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Experiment in Terror #1
Darkhouse
There’s always been something a bit off about Perry Palomino. Though she’s been dealing with a quarter-life crisis and post-college syndrome like any other twenty-something, she’s still not what you would call “ordinary.” For one thing, there’s her past which she likes to pretend never happened, and then there’s the fact that she sees ghosts.
Luckily for her, that all comes in handy when she stumbles across Dex Foray, an eccentric producer for an upcoming webcast on ghost hunters. Even though the show’s budget is non-existent and Dex himself is a maddening enigma, Perry is instantly drawn into a world that both threatens her life and seduces her with a sense of importance.
Her uncle’s haunted lighthouse provides the perfect catalyst and backdrop for a horrific mystery that unravels the threads of Perry’s fragile sanity and causes her to fall for a man, who, like the most dangerous of ghosts, may not be all that he seems.
Luckily for her, that all comes in handy when she stumbles across Dex Foray, an eccentric producer for an upcoming webcast on ghost hunters. Even though the show’s budget is non-existent and Dex himself is a maddening enigma, Perry is instantly drawn into a world that both threatens her life and seduces her with a sense of importance.
Her uncle’s haunted lighthouse provides the perfect catalyst and backdrop for a horrific mystery that unravels the threads of Perry’s fragile sanity and causes her to fall for a man, who, like the most dangerous of ghosts, may not be all that he seems.
323 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2011
About the author
Karina Halle
115 books17.6k followersKarina Halle is a screenwriter, a former music & travel journalist, and the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, & USA Today bestselling author of River of Shadows, The Royals Next Door, and Black Sunshine, as well as 70 other wild and romantic reads, ranging from light & sexy rom coms to horror/paranormal romance and dark fantasy. Needless to say, whatever genre you're into, she's probably written a romance for it.
When she's not traveling, she and her husband split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, their sailboat the Norfinn, and their condo in Los Angeles. For more information, visit www.authorkarinahalle.com
When she's not traveling, she and her husband split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, their sailboat the Norfinn, and their condo in Los Angeles. For more information, visit www.authorkarinahalle.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,903 reviews
June 13, 2017
I have been wanting to read this story for a long time. I have had the Audible edition sitting on my shelf for months, if not years. Finally, I decided to give it a shot.
Unfortunately, this book ended up being a disappointment for me. It ended up being kind of "meh". I just couldn't ever connect with the characters or the story.
I'm beginning to think that I need to stick to Karina Halle's dark romance/dark erotica. I love many of her other books that fall in those sub-genres. However, every book of hers that I've tried outside of those sub-genres has been a let down for me. Maybe this is related to my expectations for the author, based on her other works that I've loved. Who knows? What I do know is that this one didn't work for me.
The heroine, Perry Palomino, is a young twenty-something that works a dead-end job and seems to lack much of a social life. She is trying to prove herself responsible after having problems with drug use and mental health issues in her teen years. She seems to have gone from one extreme to another, going from out of control to pretty boring.
Dex Foray, the "hero", is mostly just a douchebag. He rubbed me wrong right from the start. I love an "a$$hole" leading male as much as the next girl, but somewhere along the way there has to be something appealing about the guy thrown in there to keep me hoping. There has to be a glimpse of a redeeming quality provided every now and again. Unfortunately, that just didn't happen in this book until it was way too late. He remained an insulting, demeaning a-hole for pretty much the entire book. I couldn't stand him!
These two cross paths one night at an old, abandoned lighthouse that is owned by Perry's uncle. The lighthouse is rumored to be haunted. When Perry and Dex have a very creepy experience, it opens up a whole new world of possibilities.
Perry shares the experience on her sister's blog and it goes viral. Next thing she knows, Dex is proposing that the two of them do a "ghost hunters" web show. It sounds like a nice break from her boring day to day life, so Perry agrees.
Before long, Perry and Dex are traveling around together, visiting haunted places. Along the way, there are a few spine-tingling encounters. They keep running across an old "clown" lady that delivers cryptic messages and forecasts for their futures.
What hung with me more than anything else was irritation with Dex. I kept wondering why he had to be such a degrading jackass to Perry. More importantly, I couldn't figure out why she kept putting up with his nastiness. Sure, he was supposed to be hot, but that was no excuse.
If I had to hear one more snide comment about how NOT hot Perry was, or how his girlfriend was so beautiful, I was going to throw up or punch something. I got it. Perry was nothing special in a superficial way. Why did it have to be brought up every other minute?
In the end, there was a twist or two. Admittedly, I didn't see them coming. However, I'm not sure if that is because it was especially surprising...or if it was due to the fact that I had kind of tuned out a lot of this story.
This is one of those times when I find myself in the minority. I didn't love this story like I expected to. It ended up just being kind of "meh". In fairness, I was in a bit of a reading rut at the time and there weren't too many books that appealed to me when I started this one.
Unfortunately, this book ended up being a disappointment for me. It ended up being kind of "meh". I just couldn't ever connect with the characters or the story.
I'm beginning to think that I need to stick to Karina Halle's dark romance/dark erotica. I love many of her other books that fall in those sub-genres. However, every book of hers that I've tried outside of those sub-genres has been a let down for me. Maybe this is related to my expectations for the author, based on her other works that I've loved. Who knows? What I do know is that this one didn't work for me.
The heroine, Perry Palomino, is a young twenty-something that works a dead-end job and seems to lack much of a social life. She is trying to prove herself responsible after having problems with drug use and mental health issues in her teen years. She seems to have gone from one extreme to another, going from out of control to pretty boring.
Dex Foray, the "hero", is mostly just a douchebag. He rubbed me wrong right from the start. I love an "a$$hole" leading male as much as the next girl, but somewhere along the way there has to be something appealing about the guy thrown in there to keep me hoping. There has to be a glimpse of a redeeming quality provided every now and again. Unfortunately, that just didn't happen in this book until it was way too late. He remained an insulting, demeaning a-hole for pretty much the entire book. I couldn't stand him!
These two cross paths one night at an old, abandoned lighthouse that is owned by Perry's uncle. The lighthouse is rumored to be haunted. When Perry and Dex have a very creepy experience, it opens up a whole new world of possibilities.
Perry shares the experience on her sister's blog and it goes viral. Next thing she knows, Dex is proposing that the two of them do a "ghost hunters" web show. It sounds like a nice break from her boring day to day life, so Perry agrees.
Before long, Perry and Dex are traveling around together, visiting haunted places. Along the way, there are a few spine-tingling encounters. They keep running across an old "clown" lady that delivers cryptic messages and forecasts for their futures.
What hung with me more than anything else was irritation with Dex. I kept wondering why he had to be such a degrading jackass to Perry. More importantly, I couldn't figure out why she kept putting up with his nastiness. Sure, he was supposed to be hot, but that was no excuse.
If I had to hear one more snide comment about how NOT hot Perry was, or how his girlfriend was so beautiful, I was going to throw up or punch something. I got it. Perry was nothing special in a superficial way. Why did it have to be brought up every other minute?
In the end, there was a twist or two. Admittedly, I didn't see them coming. However, I'm not sure if that is because it was especially surprising...or if it was due to the fact that I had kind of tuned out a lot of this story.
This is one of those times when I find myself in the minority. I didn't love this story like I expected to. It ended up just being kind of "meh". In fairness, I was in a bit of a reading rut at the time and there weren't too many books that appealed to me when I started this one.
August 12, 2016
Hello Readers!!
Do you like to watch scary movies with your lights switched off, hugging your pillows to yourself,wrapped up in your favourite blanket??
All the while jumping at every little sound and looking all around you???
If yes,then grab your pillows and blankets and welcome to the Darkhouse......
An EXPERIMENT IN TERROR is about to be conducted!!!
--------------------------------------------------
Now let's meet with them who are conducting it.....
Readers,what would you do if you stumble upon your greatest nightmare??
Hmmmmm......let me think what I would do.
Run.Fast.In the opposite direction.
But not our Perry.Oh no!!
She has always felt as if she had been born to do something special.Something different.Something exciting.Atleast more exciting than being a receptionist in an advertising firm.
A calling perhaps?
And then one fateful day,she meets with Dex.
And then everything changes.Lines between real and unreal get blurred.Dreams overlap with reality.They realize what terror means.
Real terror.One which makes it difficult to breathe,makes you go numb,makes you break out in cold sweat,drives you insane.
Where do they meet?
In the Darkhouse.
The Darkhouse,property of her uncle,is a forgotten and dilapidated lighthouse.
Question:- Is it haunted?
And what is this experiment they are conducting?
Is it bigger and more dangerous than both of them anticipate?
Find it out!!
-------------------------------------------------------
Now to be blunt....
Both of them,Perry and Dex are stupid,reckless,impulsive,and bat-shit crazy. I kid you not.
Seriously,no sane person will ever try the things they did.
I guess you can call them brave too,but I prefer to go with crazy.
So these utterly crazy and impossible people are our hero and heroine.
And I adored them!!
I guess that makes me crazy too,but I never claimed otherwise.
As for the story,it was intense,gripping,fast-paced,and yes,let's not forget creepy.
