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Diabolical #1
Shadows
Sarah is forced to the edge of sanity by the ghosts of her family's past. Suffering from violent and bloody hallucinations, she seeks the help of psychiatrist and friend Michael Brink.
After being sent to an institution in a catatonic state covered in blood - from stabbing her unfaithful boyfriend - Sarah is forced to confront the truth about her father's death and the demon, Jack, who caused her father's suicide and is now the reason for her horrific hallucinations. Unlike her father, Sarah refuses to kill herself. She bargains for her life and succeeds.
In Sarah's struggle to regain her life and her sanity, she discovers more things to the world than she could ever have imagined and leaves her seeking the answer to the nagging question, "Who is really mad?"
After being sent to an institution in a catatonic state covered in blood - from stabbing her unfaithful boyfriend - Sarah is forced to confront the truth about her father's death and the demon, Jack, who caused her father's suicide and is now the reason for her horrific hallucinations. Unlike her father, Sarah refuses to kill herself. She bargains for her life and succeeds.
In Sarah's struggle to regain her life and her sanity, she discovers more things to the world than she could ever have imagined and leaves her seeking the answer to the nagging question, "Who is really mad?"
Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2008
23 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
About the author
Joan De La Haye
53 books131 followersI write dark and twisted thrillers featuring dangerous women, cold-blooded assassins, and survivors who turn the tables—violently. If you like fiction that pushes boundaries and heroines who don’t play nice, you’re in the right place.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
January 8, 2011
Dark, twisted and creepy, Shadows will take you out of your comfort zone and keep you glued to the pages of the book, regardless of whether or not you want to.
After losing her father to suicide, Sarah finds herself on the brink of losing her sanity. Haunted by the ghosts of her family's pasts, she finds herself in a new kind of hell when she starts experiencing a series of graphic, violent and bloody hallucinations.
As if that wasn’t bad enough, the hallucinations also bring about a new form of torment in the form of a demon that refuses to leave her side.
.
When seeking help from her psychiatrist friend Michael Brink doesn't quite work out and invariably leads her to stabbing her cheating rat of a boyfriend, a catatonic Sarah is institutionalised and forced to confront and deal with the horrible truth about her father's death.
Of course, Jack, the demon responsible for both her father's suicide and her bloody hallucinations uses this to his advantage as he continues to make it his business to torment the living daylights out of her.
Unfortunately for him, he doesn't count on the fact that, unlike her father, Sarah simply refuses to kill herself.
Still, finding her way out of the darkness is no easy feat - and in her struggle to hold on to both her life and her sanity, Sarah makes a few startling discoveries that alters her life completely.
My thoughts:
Ok, before I start with this review I’m going to come out and straight up admit the following: I am not a big fan of horror. Blood and violence is not something that necessarily frightens me, but add the gore and creep factor and this book wimp runs to the opposite end of the genre spectrum.
Nevertheless, when I posted a tweet about looking for books that would take me out of my comfort zone, Joan de La Haye, author of Shadows, offered to send me a copy of her book. No one was more surprised than me when I actually said yes.
And no one was also more surprised than me when I actually ended up actually really enjoying this book.
For me, the mark of a really good read (regardless of genre) is when you find yourself continuing a story even though the characters don’t endear themselves to you.
The characters that Joan creates are probably amongst the most disturbed characters I’ve ever been introduced to. They range between being clingy and needy to being downright warped, ruthless and vengeful.
And I’m not even talking about the demon (oh, we’ll get to him later, don’t you worry).
We meet Sarah when she’s at her most fragile. She’s just lost her father and is in desperate need of any kind of distraction that will help lessen the pain. Naturally she turns to her boyfriend Kevin, who as she soon discovers, is far from being someone who is worth her time or attention.
What’s interesting about this is that his story forms another interesting part of the novel which introduces his sister Carol and his lover Denise (who also happens to be involved with Carol). These characters are broken, twisted and damaged characters who are haunted by shadows of their pasts, misguided grievances and are poisoned by hate.
These are also characters that are altogether unlikeable.
As the story progresses, a shocking and incestuous plot unfolds that quickly spirals out of control and leads to events that no one could have predicted.
The presence of the demon Jack, was definitely the focus and highlight of the story for me. He is the character born out of the deepest and darkest nightmare realm and the one you wouldn’t wish upon your family, friends or your enemies.
The book cover, although not a favourite with me, is certainly an accurate portrayal of the dark, demented, cruel and taunting demon who haunts Sarah day and night, and the things he does is nothing short of bloody, violent and horrific.
Yet, for all of this, at some point, in spite of what he does, you as a reader can’t help but warm to his character.
I know. I know.
Is it even possible to change your mind about an evil creature who has done nothing but inflicted physical and psychological damage on an already fragile person’s mind?
It is with this book.
For all the stark, crispness of her writing, Joan de la Haye manages to make you believe that the demon in some ways has more redemptive qualities than the humans in this story. The development in Jack’s character is definitely something unexpected and leaves you questioning who the real villains are in this story.
