormal events than they first let on).
The introduction of Griff's friend and his associates seemed a bit forced - it just seemed as if it could have been handled better. For one, it was several characters introduced very quickly and somewhat difficult to follow in a shorter story. I did find the character of Sophia interesting, though, even if there are some red herrings regarding her that didn't serve any useful cause, in my opinion. And being somewhat short, I felt the story lacked a bit in the character development department - some facts regarding Dane and Griff's histories are touched upon briefly but I felt there was a missed opportunity to care deeply about the characters and their situations as opposed to being merely intrigued but not completely invested.
Not having Dane's point of view didn't help the story either, in my opinion. His point of view would have definitely helped illuminate some of the backstory.
I'm curious to see where Maxwell goes with this crew since there's some interesting potential for future paranormal encounters. I just hope there's a bit more character development since the situation is set up, now.
The setup of the story was interesting, with Dane and Griff meeting through a shared interest in urban exploring. However, when the two start exploring they run into some paranormal events almost immediately. From there, the two find themselves faced with even more horrifying events with the assistance of some friends of Griff (who know a bit more about paranormal events than they first let on).
The introduction of Griff's friend and his associates seemed a bit forced - it just seemed as if it could have been handled better. For one, it was several characters introduced very quickly and somewhat difficult to follow in a shorter story. I did find the character of Sophia interesting, though, even if there are some red herrings regarding her that didn't serve any useful cause, in my opinion. And being somewhat short, I felt the story lacked a bit in the character development department - some facts regarding Dane and Griff's histories are touched upon briefly but I felt there was a missed opportunity to care deeply about the characters and their situations as opposed to being merely intrigued but not completely invested.
Not having Dane's point of view didn't help the story either, in my opinion. His point of view would have definitely helped illuminate some of the backstory.
I'm curious to see where Maxwell goes with this crew since there's some interesting potential for future paranormal encounters. I just hope there's a bit more character development since the situation is set up, now.
September 23, 2022
This story sucked me in right from the word, Go. It may be the first in the series, but it certainly starts it off in style.
Dane and Griff are oblivious to the paranormal world that lives right alongside their own. For all their differences, they are definitely a perfect match. Their back and forth chemistry hooks you in and keeps you on the edge of your seat while simultaneously wanting to shake them both for their cluelessness at times.
In a whirl of events that neither of them are able to control, they are thrust into this unknown world without a choice. Things are getting very real, and very scary for them. The mystery and intrigue of the storyline had me transfixed right to the last page.
I'm excited to see where we are taken next in the second book in the series.
Dane and Griff are oblivious to the paranormal world that lives right alongside their own. For all their differences, they are definitely a perfect match. Their back and forth chemistry hooks you in and keeps you on the edge of your seat while simultaneously wanting to shake them both for their cluelessness at times.
In a whirl of events that neither of them are able to control, they are thrust into this unknown world without a choice. Things are getting very real, and very scary for them. The mystery and intrigue of the storyline had me transfixed right to the last page.
I'm excited to see where we are taken next in the second book in the series.
September 24, 2022
Loved this. Both Dane and Griff meet on line to go out exploring abandoned buildings. They went to a farmhouse where Dane picked up a cursed item. This is a fast paced book told in Griff’s point of view. Lots of unexplainable things happen and with the help of some of their friends, get a better understanding. If you like the supernatural, this is for you.
I received a copy of this book for my review.
I received a copy of this book for my review.
September 25, 2022
This book is perfect for someone who is interested in the Supernatural or ghost hunting.
Main character Griff teams up with an online friend Dane to go looking around old buildings. It's fun until Dane finds a cursed object and the two men discover a world they didn't know existed.
I found this to be a fast paced story and I was interested by the world and characters the author has introduced. It is a mm romance, but the focus of the story is more on the mysterious and paranormal side.
Main character Griff teams up with an online friend Dane to go looking around old buildings. It's fun until Dane finds a cursed object and the two men discover a world they didn't know existed.
I found this to be a fast paced story and I was interested by the world and characters the author has introduced. It is a mm romance, but the focus of the story is more on the mysterious and paranormal side.
