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BLOODMOON COVE SPIRITS SERIES
https://karenwiesner.weebly.com/bloodmoon-cove-spirits-series.html
BOUND SPIRITS, Book 1
5 Stars and Reviewer's Top Pick! “I have been interested to read BOUND SPIRITS because of the story's uniqueness. This book is like an oasis. In this generation where a lot of stories have the same underlying idea, this book stands out. It may be part of a common or popular genre but the story is opposite to that. Also, despite the many back stories that one can read within this book, it's not messy to look at. They were written to fit in seamlessly together. It's not confusing. Rather, it became more interesting. It fires up the imagination. This book has led me to think of different assumptions. With the mix of stories, I'd sometimes end up thinking that there are a lot of possibilities. It made my reading experience more fun. The characters were a great help, too. They fit one another, complementing each other's humanity. I also find the unraveling of the story commendable. Wiesner is gifted as a writer to have crafted the story in such a way where it doesn't seem slow but it's not rushed either. All in all, I strongly believe this is a good read that everybody would enjoy.” ~Readers’ Favorite
5 Stars! “In BOUND SPIRITS, Karen Wiesner uses the premise of a ghost story to delve deeply into the characters, their motivations, and their relationships with each other. This novel is well-written, and I found myself drawn in as I read it. The beginning scene is of a group of youngsters investigating the tale of a ghost in Bloodmoon Cove. It's a slow start, but the realistic dialogue between the characters in this setting scene makes it fascinating to read, and what follows is even better! There are different characters, each with their own definitive personalities, and their struggles throughout this novel in their personal lives, as well as the demonic oppressions of Bloodmoon Cove and its haunting make this a book to remember! I highly recommend anyone to check this out. Karen Wiesner is an excellent author and it was a pleasure to read and review this book." ~author Jenna Whittaker
5 Stars! "WOW! Don't close your eyes or venture into an evil that lurks in the mountains of Bloodmoon Cove in upper northern Wisconsin! Something is howling and it wants revenge after waiting one hundred years for justice. I liked that John Kotter returned home to take his place after his dad went missing and never returned. After the sheriff and townspeople searched for days, they could find a body. The park was his legacy and John's mom could never manage it on her own, so he did what had to be done and moved back home where some folks hated him because they believed he was to blame for his girlfriend's suicide. I loved Esme Dumas for her bravery and determination to be free even if she had to survive on Bloodmoon Cove's mountain. This story had me rapidly reading even though I knew that this is just the first of many books in this series. I can't wait to read the next one!" ~Linda's Reviews
5 Stars! “This author has written many stories, in multiple genres, but I feel that THIS type of story fits her best. It has the flavor of an old Gothic Romance (of which the few I still hoard will never be tossed out) yet it can still be classified as a Christian Romance. The characters are well developed. They never felt flat or two dimensional. The female is frightened, naive, untrusting, and often compared to a fairy or sprite. The male has made mistakes in his past and tries to keep an open mind, be it about the living or the dead. If this is a taste of what the rest of the series will be like, then I refuse to wait a second longer to begin Book 2.” ~Huntress Reviews
5 Stars! "BOUND SPIRITS wooed me with well-drawn characters, not only John Kotter and Esmeralda, but also the supporting cast: John's mother, Troy Mulvaney and his friends, and the others. BOUND SPIRITS reminded me of Stephen King's Misery. In Misery, Annie Wilkes, a nurse also afflicted with a mental illness, locks injured protag Paul in his room, torturing him with starvation alternating with affection and unbridled fury. Now King's book is psychological horror, which includes a graphic description of the torture. Wiesner takes a subtle approach, allowing my imagination to supply the details, but she turns up the tension by adding a ghost. Not ghost. Ghosts, for Esme had to go up against the spirits of a man and his dog. These ghosts are seeking revenge on the family of the man who killed them and walled them in a cave. On one level, Esme can relate to these spirits, being a bound sprit herself, and Wiesner sells Esme's reaction in a way that I can believe. King's story packs a heavy wallop with his protagnist's ordeal, but Wiesner tweaks up the tension yet again with portraying Esme after the fact. Esme comes to town afraid to trust, ready to run when anyone questions her. She didn't count on falling for John Kotter, a man who struggles with demons of his own. What's more, the people of Bloodmoon Cove have their own ideas on how people should live, something that doesn't sit well with John. The way he reacts to Esme is quite touching, and a sweet romance starts to blossom between them. The suspense started from page one, with Troy and his friends visiting the cave, and kept me turning the pages. I believe this a great read that everyone would enjoy." ~author Barbara Custer
5 Stars! "Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series' urban fantasy BOUND SPIRITS is a fabulous ghost story that grips readers from the moment Troy and his friends enter the forbidden zone. Fast-paced, the romantic subplot is anticipated but kept low-keyed as Karen Wiesner focuses on the hunt for angry avenging spirits." ~MBR Bookwatch
4 Stars! "Enthralling blend of romance and horror. One of my favorite fictional tropes reveals secrets from a dark past overshadowing the present, and BOUND SPIRITS has them in abundance. The town of Bloodmoon Cove harbors ghosts and demonic forces, inadvertently released generations ago when the elders of the local Native American tribe opened an interdimensional portal. Ranger John Cotter is haunted by the mystery of his father’s disappearance. His family history includes a grim episode of an ancestor tortured and left to die in a cave that is sometimes there, sometimes not, able to be found only when it “wants” to be. Esme Dumas (a name she has assumed because she doesn’t know her own identity) feels compelled to hide her traumatic past, for a reason that seems vital to her and therefore convincing to the reader. When the full truth comes out, her reaction to learning about her origin comes across as realistically ambivalent. Both John and Esme are portrayed as warmhearted, likable people, and the relationship between them develops believably. The secondary characters are also lifelike and engaging. The reader gets the sense of a fully developed setting that has existed before the story begins and will continue to exist after one reads ‘The End’. I also admire the way the concept of ‘bound spirits’ is used both literally and metaphorically; at the climax, this motif weaves together the separate plot threads. A true cross-genre story, BOUND SPIRITS maintains an effective balance between horror and romance. I found this novel thoroughly satisfying. Recommended." ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 Stars! "Not to be read on a dark and stormy night, this is a thrilling tale where ghosts do battle with natural elements. A wandering soul looking for revenge wreaks havoc on a frightened town in this story that also charmingly depicts love in first bloom." ~RT Book Reviews
4 Stars! "'Nestled on Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin is a small, secluded town called Bloodmoon Cove with volatile weather, suspicious folk...and newly awakened ghosts. Don't close your eyes... "Harrity Scaritty, on the mountain-side, in the realm of the dead, how will you escape, how will you be fed? With the living and the undead"' How could you not want to read this book after reading that? I love a good ghost story. This book had everything a good thriller should have. Suspense, romance between two lost souls, healing, and most importantly a ghost. The characters of Park Ranger John Kotter and Esmerlda "Esme" Dumas were so well defined that you felt what they felt. You saw what they saw. Another great thing about this book is not only did it have me on the edge of my seat, it had me holding a tissue in my hand. The minor characters were well written as well. You have to love Troy and his friends. When it comes to teenagers, you always have a leader and those who want to fit in so they become followers. I felt this portion of the story was a coming of age sub-plot. If you like Stephen King, you'll enjoy this story." ~The Romance Reviews
4 Stars! "These three people create a perfect storm that brings terror and death to the people around the mountain and love to lost souls. A very atmospheric and old-fashioned ghost story, a sweet love story, and redemptive tale of lost souls being found through love." ~author Marilynn Byerly
“BOUND SPIRITS is like an urban legend told sitting around a bonfire with your hairs rising on the back of your neck. It sucks you right in and you're on the edge of your seat waiting to hear the rest.” ~BTS eMag
THE BLOODMOON CURSE, Book 2
5 Angels and FAR Recommended Read Award Winner! "Ab intriguing read I couldn't stop reading. This captivating book kept me practically hypnotized. Unique and wonderfully written, this satisfying tale flows so consistently the ending was something I never anticipated." ~Fallen Angel Reviews
5 Stars and 2006 eCataromance Reviewer’s Choice Award Nominee! "I was enticed from the first paragraph and didn't want the story to end. This is an author who has a seemingly unlimited imagination for character and plot, and I plan to read everything she writes. Worthy of a reread. One of Wiesner's exciting best." ~eCataromance
5 Stars! "There are so many of us out there that recall those old Gothic Romances with great fondness. Those romances had a bit of the supernatural within them and, in rare cases, not all of them had a perfect ending. But that is what kept me guessing back then. Would there be a perfect and happy ending or would it end with a bit of creepiness? In the not so distant past, Gothic Romances came back but always had a happy ending with all loose ends tied up. Well, I am thrilled to say that the Gothic Romance seems to be coming back again, thanks to Karen Wiesner. (Woo-Hoo!) This story has the same spine chilling creepiness but is set in the present time and includes modern troubles. This tale involves a couple who has undergone a recent, personal tragedy which is compounded by Cain's parents' ethics. (They care about Cain being hurt by Amberlyn, just as the two ladies before her did.) The pair have not been married long, a couple of years, and Cain is adrift, unable to realize how much his distraught wife needs him. Wiesner's writing style is easy to read and understand. She creates well developed characters and gives each their own personality. I have read many of her books in the past--she has written in various genres--but I believe the Gothic Romances are her best ever. Highly recommended to one and all." ~Huntress Reviews
5 Stars! "Love, romance, faith, Gothic-style suspense, horror, and mystery at its best. What a story! You have everything in this book. It left me gasping for breath. Good heavens, what an attention-grabbing novel. What an imagination Ms. Wiesner possesses. Author Karen Wiesner has included everything needed to hook readers and hold their attention. It held my attention from the first page. I could not get to the last page fast enough. I read this book straight through, long into the night, as I could not stop. I had to know what was going on in this awful place with these awful, evil people. Get ready to be surprised and appalled. Cain's growth was grand to watch as Ms. Wiesner developed his character. Amberlyn's character growth from depressed and despondent to caring and defending the children was masterly done. Ms. Wiesner also skillfully created the mystery and evil surrounding Bloodmoon Manor and its residents. You will never decipher the mystery until the revelations. Ms. Wiesner had many threads to weave in this tale and she did so very well, creating characters that were multifaceted and she skillfully developed each character. Her descriptions of Bloodmoon Cove, Bloodmoon Manor and the inhabitants were so vivid I could see them in my mind's eye and I could feel the evil seething in this place. Ms. Wiesner had several plots in this story and each was an eye-opener and surprising. My mouth fell open as the plots and mysteries were revealed. The author has the ability to pull you into the storyline. This is a fast paced, well-developed, skillfully crafted novel. I loved it. Well done, Ms. Wiesner, well done!" ~The Romance Reviews
5 Stars! "Hold onto to your seats! I couldn't stop reading the second book in the Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series. The story is most fitting for Halloween! I felt sorry for Amberlyn and Cain with the loss of her baby after her accident. THE BLOODMOON CURSE was a little scary, but I could not stop reading. I can't wait for the next book!" ~Linda's Reviews
5 Stars! "A suspenseful contemporary mystery with Gothic overtones. The fast-punching conclusion will take your breath away. There is plenty of heart-wrenching pathos in this Gothic-flavored tale. This book will definitely keep you turning pages well past your bedtime." ~Gotta Write Network!