Joan has created a character who is definitely no hero, but who makes you see beyond black and white and reflect on just how cruel humans can be to one another. To sum it up in a quote, here’s what Jack has to say:
“What?” he asked. “Demons have feelings too, you know. Besides, I didn’t do that to her. You humans cause each other far more pain than I, or any of my kind, could ever hope to. It makes you all the more interesting and so easily corruptible.”
And this is what made the novel worth the read for me. This book wasn’t simply just a darkly, entertaining horror read.
It was more than that. It was a story written with substance and profound insight into the darker nature of the human psyche.
The ending of the book? Will no doubt leave you satisfied, and will surely make you shudder at just how badly we as humans often treat each other. If Joan keeps writing these kind of books, well, then it would be safe to say that she has just convinced me to branch out a little more into this genre.
If you’re a fan of horror with substance, then I’d definitely recommend Shadows. It has the creep and gore factor, twisted characters and is fully immersed in darkness. All the right kind of ingredients for a horror read if you ask me.
Plus, you have to meet Jack. You’ll like him. I promise.
It’s not an easy read, nor do I think it is meant to be, which is why the book is all the more worth reading. And did I mention that you get to meet Jack?
Made you curious, didn’t I?
After losing her father to suicide, Sarah finds herself on the brink of losing her sanity. Haunted by the ghosts of her family's pasts, she finds herself in a new kind of hell when she starts experiencing a series of graphic, violent and bloody hallucinations.
As if that wasn’t bad enough, the hallucinations also bring about a new form of torment in the form of a demon that refuses to leave her side.
.
When seeking help from her psychiatrist friend Michael Brink doesn't quite work out and invariably leads her to stabbing her cheating rat of a boyfriend, a catatonic Sarah is institutionalised and forced to confront and deal with the horrible truth about her father's death.
Of course, Jack, the demon responsible for both her father's suicide and her bloody hallucinations uses this to his advantage as he continues to make it his business to torment the living daylights out of her.
Unfortunately for him, he doesn't count on the fact that, unlike her father, Sarah simply refuses to kill herself.
Still, finding her way out of the darkness is no easy feat - and in her struggle to hold on to both her life and her sanity, Sarah makes a few startling discoveries that alters her life completely.
My thoughts:
Ok, before I start with this review I’m going to come out and straight up admit the following: I am not a big fan of horror. Blood and violence is not something that necessarily frightens me, but add the gore and creep factor and this book wimp runs to the opposite end of the genre spectrum.
Nevertheless, when I posted a tweet about looking for books that would take me out of my comfort zone, Joan de La Haye, author of Shadows, offered to send me a copy of her book. No one was more surprised than me when I actually said yes.
And no one was also more surprised than me when I actually ended up actually really enjoying this book.
For me, the mark of a really good read (regardless of genre) is when you find yourself continuing a story even though the characters don’t endear themselves to you.
The characters that Joan creates are probably amongst the most disturbed characters I’ve ever been introduced to. They range between being clingy and needy to being downright warped, ruthless and vengeful.
And I’m not even talking about the demon (oh, we’ll get to him later, don’t you worry).
We meet Sarah when she’s at her most fragile. She’s just lost her father and is in desperate need of any kind of distraction that will help lessen the pain. Naturally she turns to her boyfriend Kevin, who as she soon discovers, is far from being someone who is worth her time or attention.
What’s interesting about this is that his story forms another interesting part of the novel which introduces his sister Carol and his lover Denise (who also happens to be involved with Carol). These characters are broken, twisted and damaged characters who are haunted by shadows of their pasts, misguided grievances and are poisoned by hate.
These are also characters that are altogether unlikeable.
As the story progresses, a shocking and incestuous plot unfolds that quickly spirals out of control and leads to events that no one could have predicted.
The presence of the demon Jack, was definitely the focus and highlight of the story for me. He is the character born out of the deepest and darkest nightmare realm and the one you wouldn’t wish upon your family, friends or your enemies.
The book cover, although not a favourite with me, is certainly an accurate portrayal of the dark, demented, cruel and taunting demon who haunts Sarah day and night, and the things he does is nothing short of bloody, violent and horrific.
Yet, for all of this, at some point, in spite of what he does, you as a reader can’t help but warm to his character.
I know. I know.
Is it even possible to change your mind about an evil creature who has done nothing but inflicted physical and psychological damage on an already fragile person’s mind?
It is with this book.
For all the stark, crispness of her writing, Joan de la Haye manages to make you believe that the demon in some ways has more redemptive qualities than the humans in this story. The development in Jack’s character is definitely something unexpected and leaves you questioning who the real villains are in this story.
Joan has created a character who is definitely no hero, but who makes you see beyond black and white and reflect on just how cruel humans can be to one another. To sum it up in a quote, here’s what Jack has to say:
“What?” he asked. “Demons have feelings too, you know. Besides, I didn’t do that to her. You humans cause each other far more pain than I, or any of my kind, could ever hope to. It makes you all the more interesting and so easily corruptible.”
And this is what made the novel worth the read for me. This book wasn’t simply just a darkly, entertaining horror read.
It was more than that. It was a story written with substance and profound insight into the darker nature of the human psyche.
