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joe_thomas25's review
4.0
We’re now more than 15 years removed from religious conspiracy thrillers bursting onto the scene with Dan Brown’s blockbuster, The Da Vinci Code. It was one of the first times that a book could tackle overtly religious themes without people immediately rejecting a book as a ‘Christian novel’ and since then there’s been a slew of thrillers in this vein, from the rest of Dan Brown’s books through to Robert Harris’ fantastic Conclave a few years ago.
Even with the burgeoning popularity of ‘religious conspiracy thrillers’ (an entirely made-up moniker I thought of while writing this review), I’ve always been slightly hesitant to pick up any books which seem too overtly Christian. Raised in a Catholic family, it feels both too close to home and a little exclusive sometimes, with a knowledge of Christian doctrine required to understand some of the elements of the plot.
On the surface, therefore, The Cult of Eden shouldn’t have ever made it onto my radar. But a combination of an intriguing cover and a blurb promising a cult, otherworldly powers and a demonic ritual convinced me that this might be enough of a Dan Brown/fantasy hybrid for me.
What I didn’t expect, but actually really enjoyed, is the B-Movie type feel of the novel. It’s got slightly campy, tongue-in-cheek humour and a shocking level of violence unlike anything I’ve ever read before. In parts it read almost like a 1980s direct-to-DVD horror, with visceral assaults, graphic descriptions of injuries, nightmarish humans and creatures, fantastical set pieces and an enjoyably overblown storyline. It sounds like a recipe for disaster, but for the most part I really enjoyed it.
The book does a great job at overcoming my resistance to ‘religious’ fiction. Yes, it’s about religious doctrine and belief, and yes there’s a lot of religious references, including quoted bible passages, symbolism and a deacon as one of the protagonists, but it’s actually handled really interestingly. Most of these thrillers fall into one of two categories. It’s either a conspiracy within the Church to overthrow the established order, or it’s an atheist sect or group that wants to destroy organised religion. Not here. The eponymous Cult of Eden is a cult that believes in God, with a total belief in his existence, but a burning hatred of him. When faced with some of the questions that Christians often struggle with – Why would God do bad things to me? Why are some people treated differently to others? Why do we require such specific rituals to praise God? – the Cult of Eden reject all of this, enacting horrific perversions of Christian practices such as marriage to diametrically oppose ‘God’ and everything he stands for. It’s a unique approach that I’ve not encountered before and hooked my interest much more than I ever though an overtly religious plot might.
After an intriguing, quirky opening, the book takes a real turn about a quarter of the way through, that shockingly kickstarts the rest of the plot, but then the next quarter is actually quite anticlimactic and limp, with little character or plot development and a lot of exposition. I appreciate that after intense bursts of violence it’s helpful to have some recovery time, but a quarter of a book feels maybe slightly more than needed. Luckily, the plot picked back up to a rampant fury in the last third of the novel, culminating in an incredibly bleak ending that somehow managed to leave me wanting to come back for more despite the darkness.
This is the first in a series and, though I find myself wishing that these characters could be left to enjoy the remnants of their lives without any more horror, I’d be keen to read another book in the series.
Is this a standout book that I’d recommend to everyone? No, probably not. The characters are interesting but not hugely developed, and the plot stutters at points. Beyond that it’s an acquired taste, with a slightly hokey storyline and a gruesome amount of hyper-violence, but this is exactly what I enjoyed. It was a horrifying, escapist, read-through-your-fingers thrill ride with an unashamed amount of ridiculousness and a cleverly-handled use of religion. In a world where it’s increasingly difficult to find an original idea and approach, this book finds something utterly fresh (and deliciously appalling), and for that alone it deserves reading.
Even with the burgeoning popularity of ‘religious conspiracy thrillers’ (an entirely made-up moniker I thought of while writing this review), I’ve always been slightly hesitant to pick up any books which seem too overtly Christian. Raised in a Catholic family, it feels both too close to home and a little exclusive sometimes, with a knowledge of Christian doctrine required to understand some of the elements of the plot.
On the surface, therefore, The Cult of Eden shouldn’t have ever made it onto my radar. But a combination of an intriguing cover and a blurb promising a cult, otherworldly powers and a demonic ritual convinced me that this might be enough of a Dan Brown/fantasy hybrid for me.