5 Flags! "Once you start reading this book, you can't stop yourself from finishing it. Wiesner has written a page turner and those of you who like horror will agree with me. You don't want to miss out on this story." ~EuroReviews
5 Stars! "This modern day Gothic thriller grips the audience and never slows down. The final twist to this tense tale will stun readers as few suspense thrillers can." ~Sime~Gen Reviews
5 Stars! "Heart-wrenching gothic suspense! When Amberlyn, in flight from her disintegrating marriage after the devastating loss of a near-term baby, answers an ad for a nanny, she doesn't plan to hold the position for more than a few weeks, until a permanent caretaker can be found. She finds herself in a situation beyond her control, though, trapped in a snowbound mansion with no electricity, central heating, or transportation and no way to communicate with the outside world. (This novel is apparently set at a time before cell phones became ubiquitous.) The three children she's hired to care for, one of them a four-month-old infant, spend all their time confined to a few rooms with no toys or age-appropriate books and no access to the outdoors. The three adults claiming to be distant relatives who assumed guardianship after the children's parents' death show no interest in their wards. The housemaid seems too frightened of her employers to give Amberlyn any concrete information, much less help. The children's alleged relatives all have similar mild deformities that Amberlyn suspects of arising from incestuous inbreeding. The author uses familiar Gothic tropes in a modern setting to chilling effect -- a huge, gloomy, sinister house, dark family secrets, a heroine virtually imprisoned and isolated from any source of aid. Even in the depth of her heartbreak, Amberlyn can't help growing attached to the children. Far from a helpless damsel in distress, she tries everything in her power to uncover the truths hidden from her and find a way to escape with her charges. Not until near the end of the story do we learn whether the ominously lurking presence she senses watching her is supernatural or human. The revelation of what's really going on in Bloodmoon Manor won't disappoint the reader's terrified anticipation. Meanwhile, Amberlyn's purely human loss and the shared grief that drove her and her husband apart instead of drawing them together are deeply moving. Scenes from his viewpoint reveal his anguished love for her, reassuring the reader that we needn't completely despair about the saving of their marriage. This novel can be read independently of any others in the Bloodmoon Cove Spirits series; no prior knowledge of the setting is needed." ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 1/2 Hearts! "THE BLOODMOON CURSE is an eerie, suspense-filled tale of murder and insanity. This emotionally stirring suspense will keep the reader anxiously waiting the answers at the end of the book. Be prepared to not put this one down once you start reading. Amberlyn is a woman like many that tried to balance a marriage and career. This is heartbreaking. The story is fascinating as well as highly suspenseful. Even as the reader believes they have it all figured out there is still surprises left to experiences throughout the story. The fear builds as the reader worries. The anxiety is almost overwhelming when escape seems impossible. The storyline is highly imaginative and the descriptive skills of Karen Wiesner make the scenes come to life for the reader. THE BLOODMOON CURSE is a frightening gothic tale filled with anxiety building suspense and inspirational romance." ~The Romance Studio
4.5 Stars! "THE BLOODMOON CURSE is a freaky tale. As I read I kept thinking these characters are like out of an X-Files episode. I enjoyed the suspense as it slowly wound through the book building up the tension. Amberlyn, though seemingly a quiet character initially, has a gentle strength and resolve not to be a victim. And, although the character of Katerina is a nasty piece of work, I felt strangely sorry for her towards the end of the book. There is a strong theme of faith and spirituality throughout the book. However, it never comes across as too preachy. It's more that the characters beliefs are strong enough to overcome anything. What I liked about this book is it cannot be categorized in one particular genre. There is something for every reader in THE BLOODMOON CURSE. It's a modern day gothic tale, where the heroine is battling evil and relying on the power of love and faith to get her through. It's an excellent read." ~Once Upon A Romance Review
2015 BTS Red Carpet Award Nominee and 4 Stars! "Once I started reading, I didn’t want to stop. This really was a good read. There's mystery and suspense that keeps the reader guessing until the very end. A lot of surprises. " ~BTSemag
4 Stars! "One cannot help but become emotionally invested in Wiesner's broken characters. This gripping romantic drama will pull at your heartstrings while scaring you to pieces." ~RT Book Reviews
"Ghosties and ghoulies abound in this book of the paranormal bent. Combining the seemingly difficult genres of gothic romance, inspirational views, and a paranormal twist provide the reader with a different type of book." ~Long and the Short Reviews
"A story about a spooky old house and its strange inhabitants, THE BLOODMOON CURSE is a frightening tale and more of a horror story than a paranormal romance. It is very scary as Amberlyn roams through the house and the mausoleum looking for a way to leave the house of horrors. The secondary characters add to the story, particularly Katerina, who delights in the anguish of Amberlyn and the children, but who is obviously miserable herself. If you are in the mood for a well written, frightening story, THE BLOODMOON CURSE is sure to fill the bill." ~Romance Reviews Today
"THE BLOODMOON CURSE starts by sending the reader on a rollercoaster of emotions. I felt sadness for Amberlyn's loss of a child, fear for the children of the manor. This story has many Gothic overtones that make you feel like you are watching midnight horror film. I found myself praying with Amberlyn for strength and aid. This frightening, thrill ride was just what I was looking for and the amazing writing skills of Karen Wiesner pull the reader in this suspenseful story and never let go." ~WRDF Reviews
"THE BLOODMOON CURSE chills to the bone! As always, Wiesner creates fabulous characters to bring her stories to life. An edge of the seat read!" ~Rolling Seas Reviews
"This story kept me riveted and turning the pages. The development of the older children was great; I watched them go from totally terrified of anyone and anything in the house to accepting, trusting, and even loving Amberlyn. I felt for the protagonist... I understood her evil, her family intermarriage mental and physical problems... I would give this book a three and half wings for the plot, supporting characters and the fact that [Wiesner] fit a gothic tale in a contemporary setting very well." ~Classic Romance Revival
"THE BLOODMOON CURSE is an emotional rollercoaster, full of anger, despair and fear with the Amberlyn's love of the children and her husband holding it all together." ~Manic Readers
CROOKED HOUSE, Book 3
5 Stars! "WOW, what a scary read perfect for Halloween! I felt sorry for Corinne Zellman, an orphan and widow when her husband died in a car crash. I couldn't believe she still loved him after his multiple affairs. When she helped him through medical school, she had to put her own dreams on hold to do it. Was there some other reason she was so in love with him, even years after his death? I approved when Rafe Yager, an ex-soldier and ghost hunter, decided to ignore his Gran and mom by returning to Bloodmoon Cove despite giving his word that he'd never go there. But the blue-eyed lovely Corinne got into his system from his first vision of her when her witch-friend botched a spell." ~Linda's Reviews
4 Stars! "Why was Corinne's late husband, Tom, estranged from his family and insistent that she have no contact with them even if they approach her? Why are her memories of her own life before falling in love with him so vague? Why does she receive a ring with his family crest out of the blue, with an invitation to visit their home in Bloodmoon Cove? This novel plunges the reader directly into the realm of the supernatural and one of my favorite tropes, dark family secrets. Shorter than most books in the series, it remains tightly focused on the mystery of the Crooked House, which threatens to enmesh Corinne in the darkness Tom had tried to escape from. Meanwhile, the hero, Rafe, also gets drawn to Bloodmoon Cove, where his family originated. As a ghost-hunter, he has visions, and the story opens with his vision of Corinne and her friend, Ruby, conducting a magical ritual. He feels impelled to travel to the town he has always shunned in order to save Corinne from the paranormal threat overshadowing her. There she gets trapped in another of my favorite motifs, a house that's bigger -- and in this case, more luxurious -- than it looks on the outside. Cryptic warnings and mysterious dangers abound. Why does she feel so drained of energy and volition after visiting the mansion? The psychic link between her and Rafe makes their ‘love at first sight’ attraction plausible. Readers familiar with other volumes in the series will recognize some of the secondary characters, but one doesn't need to have read any other installments to understand this story. Fans of paranormal romance will enjoy this intense supernatural thriller." ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 Stars! “A thrilling supernatural novel. Spine-chilling from start to finish. Anyone who enjoys stories with an occult twist will love this book.” ~Readers' Favorite
4 Stars! “Wiesner brings back a taste of Gothic romance to her readers in this spooky series. Each spine-tingling story is worth your attention. I found myself going back and rereading sections just to enjoy the chill again. The two main characters are fully developed and are the focus of the story. The secondary characters are well-developed. I'm eager to get my hands on all the books in this series!” ~Huntress Reviews
RETURN TO BLOODMOON MANOR, Book 4
5 Stars! "A fantastic book in a gripping series. Wiesner really knows how to write so you're both chilled to the bone yet warm inside. This is another skillful story of the paranormal mixed with romance. This is action all the way, with no let-up and plenty of twists and turns to keep you reading. The characters are well developed, likable and easy to relate to. I've read all the books in this series so far and would recommend others do the same." ~Readers' Favorite
5 Stars! “Wiesner was born to write Gothic romances. She gives readers chills while delivering happily-ever-afters.” ~Huntress Reviews
5 Stars! “Horror isn’t my favorite genre but, after reading this story, I immediately purchased the first three books in the series. I want to know more about this place and characters. I recommend the series to those interested in a different point of view on horror and occult as well as anyone interested in just a plain good story.” ~author Barbara Raffin