The ending of the book? Will no doubt leave you satisfied, and will surely make you shudder at just how badly we as humans often treat each other. If Joan keeps writing these kind of books, well, then it would be safe to say that she has just convinced me to branch out a little more into this genre.
If you’re a fan of horror with substance, then I’d definitely recommend Shadows. It has the creep and gore factor, twisted characters and is fully immersed in darkness. All the right kind of ingredients for a horror read if you ask me.
Plus, you have to meet Jack. You’ll like him. I promise.
It’s not an easy read, nor do I think it is meant to be, which is why the book is all the more worth reading. And did I mention that you get to meet Jack?
Made you curious, didn’t I?
July 20, 2011
I'm one of those horror fans who has watched quite a number of horror movies but hasn't read that many horror novels, so Shadows was some what of a treat for me. And I wasn't disappointed. It was a thrill ride; a dark twisted thrill ride that seemed to have no brakes. It exposes the darkest of human nature, but it does it in such a way that makes it believable that people would actually think these things. And I'm sure many people have and worse.
Sarah is having a rough time, her father just committed suicide, her mother has fallen to pieces, her sister seems to be handling it a little too well and her boyfriend Kevin seems to be distracted and even more distant than usual. Then it gets even worse when her tormentor materializes. A shadowy figure with yellow teeth and scary eyes that is willing to do anything to push her over the edge. Of course she is the only one able to see him, which is a good thing! You would never want to cross paths with him.
Once I was into to the book it took me a couple of days to finish it. Which is quite good for me. Normally takes me a couple of weeks to read a book.
Just one thing if you get the book. Don't read the back, get into reading it straightaway. It's a habit of mine. Less spoilers that way. It adds to the mystery and makes it more entertaining if you ask me.
Overall I highly recommend this to horror fans, but if you're a bit of a softie it would maybe best for to read it during the day. Some of the scenes might be a bit hard for you to stomach. Not that it should stop you from reading it. That's what a good horror novel is supposed to do right? Make you feel uncomfortable. Sleep with the lights on so to speak.
You know what scares me the most? I've met Joan. She's a sweet and caring person and it's hard to see where the all the darkness in the characters comes from. It just goes to show you that there is always more to a person than meets the eye! And if you ask me the world would be a duller place if it wasn't true. I can't wait to see what she comes up with for her next novel.
Sarah is having a rough time, her father just committed suicide, her mother has fallen to pieces, her sister seems to be handling it a little too well and her boyfriend Kevin seems to be distracted and even more distant than usual. Then it gets even worse when her tormentor materializes. A shadowy figure with yellow teeth and scary eyes that is willing to do anything to push her over the edge. Of course she is the only one able to see him, which is a good thing! You would never want to cross paths with him.
Once I was into to the book it took me a couple of days to finish it. Which is quite good for me. Normally takes me a couple of weeks to read a book.
Just one thing if you get the book. Don't read the back, get into reading it straightaway. It's a habit of mine. Less spoilers that way. It adds to the mystery and makes it more entertaining if you ask me.
Overall I highly recommend this to horror fans, but if you're a bit of a softie it would maybe best for to read it during the day. Some of the scenes might be a bit hard for you to stomach. Not that it should stop you from reading it. That's what a good horror novel is supposed to do right? Make you feel uncomfortable. Sleep with the lights on so to speak.
You know what scares me the most? I've met Joan. She's a sweet and caring person and it's hard to see where the all the darkness in the characters comes from. It just goes to show you that there is always more to a person than meets the eye! And if you ask me the world would be a duller place if it wasn't true. I can't wait to see what she comes up with for her next novel.
April 9, 2013
Every once in a while, a book comes along that makes its presence felt by grabbing your throat and not letting go, even after you're finished reading it. Shadows is one of those books.
The book is structured in a way that you are never bored. The parallel story lines and pace mean you're always keen to see what's going on over the page, even if it's just to make sure you get it finished before dark and the content is notably broad, covering everything from abuse to depression.
One of the most notable issues in the book is its lack of likeable characters - each character has been damaged in some way or another and each has responded in their own personal way, with disastrous consequences. But what Joan de la Haye does so very well is to pull you into each character's psyche and reminding you that even though there are demons in the world, those who can do the most damage are humans themselves.
Shadows is not for the faint of heart - or those with weak constitutions - it is graphic and severe in its depictions and it stays with you for a long time after you have finished the last page. It definitely makes its points, however, and I would urge you to give it a go if you are ready to make yourself feel unsettled.
The book is structured in a way that you are never bored. The parallel story lines and pace mean you're always keen to see what's going on over the page, even if it's just to make sure you get it finished before dark and the content is notably broad, covering everything from abuse to depression.
One of the most notable issues in the book is its lack of likeable characters - each character has been damaged in some way or another and each has responded in their own personal way, with disastrous consequences. But what Joan de la Haye does so very well is to pull you into each character's psyche and reminding you that even though there are demons in the world, those who can do the most damage are humans themselves.
Shadows is not for the faint of heart - or those with weak constitutions - it is graphic and severe in its depictions and it stays with you for a long time after you have finished the last page. It definitely makes its points, however, and I would urge you to give it a go if you are ready to make yourself feel unsettled.