And what I loved the most?
Perry made me laugh and smile,even during some of the creepiest moments.
The only thing which bugged me was the climax.The instances one after the other were not clear.Maybe the books next in the series will help me clarify my doubts.
Anyway,this book is recommended.
As for this couple....they rock!!
Dex and Perry.
That's all for now,Readers.
Ta-Ta!!
Have funnn....
May 14, 2011
You are your own worst critic. With that in mind...
Darkhouse isn't high-brow literature, it's not going to change the world (yet), and yeah, there are one or two typos in the book. But, considering it's the first book in the series, it is what is. A "pilot episode" that introduces two characters, Perry Palomino and Dex Foray, who will vex, challenge and intrigue you from this book onwards. Darkhouse has some tense, creepy moments - not only with regards to the supernatural (including a "dead" lighthouse creeper...er, keeper), but between Perry and Dex.
So about those characters? Perry can be a bit annoying at times - she's off in her head a lot, but who isn't? And she's obviously smitten with Dex in the worst way possible. I think we've all been in her shoes, where you just want someone to smack some sense into her. Luckily, her younger sister Ada does that job in her own emo way. Perry is pretty much what most women were like at 22. Struggling with what the hell she's supposed to do with her life, and facing outdated expectations in this competitive world. I think of Perry as the "Everygirl." Everyone should be able to relate to her in some way.
And Dex. Well, he can be a bit of an ass, he's a definite weirdo, and has some pretty dark secrets he hopes will never see the light of day. But god damn it if he doesn't get under your skin. I heart him.
The pacing of the book can be slow at times, but it's always been more of a character study than an action-packed potboiler. Luckily, it picks up as it goes along and the book in general isn't very long. You could finish it in a couple of days.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who likes interesting, relatable characters, the supernatural, scary stuff, and a book series that only gets better over time. It's kind of like a younger version of The X-Files (particularly with the Scully and Mulder working relationship).
I'd rate this book PG-13 for scares and swears.
Oh right, and obviously I wrote the book, so take the review with a grain of salt :)
Darkhouse isn't high-brow literature, it's not going to change the world (yet), and yeah, there are one or two typos in the book. But, considering it's the first book in the series, it is what is. A "pilot episode" that introduces two characters, Perry Palomino and Dex Foray, who will vex, challenge and intrigue you from this book onwards. Darkhouse has some tense, creepy moments - not only with regards to the supernatural (including a "dead" lighthouse creeper...er, keeper), but between Perry and Dex.
So about those characters? Perry can be a bit annoying at times - she's off in her head a lot, but who isn't? And she's obviously smitten with Dex in the worst way possible. I think we've all been in her shoes, where you just want someone to smack some sense into her. Luckily, her younger sister Ada does that job in her own emo way. Perry is pretty much what most women were like at 22. Struggling with what the hell she's supposed to do with her life, and facing outdated expectations in this competitive world. I think of Perry as the "Everygirl." Everyone should be able to relate to her in some way.
And Dex. Well, he can be a bit of an ass, he's a definite weirdo, and has some pretty dark secrets he hopes will never see the light of day. But god damn it if he doesn't get under your skin. I heart him.
The pacing of the book can be slow at times, but it's always been more of a character study than an action-packed potboiler. Luckily, it picks up as it goes along and the book in general isn't very long. You could finish it in a couple of days.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who likes interesting, relatable characters, the supernatural, scary stuff, and a book series that only gets better over time. It's kind of like a younger version of The X-Files (particularly with the Scully and Mulder working relationship).
I'd rate this book PG-13 for scares and swears.
Oh right, and obviously I wrote the book, so take the review with a grain of salt :)
October 12, 2021
Oh boy! The EIT series are getting pitched to Netflix and Hulu right now🤞🏻🤞🏻Are you ready to watch Dex and Perry on screen! I don’t know you guys but I’m screaming hell yeah!🥳🤗💕🎉🥂🥂
August 5, 2017
By mixing in elements of horror, humor, romance, and action, this Experiment In Terror is a complete success!
Working at a job she can't stand and living with a family who doesn't understand her, Perry Palomino is having trouble finding her place in the world. Maybe that's why she finds herself drawn to other things that don't quite belong in this world as well. Shadowy horrors invade her dreams, and a haunted lighthouse beacons her. When her investigation into the strange lighthouse leads her to wannabe ghost-hunter Dex Foray, the two of them decide to pool their talents in order to learn and document the secrets of the supernatural. But soon Perry isn't sure which is more dangerous...the ghosts that are stalking her, or the man who's helping her chase them!
This horror-movie fan had a lot of fun reading "Darkhouse"...so much so, that I will even be bestowing upon it awards from three of my favorite horror movies of all time...
"The Ring" award - for putting "terror" over "horror"!
I've seen all the "Halloween" movies (although, why would anyone sit through them all, they're all pretty much the same movie), all the "Nightmare On Elm Street" movies (seriously, what the hell is wrong with me) and all the "Friday the 13th" movies (I've wasted my life), yet NONE of them even came close to freaking me out as much as the scene where Samara crawls out of the TV in "The Ring"! Karina Halle takes a similar approach. Rather than drowning the reader with blood and gore, Halle uses chilling prose and a creepy atmosphere to make us afraid of what may happen next. The first half of the book is more dedicated to character development (although there are enough eerie events to keep the terror flowing even then), but the creep factor really picks up in the second half! To give too much away would be a disservice to the reader, as the scarier moments are much more effective when they're experienced first hand (try telling someone who hasn't seen The Ring, "Then this freaky chick crawls out of a TV!"....just not the same as actually seeing it). But I can reveal that Karina Halle manages to infuse elements of fear and dread without ever resorting to schlock tactics (something that even Thomas Harris was incapable of doing by the 3rd Hannibal Lecter book) , and that takes true talent! Oh, and speaking of Hannibal...
"Silence of the Lambs" award - for mesmerizing leads!
Clarice and Hannibal were certainly not your typical on-screen couple (although, if they were, I might start watching a lot more rom-coms). Likewise, Perry is hardly the kind of lead you usually find in a young-adult novel. She's not glamorous, she isn't the best at anything, and forget about love-triangles, she'd be happy just to be part of a love-duo! But she is funny, intelligent, and sensitive, and her personality makes her more endearing than even Katniss Everdeen ever was. Halle strikes a perfect balance in characterizing Perry. Perry's insecurities are just enough to make her sympathetic, but not enough to get on the readers nerves. Perry's narration is often laugh-out-loud funny, but it's her more tender moments that really resonate with the audience. Also, she is the perfect counterpart for the much-more-confident but not-quite-as-sensitive Dex. While he dies provide much humor of his own, there's a darker edge to Dex, and the more we learn about him, the less we're sure Perry should be working with him. Perry and Dex are both enthralling in their own way, and they play off of each other beautifully. And that perfect chemistry leads us to...
"Scream" award - for giving us cool stuff to watch even when scary things aren't happening!
When I remember my favorite parts of "Scream", I very rarely think of the actual creepy stuff. Instead, I remember all the hilarious parts, especially when the characters kept deconstructing the "rules" of surviving a horror movie...one of my favorites being when Jamie Kennedy survived the events of the first movie (sorry for the spoiler of a 15-year-old movie) and announced, "I never thought I'd be so happy to be a virgin!" Likewise, "Darkhouse" is often at its best when scary things AREN'T going on! The heartwarming bond that Perry builds with her younger sister. The hilarious shenanigans of Perry's drunken cousins. This book works on so many levels, there were times I got so caught up in Perry's day-to-day life, I almost forgot that this was a horror novel! That's not to say that there aren't plenty of scares, but rather that the book manages to be equally entertaining even when things aren't going bump in the night.
An enormously entertaining read that promises you will either laugh or scream at least once on every page. If you read "Darkhouse" (and you really, really should), I hope you have as much fun watching Karina Halle flaunt classic horror-movie conventions as much as I did!
Working at a job she can't stand and living with a family who doesn't understand her, Perry Palomino is having trouble finding her place in the world. Maybe that's why she finds herself drawn to other things that don't quite belong in this world as well. Shadowy horrors invade her dreams, and a haunted lighthouse beacons her. When her investigation into the strange lighthouse leads her to wannabe ghost-hunter Dex Foray, the two of them decide to pool their talents in order to learn and document the secrets of the supernatural. But soon Perry isn't sure which is more dangerous...the ghosts that are stalking her, or the man who's helping her chase them!
This horror-movie fan had a lot of fun reading "Darkhouse"...so much so, that I will even be bestowing upon it awards from three of my favorite horror movies of all time...
"The Ring" award - for putting "terror" over "horror"!