5 Stars! "Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series continues in a dynamic fashion. I liked that Daniel stuck by his wife. Hannah is consumed with making their lives better once she learns Bloodmoon Manor is hers and she convinces Daniel to return to the hell house in order to take the antiques and sell them to pay their debts. I can't wait to read the next book in this series as I am so HOOKED!" ~Linda's Reviews
4 Stars! "Although this book is a direct sequel to THE BLOODMOON CURSE, reading that one is not absolutely required for understanding it. Acquaintance with the earlier novel would help, but the present narrative does supply enough context to appreciate the story. Hannah's plight immediately draws in the reader's sympathy. She and her husband, Daniel, suffer from mundane problems many people can relate to, an unplanned pregnancy and a crushing load of debt. In addition, she bears the burden of trauma from years as an employee practically enslaved by the sinister owners of Bloodmoon Manor. When she unexpectedly inherits the house and all its contents, the idea of selling the property to gain financial security becomes an obsession, again one almost anybody could identify with. Of course, the process proves not that simple. The qualms expressed by Daniel, who wants nothing to do with the bequest, create tension between him and Hannah. Suspense builds as they arrive at the house and everything seems to go smoothly, aside from Daniel's illness, which strikes as soon as they enter the grounds and inexorably worsens. Even without the dire warnings of the locals, we would expect the couple to be trapped in the Gothic mansion and forced to confront the entity striving to lure Hannah into its clutches. Recurring characters from other books in the series appear, but prior knowledge of them isn't necessary. We become deeply absorbed in Hannah and Daniel's problems and dangers, rooting for them to survive while the lethal threat grows seemingly inescapable. This novel does an excellent job of developing a secondary character from THE BLOODMOON CURSE, a semi-antagonist in that story, into a sympathetic heroine for whom we wish the happy life she now deserves." ~author Margaret L. Carter
REUNITED, Book 5
5 Stars! "Horror and pathos in a blend of realism and the supernatural! Another great Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series story. I have read all five books now, and they just keep on getting better. This is paranormal romance at its best. Not only do we get another great plot, a story that will leave you shivering for days, we also welcome back characters from previous stories. Although these books could, at a push, be read as standalone stories, they are also best read in order to get the full picture. The new characters we meet in this book are well developed and you find yourself siding with Gray and Twyla all the way. The action never stops and, like me, you won't want to put this book down." ~Readers' Favorite
5 Stars! “Oh, WOW! I have never tried to get to the end of a book so fast. I couldn't stop reading!” ~Linda's Reviews
5 Stars! "REUNITED (a title with a double meaning) is mind-blowing with horror and pathos in a blend of realism and the supernatural. This novel plunges directly into Twyla’s desperate plight, with high tension from the beginning. The opening scene fills in the background while moving the action forward with no slackening of suspense as she responds to her monstrous husband’s call. At this point, he’s “monstrous” in a purely human way, emotionally, physically, and sexually abusive. Although he’s too warped to pity, the author devises plausible reasons from his own abused childhood for his horrific cruelty. Like most victims of domestic violence, Twyla is isolated from anybody who might help her. Understandably, she has cut off her family, friends, and Gray, the long-time boyfriend from her past, for fear of what her husband might do to them. Despite the moral ambiguity of the action she takes when she confronts him, we fully sympathize. Her fear-induced lies also make sense, even though they tangle her in an ever-tightening net as the police suspect her of what she more or less actually did. Gray comes across as an admirable hero, brave and unselfish, while his occasional qualms about whether Twyla has changed from the girl he loved in their teens feel realistic. We applaud when he rushes to her rescue, but that’s far from the end of her ordeal. When it becomes clear that her husband’s death hasn’t liberated her after all, his supernatural pursuit seems like an inevitable extension of his obsessive behavior in life. Twyla’s return with Gray to their home town, Bloodmoon Cove, takes them to the only place where the resources to banish the vengeful ghost can necessarily and believably be found. Several familiar characters from other books in the series appear, but it’s not necessary to have read those volumes. The paranormal features of the area and the roles of the secondary characters are amply explained for the benefit of new readers. The horror and pathos of this story should enthrall fans of the series and first-time readers alike." ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 Stars! “This installment of the Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series will send shivers down your spine. I read the entire thing in one afternoon…during a thunderstorm that seemed to make the story even creepier. Wiesner writes stories that readers will always remember fondly.” ~Huntress Reviews
HIDDEN, Book 6
5 Stars! "I was intrigued and terrified as I read HIDDEN. Of all Karen Wiesner's books I've read, thus far this one has been the most horrifying to me. Despite that, I couldn't stop reading! I had to find out what would happen next. I both loved Tobias and Syl and their extended family group. I felt sorry and sad that the little girl at Howling Halls had no one to play with, but Rafe (the ghost hunter from CROOKED HOUSE) is undeniably right that it's best for supernatural creatures stay in their own realm instead of entering ours. The scary parts of HIDDEN will stay in my mind perhaps far longer than I prefer, but, even still, I find myself very eager for the next installment in this series." ~Linda's Reviews
4 1/2 Stars! "A chilling tale! HIDDEN is creepy. The wonderful thing about this series is that each story can stand alone. You do not need to read any of the previous titles to enjoy this chilling tale. It starts out slowly, so readers can be introduced to the main and secondary characters. But after the first chapter, things take off at a sprint and they never really slow back down. The characters are well developed, believable, and not idiots as many in supernatural romances or movies are. If the situation looks too dangerous, alternatives are discussed. Of course, thanks to the imp that must rest on this author's shoulder, it does not matter. Something will force them to make a move and pray for the best. I loved every second of this spooky tale." ~Huntress Reviews
4 Stars! "A well-crafted amnesia plot is always enthralling. Tobias has no memory of his family or early years. From his perspective, his life began in the midst of his military service. Now he and his wife, Sybilla, have an apparently ideal life in terms of both their intense mutual love and the material prosperity and fulfilling work they enjoy. They have close friends, including Wolf, his former Marine comrade. Tobias’s inheritance of Howling Halls, a house on a mountaintop in Bloodmoon Cove, from the parents he doesn’t remember changes everything. Tobias, Sybilla, and their companions plan to spend only a short time in the house unless they decide it’s suitable for a volume in their “Offbeat” book series. Of course, the reader knows complications will derail their plans. Sybilla’s unexpected pregnancy and Tobias’s limited mobility from a recent accident make the project risky from the start. The danger of their isolation at a site where weather can turn dangerous with little or no warning is heightened by the discovery that Howling Halls, although modern and luxurious, is haunted—maybe by one or more ghosts, but also by something more alien and lethal than a ghost. The detail of the elevator that won’t go up to the top floor is unusual and delightfully creepy. Tobias also finds out he had a sister who died young. The temptation to disregard the local ghost expert’s warning not to interact with spirits becomes almost impossible to resist. As any fan of haunted-house fiction would expect, forces both natural and supernatural conspire to keep the characters from leaving and, once they escape, impel them to return. The reader never feels like yelling, “You idiots, don’t do that,” because their behavior has consistently believable motivations. The connections between the enigmas of Tobias’s amnesia and the house itself are skillfully interwoven in the buildup to the terrifying revelation of how they fit together. Filipino folklore, obviously carefully researched, adds rich layers of supernatural mystery. The truth about Tobias’s past comes as an astonishing, horrific shock. Established fans of the series will recognize recurring characters among the residents of Bloodmoon Cove. As with most of these books, however, it’s in no way necessary to have read other novels to enjoy this one. Given the shattering facts about Tobias’s background, the happy ending he attains with Sybilla requires (for me, at least) some suspension of disbelief, but the characters are so engaging and have suffered so much that one welcomes and rejoices in their ultimate happiness." ~author Margaret L. Carter
BONE OF MY BONE, Book 7
5 Stars! "To say that I enjoyed this eerie story would be a huge understatement. Wiesner managed to send a chill up my spine not once, but twice. That does not happen often. It is testament to how potent the poison is on the tip of her pen. Hey, Writers Exchange, publish this series faster!" ~Huntress Reviews
5 Stars! “What a spooky novel. I just loved it! My heart went out to the little girl who eventually named herself Ice. I could see Bennet’s love for her even from the start. This story had me fretting from moment to moment about what would happen. I can hardly wait to read the next in the series!” ~Linda's Reviews