What I didn’t expect, but actually really enjoyed, is the B-Movie type feel of the novel. It’s got slightly campy, tongue-in-cheek humour and a shocking level of violence unlike anything I’ve ever read before. In parts it read almost like a 1980s direct-to-DVD horror, with visceral assaults, graphic descriptions of injuries, nightmarish humans and creatures, fantastical set pieces and an enjoyably overblown storyline. It sounds like a recipe for disaster, but for the most part I really enjoyed it.
The book does a great job at overcoming my resistance to ‘religious’ fiction. Yes, it’s about religious doctrine and belief, and yes there’s a lot of religious references, including quoted bible passages, symbolism and a deacon as one of the protagonists, but it’s actually handled really interestingly. Most of these thrillers fall into one of two categories. It’s either a conspiracy within the Church to overthrow the established order, or it’s an atheist sect or group that wants to destroy organised religion. Not here. The eponymous Cult of Eden is a cult that believes in God, with a total belief in his existence, but a burning hatred of him. When faced with some of the questions that Christians often struggle with – Why would God do bad things to me? Why are some people treated differently to others? Why do we require such specific rituals to praise God? – the Cult of Eden reject all of this, enacting horrific perversions of Christian practices such as marriage to diametrically oppose ‘God’ and everything he stands for. It’s a unique approach that I’ve not encountered before and hooked my interest much more than I ever though an overtly religious plot might.
After an intriguing, quirky opening, the book takes a real turn about a quarter of the way through, that shockingly kickstarts the rest of the plot, but then the next quarter is actually quite anticlimactic and limp, with little character or plot development and a lot of exposition. I appreciate that after intense bursts of violence it’s helpful to have some recovery time, but a quarter of a book feels maybe slightly more than needed. Luckily, the plot picked back up to a rampant fury in the last third of the novel, culminating in an incredibly bleak ending that somehow managed to leave me wanting to come back for more despite the darkness.
This is the first in a series and, though I find myself wishing that these characters could be left to enjoy the remnants of their lives without any more horror, I’d be keen to read another book in the series.
Is this a standout book that I’d recommend to everyone? No, probably not. The characters are interesting but not hugely developed, and the plot stutters at points. Beyond that it’s an acquired taste, with a slightly hokey storyline and a gruesome amount of hyper-violence, but this is exactly what I enjoyed. It was a horrifying, escapist, read-through-your-fingers thrill ride with an unashamed amount of ridiculousness and a cleverly-handled use of religion. In a world where it’s increasingly difficult to find an original idea and approach, this book finds something utterly fresh (and deliciously appalling), and for that alone it deserves reading.
seang81's review
4.0
Found this book to just be okay - enjoyed the beginning, however, the plot lost steam and I did not really care for some of the characters. Enjoyed the cult sections and will look out for the next book in the series - just hope it's a little better!
spookybookishmama's review
4.0
The Cult of Eden by Bill Halden
Releasing 10/1/2019
.
.
Thank you to @netgalley for the ebook
.
.
Horror. Pure horror in its right. Not ghost stories or hauntings. Pure horror from torture and murder and cults. Sometimes it’s purely Good vs Evil. It’s been with us since the beginning. And it’ll be with us until the end.
.
.
A very powerful story between Good and Evil. Christianity and Satanism. Doing what’s necessary for your family and loved ones. How far would you go to protect what is yours? Will the line be blurred or crossed? Can you forgive yourself after all is said and done?
.
.
This book was not at all what I expected. I am here for it. It brings me feelings of The Exorcist. A tingle in your spine. A chill on your scalp. The feeling as though someone is watching you. I picked this book up and finished it in one sitting because I could not put it down. I’m not going to lie there were some parts in this book I was not prepared for or probably never would be prepared for. It is not for the faint of heart.
Releasing 10/1/2019
.
.
Thank you to @netgalley for the ebook
.
.
Horror. Pure horror in its right. Not ghost stories or hauntings. Pure horror from torture and murder and cults. Sometimes it’s purely Good vs Evil. It’s been with us since the beginning. And it’ll be with us until the end.
.
.
A very powerful story between Good and Evil. Christianity and Satanism. Doing what’s necessary for your family and loved ones. How far would you go to protect what is yours? Will the line be blurred or crossed? Can you forgive yourself after all is said and done?
.
.