I've seen all the "Halloween" movies (although, why would anyone sit through them all, they're all pretty much the same movie), all the "Nightmare On Elm Street" movies (seriously, what the hell is wrong with me) and all the "Friday the 13th" movies (I've wasted my life), yet NONE of them even came close to freaking me out as much as the scene where Samara crawls out of the TV in "The Ring"! Karina Halle takes a similar approach. Rather than drowning the reader with blood and gore, Halle uses chilling prose and a creepy atmosphere to make us afraid of what may happen next. The first half of the book is more dedicated to character development (although there are enough eerie events to keep the terror flowing even then), but the creep factor really picks up in the second half! To give too much away would be a disservice to the reader, as the scarier moments are much more effective when they're experienced first hand (try telling someone who hasn't seen The Ring, "Then this freaky chick crawls out of a TV!"....just not the same as actually seeing it). But I can reveal that Karina Halle manages to infuse elements of fear and dread without ever resorting to schlock tactics (something that even Thomas Harris was incapable of doing by the 3rd Hannibal Lecter book) , and that takes true talent! Oh, and speaking of Hannibal...
"Silence of the Lambs" award - for mesmerizing leads!
Clarice and Hannibal were certainly not your typical on-screen couple (although, if they were, I might start watching a lot more rom-coms). Likewise, Perry is hardly the kind of lead you usually find in a young-adult novel. She's not glamorous, she isn't the best at anything, and forget about love-triangles, she'd be happy just to be part of a love-duo! But she is funny, intelligent, and sensitive, and her personality makes her more endearing than even Katniss Everdeen ever was. Halle strikes a perfect balance in characterizing Perry. Perry's insecurities are just enough to make her sympathetic, but not enough to get on the readers nerves. Perry's narration is often laugh-out-loud funny, but it's her more tender moments that really resonate with the audience. Also, she is the perfect counterpart for the much-more-confident but not-quite-as-sensitive Dex. While he dies provide much humor of his own, there's a darker edge to Dex, and the more we learn about him, the less we're sure Perry should be working with him. Perry and Dex are both enthralling in their own way, and they play off of each other beautifully. And that perfect chemistry leads us to...
"Scream" award - for giving us cool stuff to watch even when scary things aren't happening!
When I remember my favorite parts of "Scream", I very rarely think of the actual creepy stuff. Instead, I remember all the hilarious parts, especially when the characters kept deconstructing the "rules" of surviving a horror movie...one of my favorites being when Jamie Kennedy survived the events of the first movie (sorry for the spoiler of a 15-year-old movie) and announced, "I never thought I'd be so happy to be a virgin!" Likewise, "Darkhouse" is often at its best when scary things AREN'T going on! The heartwarming bond that Perry builds with her younger sister. The hilarious shenanigans of Perry's drunken cousins. This book works on so many levels, there were times I got so caught up in Perry's day-to-day life, I almost forgot that this was a horror novel! That's not to say that there aren't plenty of scares, but rather that the book manages to be equally entertaining even when things aren't going bump in the night.
An enormously entertaining read that promises you will either laugh or scream at least once on every page. If you read "Darkhouse" (and you really, really should), I hope you have as much fun watching Karina Halle flaunt classic horror-movie conventions as much as I did!
May 25, 2013
"Amazing. Awesome. Cool. Fantastic. Stupendous. Crazy. Too good to be true."
5 Amazing-Karina-Halle Supernatural Stars
"How come you aren’t afraid?" "Because I find life to be scarier than death."
Horror was never more exciting...
A dark, twisted, and gothic read. An Alfred Hitchcock movie scenario. Sadly, he is dead and can't make it another masterpiece. Karina Halle has nothing to envy and with this series she firmly finds her place between the masters of horror and thrillers, amongst my all-time favourites, Dean Koontz and Stephen King.
Forgotten in the cold Oregon coast, abandoned and alone stands a Lighthouse.
The setting for an Experiment in Terror.
It sat there forgotten and lightless, a darkhouse overlooking the sea.
Perry Palomino
Our heroine is an amazing, one-of a kind, totally relatable twenty-two years old girl. Never, was a heroine so appealing to me... She has a degree in advertising but she is wasting away being a receptionist because she doesn't realise just how unique she is.
All her life she had weird dreams, visions and imaginary friends. She struggled, she failed. She used drugs, she abused herself and therapists managed to convince her that she is crazy and they made her forget.
But now her nightmares are spilling all over her reality and her imaginary friends are haunting her day-time.
"Somehow, by dealing with the dead, I had never felt so alive."
And they aren't going away...
Declan "Dex" Foray
"Because sometimes I lie, Perry. We all lie, even you, but not everyone is brave enough to admit it."
The half of Perry's lost soul. Psychotic, insane, arrogant, sexy, the cameraman and producer of several webseries takes an interest in the morbid history of the Lighthouse and Perry's innocent "charm". They gamble and they become partners. In horror and in fate. Because what they don't realise, is that they are meant to save each other.
Sexual tension and infatuation take a whole new meaning as these two exchange words, promises and blood. They are two sides of the same coin and they can't part...
They weren't believers, but when the truth is staring at you, you can't help but face it.
Fascinating and twisting, snarky and sarcastic, this story engages all your senses with a sort of manic attention to detail. The weather and the surroundings become a tool in the author's capable hands to manipulate our feelings and blur the lines between normal and paranormal. The words are turning into a B-movie around you and just like Alice you can't help but fall... deeper and deeper in the Rabbit Hole...
A highly recommended read! Thank you Fathima and Lucia for "nudging" me into it. Karina Halle has created an exciting world that I can't help but admire. Already bought all the next books, even the novellas. I'm in for the long haul. To the hell and back. Because I'm sure, we are gonna witness it.
And I dare all of you.... TURN OFF THE LIGHTS AND READ IT.
This review can be found on my blog: infinity-of-time.blogspot.com also known as...
September 20, 2022
Free on Amazon! https://amzn.to/3qW6xP2
4.5 stars!
“Somehow, by dealing with the dead, I had never felt so alive.”
I still remember the day I first started this series so clearly. It was summer of 2013, I had just returned to LA after a month long trip to Africa, and I had jury duty. While I was waiting for hours in that room for my name to be called, I read the first three Experiment in Terror books right then and there. I was hooked! I remember being mad when I was selected to be on a jury, because I had to focus on that case and the facts instead of continuing the series like I wanted to. (Luckily it was only 2 days or so, and then I was back to binging this series anytime I wanted).
Darkhouse is about 22 year old Perry Palomino. While visiting her uncle with her family, she wanders off from a bonfire party at the beach and breaks into an old abandoned lighthouse. While there she bumps into Dex, another person eager to explore the lighthouse, but he’s there to see if something supernatural happens. Perry captures their experience on camera and posts it online, when it becomes viral. Dex and Perry decide to venture into the lighthouse again, but what will they encounter this time?
“I used to dream big. It seemed like somewhere along the way I had forgotten about that. And gave up.”
This is one of my all time favorites series ever. I’ve never found anything else that compares to it. Horror and romance all mixed into one, and this series seriously just becomes better with every single book. It’s funny, because when I read this book in 2013, I related to Perry so much. In a way I still do because to me, she represents a younger version of myself. And I have to say, I didn’t realize until recently that this was Halle’s first book ever, and I gotta say she really knocked it outta the park with this one. For a debut novel, it’s fantastic!
While this is horror, I don’t feel this first book is that scary, so if you are on the edge about this series I encourage you to test the waters with this first book. In my opinion, these books started to scare the shit out of me by about book 3 or 4. And by then you’re invested in the romance! I cannot recommend this series enough, I wish all my friends would read it. It’s totally worth it, and they’re all finished now so you don’t have to wait for the next book like I had to!
“As anxious and nervous as I was about the new path I was about to head down, a tiny part of me knew everything was going to be OK.”
4.5 stars!
“Somehow, by dealing with the dead, I had never felt so alive.”
I still remember the day I first started this series so clearly. It was summer of 2013, I had just returned to LA after a month long trip to Africa, and I had jury duty. While I was waiting for hours in that room for my name to be called, I read the first three Experiment in Terror books right then and there. I was hooked! I remember being mad when I was selected to be on a jury, because I had to focus on that case and the facts instead of continuing the series like I wanted to. (Luckily it was only 2 days or so, and then I was back to binging this series anytime I wanted).
Darkhouse is about 22 year old Perry Palomino. While visiting her uncle with her family, she wanders off from a bonfire party at the beach and breaks into an old abandoned lighthouse. While there she bumps into Dex, another person eager to explore the lighthouse, but he’s there to see if something supernatural happens. Perry captures their experience on camera and posts it online, when it becomes viral. Dex and Perry decide to venture into the lighthouse again, but what will they encounter this time?
“I used to dream big. It seemed like somewhere along the way I had forgotten about that. And gave up.”
This is one of my all time favorites series ever. I’ve never found anything else that compares to it. Horror and romance all mixed into one, and this series seriously just becomes better with every single book. It’s funny, because when I read this book in 2013, I related to Perry so much. In a way I still do because to me, she represents a younger version of myself. And I have to say, I didn’t realize until recently that this was Halle’s first book ever, and I gotta say she really knocked it outta the park with this one. For a debut novel, it’s fantastic!
While this is horror, I don’t feel this first book is that scary, so if you are on the edge about this series I encourage you to test the waters with this first book. In my opinion, these books started to scare the shit out of me by about book 3 or 4. And by then you’re invested in the romance! I cannot recommend this series enough, I wish all my friends would read it. It’s totally worth it, and they’re all finished now so you don’t have to wait for the next book like I had to!