June 13, 2011
Is it horror or just horrible? It's a debate I struggled with after being repulsed by some of the more extreme sexual depravity in Shadows, and having problems with the writing and characterisation.
Read the full review on my blog Violin in a Void.
Read the full review on my blog Violin in a Void.
September 17, 2009
pretty messed up book about boys fucking their sisters, with some monsters thrown in to make it horror. scariest part is that the author likes to fantasize about crap like this.
October 21, 2016
My original Shadows audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Sarah has a terrible boyfriend. He cheats on her, treats her like dirt, and brings her to his family dinners, where she is insulted and humiliated. That’s the positive part. Sarah’s father committed suicide and now she is suffering from the same delusions and self-doubt that he succumbed to. When the voice in her head leads her to nearly stab her boyfriend to death, she must confront her daemon. It’s time to decide to live or die.
While Sarah languishes in an institution, her (ex)boyfriend drops completely off the deep-end of morality and debauchery. He vows to torture and kill Sarah just as soon as she gets out. Sarah is being tortured by those she trusts, those who are supposed to help her and a daemon in her head. She has nothing left to lose? A detailed discussion with her evil daemon reveals the mystery of her life and her father’s death. Strangely, the most evil entity in her life is the only one that can save her.
There are some truly despicable characters in this novel. The boyfriend is beyond sympathy, his lovers are almost as bad. It is Sarah’s transformation from pathetic doormat to whole human being that keeps the listener sympathetic to her plight. All will be made right if she can just hold it together long enough.
The story is performed by Terry Lloyd-Roberts. Her unusual voice is appropriate for this disturbing story, creepy in all the right places. She keeps each character voices discernible and doesn’t get in the way of the story. It takes a few minutes to get used to her voice, but is well worth it. A fine performance.
Shadows is a horror story with splashes of humor in good balance. Certainly not a story for everyone, but for those who like their revenge served warm, you won’t be disappointed.
Note: The terrible relationship and plot could lead one to edge this novel into the young-adult category. However, it is not recommended for very young or sensitive youths as there are graphic scenes of rape and incest.
Audiobook was provided for review by the publisher.
Sarah has a terrible boyfriend. He cheats on her, treats her like dirt, and brings her to his family dinners, where she is insulted and humiliated. That’s the positive part. Sarah’s father committed suicide and now she is suffering from the same delusions and self-doubt that he succumbed to. When the voice in her head leads her to nearly stab her boyfriend to death, she must confront her daemon. It’s time to decide to live or die.
While Sarah languishes in an institution, her (ex)boyfriend drops completely off the deep-end of morality and debauchery. He vows to torture and kill Sarah just as soon as she gets out. Sarah is being tortured by those she trusts, those who are supposed to help her and a daemon in her head. She has nothing left to lose? A detailed discussion with her evil daemon reveals the mystery of her life and her father’s death. Strangely, the most evil entity in her life is the only one that can save her.
There are some truly despicable characters in this novel. The boyfriend is beyond sympathy, his lovers are almost as bad. It is Sarah’s transformation from pathetic doormat to whole human being that keeps the listener sympathetic to her plight. All will be made right if she can just hold it together long enough.
The story is performed by Terry Lloyd-Roberts. Her unusual voice is appropriate for this disturbing story, creepy in all the right places. She keeps each character voices discernible and doesn’t get in the way of the story. It takes a few minutes to get used to her voice, but is well worth it. A fine performance.
Shadows is a horror story with splashes of humor in good balance. Certainly not a story for everyone, but for those who like their revenge served warm, you won’t be disappointed.
Note: The terrible relationship and plot could lead one to edge this novel into the young-adult category. However, it is not recommended for very young or sensitive youths as there are graphic scenes of rape and incest.
Audiobook was provided for review by the publisher.
August 27, 2016
Sarah has recently lost her father. His sudden suicide seems so abrupt and out of character that it has caused her to start questioning her own grip on reality. Was he suffering from deteriorating mental health or was there something far more sinister going on?
There is something heartbreakingly sad, but also utterly fascinating about watching a character full apart at such a basic level. When Jack enters her life Sarah quickly begins to lose all sense of self, and her actions become increasingly erratic. You can’t help but cheer when Sarah finally decides that enough is enough and she starts to fight back. There is a specific moment when, with a sense of grim determination, Sarah decides Jack is not going to beat her anymore. She is going to take back her life and put her own personal demon to rest. This is properly dark stuff. Characters genuinely seem to suffer (how splendid) and there isn’t a single subject that is considered taboo.
With the exception of Sarah, pretty much all the other characters in Shadows are an entirely loathsome bunch. Sarah is treated like a doormat by her boyfriend Kevin who is doing the dirty on her. In turn Kevin is being treated badly, deservedly so, by the other women in his life, Denise and Carol. I think I would actively try and avoid any of these people if there was ever a chance I might meet them. Talk about toxic personalities. They are also so unrelentingly unpleasant I couldn’t wait to see what fate would befall them all. I’m always genuinely impressed when a writer manages to make me hate a character. It means the author must be hitting the nail squarely on the head with their characterisation to elicit such a response.