4 Stars! "Family mysteries and supernatural horror skillfully blended! Unique, suspenseful, emotionally powerful! This novel stands alone fine without readers needing to be familiar with the setting or related stories. I always enjoy characters with alien-ish backgrounds who discover their true potential only gradually. I like the scene where Ice communicates with her mother while unconscious. Not only does it supply useful information, it draws out the final sequence to enhance suspense but without frenetic nonstop action. Additionally, Ice's telepathic conversation with her mother enhances the picture of their relationship as well as foreshadowing their mental union in the climactic battle and also foreshadows the extent of Ice's power. The final battle effectively portrays the powerful force she has to invoke to defeat the monster -- it's not an easy wave of the hand thing -- and makes clear the gravity of her choice, with a very real feeling that she could choose to be something no longer human. (Of course, the reader knows that almost certainly won't happen, but in the moment it feels like an imminent possibility.) The mystery of Ice is captivating, and the major elements hold together very well in this story." ~author Margaret L. Carter
LOST AND FOUND, A Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series 2-in-1 (2 novels in one volume) including LOST, Book 8 and FOUND, Book 9
5 Stars! “In LOST AND FOUND, we have two Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series novels in one volume, both focusing on books and libraries. In LOST, Book 8, Damaris tried so hard to keep her mom’s bookstore in Grimoire open. If not for her “aunt” Holly’s offer of employment at the Bloodmoon Cove library, Damaris might have been homeless. Making that transfer puts Damaris and her boyfriend in the awkward position of deciding whether to stay together or move on separately. For Griffin, there is no choice. I liked that he was willing to leave everything behind to follow her, as she’s the one thing he can’t live without. When she goes missing, he’s leading the pack to search for her—in probably the last place anyone would expect her to get lost! In FOUND, Book 9, I felt sorry for Wick, who’d been beat up and taunted while growing up, unloved by his parents. His comfort had always been the local library and, for a short time as an adult, food. He’s finally lost the weight he’d put on in his depression. As head librarian, he’s works hard to make the place viable for the small community, but most days he doesn’t see a single person. Renatta was also a character I liked. She’d been morbidly obese for most of her life, with family members who encouraged her to be as unhealthy as they themselves are, both physically and mentally. Finding someone to love her that she can love back, the one special person to share her life, has been a life-long struggle for her. How she finally lost weight was anything but healthy, but it did work—despite how her relatives are constantly trying to drag her back and undo all the good she’s achieved. Wick and Renatta’s romance is both deeply touching and deeply tragic, and it made me want to cry with its devastating joy. I’ve read all of Ms. Wiesner’s fiction titles to date, and I can heartily recommend that all her books just keep on getting better.” ~Linda's Reviews
4 Stars! "Two captivating novels of paranormal mystery! Cool use of supernatural elements. There are genuinely scary scenes in LOST. I like the repeated motif of being in a ‘place’ outside of normal time, treated in different ways. And the presence of Damaris, the heroine in LOST (I cheered when I discovered she also plays a role in FOUND), ties together the two stories. The last few chapters of FOUND are so eerie and sad. Very effective. I sympathized with the characters, whose emotions are very realistic, and I was glad to see the uplifting conclusion that's still a little sad. In each story in this duology, the events unfold believably in the context of the ‘reality’ of the setting. They seem perfectly fitting yet not predictable. I was never quite sure how things would turn out for the protagonists, which allowed for an effective creation of suspense." ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 Stars! "LOST starts out with some awesome humor. Afterward, the reader slowly learns about Damaris and Griffin. When she stops along the highway for a much-needed break, things begin to get very spooky. Readers who have read other titles in this series will meet up with some familiar characters. This always makes the story a bit more real to me. I enjoy how the author does that. I am interested to see if these two titles fit together in some way since they are sold together, under one cover. The two main characters in FOUND will be relatable to many readers. They do not have the best relatives, neither can be considered as good looking, and neither are happy with their lives. As the main characters began to dig for information and firsthand accounts involving a dybbuk, I could not help but become fascinated. (So much so that I Googled the topic and read a few online articles.) Toward the end of this tale, the author inserted a major twist. I never saw it coming! I actually heard myself gasp (no kidding) as things just clicked into place for me. The next title that I pick up by this author will have me begin reading with great consternation. When it comes to a story written by Karen Wiesner, anything can happen. And often does!” ~Huntress Reviews
HELL HATH NO FURY, Book 10
5 Stars! “HELL HATH NO FURY, the 10th book in Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series, was so scary! Even so, I couldn’t stop reading. Bella and Marsh were easy to love, though Ori was a bit free-spirited. After Bella’s mom’s death, the three friends find out Bella’s inherited a house that’s perfect for the shop they want to open together. The legacy is just too good to pass up, even if this inheritance comes with the stipulation not to live in or sell the house. When good sense goes right out the window, bad things happen. This story had me on pins and needles because true evil lived in that creepy house. Talk about not being able to put a book down! I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this series.” ~Linda's Reviews
5 Stars! “A gripping blend of romance and horror, with an effective balance between the two. The lifelike characters and their very believable circumstances riveted my attention from the beginning. I admire how the characters, setting, and rising tension and supernatural terror are woven together. And I always enjoy a story that reveals the lingering influence of the past on the present. The climactic combat is very effective, and I had almost no trouble following the action (a frequent problem I have with fight scenes). Great story! It effectively stands alone, while doubtless being richer in depth for people who've read all or most of the rest of the series.” ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 Stars! "Bella receives a letter from the mysterious Umbra Law Firm informing her that she has inherited the family house called Angel's Refuge. There were three rules: Keep the house in the family. Never sell it. Never live there. [She and her] friends decide to travel to the area and view the residence. The huge house turns out to be exactly what [they] need for their business. Plans are made. Rules and warnings are ignored. If this story does not give you occasional chills, then you have nerves of steel. The novel begins with a spooky dream before turning into a tragedy with a potential romance. Once the reader gets the idea of Bella's difficult past and all the hardships she faces, the tale takes off! The story does slow down at times, but only to flesh out the characters. The author has a flair for writing stories that, to my consternation, leave me sitting on the edge of my seat, eagerly reading to see what will happen next. In this one, the past carries over to injure those in the present. Before you begin reading, I suggest you order pizza and make sure you have plenty of lights on." ~Huntress Reviews
BAD BLOOD, Book 11
"BAD BLOOD weaves together people and episodes from previous novels in the series to create a satisfying culmination for the Bloodmoon Cove story cycle. Sympathetic protagonists and secondary characters face dire threats in a conflict whose outcome will change the town and the tribe forever, whether for better or worse. The overarching series theme of the past elders’ disastrous rupture of a portal between this world and the spirit realm at last reaches its resolution. The climactic battle is entirely worth the wait. Especially effective is the way the author blends mundane, wholly realistic problems and tensions with mythic motifs. Because full appreciation of the story depends to a great extent on knowledge of previous installments, most new readers wouldn’t find this book a suitable entry point. For established fans, however, it’s a can’t-miss experience, as they will rejoice in witnessing some characters attain well-deserved happiness." ~author Margaret L. Carter
https://karenwiesner.weebly.com/bloodmoon-cove-spirits-series.html
BOUND SPIRITS, Book 1
5 Stars and Reviewer's Top Pick! “I have been interested to read BOUND SPIRITS because of the story's uniqueness. This book is like an oasis. In this generation where a lot of stories have the same underlying idea, this book stands out. It may be part of a common or popular genre but the story is opposite to that. Also, despite the many back stories that one can read within this book, it's not messy to look at. They were written to fit in seamlessly together. It's not confusing. Rather, it became more interesting. It fires up the imagination. This book has led me to think of different assumptions. With the mix of stories, I'd sometimes end up thinking that there are a lot of possibilities. It made my reading experience more fun. The characters were a great help, too. They fit one another, complementing each other's humanity. I also find the unraveling of the story commendable. Wiesner is gifted as a writer to have crafted the story in such a way where it doesn't seem slow but it's not rushed either. All in all, I strongly believe this is a good read that everybody would enjoy.” ~Readers’ Favorite
5 Stars! “In BOUND SPIRITS, Karen Wiesner uses the premise of a ghost story to delve deeply into the characters, their motivations, and their relationships with each other. This novel is well-written, and I found myself drawn in as I read it. The beginning scene is of a group of youngsters investigating the tale of a ghost in Bloodmoon Cove. It's a slow start, but the realistic dialogue between the characters in this setting scene makes it fascinating to read, and what follows is even better! There are different characters, each with their own definitive personalities, and their struggles throughout this novel in their personal lives, as well as the demonic oppressions of Bloodmoon Cove and its haunting make this a book to remember! I highly recommend anyone to check this out. Karen Wiesner is an excellent author and it was a pleasure to read and review this book." ~author Jenna Whittaker
5 Stars! "WOW! Don't close your eyes or venture into an evil that lurks in the mountains of Bloodmoon Cove in upper northern Wisconsin! Something is howling and it wants revenge after waiting one hundred years for justice. I liked that John Kotter returned home to take his place after his dad went missing and never returned. After the sheriff and townspeople searched for days, they could find a body. The park was his legacy and John's mom could never manage it on her own, so he did what had to be done and moved back home where some folks hated him because they believed he was to blame for his girlfriend's suicide. I loved Esme Dumas for her bravery and determination to be free even if she had to survive on Bloodmoon Cove's mountain. This story had me rapidly reading even though I knew that this is just the first of many books in this series. I can't wait to read the next one!" ~Linda's Reviews