“As anxious and nervous as I was about the new path I was about to head down, a tiny part of me knew everything was going to be OK.”
October 26, 2020
WHOEVER WANTS TO JOIN WE ARE DOING A READALONG OF THE SERIES HERE IS THE LINK FOR THE CHAT IF YOU WANT TO JOIN <3 ": https://discord.com/invite/pEBJWq?fbc...
I didn’t know what to expect with this book,I have never read anything like that before but since it was highly rated by a lot of people, I thought I would give it a shot!I wasn’t disappointed!This book was amazing!!!!!
Perry Palomino's life hasn't turned out quite the way she had planned. At 22-years old she lives with her parents who don't know how to interact with their daughter.She works as a receptionist, and hates it. Her little sister Ada is everything Perry is not blonde,thin and popular.
Perry,Ada and her parents go to her uncle's farm for the weekend.
Armed with her camera she heads to the lighthouse on the property to explore...
But she isn't alone..She runs into Dex Foray a cameraman producer,and cinematographer for Shownet an online webshow company. What happens in the lighthouse is unsettling and terrifying and Perry catches it all on film.
She posts the video online. When it goes viral Dex approaches Perry to host a web show with him called "Experiment in Terror."
I immediately connected with Perry.She is such a real girl!!As I was reading this book,I couldn't help but laugh!!!Perry has the best sense of humor.She says things people think but won't necessarily say.Even in the most unusual situations she made me laugh!!
How do I describe my feelings for Dex????At first,I thought he's weird..Then there is the fact that he drives me absolutely insane..
He is tall,dark and yummy!!
Dex and Perry have a natural chemistry together and there is definite interest from both parties, but the only relationship that really develops at this point is somewhat of a friendship. They understand each other in ways that other people don't see...
The sexual tension between them was entertaining!!!
I loved this book!The author sets the mood on scary.Much of the action takes place in the darkhouse and I felt my heart racing when the things that go bump in the night bumped....
I didn’t know what to expect with this book,I have never read anything like that before but since it was highly rated by a lot of people, I thought I would give it a shot!I wasn’t disappointed!This book was amazing!!!!!
Perry Palomino's life hasn't turned out quite the way she had planned. At 22-years old she lives with her parents who don't know how to interact with their daughter.She works as a receptionist, and hates it. Her little sister Ada is everything Perry is not blonde,thin and popular.
Perry,Ada and her parents go to her uncle's farm for the weekend.
Armed with her camera she heads to the lighthouse on the property to explore...
But she isn't alone..She runs into Dex Foray a cameraman producer,and cinematographer for Shownet an online webshow company. What happens in the lighthouse is unsettling and terrifying and Perry catches it all on film.
She posts the video online. When it goes viral Dex approaches Perry to host a web show with him called "Experiment in Terror."
I immediately connected with Perry.She is such a real girl!!As I was reading this book,I couldn't help but laugh!!!Perry has the best sense of humor.She says things people think but won't necessarily say.Even in the most unusual situations she made me laugh!!
How do I describe my feelings for Dex????At first,I thought he's weird..Then there is the fact that he drives me absolutely insane..
He is tall,dark and yummy!!
Dex and Perry have a natural chemistry together and there is definite interest from both parties, but the only relationship that really develops at this point is somewhat of a friendship. They understand each other in ways that other people don't see...
The sexual tension between them was entertaining!!!
I loved this book!The author sets the mood on scary.Much of the action takes place in the darkhouse and I felt my heart racing when the things that go bump in the night bumped....
December 7, 2020
this was so addicting
January 15, 2013
Well, shit, son. If there was a moment that determined the course of my future, I'm pretty sure this was it.
Apparently, Experiment in Terror has quite the cult following that I'm only just now finding out about. As usual, I am late to the party. My invitation MUST HAVE GOTTEN LOST IN THE MAIL. Thanks, friends.
3.5 stars for a promising start to this series. I sense potential. I keep hearing that it only gets better from here on out, so I will definitely be picking up the next book soon. BONUS for those not in the know : Darkhouse is an ebook freebie at just about every book seller.
There's something out there. Now you see it; now you don't.
~ There be ghost hunting. Yar. No further explanation necessary.
~ There be lots of great conversation. Good banter makes me happy. I also appreciated the author's phrasing in random places. I felt like I was listening to a real character's voice. Formality was thrown out the window, and I liked that.
I know, I know. A motorbike. I've heard it all : It's dangerous, I'll die, I'll look like a douchebag.
Most lustful meth addicts don't have high quality digital cameras.
At least mine were flirtatious; he probably just had smoke in his eyes.
The show wasn't. It was like Lamb Chop's Play-Along on acid but without the endearing weirdness of acid.
~ There be abnormal characters. As in, all of them. I can relate. I ABSOLUTELY can relate.
I'm going to quit with the 'there be' now, before you all think I'm completely uneducated.
Dex might end up being another "hell yes, I love him for being different" type of character like how Paul from How to Kill a Rock Star was for me. Dex is handsome, yet not overblown "romance novel" type of handsome. He's not tall or super built, but he has something going on in the looks department that catches Perry's eye. He has a weird 'stache and an outdated eyebrow ring. He's got some "crazy" going on inside of him. He hangs with hot chicks, yet is drawn to the normal chick. He's just all kinds of kick-ass to me. I love his offbeat personality. Perry described him as reminding her of Robert Downey Jr. in his strung-out drug days. How's that for the anti-perfect alpha male type? But ladies, he can sing! So it's all good.
Perry is not your typical young woman. She's brash, she's strange, and she's not rail-thin. She's ten years Dex's junior, but she somehow manages to be a good match for his brand of crazy.
My final thoughts : I felt like the first half of the book was a bit of an over-tell, with a few moments which could have been pared back a little, but much of the setup evened out by the second half when the story finally started to find its groove. After a while, I forgot about any complaints that I had when I first started reading because I was enjoying my time spent with Perry and Dex so much. It's the banter and the chemistry, people! Love!
I can't say that I was particularly creeped out (yet), but the tone of the story was dark enough that the ghost hunting concept started off with a bang. Here's hoping that I will catch more of the creepy vibe in further installments as we follow the team on more adventures. And if nothing else, I'll get more time with Dex and Perry together.
"The truth scares you."
He leaned in closer across the table and this time grabbed my forearm.
"You scare me, Perry," he growled. "You."
June 3, 2021
2.5 stars
I really wanted to like this book but I simply couldn’t. While Perry did not bother me, she did not help. I also didn’t appreciate Dex. I was certainly spooked during some moments but overall this book was a disappointment and a big meh. I liked the lighthouse story but I’m a characters kind of person through and through and the characters here did nothing for me to like the book. They weren’t memorable nor even remotely interesting.
This is my first urban fantasy style horror and honestly, I’m starting to think this genre isn’t for me. I really do enjoy them on screen but I’m simply not feeling scared while reading for the most part. Whenever a pnr element is added, it just transforms to fantasy in my mind “this can never be real” and U read it accordingly. So if you’re like me, not a big fan of this genre, then you won’t like this biok either. However if you are and enjoy urban fantasy, I’m almost sure you’re gonna have a much better time reading this book.
I really wanted to like this book but I simply couldn’t. While Perry did not bother me, she did not help. I also didn’t appreciate Dex. I was certainly spooked during some moments but overall this book was a disappointment and a big meh. I liked the lighthouse story but I’m a characters kind of person through and through and the characters here did nothing for me to like the book. They weren’t memorable nor even remotely interesting.
This is my first urban fantasy style horror and honestly, I’m starting to think this genre isn’t for me. I really do enjoy them on screen but I’m simply not feeling scared while reading for the most part. Whenever a pnr element is added, it just transforms to fantasy in my mind “this can never be real” and U read it accordingly. So if you’re like me, not a big fan of this genre, then you won’t like this biok either. However if you are and enjoy urban fantasy, I’m almost sure you’re gonna have a much better time reading this book.
October 11, 2014
*4 Stars!*
A fun and promising start to what appears to be an amazing series!
Although the horror genre may not be a stretch for many, Darkhouse was my introduction into the fictional world of fear. I'd initially been warned from many that this first installation is more of a decent warm-up to an incredible series, so I consequently lowered my expectations a bit. I'm happy to say that I was pleasantly surprised by how immensely I enjoyed this book; it was precisely what I needed to shake up my realm of reading.
Perry is not your typical heroine. She's insecure and imperfect, but strong and determined—not to mention, she drives a motor bike and sees dead people. Her emotional struggles are endearingly relatable, and she manages to get through it all while remaining hilarious and entirely lovable. She suffers from chilling, suspicious nightmares that would shake anyone to their core. But when she meets the eccentric Dex Foray in an abandoned lighthouse, things start to gradually become clear...
Dex is one sexy, ghost hunting enigma, and not easily placed in any typical 'hero' category. He's brooding and complex; protective; strange, and a slight ass—but he's a unique ass. An ass that breaks the mold and makes you want to peel the layers of intrigue and get to what makes him tick. Armed with video cameras and iphones, he and Perry team up to take on the paranormal...setting off an entertaining, humorous, and bone-chilling sequence of events.