September 25, 2022
This book is creepy, in the best way, and very thrilling. The two romantic m/c’s are really likable now add in their helper bees and you’ve got a great team. Together this group set out on dangerous but so exciting adventures that keep you reading. From beginning to end it keeps you engaged.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 3, 2022
The Things We Find is a wonderful read. A new friendship evolves into more when Dane and Griff encounters more than they bargained for when they go exploring. What ensues are chills and thrills with a little bit of love mixed in. Loved it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 4, 2022
This is a well written book with strong characters and an entertaining storyline. The author does a great job building the story and pulled me in with the paranormal and romance. The scenes are painted perfectly and the story moves fluidly. I enjoyed reading Dane and Griff's story.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
June 11, 2024
DNF 2%. I cannot with this narration. The guy sounds like a failed voice actor for animated Disney flicks. I can’t imagine for a second the author intended for the characters to sound so dopey. I couldn't tell you a thing about the story itself. Nothing computed beyond the terrible Scooby Doo voices.
October 20, 2022
** 3.5 Stars **
October 4, 2022
Interesting but lots of repetition
This was a spooky story that was well-thought out but it just missed the mark for me. I liked the invention and imagination (and the dogs!) but it meandered more than necessary. There was also many times when a character we were led to believe was one thing suddenly revealed more or became more, then again, then again. I can't explain without spoilers but it was unbelievable and annoying because it wasn't organic but as if the author just decided on the spot to change the characters' directions without any planning beforehand.
There was an awful lot of repetition by the two main characters, saying the same things over and over and repeating the same thoughts to the point of distraction for me. You only need a conversation between two peopleto happen once or twice, not multiple times, about the same event and that's enough for the reader to get the idea that they're confused, scared, sceptical etc.
The blurb led me to expect that it would be dual POV but it was actually all from Griff's POV and we never heard from Dane at all. I'm not saying that's wrong but he was first up in the blurb so I was surprised. I would actually have liked Dane's POV because I think the events warranted his voice at some points.
With better execution, this would have been a really good story.
This was a spooky story that was well-thought out but it just missed the mark for me. I liked the invention and imagination (and the dogs!) but it meandered more than necessary. There was also many times when a character we were led to believe was one thing suddenly revealed more or became more, then again, then again. I can't explain without spoilers but it was unbelievable and annoying because it wasn't organic but as if the author just decided on the spot to change the characters' directions without any planning beforehand.
There was an awful lot of repetition by the two main characters, saying the same things over and over and repeating the same thoughts to the point of distraction for me. You only need a conversation between two peopleto happen once or twice, not multiple times, about the same event and that's enough for the reader to get the idea that they're confused, scared, sceptical etc.
The blurb led me to expect that it would be dual POV but it was actually all from Griff's POV and we never heard from Dane at all. I'm not saying that's wrong but he was first up in the blurb so I was surprised. I would actually have liked Dane's POV because I think the events warranted his voice at some points.
With better execution, this would have been a really good story.
April 26, 2024
I enjoyed this story- what I did listen to of it. (DNF) As a watcher of Ghost Adventures and other paranormal shows, I loved the paranormal aspect and exploring abandoned places. Who believes and who doesn't, and how the adventure and experience will (or if?) change the characters.
Unfortunately, I REALLY did not like the narration. Allen Jeffries does have distinguishable voices for the different characters. But my problem was I didn't like any of them! Griff had a rough, raspy voice. While not my favorite, I could stick with it. But the others... Most of them sounded cartoony or like caricatures of characters. As soon as I heard Dane talk, I immediately imagined some nerdy teenager on Scooby Doo. I didn't stick around to get to the romance aspect. But just listening to these voices just gives the whole thing a light-hearted and silly air. I can't imagine listening to love scenes and romance with them. I really did try to push through, but I kept getting distracted by the narration and the tones of voices until I just decided to stop.
I've said in other reviews, a good narrator can elevate a story so much and really bring it to life, but equally a bad one can damage the experience. I think the story is interesting enough that I would read it, but I can't listen to this narrator.