Joan De La Haye writes superior, distinctly adult, horror fiction that doesn’t pull any punches. If you’re easily offended then look elsewhere but if, like me, you like a creepy tale , then I strongly suggest you check out this author’s work.
There is something heartbreakingly sad, but also utterly fascinating about watching a character full apart at such a basic level. When Jack enters her life Sarah quickly begins to lose all sense of self, and her actions become increasingly erratic. You can’t help but cheer when Sarah finally decides that enough is enough and she starts to fight back. There is a specific moment when, with a sense of grim determination, Sarah decides Jack is not going to beat her anymore. She is going to take back her life and put her own personal demon to rest. This is properly dark stuff. Characters genuinely seem to suffer (how splendid) and there isn’t a single subject that is considered taboo.
With the exception of Sarah, pretty much all the other characters in Shadows are an entirely loathsome bunch. Sarah is treated like a doormat by her boyfriend Kevin who is doing the dirty on her. In turn Kevin is being treated badly, deservedly so, by the other women in his life, Denise and Carol. I think I would actively try and avoid any of these people if there was ever a chance I might meet them. Talk about toxic personalities. They are also so unrelentingly unpleasant I couldn’t wait to see what fate would befall them all. I’m always genuinely impressed when a writer manages to make me hate a character. It means the author must be hitting the nail squarely on the head with their characterisation to elicit such a response.
Joan De La Haye writes superior, distinctly adult, horror fiction that doesn’t pull any punches. If you’re easily offended then look elsewhere but if, like me, you like a creepy tale , then I strongly suggest you check out this author’s work.
October 14, 2016
Outstanding.
Joan's novels are not for the faint of heart, these novels are dark and twisted. Once they get into your head, they stay there. If that's not for you, then avoid it.
But for the others like me, this novel lived up to everything I've read by this author and then some. Sarah, our main character, is mild and meek, and dealing with a crappy boyfriend and the sudden death of her father when things start to get even worse. She's seeing things. Terrible visions and hallucinations. No one believes her, and no one can help her.
Another dark and twisted story from Joan that left me following this roller coaster to the very end. Every time something happen, I was pulled in deeper. As you go down the rabbit hole, things just get more twisted in this book, and you can't look away.
This book is perfect for the Halloween season, and beyond if you are a lover of phycological horror, this author needs to be added to your TBR list. She's a master at this craft and I cannot wait to read more. Just blows your mind with how good it is and how well thought out this plot was. Everything ties back to something, and when you're faced with the true character of all the people in this novel, you may end up cheering for the villains!
Joan's novels are not for the faint of heart, these novels are dark and twisted. Once they get into your head, they stay there. If that's not for you, then avoid it.
But for the others like me, this novel lived up to everything I've read by this author and then some. Sarah, our main character, is mild and meek, and dealing with a crappy boyfriend and the sudden death of her father when things start to get even worse. She's seeing things. Terrible visions and hallucinations. No one believes her, and no one can help her.
Another dark and twisted story from Joan that left me following this roller coaster to the very end. Every time something happen, I was pulled in deeper. As you go down the rabbit hole, things just get more twisted in this book, and you can't look away.
This book is perfect for the Halloween season, and beyond if you are a lover of phycological horror, this author needs to be added to your TBR list. She's a master at this craft and I cannot wait to read more. Just blows your mind with how good it is and how well thought out this plot was. Everything ties back to something, and when you're faced with the true character of all the people in this novel, you may end up cheering for the villains!
June 2, 2016
What lurks in the shadows? What is that annoying voice at the back of your head? Have you thought about 'offing' yourself? Do you believe in the supernatural? Would you survive a complete mental breakdown?
After the loss of her father, Sarah is faced with a living nightmare. A nightmare she named Jack. Their time together can only one outcome, or so we are lead to believe. Sarah is a push-over, yet she is a tough cookie, a survivor.
Kevin, the boyfriend, has a few skeletons in his closet. With a perverted sister and another girl on the side, he bit off more than he could chew.
We all are fighting demons, just on different levels. Who will be left standing, and who will kick the bucket?
The different plot twists had me on the edge of my seat, mouth agape and eyes wide, like a fish out of water, I could not wait to turn the pages. This is a must read for those who love anything supernatural. Five stars for Shadows.
After the loss of her father, Sarah is faced with a living nightmare. A nightmare she named Jack. Their time together can only one outcome, or so we are lead to believe. Sarah is a push-over, yet she is a tough cookie, a survivor.
Kevin, the boyfriend, has a few skeletons in his closet. With a perverted sister and another girl on the side, he bit off more than he could chew.
We all are fighting demons, just on different levels. Who will be left standing, and who will kick the bucket?
The different plot twists had me on the edge of my seat, mouth agape and eyes wide, like a fish out of water, I could not wait to turn the pages. This is a must read for those who love anything supernatural. Five stars for Shadows.