5 Stars! “This author has written many stories, in multiple genres, but I feel that THIS type of story fits her best. It has the flavor of an old Gothic Romance (of which the few I still hoard will never be tossed out) yet it can still be classified as a Christian Romance. The characters are well developed. They never felt flat or two dimensional. The female is frightened, naive, untrusting, and often compared to a fairy or sprite. The male has made mistakes in his past and tries to keep an open mind, be it about the living or the dead. If this is a taste of what the rest of the series will be like, then I refuse to wait a second longer to begin Book 2.” ~Huntress Reviews
5 Stars! "BOUND SPIRITS wooed me with well-drawn characters, not only John Kotter and Esmeralda, but also the supporting cast: John's mother, Troy Mulvaney and his friends, and the others. BOUND SPIRITS reminded me of Stephen King's Misery. In Misery, Annie Wilkes, a nurse also afflicted with a mental illness, locks injured protag Paul in his room, torturing him with starvation alternating with affection and unbridled fury. Now King's book is psychological horror, which includes a graphic description of the torture. Wiesner takes a subtle approach, allowing my imagination to supply the details, but she turns up the tension by adding a ghost. Not ghost. Ghosts, for Esme had to go up against the spirits of a man and his dog. These ghosts are seeking revenge on the family of the man who killed them and walled them in a cave. On one level, Esme can relate to these spirits, being a bound sprit herself, and Wiesner sells Esme's reaction in a way that I can believe. King's story packs a heavy wallop with his protagnist's ordeal, but Wiesner tweaks up the tension yet again with portraying Esme after the fact. Esme comes to town afraid to trust, ready to run when anyone questions her. She didn't count on falling for John Kotter, a man who struggles with demons of his own. What's more, the people of Bloodmoon Cove have their own ideas on how people should live, something that doesn't sit well with John. The way he reacts to Esme is quite touching, and a sweet romance starts to blossom between them. The suspense started from page one, with Troy and his friends visiting the cave, and kept me turning the pages. I believe this a great read that everyone would enjoy." ~author Barbara Custer
5 Stars! "Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series' urban fantasy BOUND SPIRITS is a fabulous ghost story that grips readers from the moment Troy and his friends enter the forbidden zone. Fast-paced, the romantic subplot is anticipated but kept low-keyed as Karen Wiesner focuses on the hunt for angry avenging spirits." ~MBR Bookwatch
4 Stars! "Enthralling blend of romance and horror. One of my favorite fictional tropes reveals secrets from a dark past overshadowing the present, and BOUND SPIRITS has them in abundance. The town of Bloodmoon Cove harbors ghosts and demonic forces, inadvertently released generations ago when the elders of the local Native American tribe opened an interdimensional portal. Ranger John Cotter is haunted by the mystery of his father’s disappearance. His family history includes a grim episode of an ancestor tortured and left to die in a cave that is sometimes there, sometimes not, able to be found only when it “wants” to be. Esme Dumas (a name she has assumed because she doesn’t know her own identity) feels compelled to hide her traumatic past, for a reason that seems vital to her and therefore convincing to the reader. When the full truth comes out, her reaction to learning about her origin comes across as realistically ambivalent. Both John and Esme are portrayed as warmhearted, likable people, and the relationship between them develops believably. The secondary characters are also lifelike and engaging. The reader gets the sense of a fully developed setting that has existed before the story begins and will continue to exist after one reads ‘The End’. I also admire the way the concept of ‘bound spirits’ is used both literally and metaphorically; at the climax, this motif weaves together the separate plot threads. A true cross-genre story, BOUND SPIRITS maintains an effective balance between horror and romance. I found this novel thoroughly satisfying. Recommended." ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 Stars! "Not to be read on a dark and stormy night, this is a thrilling tale where ghosts do battle with natural elements. A wandering soul looking for revenge wreaks havoc on a frightened town in this story that also charmingly depicts love in first bloom." ~RT Book Reviews
4 Stars! "'Nestled on Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin is a small, secluded town called Bloodmoon Cove with volatile weather, suspicious folk...and newly awakened ghosts. Don't close your eyes... "Harrity Scaritty, on the mountain-side, in the realm of the dead, how will you escape, how will you be fed? With the living and the undead"' How could you not want to read this book after reading that? I love a good ghost story. This book had everything a good thriller should have. Suspense, romance between two lost souls, healing, and most importantly a ghost. The characters of Park Ranger John Kotter and Esmerlda "Esme" Dumas were so well defined that you felt what they felt. You saw what they saw. Another great thing about this book is not only did it have me on the edge of my seat, it had me holding a tissue in my hand. The minor characters were well written as well. You have to love Troy and his friends. When it comes to teenagers, you always have a leader and those who want to fit in so they become followers. I felt this portion of the story was a coming of age sub-plot. If you like Stephen King, you'll enjoy this story." ~The Romance Reviews
4 Stars! "These three people create a perfect storm that brings terror and death to the people around the mountain and love to lost souls. A very atmospheric and old-fashioned ghost story, a sweet love story, and redemptive tale of lost souls being found through love." ~author Marilynn Byerly
“BOUND SPIRITS is like an urban legend told sitting around a bonfire with your hairs rising on the back of your neck. It sucks you right in and you're on the edge of your seat waiting to hear the rest.” ~BTS eMag
THE BLOODMOON CURSE, Book 2
5 Angels and FAR Recommended Read Award Winner! "Ab intriguing read I couldn't stop reading. This captivating book kept me practically hypnotized. Unique and wonderfully written, this satisfying tale flows so consistently the ending was something I never anticipated." ~Fallen Angel Reviews
5 Stars and 2006 eCataromance Reviewer’s Choice Award Nominee! "I was enticed from the first paragraph and didn't want the story to end. This is an author who has a seemingly unlimited imagination for character and plot, and I plan to read everything she writes. Worthy of a reread. One of Wiesner's exciting best." ~eCataromance
5 Stars! "There are so many of us out there that recall those old Gothic Romances with great fondness. Those romances had a bit of the supernatural within them and, in rare cases, not all of them had a perfect ending. But that is what kept me guessing back then. Would there be a perfect and happy ending or would it end with a bit of creepiness? In the not so distant past, Gothic Romances came back but always had a happy ending with all loose ends tied up. Well, I am thrilled to say that the Gothic Romance seems to be coming back again, thanks to Karen Wiesner. (Woo-Hoo!) This story has the same spine chilling creepiness but is set in the present time and includes modern troubles. This tale involves a couple who has undergone a recent, personal tragedy which is compounded by Cain's parents' ethics. (They care about Cain being hurt by Amberlyn, just as the two ladies before her did.) The pair have not been married long, a couple of years, and Cain is adrift, unable to realize how much his distraught wife needs him. Wiesner's writing style is easy to read and understand. She creates well developed characters and gives each their own personality. I have read many of her books in the past--she has written in various genres--but I believe the Gothic Romances are her best ever. Highly recommended to one and all." ~Huntress Reviews
5 Stars! "Love, romance, faith, Gothic-style suspense, horror, and mystery at its best. What a story! You have everything in this book. It left me gasping for breath. Good heavens, what an attention-grabbing novel. What an imagination Ms. Wiesner possesses. Author Karen Wiesner has included everything needed to hook readers and hold their attention. It held my attention from the first page. I could not get to the last page fast enough. I read this book straight through, long into the night, as I could not stop. I had to know what was going on in this awful place with these awful, evil people. Get ready to be surprised and appalled. Cain's growth was grand to watch as Ms. Wiesner developed his character. Amberlyn's character growth from depressed and despondent to caring and defending the children was masterly done. Ms. Wiesner also skillfully created the mystery and evil surrounding Bloodmoon Manor and its residents. You will never decipher the mystery until the revelations. Ms. Wiesner had many threads to weave in this tale and she did so very well, creating characters that were multifaceted and she skillfully developed each character. Her descriptions of Bloodmoon Cove, Bloodmoon Manor and the inhabitants were so vivid I could see them in my mind's eye and I could feel the evil seething in this place. Ms. Wiesner had several plots in this story and each was an eye-opener and surprising. My mouth fell open as the plots and mysteries were revealed. The author has the ability to pull you into the storyline. This is a fast paced, well-developed, skillfully crafted novel. I loved it. Well done, Ms. Wiesner, well done!" ~The Romance Reviews
5 Stars! "Hold onto to your seats! I couldn't stop reading the second book in the Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series. The story is most fitting for Halloween! I felt sorry for Amberlyn and Cain with the loss of her baby after her accident. THE BLOODMOON CURSE was a little scary, but I could not stop reading. I can't wait for the next book!" ~Linda's Reviews
5 Stars! "A suspenseful contemporary mystery with Gothic overtones. The fast-punching conclusion will take your breath away. There is plenty of heart-wrenching pathos in this Gothic-flavored tale. This book will definitely keep you turning pages well past your bedtime." ~Gotta Write Network!