This book was not at all what I expected. I am here for it. It brings me feelings of The Exorcist. A tingle in your spine. A chill on your scalp. The feeling as though someone is watching you. I picked this book up and finished it in one sitting because I could not put it down. I’m not going to lie there were some parts in this book I was not prepared for or probably never would be prepared for. It is not for the faint of heart.
kim_m's review
3.0
This was a perfect read for October and Halloween season. It was reminiscent of This Present Darkness by Frank Peritti. The creepiness was augmented by religious, particularly Catholic, references which are always scary to me. There were some pretty graphic scenes so its not for the faint of heart or easily offended. I did notice some weird plot holes, a good deal of unbelievability (Shannon not calling the police?) and his female characters had a bit of a stereotype. Overall I thought the ending was very clever and satisfying and the writing was above par.
ARC provided by NetGalley
ARC provided by NetGalley
mwfrendauthor's review
5.0
I enjoyed this book very much and am looking forward to a follow-up. It is extremely well-written and deserves all the hype surrounding its release.
The plot is transformative in its ability to demonstrate both sides of good and evil. This perspective really embellishes the fear and horror instilled by the chilling void of the Satanic cults lack of conscience, contrasted by the gripping plight of the good-hearted victims.
A really unique and thrilling read.
The plot is transformative in its ability to demonstrate both sides of good and evil. This perspective really embellishes the fear and horror instilled by the chilling void of the Satanic cults lack of conscience, contrasted by the gripping plight of the good-hearted victims.
A really unique and thrilling read.
shelikesitscary's review
5.0
How is this a debut novel?
The first thing I should say about this book, is while I HIGHLY recommend it, it is NOT for the faint of heart. I pride myself on being able to stomach all the gore and darkness, but this one made me falter a little! This one will make you feel some strong, and unexpected emotions.
While it IS a classic Good vs Evil, you’re forced to face the grey areas. You might start to question yourself when you’re agreeing with the Evil Edens, and disliking the Good Guys when they show that goodness can also be weakness. The twists and intense action scenes will make you feel like you can’t read fast enough.
The characters in this book are very well-developed. Complex, but at the same time, I instantly felt like I knew them. I felt strong emotions (annoyance, protectiveness, distrust) for each of them.
It’s easy to take for granted that a scene or setting will be adequately and vividly described. You EXPECT that so much while reading, that sometimes you don’t even notice the art of it. Bill made me notice.
Hurry up with the second book please!
The first thing I should say about this book, is while I HIGHLY recommend it, it is NOT for the faint of heart. I pride myself on being able to stomach all the gore and darkness, but this one made me falter a little! This one will make you feel some strong, and unexpected emotions.
While it IS a classic Good vs Evil, you’re forced to face the grey areas. You might start to question yourself when you’re agreeing with the Evil Edens, and disliking the Good Guys when they show that goodness can also be weakness. The twists and intense action scenes will make you feel like you can’t read fast enough.
The characters in this book are very well-developed. Complex, but at the same time, I instantly felt like I knew them. I felt strong emotions (annoyance, protectiveness, distrust) for each of them.
It’s easy to take for granted that a scene or setting will be adequately and vividly described. You EXPECT that so much while reading, that sometimes you don’t even notice the art of it. Bill made me notice.
Hurry up with the second book please!
curiosityboughtthebook's review
4.0
I don’t understand how this is Bill Halpin’s debut novel. It reads more like a book from a bestselling author. It is an excellent good vs. evil horror thriller, and it really sucks you into the story. Halpin’s characters are lifelike and believable, and the world around them is carefully built to support the book.
I have always enjoyed books about cults, and I love how much action Halpin packed into his book. There is never a dull moment, and there is enough violence to even fill my dark horror heart.
Speaking of violence, there was one violent aspect of the book that I could not get over with and think he could have written it differently. I’m not easily disturbed, but something about that short scene didn’t sit right with me. I won’t go into any details, so I don’t spoil the book, but as a mother I just couldn’t overlook that.
I give the book 4 out of 5 stars.
Thanks to Blackthorn Book Tours for the review copy.
I have always enjoyed books about cults, and I love how much action Halpin packed into his book. There is never a dull moment, and there is enough violence to even fill my dark horror heart.
Speaking of violence, there was one violent aspect of the book that I could not get over with and think he could have written it differently. I’m not easily disturbed, but something about that short scene didn’t sit right with me. I won’t go into any details, so I don’t spoil the book, but as a mother I just couldn’t overlook that.