I loved that Dex was not instantly smitten with Perry, and if he was, he hid it well. He was cool, collected and remained a mystery for the majority of the story--which intrigued me to no end. His little spurts of anger were sexy and his quirky tactics were charming.
Although an actual love story seems to be brewing, the romance went unexplored in this installation. Which was fine, because their cat-and-mouse antics were adorable and I loved their unique friendship. Perry of course had this undeniable, secret attraction to Dex--but who could blame her? The man is as odd and mystifying as he is sexy. If Johnny Depp morphed into a slightly unstable, fictional ghost hunter—I'm certain it would be Dex Forray!
For those reluctant to dabble in this genre, I can promise you that this book is most likely a cake walk compared to some. Yes, it has its creepy, heart-pounding, intense, edge of your seat moments—but I believe the true levels of terror are offered in the books to follow...rendering this the perfect opportunity to get your toes wet! Awesome read!
Book Stats:
▪ Genre/Category: Paranormal/Thriller
▪ Steam Caliber: None
▪ Romance: Suggested. *In the making*
▪ Characters: Quirky, lovable, and complex.
▪ Plot: Two unique ghost hunters team up to take on the paranormal. Spooky and humorous.
▪ Writing: Engaging, vivid, and seasoned.
▪ POV: 1st Person: Heroine
▪ Cliffhanger: Mild. Open ending.
▪ Next Installment: Follow up
A fun and promising start to what appears to be an amazing series!
Although the horror genre may not be a stretch for many, Darkhouse was my introduction into the fictional world of fear. I'd initially been warned from many that this first installation is more of a decent warm-up to an incredible series, so I consequently lowered my expectations a bit. I'm happy to say that I was pleasantly surprised by how immensely I enjoyed this book; it was precisely what I needed to shake up my realm of reading.
Perry is not your typical heroine. She's insecure and imperfect, but strong and determined—not to mention, she drives a motor bike and sees dead people. Her emotional struggles are endearingly relatable, and she manages to get through it all while remaining hilarious and entirely lovable. She suffers from chilling, suspicious nightmares that would shake anyone to their core. But when she meets the eccentric Dex Foray in an abandoned lighthouse, things start to gradually become clear...
He had such a lovely smile when he was using it for good and not evil.
Dex is one sexy, ghost hunting enigma, and not easily placed in any typical 'hero' category. He's brooding and complex; protective; strange, and a slight ass—but he's a unique ass. An ass that breaks the mold and makes you want to peel the layers of intrigue and get to what makes him tick. Armed with video cameras and iphones, he and Perry team up to take on the paranormal...setting off an entertaining, humorous, and bone-chilling sequence of events.
I loved that Dex was not instantly smitten with Perry, and if he was, he hid it well. He was cool, collected and remained a mystery for the majority of the story--which intrigued me to no end. His little spurts of anger were sexy and his quirky tactics were charming.
"I just want you to enjoy the pies in life, Perry."
Although an actual love story seems to be brewing, the romance went unexplored in this installation. Which was fine, because their cat-and-mouse antics were adorable and I loved their unique friendship. Perry of course had this undeniable, secret attraction to Dex--but who could blame her? The man is as odd and mystifying as he is sexy. If Johnny Depp morphed into a slightly unstable, fictional ghost hunter—I'm certain it would be Dex Forray!
For those reluctant to dabble in this genre, I can promise you that this book is most likely a cake walk compared to some. Yes, it has its creepy, heart-pounding, intense, edge of your seat moments—but I believe the true levels of terror are offered in the books to follow...rendering this the perfect opportunity to get your toes wet! Awesome read!
Expect the unexpected...
Book Stats:
▪ Genre/Category: Paranormal/Thriller
▪ Steam Caliber: None
▪ Romance: Suggested. *In the making*
▪ Characters: Quirky, lovable, and complex.
▪ Plot: Two unique ghost hunters team up to take on the paranormal. Spooky and humorous.
▪ Writing: Engaging, vivid, and seasoned.
▪ POV: 1st Person: Heroine
▪ Cliffhanger: Mild. Open ending.
▪ Next Installment: Follow up
July 19, 2013
"Expect the Unexpected!"
First, I want to say that this book brings to my attention exactly why I love GR. I would have never been aware of this series or author if it weren't for all of my GR buds talking about how awesome this series is, and how they have fallen in love with the mysterious, moody character; Dex Foray. Darkhouse is the first book in the Experiment of Terror series, and as with tons of my fellow readers, I have fallen in love with this series. This is not a romance, (although I am hoping that one day Dex and Perry might become involved!)instead this is more of a horror, suspense, mystery, and comedy all rolled into one awesome package! Karina Halle has written an amazing story that is equally entertaining, laugh out loud funny at times, and in some scenes I literally got goosebumps from how chilling they were! Her descriptive writing is amazing, and she is able to articulate so well about what she wants the reader to see, that I literally had a movie playing in my head. This story was beautifully written and her writing skills amaze me!
The two main characters in this book are unique individuals who I am eager to watch grow and learn more about as the series progresses. I like how we have been given a glimpse into who they are; but not a full disclosure. Their still is much to be revealed, and I can't wait to find out more!
Perry is a very likeable character, as I feel she has been written into your average, realistic woman. She has insecurities about her weight, and she often doesn't have much confidence in herself. Yet, when the chips are down, she is able to kick ass with her karate moves. I love that Perry isn't this unrealistic woman with huge perky breasts, and model tall height!!LOL
As for Dex...I don't even know where to begin with him! I adore him and his humor! I can't wait to find out exactly what makes this guy tick! He is described as "Dark, Brooding, and Mysterious"; he's handsome and when he looks at Perry she has said that "his eyes read your very soul".. The scene where Dex made me melt for him was when he stood up for Perry to his producer!:
"She may not be a self-obsessed stick-thin bimbo, but she more than right for this job...."
"She's smart, she's funny and she's not afraid to take risks. Not to mention that she's beautiful, sexy, and charming. You know it, I know it, and soon everyone else will know it. The only person who doesn't know it is her because of archaic fuckheads like yourself telling her otherwise.."
AAAAHHH...that is my favorite "Dex" part in the whole book!!LOL
I don't want to go into the storyline too much, as I don't want to give anything away. This is a must read book though, and I can't wait to dive in to the next book. I have been told that this series gets better as time goes on and I certainly believe it! So, onward to the next adventure of Dex and Perry, and I am sure there wiil lots to learn and more creepy scenes..Oh, and who knows...maybe that creepy clown lady will be seen again! There is never a dull moment..that is for sure!
First, I want to say that this book brings to my attention exactly why I love GR. I would have never been aware of this series or author if it weren't for all of my GR buds talking about how awesome this series is, and how they have fallen in love with the mysterious, moody character; Dex Foray. Darkhouse is the first book in the Experiment of Terror series, and as with tons of my fellow readers, I have fallen in love with this series. This is not a romance, (although I am hoping that one day Dex and Perry might become involved!)instead this is more of a horror, suspense, mystery, and comedy all rolled into one awesome package! Karina Halle has written an amazing story that is equally entertaining, laugh out loud funny at times, and in some scenes I literally got goosebumps from how chilling they were! Her descriptive writing is amazing, and she is able to articulate so well about what she wants the reader to see, that I literally had a movie playing in my head. This story was beautifully written and her writing skills amaze me!
The two main characters in this book are unique individuals who I am eager to watch grow and learn more about as the series progresses. I like how we have been given a glimpse into who they are; but not a full disclosure. Their still is much to be revealed, and I can't wait to find out more!
Perry is a very likeable character, as I feel she has been written into your average, realistic woman. She has insecurities about her weight, and she often doesn't have much confidence in herself. Yet, when the chips are down, she is able to kick ass with her karate moves. I love that Perry isn't this unrealistic woman with huge perky breasts, and model tall height!!LOL
As for Dex...I don't even know where to begin with him! I adore him and his humor! I can't wait to find out exactly what makes this guy tick! He is described as "Dark, Brooding, and Mysterious"; he's handsome and when he looks at Perry she has said that "his eyes read your very soul".. The scene where Dex made me melt for him was when he stood up for Perry to his producer!:
"She may not be a self-obsessed stick-thin bimbo, but she more than right for this job...."
"She's smart, she's funny and she's not afraid to take risks. Not to mention that she's beautiful, sexy, and charming. You know it, I know it, and soon everyone else will know it. The only person who doesn't know it is her because of archaic fuckheads like yourself telling her otherwise.."
AAAAHHH...that is my favorite "Dex" part in the whole book!!LOL
I don't want to go into the storyline too much, as I don't want to give anything away. This is a must read book though, and I can't wait to dive in to the next book. I have been told that this series gets better as time goes on and I certainly believe it! So, onward to the next adventure of Dex and Perry, and I am sure there wiil lots to learn and more creepy scenes..Oh, and who knows...maybe that creepy clown lady will be seen again! There is never a dull moment..that is for sure!