5 Flags! "Once you start reading this book, you can't stop yourself from finishing it. Wiesner has written a page turner and those of you who like horror will agree with me. You don't want to miss out on this story." ~EuroReviews
5 Stars! "This modern day Gothic thriller grips the audience and never slows down. The final twist to this tense tale will stun readers as few suspense thrillers can." ~Sime~Gen Reviews
5 Stars! "Heart-wrenching gothic suspense! When Amberlyn, in flight from her disintegrating marriage after the devastating loss of a near-term baby, answers an ad for a nanny, she doesn't plan to hold the position for more than a few weeks, until a permanent caretaker can be found. She finds herself in a situation beyond her control, though, trapped in a snowbound mansion with no electricity, central heating, or transportation and no way to communicate with the outside world. (This novel is apparently set at a time before cell phones became ubiquitous.) The three children she's hired to care for, one of them a four-month-old infant, spend all their time confined to a few rooms with no toys or age-appropriate books and no access to the outdoors. The three adults claiming to be distant relatives who assumed guardianship after the children's parents' death show no interest in their wards. The housemaid seems too frightened of her employers to give Amberlyn any concrete information, much less help. The children's alleged relatives all have similar mild deformities that Amberlyn suspects of arising from incestuous inbreeding. The author uses familiar Gothic tropes in a modern setting to chilling effect -- a huge, gloomy, sinister house, dark family secrets, a heroine virtually imprisoned and isolated from any source of aid. Even in the depth of her heartbreak, Amberlyn can't help growing attached to the children. Far from a helpless damsel in distress, she tries everything in her power to uncover the truths hidden from her and find a way to escape with her charges. Not until near the end of the story do we learn whether the ominously lurking presence she senses watching her is supernatural or human. The revelation of what's really going on in Bloodmoon Manor won't disappoint the reader's terrified anticipation. Meanwhile, Amberlyn's purely human loss and the shared grief that drove her and her husband apart instead of drawing them together are deeply moving. Scenes from his viewpoint reveal his anguished love for her, reassuring the reader that we needn't completely despair about the saving of their marriage. This novel can be read independently of any others in the Bloodmoon Cove Spirits series; no prior knowledge of the setting is needed." ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 1/2 Hearts! "THE BLOODMOON CURSE is an eerie, suspense-filled tale of murder and insanity. This emotionally stirring suspense will keep the reader anxiously waiting the answers at the end of the book. Be prepared to not put this one down once you start reading. Amberlyn is a woman like many that tried to balance a marriage and career. This is heartbreaking. The story is fascinating as well as highly suspenseful. Even as the reader believes they have it all figured out there is still surprises left to experiences throughout the story. The fear builds as the reader worries. The anxiety is almost overwhelming when escape seems impossible. The storyline is highly imaginative and the descriptive skills of Karen Wiesner make the scenes come to life for the reader. THE BLOODMOON CURSE is a frightening gothic tale filled with anxiety building suspense and inspirational romance." ~The Romance Studio
4.5 Stars! "THE BLOODMOON CURSE is a freaky tale. As I read I kept thinking these characters are like out of an X-Files episode. I enjoyed the suspense as it slowly wound through the book building up the tension. Amberlyn, though seemingly a quiet character initially, has a gentle strength and resolve not to be a victim. And, although the character of Katerina is a nasty piece of work, I felt strangely sorry for her towards the end of the book. There is a strong theme of faith and spirituality throughout the book. However, it never comes across as too preachy. It's more that the characters beliefs are strong enough to overcome anything. What I liked about this book is it cannot be categorized in one particular genre. There is something for every reader in THE BLOODMOON CURSE. It's a modern day gothic tale, where the heroine is battling evil and relying on the power of love and faith to get her through. It's an excellent read." ~Once Upon A Romance Review
2015 BTS Red Carpet Award Nominee and 4 Stars! "Once I started reading, I didn’t want to stop. This really was a good read. There's mystery and suspense that keeps the reader guessing until the very end. A lot of surprises. " ~BTSemag
4 Stars! "One cannot help but become emotionally invested in Wiesner's broken characters. This gripping romantic drama will pull at your heartstrings while scaring you to pieces." ~RT Book Reviews
"Ghosties and ghoulies abound in this book of the paranormal bent. Combining the seemingly difficult genres of gothic romance, inspirational views, and a paranormal twist provide the reader with a different type of book." ~Long and the Short Reviews
"A story about a spooky old house and its strange inhabitants, THE BLOODMOON CURSE is a frightening tale and more of a horror story than a paranormal romance. It is very scary as Amberlyn roams through the house and the mausoleum looking for a way to leave the house of horrors. The secondary characters add to the story, particularly Katerina, who delights in the anguish of Amberlyn and the children, but who is obviously miserable herself. If you are in the mood for a well written, frightening story, THE BLOODMOON CURSE is sure to fill the bill." ~Romance Reviews Today
"THE BLOODMOON CURSE starts by sending the reader on a rollercoaster of emotions. I felt sadness for Amberlyn's loss of a child, fear for the children of the manor. This story has many Gothic overtones that make you feel like you are watching midnight horror film. I found myself praying with Amberlyn for strength and aid. This frightening, thrill ride was just what I was looking for and the amazing writing skills of Karen Wiesner pull the reader in this suspenseful story and never let go." ~WRDF Reviews
"THE BLOODMOON CURSE chills to the bone! As always, Wiesner creates fabulous characters to bring her stories to life. An edge of the seat read!" ~Rolling Seas Reviews
"This story kept me riveted and turning the pages. The development of the older children was great; I watched them go from totally terrified of anyone and anything in the house to accepting, trusting, and even loving Amberlyn. I felt for the protagonist... I understood her evil, her family intermarriage mental and physical problems... I would give this book a three and half wings for the plot, supporting characters and the fact that [Wiesner] fit a gothic tale in a contemporary setting very well." ~Classic Romance Revival
"THE BLOODMOON CURSE is an emotional rollercoaster, full of anger, despair and fear with the Amberlyn's love of the children and her husband holding it all together." ~Manic Readers
CROOKED HOUSE, Book 3
5 Stars! "WOW, what a scary read perfect for Halloween! I felt sorry for Corinne Zellman, an orphan and widow when her husband died in a car crash. I couldn't believe she still loved him after his multiple affairs. When she helped him through medical school, she had to put her own dreams on hold to do it. Was there some other reason she was so in love with him, even years after his death? I approved when Rafe Yager, an ex-soldier and ghost hunter, decided to ignore his Gran and mom by returning to Bloodmoon Cove despite giving his word that he'd never go there. But the blue-eyed lovely Corinne got into his system from his first vision of her when her witch-friend botched a spell." ~Linda's Reviews
4 Stars! "Why was Corinne's late husband, Tom, estranged from his family and insistent that she have no contact with them even if they approach her? Why are her memories of her own life before falling in love with him so vague? Why does she receive a ring with his family crest out of the blue, with an invitation to visit their home in Bloodmoon Cove? This novel plunges the reader directly into the realm of the supernatural and one of my favorite tropes, dark family secrets. Shorter than most books in the series, it remains tightly focused on the mystery of the Crooked House, which threatens to enmesh Corinne in the darkness Tom had tried to escape from. Meanwhile, the hero, Rafe, also gets drawn to Bloodmoon Cove, where his family originated. As a ghost-hunter, he has visions, and the story opens with his vision of Corinne and her friend, Ruby, conducting a magical ritual. He feels impelled to travel to the town he has always shunned in order to save Corinne from the paranormal threat overshadowing her. There she gets trapped in another of my favorite motifs, a house that's bigger -- and in this case, more luxurious -- than it looks on the outside. Cryptic warnings and mysterious dangers abound. Why does she feel so drained of energy and volition after visiting the mansion? The psychic link between her and Rafe makes their ‘love at first sight’ attraction plausible. Readers familiar with other volumes in the series will recognize some of the secondary characters, but one doesn't need to have read any other installments to understand this story. Fans of paranormal romance will enjoy this intense supernatural thriller." ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 Stars! “A thrilling supernatural novel. Spine-chilling from start to finish. Anyone who enjoys stories with an occult twist will love this book.” ~Readers' Favorite
4 Stars! “Wiesner brings back a taste of Gothic romance to her readers in this spooky series. Each spine-tingling story is worth your attention. I found myself going back and rereading sections just to enjoy the chill again. The two main characters are fully developed and are the focus of the story. The secondary characters are well-developed. I'm eager to get my hands on all the books in this series!” ~Huntress Reviews