February 7, 2021
I'll give it 3 stars just because the creepy parts were good, but it was f*cked up...big time. Also since I would have liked some content warnings but didn't seen any before picking it up I'll do you a favor and list it:
tw // incest, rape, suicide, blood & gore
tw // incest, rape, suicide, blood & gore
February 3, 2018
Loved it
I loved this book! Once I started it, I couldn't put it down! To the point that I'll be looking around for Jack now! Lol
I loved this book! Once I started it, I couldn't put it down! To the point that I'll be looking around for Jack now! Lol
October 8, 2011
“Shadows” by South African author Joan de la Haye lurked in my to-be-read pile for many months after I bought it: horror stories scare me. I’m a die-hard believer in happy endings, and gruesomeness haunts me for days.
I started reading this story when I was home alone one night…not a good idea for sensitive readers. After some thrilling chills and a sleep plagued by nightmares, I decided that, if I was brave enough to want to finish it, this novel must be read during the day only.
I’m glad I did read it, for the fast pace of this debut novel makes for a quick and entertaining read. With its dark subject — an exploration of insanity and the way humans can quickly be pushed to the dark side — and the mandatory blood, sex and gore that fit the horror genre, as well as the wickedly sly humour, “Shadows” could easily have slipped into a story of all show, but no substance.
However, de la Haye excelled at creating poignant characters that lift this story above the normal generic conventions and into the realm of the superb. From the chilling Carol to the delightful Jack (a torment demon who meets his match in the stubborn Sarah), the people of this story constantly overturn our expectations of them: who really knows what inner demons we each carry within us? Or how close each of us are to the edge of insanity?
Those who unravel in ghastly ways that take their poor souls beyond the edge of normality are never judged. Rather, we are shown the shadows that colour our psyches with painful memories that some people can cope with and others can’t.
Yes, I was suitably scared when reading this novel: it is a horror-able story. But my emotions were touched too.
This story clearly reflects what unnecessary pain we humans cause each other and, without shirking, paints a bleak picture of the road back to “normality” as we recover from the soul wounds we are subjected to (by others and by our own choices.) But, despite this melancholic and harsh vision of the nature of humanity, one is still left with a sense of hope.
No wonder Ms de la Haye was mentioned by British journalist David Barnett of The Guardian newspaper in a recent article. She deserves her place in that prestigious list of up-and-coming South African speculative fiction authors.
I started reading this story when I was home alone one night…not a good idea for sensitive readers. After some thrilling chills and a sleep plagued by nightmares, I decided that, if I was brave enough to want to finish it, this novel must be read during the day only.
I’m glad I did read it, for the fast pace of this debut novel makes for a quick and entertaining read. With its dark subject — an exploration of insanity and the way humans can quickly be pushed to the dark side — and the mandatory blood, sex and gore that fit the horror genre, as well as the wickedly sly humour, “Shadows” could easily have slipped into a story of all show, but no substance.
However, de la Haye excelled at creating poignant characters that lift this story above the normal generic conventions and into the realm of the superb. From the chilling Carol to the delightful Jack (a torment demon who meets his match in the stubborn Sarah), the people of this story constantly overturn our expectations of them: who really knows what inner demons we each carry within us? Or how close each of us are to the edge of insanity?
Those who unravel in ghastly ways that take their poor souls beyond the edge of normality are never judged. Rather, we are shown the shadows that colour our psyches with painful memories that some people can cope with and others can’t.
Yes, I was suitably scared when reading this novel: it is a horror-able story. But my emotions were touched too.
This story clearly reflects what unnecessary pain we humans cause each other and, without shirking, paints a bleak picture of the road back to “normality” as we recover from the soul wounds we are subjected to (by others and by our own choices.) But, despite this melancholic and harsh vision of the nature of humanity, one is still left with a sense of hope.
No wonder Ms de la Haye was mentioned by British journalist David Barnett of The Guardian newspaper in a recent article. She deserves her place in that prestigious list of up-and-coming South African speculative fiction authors.
February 12, 2013
Sarah is deemed crazy and sent to an institution in a catatonic state, covered in blood after she stabbed her unfaithful boyfriend. Suffering from violent and bloody hallucinations for a while, her family’s past had finally caught up with her and as Sarah is forced to confront the truth of her father’s death and the demon who had caused her father to commit suicide, she realises that she has one of two options… Sarah can either walk in her father’s footsteps or she can bargain for her life. As she struggles to regain her life, her sanity and normalcy, Sarah in turn discovers more things about the world than she could have ever imagined and it makes her wonder whether or not she was ever mad or whether or not everyone else might be…
Shadows is a dark and twisted thrill ride that makes you wonder what else the author has up her sleeve whenever you turn the page. Joan de la Haye, who’s books I’ve reviewed in the past, has found a fan in me by keeping her work original and intriguing, but keeping her own voice throughout. That being said, Shadows is not for the weak of heart, keeping to what I like best – horror – Shadows is filled with some fantastic bits that will probably make you think twice about switching off the lights.
This novella is a quick and entertaining read for those who are looking for something fast-paced and interesting. The narrative does jump between characters, but it won’t disrupt the reader and although not many people are keen on the sudden changes of point of view, this particular story benefited from it. However, what people will enjoy the most is not the narrative or the intensity of the story, but perhaps the way that the story plays on your own fears… Frankly, the psychological horror that is found in Shadows will make any person feel ill at ease, which means I loved it.
