by Jonathan Pongratz

A Horror, Independently Published in 2024, 242 Pages

What I Didn’t Like:

• The idea that these two are influencers (or trying to be) and here to film doesn’t make sense since they almost never film their journey. They didn’t ask to film Diego or his grandmother, they didn’t even film near the entrance before hiking. It sort of ruins the fun of the concept.
• There are a lot of cliche phrases here. It doesn’t get in the way of the story, but it is noticeable. One, especially, changes the entire context of a relationship and even after it was used twice I’m still confused about whether it was meant to show a change in relationship or just used incorrectly.
• The one thing I can’t put down as realistic that should have been is the final showing of the police officer. No spoilers but I find it hard to believe she’d manage to track them to where she does.

What I Did Like:

• The story picks up in intensity once Tyler comes into contact with Gabe’s parents. From here it takes on sort of a life of its own, letting the legend take control. The opening of the story sets the stage well. But from this turning point the story just turns into a page turner and that’s always fun!
• The coven is a fantastic edition to the story that makes up my favorite characters. Brave, strong, and involved even when no one would judge them for walking away.
• The ending is satisfying. It doesn’t come too easy, which is realistic even in the face of something paranormal like this. The struggles and the missteps only made it better!

Who Should Read This One:

• Fans of horror stories, with likeable protagonists and big paranormal bad guys.

My Rating: 4 Stars