Overall: 3 stars
Performance: 1 stars
Story: 4 stars
Unfortunately, I REALLY did not like the narration. Allen Jeffries does have distinguishable voices for the different characters. But my problem was I didn't like any of them! Griff had a rough, raspy voice. While not my favorite, I could stick with it. But the others... Most of them sounded cartoony or like caricatures of characters. As soon as I heard Dane talk, I immediately imagined some nerdy teenager on Scooby Doo. I didn't stick around to get to the romance aspect. But just listening to these voices just gives the whole thing a light-hearted and silly air. I can't imagine listening to love scenes and romance with them. I really did try to push through, but I kept getting distracted by the narration and the tones of voices until I just decided to stop.
I've said in other reviews, a good narrator can elevate a story so much and really bring it to life, but equally a bad one can damage the experience. I think the story is interesting enough that I would read it, but I can't listen to this narrator.
Overall: 3 stars
Performance: 1 stars
Story: 4 stars
October 10, 2022
I hate to say this, but to be honest this missed the mark a bit for me. I was left with a lot of questions, during and after reading the story. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't bad, not at all. I just felt there were things that seemed to be emphasized in the book, but never acted on. For instance, the author told us several times that the 2 men "fixed their camera's to their chest so they'd be able to record everything while keeping their hands free", but then never, and I mean NEVER, refer to actually viewing the footage that was shot to see what had happened. That just felt odd. That was one of the things that really bugged me, lol.
The timeline also felt rushed and there were a lot of characters introduced very suddenly with, again, so oddities in the story continuation. Personally I felt this story should have been longer, with more of a background story and definitely more relationship building than there was. There were also a few more instances where I wondered about timelines or consistency within the story.
I might be more critical as I've had a fantastic run of great books, but yes, I honestly have to admit that I was disappointed in this one. I don't think it's a 2 star book, but 3 is just a little too generous.
The timeline also felt rushed and there were a lot of characters introduced very suddenly with, again, so oddities in the story continuation. Personally I felt this story should have been longer, with more of a background story and definitely more relationship building than there was. There were also a few more instances where I wondered about timelines or consistency within the story.
I might be more critical as I've had a fantastic run of great books, but yes, I honestly have to admit that I was disappointed in this one. I don't think it's a 2 star book, but 3 is just a little too generous.
September 26, 2022
I wasn’t sure if I would like The Things We Find by B.L. Maxwell when I first started reading. It was more the writing style that put me off but this feeling quickly disappeared as I became involved in the story. The book is only short – roughly 131 pages according to my e reader – but it sucked me in very quickly. What I particularly liked was the atmosphere that the author created. I was nervous enough when Dane and Griff went to the deserted warehouse but when they got to the old house I was actually quite nervous. Don’t get me started on the child’s grave in the cemetery.
I’m happy to see that this book is the beginning of a series as there are so many questions that I want answered. If I hadn’t known that there was a series on the way I would have given the book a lower rating as I wanted more. This is my only complaint, by the way.
I enjoyed the book and I recommend it.
I was given a free copy of The Things We Find in return for an honest review.
I’m happy to see that this book is the beginning of a series as there are so many questions that I want answered. If I hadn’t known that there was a series on the way I would have given the book a lower rating as I wanted more. This is my only complaint, by the way.
I enjoyed the book and I recommend it.
I was given a free copy of The Things We Find in return for an honest review.
September 29, 2022
I love all of the other BL Maxwell ghost books so was very excited to read this one.... I was hooked within the first chapter. Dane and Griff have talked online and will finally meet in person. And it's a meeting they'll never forget when spooky stuff starts happening. But that does not deter them from meeting again and oh boy are we in for a creepy ride full of twists and turns and suspense. But no worries, there are many humorous moments to balance out those eerie moments. The relationship between the MCs is a slow burn but it fits perfectly with the storyline, not feeling dragged out. The secondary characters are also well developed and add to the story. There were so many interesting details about the spiritual world, ghosts/demons, and possession that it kept me captivated from beginning to end.
I really hope this becomes a series, there's so many intriguing things that caught my interest (like possessed tokens) that I really need to know more of and have the MCs explore
I really hope this becomes a series, there's so many intriguing things that caught my interest (like possessed tokens) that I really need to know more of and have the MCs explore
October 4, 2022
4.5 Stars!
Dane and Griff meet online at a group for urban exploring but neither of them imagined that during their investigations they might find something that they couldn't explain or that it would follow them home.