Joan de la Haye has a gift to keep the reader enticed and on their toes
(Review originally posted at http://www.tentaclebooks.com/?p=393 )
Shadows is a dark and twisted thrill ride that makes you wonder what else the author has up her sleeve whenever you turn the page. Joan de la Haye, who’s books I’ve reviewed in the past, has found a fan in me by keeping her work original and intriguing, but keeping her own voice throughout. That being said, Shadows is not for the weak of heart, keeping to what I like best – horror – Shadows is filled with some fantastic bits that will probably make you think twice about switching off the lights.
This novella is a quick and entertaining read for those who are looking for something fast-paced and interesting. The narrative does jump between characters, but it won’t disrupt the reader and although not many people are keen on the sudden changes of point of view, this particular story benefited from it. However, what people will enjoy the most is not the narrative or the intensity of the story, but perhaps the way that the story plays on your own fears… Frankly, the psychological horror that is found in Shadows will make any person feel ill at ease, which means I loved it.
Joan de la Haye has a gift to keep the reader enticed and on their toes
(Review originally posted at http://www.tentaclebooks.com/?p=393 )
March 6, 2017
“I write horror and some very dark thrillers. So I invariably wake up in the middle of the night, because I've figured out yet another twisted way to mess with my already screwed up characters.
I'm interested in some weird stuff. That's probably also one of the reasons I write horror.
I'm deep, dark and seriously twisted.”
That was written as author (Joan De La Haye) status! O la la
Imagine if she says that, how creepy can be her readings?!
I must admit I have watched a quiet number of horror movies but read very less of them but I was not disappointed. It was like riding those death train/ roller coaster games which uses their top speed and has long track, it keeps your heart pumping so hard that you feel it will jump out of your chest.
Not that I do not believe in happy ending but we know that not all will have happy ending. The book tells us that all of us have demons; it varies from a person to another. The question is who will fight and survive at the end.
I'm interested in some weird stuff. That's probably also one of the reasons I write horror.
I'm deep, dark and seriously twisted.”
That was written as author (Joan De La Haye) status! O la la
Imagine if she says that, how creepy can be her readings?!
I must admit I have watched a quiet number of horror movies but read very less of them but I was not disappointed. It was like riding those death train/ roller coaster games which uses their top speed and has long track, it keeps your heart pumping so hard that you feel it will jump out of your chest.
Not that I do not believe in happy ending but we know that not all will have happy ending. The book tells us that all of us have demons; it varies from a person to another. The question is who will fight and survive at the end.
October 25, 2016
Wow - this book took my mind, twisted it and shut it in a box screaming! I loved this book! Starting off with an immediate plunge into insanity, this fast paced thriller sinks it's claws into your mind and just will not let go. Just when you think you're leveling out, the author throws another insane twist at you over and over again, keeping you on your toes as delicious horror runs up your back in cleats. I found myself quite unable to put this fascinatingly lunatic book down and stayed up late into the night reading it! If you like to be surprised with your mind being ripped out and your boundaries pushed, then this is the book for you! Absolutely awesome!
March 2, 2011
As I read the first chapters I felt this was more of a book for young adults but when I got about halfway into the book the writing changed like the author had maybe set this aside and came back to it later on and the writing felt more adult like, more along the lines of say Stephen King's horror. Because of that I was unable to put it down once I got that far into it. Suicide and/or rape and the mess it leaves behind with the survivors/victims...or the horror and insanity of it all? You be the judge and read this and maybe you decide who's next! Can YOU survive the insanity of it?
June 15, 2018
Shadows was very disappointing - I would not classify it as a horror. The book jumps extremely between characters and it takes a few seconds to get up to speed from which character viewpoint the story is being told.
The hallucinations is also lame, just describing a lot of blood doesn't make it real or scary. The 'demon' that haunted was described first as a homeless guys - yellow eyes and fang teeth. Is this a vampire novel??
The boyfriend has no back bone and still she begs him for attention.
I was in no mood to finish the book.
The hallucinations is also lame, just describing a lot of blood doesn't make it real or scary. The 'demon' that haunted was described first as a homeless guys - yellow eyes and fang teeth. Is this a vampire novel??
The boyfriend has no back bone and still she begs him for attention.
I was in no mood to finish the book.
February 4, 2017
What did I just read?
This book is so messed up.... in a good way. I'm not one for horror but I took a chance because someone in my online book club suggested it. I'm glad I took the leap. It's pretty twisted.
This book is so messed up.... in a good way. I'm not one for horror but I took a chance because someone in my online book club suggested it. I'm glad I took the leap. It's pretty twisted.
June 29, 2017
For a thriller which is not really the kind of book I read this was really good kept my attention. hat would i do if i thought i was loosing my mind why i think i would call my tormentor Jack sound like a good name for a torment deamon.
February 3, 2017
Amazing.
Strange, unique and intense. While the story see me fast it kept me on my toes questioning every little thing right alongside Sarah. Loved the book.
Strange, unique and intense. While the story see me fast it kept me on my toes questioning every little thing right alongside Sarah. Loved the book.
