I had read Mr. Bray’s previous book, Whisper, and looked forward to the
sequel. I was pleasantly surprised that the sequel, Echoes, was as good, if not better than the first. This is not to
say I enjoyed the book only on the expectation that I would since I loved the
first one.
Mr. Bray’s writing style drew me into
the book from page one. He grabbed my attention by opening the story in an
abandoned asylum for the criminally insane. From there he wove his story back
to Oakwell and Hope House through the actions of richly crafted characters
connected to each other by friendship and family.
One brother, the host of a paranormal
investigative reality show, and another, a pillar of the community and
councilman, come to an agreement to film a show at Hope House.
What follows is a wonderfully crafted
story with several plot lines that weave and intersect at the perfect points
throughout the story. A group of overly inquisitive teens, a recording crew,
people drawn to the area out of morbid curiosity, and the return of Steve and
Melody add to the richness of the story. Steve and Melody return against their
own better judgment. Did they make the right decision? You will have to read Echoes to find out.
The plot moves ahead seamlessly, but
is never boring. This was a true page turner. I finished it in three days often
picking up my Kindle when I had other things, including my own writing, to do. It
is a bit darker than the first book, but it didn’t cause me nightmares.
I give Mr. Bray a solid 5 star review
for Echoes not only for the quality
of his writing, but the depth and realism he brought to his characters. Also,
for an intriguing, fresh, and gripping story line.
I look forward to the final book in
this wonderful trilogy.
**Disclaimer: I received a free copy of Echoes for review. This did not, in any way, affect my review of the book or Mr. Bray's writing.
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