So I'm actually a bit of a wuss with horror movies, but I'm okay reading horror books, thankfully, because this one made me jump a few times. LOL I wouldn't really call it a romance, it's more a paranormal story with romantic and horror subplots and it was a really good one at that.
Dane and Griff were great and I really liked them together. I also liked their friends and I hope this isn't the last we've seen of them.
All in all, an interesting, engaging read that definitely kept my interest. Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Dane and Griff meet online at a group for urban exploring but neither of them imagined that during their investigations they might find something that they couldn't explain or that it would follow them home.
So I'm actually a bit of a wuss with horror movies, but I'm okay reading horror books, thankfully, because this one made me jump a few times. LOL I wouldn't really call it a romance, it's more a paranormal story with romantic and horror subplots and it was a really good one at that.
Dane and Griff were great and I really liked them together. I also liked their friends and I hope this isn't the last we've seen of them.
All in all, an interesting, engaging read that definitely kept my interest. Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
October 8, 2022
This standalone pnr story with a friends to lovers romance intertwined caught me from the first sentence. The tale is completely told from Griff his pov.
I found the quirky angle of urban exploration an original one. The step from virtual preparation and exploration and meeting up in person with Dane for the first time irl was realistic. When they got way more than they bargained for I was fully emerged and did not wantto put the book down to be present in my ' real life'. I was pleasantly surprised about all the developments, especially on the pnr front. Griff and Dane do get their hfn/hea in the end.
I know this is a standalone, but I would love to know more about Sid and his story. I am left intrigued about him.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I found the quirky angle of urban exploration an original one. The step from virtual preparation and exploration and meeting up in person with Dane for the first time irl was realistic. When they got way more than they bargained for I was fully emerged and did not wantto put the book down to be present in my ' real life'. I was pleasantly surprised about all the developments, especially on the pnr front. Griff and Dane do get their hfn/hea in the end.
I know this is a standalone, but I would love to know more about Sid and his story. I am left intrigued about him.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 12, 2022
This was definitely a spooky story that is as geared to Halloween as you can get. Dane and Griff are two men who are pretty settled in their existence. Neither is looking for a relationship but want to add a little excitement to their lives. Exploring Sacramento's old abandoned buildings sounds just the ticket. Griff's work buddy, Sid, gives him some good advise and off they go. How can such an innocent adventure turn out so wrong? Seeing things neither want to see or believe, they try to keep to the script and go on one more adventure. That is when things go really dark and really scary. Their lives change dramatically, new friends are made and a relationship they neither expected or thought they wanted starts to bud into more. If you like a scary story that is perfect for Halloween and you like your hair better standing on end then this is the book for you. Absolutely worth the read.
April 23, 2024
“It doesn’t feel safe to me"
The narrator was new to me and took a little bit of getting used to, he was very OTT. At first it made me feel like I was listening to some old TV show from back in the sixties or maybe like the radio broadcast of 'War of the Worlds'. I got used to it after awhile and it didn't bother me.
This story is by BL Maxwell, it's only the 2nd story I've listened to by her and I enjoyed both of them. I recently finished listening to Green Eyed Boy, so when I saw this one, pop up on Booksprout, I couldn't wait to listen and review.
This was a fast moving story with lots of action. Urban exploring made for a really great storyline and with the added element of cursed/evil objects it kept me on the edge of my seat. I see there's a book 2, just not out on Audible yet, I'll be keeping my eyes peeled for this.
The narrator was new to me and took a little bit of getting used to, he was very OTT. At first it made me feel like I was listening to some old TV show from back in the sixties or maybe like the radio broadcast of 'War of the Worlds'. I got used to it after awhile and it didn't bother me.
This story is by BL Maxwell, it's only the 2nd story I've listened to by her and I enjoyed both of them. I recently finished listening to Green Eyed Boy, so when I saw this one, pop up on Booksprout, I couldn't wait to listen and review.