October 5, 2015
Final rating: 3.75/5 stars
Final rating - for the whole series: 4.75/5 stars
BUDDY READ WITH VILDA ♥♥♥ It was fuuuuuuuun ♥
CHECK OUT MY PARTNER'S IN CRIME aka VILDA'S REVIEW
Hm... I don't know if i expected too much of this book, or if it was something else. I liked it, it was really cool, and it has strong lead character - which is something i appreciated, but i felt that there was something missing. And i have no idea what.
So, the original rating would be 4 - because of Perry, but since i heard that other books were so much better than the first one, i dropped it to 3.5.
Anyway, i loved the suspense, the lighthouse, the creepy level, the idea. I am quite interested in characters and i can't wait to find out more. Maybe if it was more creepier or something it would be awesome :P. I heard that sequels get better as they go, and i really can't wait to read the rest.
____________________________________________
Characters :
____________________________________________
♦ Perry:
Be afraid...be very very afraid.....
Is unique, strong, brave, scared, hilarious, funny, fantastic, idiot, great, crazy and insane character. She went through lot in her life - or so we have been told. She was different, she took initiative, she was cunning and she is the type of person who needs to dig out what she wants to know. I am glad that she thinks with her head - she checks out the situation first before anything she does.
♦ Dex:
Dex was way to shady character - it was hard for me to figure him out. But i liked him nonetheless, and i am really interested in finding out more about him. He seems unique, he has that aura of weirdness, and i didn't expect to find out that he was *major spoiler* . It explained some things about him. Anyway, i love how he threw some random comments and facts, not to mention how charming he was.
But i still don't know what to think about him being already in relationship. How is his relationship going to work out with Perry if he already has a girlfriend? Which btw, i instanty hated - just like Perry. Now i vote for him to break up with her asap so he can be with Perry :P
What is there not to like :P?
♦ Others:
I liked Ada, she was soooooooooo interesting, even though she didn't appear much in the book. I loved her blog obsession, and she seemed to me like miny Perry. She was cute. Too bad she didn't appear more often. Matt and Tony were crazy and their father, Al, aka Perry's uncle was nice too. I liked Perry's parents as well :D There were more characters but i do wish those mentioned before appeared a little bit more.
____________________________________________
Favorite quotes:
____________________________________________
***
***
***
***
***
____________________________________________
OVERALL
____________________________________________
I enjoyed this book, i really did. I loved the characters, loved the setting and i would definitely recommend it to horror lovers. This may be right thing for ya :D
Edit: read five books of EIT:
THIS IS JUST A BEGINNING OF THE SERIES, ALL OF THE BOOKS AFTER THIS ONE ARE FANTASTIC. READ THIS SERIES, YOU WON'T REGRET IT :)
____________________________________________
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
____________________________________________
MY EXPERIMENT IN TERROR REVIEWS:
◉ Darkhouse (Experiment in Terror, #1)
◉ Red Fox (Experiment in Terror, #2)
◉ The Benson (Experiment in Terror, #2.5)
◉ Dead Sky Morning (Experiment in Terror, #3)
◉ Lying Season (Experiment in Terror, #4)
◉ On Demon Wings (Experiment in Terror, #5)
◉ Old Blood (Experiment in Terror, #5.5)
◉ The Dex-Files (Experiment in Terror, #5.7)
◉ Into the Hollow (Experiment in Terror, #6)
◉ And With Madness Comes the Light (Experiment in Terror, #6.5)
◉ Come Alive (Experiment in Terror, #7)
◉ Ashes to Ashes (Experiment in Terror, #8)
◉ Dust to Dust (Experiment in Terror, #9)
This review can be found on my blog: infinity-of-time.blogspot.com also known as...
Final rating - for the whole series: 4.75/5 stars
BUDDY READ WITH VILDA ♥♥♥ It was fuuuuuuuun ♥
CHECK OUT MY PARTNER'S IN CRIME aka VILDA'S REVIEW
“We need you to be scared.”
“Why do I have to be? How come you aren’t afraid?”
“Because I find life to be scarier than death,” he replied matter-of-factly."
Hm... I don't know if i expected too much of this book, or if it was something else. I liked it, it was really cool, and it has strong lead character - which is something i appreciated, but i felt that there was something missing. And i have no idea what.
So, the original rating would be 4 - because of Perry, but since i heard that other books were so much better than the first one, i dropped it to 3.5.
Anyway, i loved the suspense, the lighthouse, the creepy level, the idea. I am quite interested in characters and i can't wait to find out more. Maybe if it was more creepier or something it would be awesome :P. I heard that sequels get better as they go, and i really can't wait to read the rest.
____________________________________________
Characters :
____________________________________________
♦ Perry:
Be afraid...be very very afraid.....
“Somehow, by dealing with the dead, I had never felt so alive.”
Is unique, strong, brave, scared, hilarious, funny, fantastic, idiot, great, crazy and insane character. She went through lot in her life - or so we have been told. She was different, she took initiative, she was cunning and she is the type of person who needs to dig out what she wants to know. I am glad that she thinks with her head - she checks out the situation first before anything she does.
“Why? Because you called me up and was all like ‘Oh, hello there, little girl, do you like scary movies?’” I imitated his growly voice and talked into my hand. “‘I was hoping we could make a scary movie together; maybe then I could make some money off of ya. Hope you like to read history books at gunpoint.’”
♦ Dex:
“Because sometimes I lie, Perry. We all lie, even you, but not everyone is brave enough to admit it.”
Dex was way to shady character - it was hard for me to figure him out. But i liked him nonetheless, and i am really interested in finding out more about him. He seems unique, he has that aura of weirdness, and i didn't expect to find out that he was *major spoiler* . It explained some things about him. Anyway, i love how he threw some random comments and facts, not to mention how charming he was.
But i still don't know what to think about him being already in relationship. How is his relationship going to work out with Perry if he already has a girlfriend? Which btw, i instanty hated - just like Perry. Now i vote for him to break up with her asap so he can be with Perry :P
Here is what I found about Dex Foray:
Activities: Music, filmmaking, video games, making up stuff on Wikipedia, booze, more stuff
Favorite Music: Metal, rock, alternative, and everything that’s missing from pop culture
TV Shows: BBC
Movies: Stuff YOU probably don’t like
Books: Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Catch-22...all the stereotypes
He didn’t have a college listed under his education but he did have his high school: Bainbridge High School ‘96
Quick calculations in my head placed him at thirty-two, ten years older than I.
What is there not to like :P?
♦ Others:
I liked Ada, she was soooooooooo interesting, even though she didn't appear much in the book. I loved her blog obsession, and she seemed to me like miny Perry. She was cute. Too bad she didn't appear more often. Matt and Tony were crazy and their father, Al, aka Perry's uncle was nice too. I liked Perry's parents as well :D There were more characters but i do wish those mentioned before appeared a little bit more.
____________________________________________
Favorite quotes:
____________________________________________
“I hate bullshitters; you can never bullshit them.”
***
“OK?”
“That’s the spirit! Now we are cooking with gas!”
“You’re not drunk right now, are you?”
***
“You’re not having anything?” He pointed at me with the fork.
“I don’t like pie,” I said feebly. That wasn’t true, but I don’t know why I lied.
“You don’t like pie? What kind of person doesn’t like pie?” He laughed. He reached forward and actually poked me in the arm with the fork. Lightly, but still. “You can’t be trusted.”
I instinctively batted the fork away from me. “You’re the one with the fork.”
He opened up my hand and placed the fork in it. “Now you have the fork.”
He sat back in his chair, looked down at his writing and thoughtfully scratched his sideburns. And just like that, it was—
“I just want you to enjoy the pies in life, Perry,” he shot in. “That’s all.”
“I enjoy...pies,” I managed to say. I wasn’t about to charm him with my wit, that’s for sure.
“Pies are a metaphor,” he said quickly. He exhaled.
***
“We should probably have a safety word too,” he said.
“A safety word? Like in S&M?”
His eyes flashed, animated and bright. “The safety word is ‘Jell-O’.”
God help me if I ever had to say “Jell-O” for any reason.
***
“You’d think,” he joked, “but she just nags me to go to the gym. Have you ever been to a gym? It’s the gayest shit ever. I went for the first six months of us dating until I got tired of paying someone to torture me.”
***
____________________________________________
OVERALL
____________________________________________
I enjoyed this book, i really did. I loved the characters, loved the setting and i would definitely recommend it to horror lovers. This may be right thing for ya :D
Edit: read five books of EIT:
THIS IS JUST A BEGINNING OF THE SERIES, ALL OF THE BOOKS AFTER THIS ONE ARE FANTASTIC. READ THIS SERIES, YOU WON'T REGRET IT :)
____________________________________________
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
____________________________________________
MY EXPERIMENT IN TERROR REVIEWS:
◉ Darkhouse (Experiment in Terror, #1)
◉ Red Fox (Experiment in Terror, #2)
◉ The Benson (Experiment in Terror, #2.5)
◉ Dead Sky Morning (Experiment in Terror, #3)
◉ Lying Season (Experiment in Terror, #4)
◉ On Demon Wings (Experiment in Terror, #5)
◉ Old Blood (Experiment in Terror, #5.5)
◉ The Dex-Files (Experiment in Terror, #5.7)
◉ Into the Hollow (Experiment in Terror, #6)
◉ And With Madness Comes the Light (Experiment in Terror, #6.5)
◉ Come Alive (Experiment in Terror, #7)
◉ Ashes to Ashes (Experiment in Terror, #8)
◉ Dust to Dust (Experiment in Terror, #9)
This review can be found on my blog: infinity-of-time.blogspot.com also known as...