May 23, 2024
I found this book by accident on Nextory, and chose it for the simple reason that it only had one single review, a 1 star, and I thought to myself that it can't be that bad. The story sounded interesting and I know the thrill of finding a book that someone hates and then finding out that I love it. I hoped that this would be it because I truly love the sick and twisted story of a character that you don't really know if they are insane or not.
And oh how disappointed I was.
My honest opinion in short: I wish these characters died. Painfully. Slowly. Never to see the light of day ever again.
-
The rest of this review is going to be me shittalking this book so if that isn’t your cup of tea then I’d say to not read further.
Now in all seriousness, there is definitely a line where I can like a book and hate characters, where a book is twisted and makes me sick but still is enjoyable to read, but this is far from any of that. The characters were unlikeable and many of the conversations and fights felt forced.
Not to mention the characters choices, and oh.my.godddd. if there was a prize for the most obnoxious and, quite frankly, Stupid characters in history this would take the prize. It's as if someone took all of the bad characteristics that someone can have and shoved it into these people. Especially Sarah.
I think another point to me hating this book, or rather hating the characters, (hating Sarah), is that it reminds me of another book. A Swedish book, my arch nemesis, and the one and only book that I have hated with a burning passion for over 12 years, “det fattas en tärning”. That book is nothing like this one when it comes to the story itself, but the characters are very similar in their way of choosing only the worst choices, acting stupid, and they genuinely make me want to throw the book into the wall and tear it into pieces.
Now there is actually one part of this book that is “good”, and it is its strongest point; The incest. And I'm saying "good" as in well-written and Disturbing – which is the point in a story like this. It wasn’t enjoyable in the least, but it got the point across that they were fucked up people, which in a weird way is a plus. I guess.
However, I would’ve hoped for a bit more on the gory side or the wickedness of the hallucinations, instead I thought it was a bit…mild, or boring. Maybe I’ve just grown insensitive, I don’t know.
But either way, the parts that are well-written is completely overshadowed by all the characters stupidity, including the demon. Which is a shame. I get what the book wanted to do, but I do not feel like it did anything for me.
So since this is going to be rated 2nd on my most hated list of books of all time, I will give this a one star and the wish that I will not read another book as bad as this again.
And oh how disappointed I was.
My honest opinion in short: I wish these characters died. Painfully. Slowly. Never to see the light of day ever again.
-
The rest of this review is going to be me shittalking this book so if that isn’t your cup of tea then I’d say to not read further.
Now in all seriousness, there is definitely a line where I can like a book and hate characters, where a book is twisted and makes me sick but still is enjoyable to read, but this is far from any of that. The characters were unlikeable and many of the conversations and fights felt forced.
Not to mention the characters choices, and oh.my.godddd. if there was a prize for the most obnoxious and, quite frankly, Stupid characters in history this would take the prize. It's as if someone took all of the bad characteristics that someone can have and shoved it into these people. Especially Sarah.
I think another point to me hating this book, or rather hating the characters, (hating Sarah), is that it reminds me of another book. A Swedish book, my arch nemesis, and the one and only book that I have hated with a burning passion for over 12 years, “det fattas en tärning”. That book is nothing like this one when it comes to the story itself, but the characters are very similar in their way of choosing only the worst choices, acting stupid, and they genuinely make me want to throw the book into the wall and tear it into pieces.
Now there is actually one part of this book that is “good”, and it is its strongest point; The incest. And I'm saying "good" as in well-written and Disturbing – which is the point in a story like this. It wasn’t enjoyable in the least, but it got the point across that they were fucked up people, which in a weird way is a plus. I guess.
However, I would’ve hoped for a bit more on the gory side or the wickedness of the hallucinations, instead I thought it was a bit…mild, or boring. Maybe I’ve just grown insensitive, I don’t know.
But either way, the parts that are well-written is completely overshadowed by all the characters stupidity, including the demon. Which is a shame. I get what the book wanted to do, but I do not feel like it did anything for me.
So since this is going to be rated 2nd on my most hated list of books of all time, I will give this a one star and the wish that I will not read another book as bad as this again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2023
This is a psychological horror with dark actions committed by the characters. However, it's a difficult story to get into since there are various characters introduced and the perspectives change.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to StoryOrigin and author.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to StoryOrigin and author.
May 11, 2009
Joan De La Haye's 'Shadows' is a well-crafted exploration of a group of damaged characters in South Africa who are involved in a very complicated web of sex, love and murder. The intertwining stories of the characters, as well as the lurking demon's place in the devolution of the main character's psyche, made Shadows a fine page-turner.
On the other hand, the prominent inclusion of an incestual storyline was a bit much for me to stomach. While it did help to make the ending be a bit more strong, I feel some of those elements could have been left out. Then again, for a book about 'Shadows' this inclusion did do a fairly good job of having the shadows be reliant on personal, as well as external, demons.
On the other hand, the prominent inclusion of an incestual storyline was a bit much for me to stomach. While it did help to make the ending be a bit more strong, I feel some of those elements could have been left out. Then again, for a book about 'Shadows' this inclusion did do a fairly good job of having the shadows be reliant on personal, as well as external, demons.
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