This was a fast moving story with lots of action. Urban exploring made for a really great storyline and with the added element of cursed/evil objects it kept me on the edge of my seat. I see there's a book 2, just not out on Audible yet, I'll be keeping my eyes peeled for this.
October 7, 2022
I had to keep the lights on to read this. When your gut says run, don't have a discussion, RUN! Griff and Dane are newly acquainted online buddies. Griff, works as a welder. His job, may stoke his curiosity to explore buildings around Sacramento. Griff, works with Sid who is into exploring buildings also. Dane, works from home, and is a 3 dog Dad and a hugger. They go exploring not knowing what to expect, but still curious and suggestible. A few things happen that peak their senses and nudge them down some interesting paths. Will they be able to bravely handle any discoveries? Can they keep open minds? Do their explorations enhance or detract from relationship development? Nicely done. Great scare actor. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 30, 2023
The Things We Find by BL Maxwell really resonated with the teenager still within me, when I was into all things paranormal, using a ouija board and trying to connect with spirits. Although I already believed, I can understand Griff’s practicality and his noninterest in the paranormal or ghostly side to urban exploring. Dane, while being more open to ghosts, does not particularly want to run into them in their first outing together.The newbies run into all kinds of trouble, even in sites others have deemed safe. One thing I enjoyed was seeing characters from the author’s Valley Ghosts series again. While having read the series gives the reader some insights to the crossover characters, The Things We Find can be read as a standalone.
December 27, 2023
I enjoyed the spooky elements in this book, and the ghosts really creep me out.
The book got a bit confusing because a lot of things weren't explained, and we were just left to guess. There were a lot of tell, not show moments, and we really could have done with witnessing them, especially when Sophia explains the paranormal things to Dane.
The relationship happened way too fast, and I didn't feel a connection between them. A lot of time they spent together was missed out, and I think their relationship needed to be fleshed out more. They were exploring together one minute, then together romantically the next.
I will read the next one because the next in the series is also so much better by this author. It is always a miss for the first one and amazing after that!
The book got a bit confusing because a lot of things weren't explained, and we were just left to guess. There were a lot of tell, not show moments, and we really could have done with witnessing them, especially when Sophia explains the paranormal things to Dane.
The relationship happened way too fast, and I didn't feel a connection between them. A lot of time they spent together was missed out, and I think their relationship needed to be fleshed out more. They were exploring together one minute, then together romantically the next.
I will read the next one because the next in the series is also so much better by this author. It is always a miss for the first one and amazing after that!
October 1, 2022
Griff and Dane meet online in a forum that features exploring old buildings or places. On their first adventure they both get freaked out and run. On their second, Dane get possessed by an old toy which leads to even weirder stuff.
I liked that both men were very in tune with each other. Their story seemed to flow together. The crew they gathered for hunting the paranormal was interesting and varied. I liked them too.
A little bit of spooky fun. Short but sweet. Their romance seemed to proceeded at a very fast pace. Loved the dogs. Nice beginning to a new series I hope.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
I liked that both men were very in tune with each other. Their story seemed to flow together. The crew they gathered for hunting the paranormal was interesting and varied. I liked them too.
A little bit of spooky fun. Short but sweet. Their romance seemed to proceeded at a very fast pace. Loved the dogs. Nice beginning to a new series I hope.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
October 19, 2022
I liked The Things We Find by BL Maxwell. I enjoyed Dane and Griff's story. I struggled through the first part of the story. I couldn't figure out why they would want to continue going to the urban decay places after what happened in the first place they went to, and after the second, I would have said hell no. By then, I was invested in the story, not so much in the romantic relationship between Dan and Griff. I didn't believe in that until closer to the end of the story. I'm glad that no animals were hurt or killed during the making of this story. Overall, I enjoyed this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 28, 2022
Griff likes exploring abandon buildings but doesn’t want to do it alone. He met several urban explorers in a chat forum but Dane and him just clicked. They were not into the paranormal aspect as much as just exploring. Their first meeting and exploration freaked them both out due to a heavy thunderstorm. The second exploration ended with Dane being possessed. Griff called Sid his co-worker for help, who called another team for help. This adventure into the paranormal keeps you at the edge of your seat questioning everything.
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