I give the book 4 out of 5 stars.
Thanks to Blackthorn Book Tours for the review copy.
coffeedogsbooks's review
4.0
The Cult of Eden (Book One of the Unrisen)
Author: Bill Halpin
The Cult of Eden is a horror story with Religious undertones (Good vs Evil), which is normally something that can make me a little gunshot, but this one hits to out of the park. Halpin dies a great job making us both love and hate the characters. Will Battese is somewhat of a failure. Dropping out of college, working at a low end diner, and basically a doormat for his wife, Shannon who is very unlikeable but turns into a strong character. After an unexpected pregnancy brings them their son, Gideon and Will meets Victor Degas, things go from bad to worse. Degas is part of a cult known as the Edens and they want Will for their ritual. When Will and Gideon are kidnapped, its up to Shannon to try and rescue them, with the help from the Catholic Church. But, are they really helping? After the early part of the book, which is a little slow, but necessary for character development, things move very quickly. There is a fair amount of gore in this book, so reader beware if that’s not your thing. I love a good horror story, it’s actually one of my favorite genres, and this is one. The story does a good job setting up for the next book, which I look forward to reading. I give this 4/5 stars
Thank you to Blackthorn Book Tours and Bill Halpin for the review copy of this book.
Author: Bill Halpin
The Cult of Eden is a horror story with Religious undertones (Good vs Evil), which is normally something that can make me a little gunshot, but this one hits to out of the park. Halpin dies a great job making us both love and hate the characters. Will Battese is somewhat of a failure. Dropping out of college, working at a low end diner, and basically a doormat for his wife, Shannon who is very unlikeable but turns into a strong character. After an unexpected pregnancy brings them their son, Gideon and Will meets Victor Degas, things go from bad to worse. Degas is part of a cult known as the Edens and they want Will for their ritual. When Will and Gideon are kidnapped, its up to Shannon to try and rescue them, with the help from the Catholic Church. But, are they really helping? After the early part of the book, which is a little slow, but necessary for character development, things move very quickly. There is a fair amount of gore in this book, so reader beware if that’s not your thing. I love a good horror story, it’s actually one of my favorite genres, and this is one. The story does a good job setting up for the next book, which I look forward to reading. I give this 4/5 stars
Thank you to Blackthorn Book Tours and Bill Halpin for the review copy of this book.
bookish_pineapple's review
4.0
The Cult of Eden by Bill Halden
Releasing 10/1/2019
.
.
Thank you to @netgalley for the ebook
.
.
Horror. Pure horror in its right. Not ghost stories or hauntings. Pure horror from torture and murder and cults. Sometimes it’s purely Good vs Evil. It’s been with us since the beginning. And it’ll be with us until the end.
.
.
A very powerful story between Good and Evil. Christianity and Satanism. Doing what’s necessary for your family and loved ones. How far would you go to protect what is yours? Will the line be blurred or crossed? Can you forgive yourself after all is said and done?
.
.
This book was not at all what I expected. I am here for it. It brings me feelings of The Exorcist. A tingle in your spine. A chill on your scalp. The feeling as though someone is watching you. I picked this book up and finished it in one sitting because I could not put it down. I’m not going to lie there were some parts in this book I was not prepared for or probably never would be prepared for. It is not for the faint of heart.
Releasing 10/1/2019
.
.
Thank you to @netgalley for the ebook
.
.
Horror. Pure horror in its right. Not ghost stories or hauntings. Pure horror from torture and murder and cults. Sometimes it’s purely Good vs Evil. It’s been with us since the beginning. And it’ll be with us until the end.
.
.
A very powerful story between Good and Evil. Christianity and Satanism. Doing what’s necessary for your family and loved ones. How far would you go to protect what is yours? Will the line be blurred or crossed? Can you forgive yourself after all is said and done?
.
.
This book was not at all what I expected. I am here for it. It brings me feelings of The Exorcist. A tingle in your spine. A chill on your scalp. The feeling as though someone is watching you. I picked this book up and finished it in one sitting because I could not put it down. I’m not going to lie there were some parts in this book I was not prepared for or probably never would be prepared for. It is not for the faint of heart.
annarella's review
3.0
Not my cup of tea. It's well written but I couldn't connect to the characters.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.