A review by karlakayjenniges
The Rising (Crooked Tales) by Chris Harrison

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? No

4.0

 "We've been waiting for you...

When a group of adventurous young kids decide to go explore an abandoned, notorious B&B called "Crooked House", known to be steeped in mystery and hauntings, they find more than they were expecting.  Only wanting to see if the hotel was simply haunted by ghosts and capture it on camera, they discover what's inside is much more malevolent and sinister. Trapped within, they all must fight to find their way out or be lost to the darkness forever. After what they have experienced, they continue to try to understand what is happening and why their lives are now entangled to the mystery and what lies waiting to consume their lives. As they each continue to experience a sinister being, they gather together to continue to try to discover and stop what is happening. 

From the start, we are given a look into some of the history that enshrouds the hotel, the previous owners, and the  reasons for the abandonment.  Advancing forward to the present, we learn about the kids and the dynamics of their lives, giving us that connection to each of the characters. Each of them having their own endearments and troubles. 

The atmosphere is very foreboding as we are taken inside to experience the sinister forces that lie within. Feeling just as trapped and anxious as the group of kids. Wondering how they are possibly going to escape. It was like stepping through time and entering into a labyrinth of dreams, especially as more and more of the story unfolded. 

I really liked the inclusion of being taken back in time and learning the truth of the hotel and the reveal of what the sinister forces actually were. I felt it was a very interesting concept. There were some things that were revealed that were surprising and the ending was unexpected, as well. 

This will be an ongoing series and I can only imagine the horrors that is planned to continue the adventure. 

A very well written debut novel that will surely appeal to YA readers as well as anyone who enjoys horror.

**My appreciation to Wicked Ink Publishing and Chris Harrison for the complimentary e-ARC.