Book Reviews

Book Blurb

While recovering from the recent loss of his parents, Daniel Donnelly receives a phone call from his estranged aunt, who turns over control of the family fortune and estate, Timber Manor. Though his father seemed guarded about the past, Daniel’s need for family and curiosity compel him to visit.

Located in a secluded area of the Northwest, Timber Manor has grown silent over the years. Her halls sit empty and a thin layer of dust adorns the sheet-covered furniture. When Daniel arrives to begin repairs, strange things happen. Nightmares haunt his dreams. Memories not his own disturb his waking hours. Alive with the tragedies of the past, Timber Manor threatens to tear Daniel apart.

Sherriff Hale Davis grew up working on the manor grounds. Seeing Daniel struggle, he vows protect the young man who captured his heart, and help him solve the mystery behind the haunting and confront the past—not only to save Daniel’s life, but to save his family, whose very souls hang in the balance.

 

 

First Edition published by Dreamspinner Press, 2012.

Book Review

Daniel Donnelly, of 'The Haunting of Timber Manor' by E.F. Feely, Jr., is grieving for his mother and father who died together in a boating accident. He struggles through their funeral arrangements and getting their finances in order, but he hasn't had time to grieve. Surprisingly, his father's sister contacts him and invites him to come visit and Daniel agrees. He's not really ready for a trip, but she's his only living relative and he can't refuse. In Daniel's search to get to know his aunt and family history, he walks into a hornet's nest of unresolved family issues created years ago and ones only he can resolve.

Daniel looks forward to meeting his estranged aunt and seeing the family estate which is much more extensive than he'd ever imagined. When his aunt tells him that he is the heir, it's almost surreal. He's overwhelmed by the prospect, but intends to live up to her expectations. The people at Timber Manor are all excited to have Daniel back, especially Hale, the local sheriff, old family friend, and part-time employee. Daniel and Hale feel an affinity right away which leads to a friendship which grows into intimacy. As the manor and grounds reveals their secrets through nightmares and paranormal activities, Daniel appreciates Hale's comforting presence more than ever. When Daniel's back is to the wall, and his enemy makes it's its purpose so demonstratively known, Daniel chooses to fight rather than run.

Hale is a large, strong, and handsome man, with a huge heart and lots of compassion. He becomes Daniel's anchor and is quite protective of him. Hale thinks he knows the history of the manor and the people associated with it because he's been there all of his life; but as more secrets are discovered, he becomes indignant. The passion between Hale and Daniel is hot and sweet and considerate. Hale puts Daniel's feelings before his own. His concern for Daniel is admirable and doesn't go unnoticed by him. Hale's loyalty is even stronger. Not one to back down from a challenge, especially when it is a just one, Hale is right beside Daniel. When he needs him, he's there with encouragement and support. Even though it may not be his fight, it involves people he loves and that's more than enough for Hale to pitch in.

The story has all of the elements one would expect in a proper Gothic tale—the foreboding feelings in and around the house with violent and frightening secrets oozing from every window and door. It does, however, lean more toward a mystery, rather than blood and guts horror. Each character adds their own special slant to the plot as the puzzles are revealed. In an effort to let each character express himself, F.E. chose to allow each one to enlighten us with their own interpretation of events. He accomplishes this by switching from one to the next as is appropriate. Although the changes are clearly marked, it was a bit confusing until I got the hang of it. Rather than being limited to one person's viewpoint, I was able to see what everyone was thinking. For a debut author, it's a great start. I think F.E. has great potential and, personally, I am looking forward to reading many more books of his in the future. I recommend this story to everyone who likes a good mystery in a Gothic setting involving strong characters, deep, dark family secrets, suspense, and a very scary entity who is out to destroy everything. Thank you, F.E., for the intriguing tale.

 

 

 

 

DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. This book has been provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.

Additional Information

Format	ebook and print
Length	Novel, 256 pages/86532 words
Heat Level
Publication Date	09-January-2017
Price	$6.99 ebook, $16.99 paperback, $16.99 bundle
Buy Link	https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/the-haunting-of-timber-manor-by-f-e-feeley-jr-8008-b