3.98 AVERAGE


This book was pretty good. Definitely creeped me out as I lay in bed reading it in the dark! At times I got a little bored with the back and forth of Viv and Carly, but I do like that style of writing where it gives different POV’s. Overall, I would recommend this if you like creepy murder books.
dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I really wanted to love it. And certain parts I did. Especially the twist. But the younger main character’s reaction to it was sort of a let down. But still understandable. 

This was a fast read with dual timelines that sometimes felt repetitive but the reason why I didn’t give it a higher rating was because of the potential it had to be more intricate and suspenseful, using and explaining more of Heather’s and Nick’s stories (it would be a plus if they had something to do with the motel). There were also plot holes that irked me, the main one being, why Betty could kill Callum but not anyone else, like Simon for example. And if I hear one more time “traveling salesmen” in this decade, it’ll still be too soon.

However, the book had me hooked and it was fast paced. I also liked our main characters and the vibe of the haunted motel. So it was overall an enjoyable read.

barelytone's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH: 24%

Interesting, intriguing characters, would been a 3.75 star book but I am enjoying a 4.5 and it is due at the library. Great beach read for someone!
dark mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I listened to this on audiobook and I feel felt this brought it to life, some of the supernatural elements were amazing, especially the smoke as this was the more understated signs.

The use of family members at the different timelines was really interesting and made all the events appear more realistic. I especially loved getting to know the ghosts and was routing for a certain one at the end.

The 80’s throwbacks helded my interest the most, but there are interesting characters in both timelines. My first by the author but I will definitely be looking to read more by her 🙌🏻
dark mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot

Expand filter menu Content Warnings

Enjoyable at times, but sometimes it just felt too messy and othertimes it felt like a snoozefest due to being too messy. It did not drag me in enough, but I may have liked it more if I read it in my native language: maybe it would have felt less messy. I did really enjoy the 80’s vibes though!

Please enjoy additional book reviews & adventures on my blog: The Bull Crabs

Simone St. James - be my best friend please?

Just finished.
Still have the 'finished book' shakes - AND I LOVE IT. WOW, Simone St James, you are one messed up magician with your wonderful story telling. I'll definitely be keeping my eye out for any future books. I haven't read a book of hers yet that I haven't enjoyed.

This book was excellent. The writing was excellent. I'm big on 'I hate the fluff' and there isn't fluff in this book. Fluff? You know the stuff people add to books just to make their books longer? Details or thoughts you don't need? Yes, that fluff that we all know we skim through anyways. No - this book doesn't that. Every word is important, every sentence is interesting.

The story line was also excellent. Sure, the 'who dun it' gets revealed ... half way? .. through the book but that doesn't make it any less interesting. I kind of guessed the ending early on as well, but that didn't stop me from enjoying every single word up to the very last one.

This is a good one people, go ahead and pick it up for yourself!
mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This is a ghosty thriller that's pretty typical for this author. I think it has been a bit over-hyped.