February 18, 2013
A haunted lighthouse
Nightmares
Ghosts?
Perry
Perry had to visit her uncle Al , who owned a lighthouse.
That night her cousins decided to go with some friends on the beach , so they invited Perry and her sister.
Perry got bored and the lighthouse drew her curiosity.
She thought that it would be a great idea to exlpore it now that she had the chance to , because her uncle wouldnt allow anyone to enter the lighthouse.
But weird things happened.....
There she also met DEX
Well, after a few chapters they end up working together but the creepy stuff wouldnt stop.
“If there was a moment that determined the course of my future, I'm pretty sure this was it. I had two somewhat simple choices. I could make a run for it and go back to Uncle Al's. Back to the bonfire where my cousins and dear sister would be drinking and revel in the normalcy of a Saturday night and forget I ever went to this horrid place and ran into this weirdo. Or I could go with said weirdo up the stairs in this decrepit old lighthouse, which was most likely condemned and unsafe, towards some unknown person (or thing) that was walking around, potentially waiting to murder us in horrific ways.
I really liked this book.It was something new for me and the whole thriller thing excited me a lot.
The truth is that I expected it to be scarier while you read it. I wasnt scared at all but it put me in a creepy mood.
Perry used to see things that others couldn't and that made you feel weird.Dex on the other hand seemed to be fearless in most of the cases and I really liked him.He was funny and sarcastic.
I was kind of disappointed on how they managed to get throught the whole situation.I expected something more dramatic , like an exorcism but anyway the book's ending made sense .
Dont hesitate , read it !!
Nightmares
Ghosts?
Perry
Perry had to visit her uncle Al , who owned a lighthouse.
That night her cousins decided to go with some friends on the beach , so they invited Perry and her sister.
Perry got bored and the lighthouse drew her curiosity.
She thought that it would be a great idea to exlpore it now that she had the chance to , because her uncle wouldnt allow anyone to enter the lighthouse.
But weird things happened.....
There she also met DEX
Well, after a few chapters they end up working together but the creepy stuff wouldnt stop.
“If there was a moment that determined the course of my future, I'm pretty sure this was it. I had two somewhat simple choices. I could make a run for it and go back to Uncle Al's. Back to the bonfire where my cousins and dear sister would be drinking and revel in the normalcy of a Saturday night and forget I ever went to this horrid place and ran into this weirdo. Or I could go with said weirdo up the stairs in this decrepit old lighthouse, which was most likely condemned and unsafe, towards some unknown person (or thing) that was walking around, potentially waiting to murder us in horrific ways.
I really liked this book.It was something new for me and the whole thriller thing excited me a lot.
The truth is that I expected it to be scarier while you read it. I wasnt scared at all but it put me in a creepy mood.
Perry used to see things that others couldn't and that made you feel weird.Dex on the other hand seemed to be fearless in most of the cases and I really liked him.He was funny and sarcastic.
I was kind of disappointed on how they managed to get throught the whole situation.I expected something more dramatic , like an exorcism but anyway the book's ending made sense .
Dont hesitate , read it !!
February 28, 2013
This book is FREE at Barnes and Noble and Smashwords! Get it, get it!!
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/darkh...
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
I'm not normally much for horror books, but I've recently been trying to loosen my rabid grip on all things romance. Turns out, I truly tend to need it to stay interested. The great thing about that is that even male authors tend to throw a little romance into their plot somewhere. So when I started seeing this series pop up all over my feed, amidst my also-romance-addicted friends, for months on end, it for sure caught my attention.
You know how each time a new hit series comes out, it's touted as "different"? Well, THIS is the definition of different within the circle of readers that I usually follow.
Perry Palomino: She's in her early twenties, fresh out of college. She's not gorgeous, but she IS real. She has a little extra junk in the trunk, and her self image is not so hot considering that she's had weight issues for most of her life. And unlike many books, her low self esteem isn't used so that she can act like an idiot while men and boys drool on their chins and follow this goddess in hiding around. Perry's just normal...in the looks department, anyways. In the way of psyche, this chick has issues!!!! Perry has dreams...she has day-mares, nightmares, and visions...but sometimes that curtain of reality is very thin, and Perry can't tell what's dream and what's really happening.
Dex Foray: Talk about an unconventional hero!!! This guy comes across as even weirder than Perry!!!! Dex is an internet show video cameraman. The way he's described isn't normally the way I would envision a man that I would become so fascinated with. His appeal doesn't come from his looks, but from his odd characterization, and the little glimpses that you get of the inner Dex.
Dex and Perry meet in an old abandoned lighthouse in the middle of the night. Perry certainly wasn't looking for anything supernatural. But Dex is! Their first meeting is an awfully frightening experience for this reader. Secret slamming doors that lock themselves, ghostly footsteps, and sun bright lights...I literally had to turn on my lights to keep reading...my reader light was just causing unnecessary shadows. The fact that Perry's iPhone happened to record much of the experience is a plus when she posts her video online and gets loads of unexpected hits. And therein lies the excuse for Dex to contact her and push his internet video show idea...The Experiment in Terror.
While romance is definitely not the point of the story, there is an underlying sexual tension between Dex and Perry...I'm assuming it will eventually lead somewhere.
For me, this entire book was one big mystery. I can't quite figure Dex out. He's just so odd. He's moody, he treats Perry like an annoying kid sister at times, but looks at her like he's dying to know her soul. He's not the type of hero to go saving the damsel in distress, but then he turns around and protects her in other ways...redeeming ways that make the rest of it all okay. Perry is extremely likeable, but hard to empathize with. The girl needs to grow a pair and stand up for herself! Be bold in life and not just scary situations.
I can honestly say that I haven't been this excited about a new-to-me series in months. At then end of Darkhouse, I've already loaded every available book in the series onto my Nook...I'm that sure that I'll love them! If you're bored with the current offerings, if you're continually being disappointed by the newest craze book and need something to sink into, give this a try. It may not be for everyone, but it was such a massive hit for me, and has my anticipatory nerves firing like crazy. I can't wait to devour more Dex and Perry!!!
Buddy read with Brenda, MK, and the BR-ers...so excited to see what the fuss is about!!!!
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/darkh...
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
I'm not normally much for horror books, but I've recently been trying to loosen my rabid grip on all things romance. Turns out, I truly tend to need it to stay interested. The great thing about that is that even male authors tend to throw a little romance into their plot somewhere. So when I started seeing this series pop up all over my feed, amidst my also-romance-addicted friends, for months on end, it for sure caught my attention.
You know how each time a new hit series comes out, it's touted as "different"? Well, THIS is the definition of different within the circle of readers that I usually follow.
Perry Palomino: She's in her early twenties, fresh out of college. She's not gorgeous, but she IS real. She has a little extra junk in the trunk, and her self image is not so hot considering that she's had weight issues for most of her life. And unlike many books, her low self esteem isn't used so that she can act like an idiot while men and boys drool on their chins and follow this goddess in hiding around. Perry's just normal...in the looks department, anyways. In the way of psyche, this chick has issues!!!! Perry has dreams...she has day-mares, nightmares, and visions...but sometimes that curtain of reality is very thin, and Perry can't tell what's dream and what's really happening.
Dex Foray: Talk about an unconventional hero!!! This guy comes across as even weirder than Perry!!!! Dex is an internet show video cameraman. The way he's described isn't normally the way I would envision a man that I would become so fascinated with. His appeal doesn't come from his looks, but from his odd characterization, and the little glimpses that you get of the inner Dex.
Dex and Perry meet in an old abandoned lighthouse in the middle of the night. Perry certainly wasn't looking for anything supernatural. But Dex is! Their first meeting is an awfully frightening experience for this reader. Secret slamming doors that lock themselves, ghostly footsteps, and sun bright lights...I literally had to turn on my lights to keep reading...my reader light was just causing unnecessary shadows. The fact that Perry's iPhone happened to record much of the experience is a plus when she posts her video online and gets loads of unexpected hits. And therein lies the excuse for Dex to contact her and push his internet video show idea...The Experiment in Terror.
While romance is definitely not the point of the story, there is an underlying sexual tension between Dex and Perry...I'm assuming it will eventually lead somewhere.
For me, this entire book was one big mystery. I can't quite figure Dex out. He's just so odd. He's moody, he treats Perry like an annoying kid sister at times, but looks at her like he's dying to know her soul. He's not the type of hero to go saving the damsel in distress, but then he turns around and protects her in other ways...redeeming ways that make the rest of it all okay. Perry is extremely likeable, but hard to empathize with. The girl needs to grow a pair and stand up for herself! Be bold in life and not just scary situations.