RETURN TO BLOODMOON MANOR, Book 4
5 Stars! "A fantastic book in a gripping series. Wiesner really knows how to write so you're both chilled to the bone yet warm inside. This is another skillful story of the paranormal mixed with romance. This is action all the way, with no let-up and plenty of twists and turns to keep you reading. The characters are well developed, likable and easy to relate to. I've read all the books in this series so far and would recommend others do the same." ~Readers' Favorite
5 Stars! “Wiesner was born to write Gothic romances. She gives readers chills while delivering happily-ever-afters.” ~Huntress Reviews
5 Stars! “Horror isn’t my favorite genre but, after reading this story, I immediately purchased the first three books in the series. I want to know more about this place and characters. I recommend the series to those interested in a different point of view on horror and occult as well as anyone interested in just a plain good story.” ~author Barbara Raffin
5 Stars! "Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series continues in a dynamic fashion. I liked that Daniel stuck by his wife. Hannah is consumed with making their lives better once she learns Bloodmoon Manor is hers and she convinces Daniel to return to the hell house in order to take the antiques and sell them to pay their debts. I can't wait to read the next book in this series as I am so HOOKED!" ~Linda's Reviews
4 Stars! "Although this book is a direct sequel to THE BLOODMOON CURSE, reading that one is not absolutely required for understanding it. Acquaintance with the earlier novel would help, but the present narrative does supply enough context to appreciate the story. Hannah's plight immediately draws in the reader's sympathy. She and her husband, Daniel, suffer from mundane problems many people can relate to, an unplanned pregnancy and a crushing load of debt. In addition, she bears the burden of trauma from years as an employee practically enslaved by the sinister owners of Bloodmoon Manor. When she unexpectedly inherits the house and all its contents, the idea of selling the property to gain financial security becomes an obsession, again one almost anybody could identify with. Of course, the process proves not that simple. The qualms expressed by Daniel, who wants nothing to do with the bequest, create tension between him and Hannah. Suspense builds as they arrive at the house and everything seems to go smoothly, aside from Daniel's illness, which strikes as soon as they enter the grounds and inexorably worsens. Even without the dire warnings of the locals, we would expect the couple to be trapped in the Gothic mansion and forced to confront the entity striving to lure Hannah into its clutches. Recurring characters from other books in the series appear, but prior knowledge of them isn't necessary. We become deeply absorbed in Hannah and Daniel's problems and dangers, rooting for them to survive while the lethal threat grows seemingly inescapable. This novel does an excellent job of developing a secondary character from THE BLOODMOON CURSE, a semi-antagonist in that story, into a sympathetic heroine for whom we wish the happy life she now deserves." ~author Margaret L. Carter
REUNITED, Book 5
5 Stars! "Horror and pathos in a blend of realism and the supernatural! Another great Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series story. I have read all five books now, and they just keep on getting better. This is paranormal romance at its best. Not only do we get another great plot, a story that will leave you shivering for days, we also welcome back characters from previous stories. Although these books could, at a push, be read as standalone stories, they are also best read in order to get the full picture. The new characters we meet in this book are well developed and you find yourself siding with Gray and Twyla all the way. The action never stops and, like me, you won't want to put this book down." ~Readers' Favorite
5 Stars! “Oh, WOW! I have never tried to get to the end of a book so fast. I couldn't stop reading!” ~Linda's Reviews
5 Stars! "REUNITED (a title with a double meaning) is mind-blowing with horror and pathos in a blend of realism and the supernatural. This novel plunges directly into Twyla’s desperate plight, with high tension from the beginning. The opening scene fills in the background while moving the action forward with no slackening of suspense as she responds to her monstrous husband’s call. At this point, he’s “monstrous” in a purely human way, emotionally, physically, and sexually abusive. Although he’s too warped to pity, the author devises plausible reasons from his own abused childhood for his horrific cruelty. Like most victims of domestic violence, Twyla is isolated from anybody who might help her. Understandably, she has cut off her family, friends, and Gray, the long-time boyfriend from her past, for fear of what her husband might do to them. Despite the moral ambiguity of the action she takes when she confronts him, we fully sympathize. Her fear-induced lies also make sense, even though they tangle her in an ever-tightening net as the police suspect her of what she more or less actually did. Gray comes across as an admirable hero, brave and unselfish, while his occasional qualms about whether Twyla has changed from the girl he loved in their teens feel realistic. We applaud when he rushes to her rescue, but that’s far from the end of her ordeal. When it becomes clear that her husband’s death hasn’t liberated her after all, his supernatural pursuit seems like an inevitable extension of his obsessive behavior in life. Twyla’s return with Gray to their home town, Bloodmoon Cove, takes them to the only place where the resources to banish the vengeful ghost can necessarily and believably be found. Several familiar characters from other books in the series appear, but it’s not necessary to have read those volumes. The paranormal features of the area and the roles of the secondary characters are amply explained for the benefit of new readers. The horror and pathos of this story should enthrall fans of the series and first-time readers alike." ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 Stars! “This installment of the Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series will send shivers down your spine. I read the entire thing in one afternoon…during a thunderstorm that seemed to make the story even creepier. Wiesner writes stories that readers will always remember fondly.” ~Huntress Reviews
HIDDEN, Book 6
5 Stars! "I was intrigued and terrified as I read HIDDEN. Of all Karen Wiesner's books I've read, thus far this one has been the most horrifying to me. Despite that, I couldn't stop reading! I had to find out what would happen next. I both loved Tobias and Syl and their extended family group. I felt sorry and sad that the little girl at Howling Halls had no one to play with, but Rafe (the ghost hunter from CROOKED HOUSE) is undeniably right that it's best for supernatural creatures stay in their own realm instead of entering ours. The scary parts of HIDDEN will stay in my mind perhaps far longer than I prefer, but, even still, I find myself very eager for the next installment in this series." ~Linda's Reviews
4 1/2 Stars! "A chilling tale! HIDDEN is creepy. The wonderful thing about this series is that each story can stand alone. You do not need to read any of the previous titles to enjoy this chilling tale. It starts out slowly, so readers can be introduced to the main and secondary characters. But after the first chapter, things take off at a sprint and they never really slow back down. The characters are well developed, believable, and not idiots as many in supernatural romances or movies are. If the situation looks too dangerous, alternatives are discussed. Of course, thanks to the imp that must rest on this author's shoulder, it does not matter. Something will force them to make a move and pray for the best. I loved every second of this spooky tale." ~Huntress Reviews
4 Stars! "A well-crafted amnesia plot is always enthralling. Tobias has no memory of his family or early years. From his perspective, his life began in the midst of his military service. Now he and his wife, Sybilla, have an apparently ideal life in terms of both their intense mutual love and the material prosperity and fulfilling work they enjoy. They have close friends, including Wolf, his former Marine comrade. Tobias’s inheritance of Howling Halls, a house on a mountaintop in Bloodmoon Cove, from the parents he doesn’t remember changes everything. Tobias, Sybilla, and their companions plan to spend only a short time in the house unless they decide it’s suitable for a volume in their “Offbeat” book series. Of course, the reader knows complications will derail their plans. Sybilla’s unexpected pregnancy and Tobias’s limited mobility from a recent accident make the project risky from the start. The danger of their isolation at a site where weather can turn dangerous with little or no warning is heightened by the discovery that Howling Halls, although modern and luxurious, is haunted—maybe by one or more ghosts, but also by something more alien and lethal than a ghost. The detail of the elevator that won’t go up to the top floor is unusual and delightfully creepy. Tobias also finds out he had a sister who died young. The temptation to disregard the local ghost expert’s warning not to interact with spirits becomes almost impossible to resist. As any fan of haunted-house fiction would expect, forces both natural and supernatural conspire to keep the characters from leaving and, once they escape, impel them to return. The reader never feels like yelling, “You idiots, don’t do that,” because their behavior has consistently believable motivations. The connections between the enigmas of Tobias’s amnesia and the house itself are skillfully interwoven in the buildup to the terrifying revelation of how they fit together. Filipino folklore, obviously carefully researched, adds rich layers of supernatural mystery. The truth about Tobias’s past comes as an astonishing, horrific shock. Established fans of the series will recognize recurring characters among the residents of Bloodmoon Cove. As with most of these books, however, it’s in no way necessary to have read other novels to enjoy this one. Given the shattering facts about Tobias’s background, the happy ending he attains with Sybilla requires (for me, at least) some suspension of disbelief, but the characters are so engaging and have suffered so much that one welcomes and rejoices in their ultimate happiness." ~author Margaret L. Carter
BONE OF MY BONE, Book 7
5 Stars! "To say that I enjoyed this eerie story would be a huge understatement. Wiesner managed to send a chill up my spine not once, but twice. That does not happen often. It is testament to how potent the poison is on the tip of her pen. Hey, Writers Exchange, publish this series faster!" ~Huntress Reviews
5 Stars! “What a spooky novel. I just loved it! My heart went out to the little girl who eventually named herself Ice. I could see Bennet’s love for her even from the start. This story had me fretting from moment to moment about what would happen. I can hardly wait to read the next in the series!” ~Linda's Reviews
4 Stars! "Family mysteries and supernatural horror skillfully blended! Unique, suspenseful, emotionally powerful! This novel stands alone fine without readers needing to be familiar with the setting or related stories. I always enjoy characters with alien-ish backgrounds who discover their true potential only gradually. I like the scene where Ice communicates with her mother while unconscious. Not only does it supply useful information, it draws out the final sequence to enhance suspense but without frenetic nonstop action. Additionally, Ice's telepathic conversation with her mother enhances the picture of their relationship as well as foreshadowing their mental union in the climactic battle and also foreshadows the extent of Ice's power. The final battle effectively portrays the powerful force she has to invoke to defeat the monster -- it's not an easy wave of the hand thing -- and makes clear the gravity of her choice, with a very real feeling that she could choose to be something no longer human. (Of course, the reader knows that almost certainly won't happen, but in the moment it feels like an imminent possibility.) The mystery of Ice is captivating, and the major elements hold together very well in this story." ~author Margaret L. Carter
LOST AND FOUND, A Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series 2-in-1 (2 novels in one volume) including LOST, Book 8 and FOUND, Book 9
5 Stars! “In LOST AND FOUND, we have two Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series novels in one volume, both focusing on books and libraries. In LOST, Book 8, Damaris tried so hard to keep her mom’s bookstore in Grimoire open. If not for her “aunt” Holly’s offer of employment at the Bloodmoon Cove library, Damaris might have been homeless. Making that transfer puts Damaris and her boyfriend in the awkward position of deciding whether to stay together or move on separately. For Griffin, there is no choice. I liked that he was willing to leave everything behind to follow her, as she’s the one thing he can’t live without. When she goes missing, he’s leading the pack to search for her—in probably the last place anyone would expect her to get lost! In FOUND, Book 9, I felt sorry for Wick, who’d been beat up and taunted while growing up, unloved by his parents. His comfort had always been the local library and, for a short time as an adult, food. He’s finally lost the weight he’d put on in his depression. As head librarian, he’s works hard to make the place viable for the small community, but most days he doesn’t see a single person. Renatta was also a character I liked. She’d been morbidly obese for most of her life, with family members who encouraged her to be as unhealthy as they themselves are, both physically and mentally. Finding someone to love her that she can love back, the one special person to share her life, has been a life-long struggle for her. How she finally lost weight was anything but healthy, but it did work—despite how her relatives are constantly trying to drag her back and undo all the good she’s achieved. Wick and Renatta’s romance is both deeply touching and deeply tragic, and it made me want to cry with its devastating joy. I’ve read all of Ms. Wiesner’s fiction titles to date, and I can heartily recommend that all her books just keep on getting better.” ~Linda's Reviews
4 Stars! "Two captivating novels of paranormal mystery! Cool use of supernatural elements. There are genuinely scary scenes in LOST. I like the repeated motif of being in a ‘place’ outside of normal time, treated in different ways. And the presence of Damaris, the heroine in LOST (I cheered when I discovered she also plays a role in FOUND), ties together the two stories. The last few chapters of FOUND are so eerie and sad. Very effective. I sympathized with the characters, whose emotions are very realistic, and I was glad to see the uplifting conclusion that's still a little sad. In each story in this duology, the events unfold believably in the context of the ‘reality’ of the setting. They seem perfectly fitting yet not predictable. I was never quite sure how things would turn out for the protagonists, which allowed for an effective creation of suspense." ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 Stars! "LOST starts out with some awesome humor. Afterward, the reader slowly learns about Damaris and Griffin. When she stops along the highway for a much-needed break, things begin to get very spooky. Readers who have read other titles in this series will meet up with some familiar characters. This always makes the story a bit more real to me. I enjoy how the author does that. I am interested to see if these two titles fit together in some way since they are sold together, under one cover. The two main characters in FOUND will be relatable to many readers. They do not have the best relatives, neither can be considered as good looking, and neither are happy with their lives. As the main characters began to dig for information and firsthand accounts involving a dybbuk, I could not help but become fascinated. (So much so that I Googled the topic and read a few online articles.) Toward the end of this tale, the author inserted a major twist. I never saw it coming! I actually heard myself gasp (no kidding) as things just clicked into place for me. The next title that I pick up by this author will have me begin reading with great consternation. When it comes to a story written by Karen Wiesner, anything can happen. And often does!” ~Huntress Reviews
HELL HATH NO FURY, Book 10
5 Stars! “HELL HATH NO FURY, the 10th book in Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series, was so scary! Even so, I couldn’t stop reading. Bella and Marsh were easy to love, though Ori was a bit free-spirited. After Bella’s mom’s death, the three friends find out Bella’s inherited a house that’s perfect for the shop they want to open together. The legacy is just too good to pass up, even if this inheritance comes with the stipulation not to live in or sell the house. When good sense goes right out the window, bad things happen. This story had me on pins and needles because true evil lived in that creepy house. Talk about not being able to put a book down! I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this series.” ~Linda's Reviews
5 Stars! “A gripping blend of romance and horror, with an effective balance between the two. The lifelike characters and their very believable circumstances riveted my attention from the beginning. I admire how the characters, setting, and rising tension and supernatural terror are woven together. And I always enjoy a story that reveals the lingering influence of the past on the present. The climactic combat is very effective, and I had almost no trouble following the action (a frequent problem I have with fight scenes). Great story! It effectively stands alone, while doubtless being richer in depth for people who've read all or most of the rest of the series.” ~author Margaret L. Carter
4 Stars! "Bella receives a letter from the mysterious Umbra Law Firm informing her that she has inherited the family house called Angel's Refuge. There were three rules: Keep the house in the family. Never sell it. Never live there. [She and her] friends decide to travel to the area and view the residence. The huge house turns out to be exactly what [they] need for their business. Plans are made. Rules and warnings are ignored. If this story does not give you occasional chills, then you have nerves of steel. The novel begins with a spooky dream before turning into a tragedy with a potential romance. Once the reader gets the idea of Bella's difficult past and all the hardships she faces, the tale takes off! The story does slow down at times, but only to flesh out the characters. The author has a flair for writing stories that, to my consternation, leave me sitting on the edge of my seat, eagerly reading to see what will happen next. In this one, the past carries over to injure those in the present. Before you begin reading, I suggest you order pizza and make sure you have plenty of lights on." ~Huntress Reviews
BAD BLOOD, Book 11
"BAD BLOOD weaves together people and episodes from previous novels in the series to create a satisfying culmination for the Bloodmoon Cove story cycle. Sympathetic protagonists and secondary characters face dire threats in a conflict whose outcome will change the town and the tribe forever, whether for better or worse. The overarching series theme of the past elders’ disastrous rupture of a portal between this world and the spirit realm at last reaches its resolution. The climactic battle is entirely worth the wait. Especially effective is the way the author blends mundane, wholly realistic problems and tensions with mythic motifs. Because full appreciation of the story depends to a great extent on knowledge of previous installments, most new readers wouldn’t find this book a suitable entry point. For established fans, however, it’s a can’t-miss experience, as they will rejoice in witnessing some characters attain well-deserved happiness." ~author Margaret L. Carter