I can honestly say that I haven't been this excited about a new-to-me series in months. At then end of Darkhouse, I've already loaded every available book in the series onto my Nook...I'm that sure that I'll love them! If you're bored with the current offerings, if you're continually being disappointed by the newest craze book and need something to sink into, give this a try. It may not be for everyone, but it was such a massive hit for me, and has my anticipatory nerves firing like crazy. I can't wait to devour more Dex and Perry!!!
Buddy read with Brenda, MK, and the BR-ers...so excited to see what the fuss is about!!!!
August 2, 2013
We meet Perry and basically find out that she's had a bit of a rough life. She's talked to imaginary friends, dabbled in drugs and dealt with some bullies. But she has finished college and is trying to make her way in this poor economy. On a weekend trip to her Uncle's, she decides to check out his "haunted" lighthouse and during some strange encounters, she meets Dex.
So, it's been killing me to have put these off for so long but I knew from all my friend's reactions that this series would just suck me in so I wanted to tie up all my loose series. I'm so glad I did and I would recommend you do the same. Although at this point, the drawn is not overwhelming but I could definitely see reading the next one right away.
Another thing is that everyone says this is the worse book in the series!! Well, if that's so then I'm really happy because I didn't think this one was bad at. all. Maybe a little drawn out but that's fairly common for first books.
I really liked Perry but yipes, she has her hands full. And you've heard that saying that like attracts like? Yep, that's Dex. I'm not sure who is more messed up. But...they are a lovable messed up and I can't wait to see how things all come together...or not.
Dex...well, I'm not quite sure what the attraction is. All my friends think they are married to him. (LOL!!) He admits to being a liar and a bit bipolar. He's thirty-two and he is chasing ghosts...hmmmmm. But he's an enigma. I've heard I will like him more once I've heard his POV and I get that so I will withhold judgment.
I enjoyed all of Perry's family and I really like the differences between the two nationalities. It will be interesting to see how much her family plays in the future books. I would love more Ada when she's a few years older. I really got a kick out of her Uncle Al as well.
Not sure how I feel about Dex's girlfriend...or how he feels about her. Seems like he's bipolar there too. Unfortunately, I've read things about her in the future and I really don't like that.
So, you're probably still wondering if I think this is scary or not. Well, not really. I mean, it does keep you involved and there is that bit of freakiness and definitely of the unknown but it didn't keep me up at night. Not yet anyway. But the whole haunted lighthouse and "I see dead people" plot is pretty good.
I do want to know more! There isn't a cliffhanger but obviously the story is ongoing especially with the seventh book just out and there's at least two more to go. I can't wait!
Favorite quotes:
♦ “You? I don’t even know who the f*ck you are. You give me a business card? I’m not going to be part of your rapist tower.”
♥ “I just want you to enjoy the pies in life, Perry.”
So, it's been killing me to have put these off for so long but I knew from all my friend's reactions that this series would just suck me in so I wanted to tie up all my loose series. I'm so glad I did and I would recommend you do the same. Although at this point, the drawn is not overwhelming but I could definitely see reading the next one right away.
Another thing is that everyone says this is the worse book in the series!! Well, if that's so then I'm really happy because I didn't think this one was bad at. all. Maybe a little drawn out but that's fairly common for first books.
I really liked Perry but yipes, she has her hands full. And you've heard that saying that like attracts like? Yep, that's Dex. I'm not sure who is more messed up. But...they are a lovable messed up and I can't wait to see how things all come together...or not.
Dex...well, I'm not quite sure what the attraction is. All my friends think they are married to him. (LOL!!) He admits to being a liar and a bit bipolar. He's thirty-two and he is chasing ghosts...hmmmmm. But he's an enigma. I've heard I will like him more once I've heard his POV and I get that so I will withhold judgment.
I enjoyed all of Perry's family and I really like the differences between the two nationalities. It will be interesting to see how much her family plays in the future books. I would love more Ada when she's a few years older. I really got a kick out of her Uncle Al as well.
Not sure how I feel about Dex's girlfriend...or how he feels about her. Seems like he's bipolar there too. Unfortunately, I've read things about her in the future and I really don't like that.
So, you're probably still wondering if I think this is scary or not. Well, not really. I mean, it does keep you involved and there is that bit of freakiness and definitely of the unknown but it didn't keep me up at night. Not yet anyway. But the whole haunted lighthouse and "I see dead people" plot is pretty good.
I do want to know more! There isn't a cliffhanger but obviously the story is ongoing especially with the seventh book just out and there's at least two more to go. I can't wait!
Favorite quotes:
♦ “You? I don’t even know who the f*ck you are. You give me a business card? I’m not going to be part of your rapist tower.”
♥ “I just want you to enjoy the pies in life, Perry.”
July 12, 2013
I am afraid.... I am very afraid.... afraid to write this review... because I have a feeling GR community, that is a big fan of this series, will probably make me suffer by locking me in a room with lighthouse keeper...
I had this feeling too when I was writing a review for KA's book RAID. So many people loved it, and worships the author, that I was terrified to write that it was really nothing special.
I have heard that this series gets better with every following book and that is why I was literally pushing myself to finish this first book in the series so I could jump on others that are much better and see what the fuss is all about with Dex & Perry.
TERROR
so many updates and so many gifs gave me the impression that this books is spooky and scary....
So I got myself wondering ...
DECLAN DEX FORAY
Liked him, I have a feeling I will like him more as the story goes but... as mysterious as he was and with knowledge that I will probably end up loving him and his mustache, I didn't feel that SWOON BOND with him for now...
don't hate me :(
PERRY PALOMINO
As a character I really liked her. She cracked me up sometimes but again... I already have a feeling I will like her more as the story goes... so I will leave my high expectations for other books.
don't hate me :(
OVERALL
In this experiment of terror I didn't feel that terror. I do hope I will feel some "horror" as the story goes and I am curious to see how will story unfold with Dex & Perry because I read some really good quotes from other sequels and I am really looking forward to that whole situation with them and his girlfriend.
But this book...the story and the characters... I am sorry but it really didn't rock my boat...
don't hate me :(
*buddy read w/ Shelly*
I had this feeling too when I was writing a review for KA's book RAID. So many people loved it, and worships the author, that I was terrified to write that it was really nothing special.
I have heard that this series gets better with every following book and that is why I was literally pushing myself to finish this first book in the series so I could jump on others that are much better and see what the fuss is all about with Dex & Perry.
TERROR
so many updates and so many gifs gave me the impression that this books is spooky and scary....
So I got myself wondering ...
DECLAN DEX FORAY
Liked him, I have a feeling I will like him more as the story goes but... as mysterious as he was and with knowledge that I will probably end up loving him and his mustache, I didn't feel that SWOON BOND with him for now...
don't hate me :(
PERRY PALOMINO
As a character I really liked her. She cracked me up sometimes but again... I already have a feeling I will like her more as the story goes... so I will leave my high expectations for other books.
don't hate me :(
OVERALL
In this experiment of terror I didn't feel that terror. I do hope I will feel some "horror" as the story goes and I am curious to see how will story unfold with Dex & Perry because I read some really good quotes from other sequels and I am really looking forward to that whole situation with them and his girlfriend.
But this book...the story and the characters... I am sorry but it really didn't rock my boat...
don't hate me :(
*buddy read w/ Shelly*
February 25, 2013
4.5 SUPER CREEPY STARS!!!!!!
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I really loved this book!! It was so good!! I don't normally read scary supernatural books, but I'm glad I took a chance with this one. This book really reminded me of the show "Supernatural" with all the creepy and fascinating elements in the story.
I loved Perry!!! She is just like your average 22 year old trying to figure out her place in the world. I like the fact that the author didn’t make her perfect and she has flaws like every other girl.
At first, I didn’t know if I liked Dex or not only because I didn’t like the way he would treat Perry like a kid or call her kiddo. I started to like him more when he told his patronizing asshole of a boss off for humiliating Perry. Score one for Dex!!! =) … I seriously didn’t think I would say this so soon but Dex is starting to grow on me. So to all my awesome friends on here who said he would grow on me…. You Were Right. Hehe.
Overall, I really loved this book!! I can’t wait to read the next one!!!!
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I really loved this book!! It was so good!! I don't normally read scary supernatural books, but I'm glad I took a chance with this one. This book really reminded me of the show "Supernatural" with all the creepy and fascinating elements in the story.
I loved Perry!!! She is just like your average 22 year old trying to figure out her place in the world. I like the fact that the author didn’t make her perfect and she has flaws like every other girl.
At first, I didn’t know if I liked Dex or not only because I didn’t like the way he would treat Perry like a kid or call her kiddo. I started to like him more when he told his patronizing asshole of a boss off for humiliating Perry. Score one for Dex!!! =) … I seriously didn’t think I would say this so soon but Dex is starting to grow on me. So to all my awesome friends on here who said he would grow on me…. You Were Right. Hehe.
Overall, I really loved this book!! I can’t wait to read the next one!!!!
June 26, 2013
4 creep-tastic stars!
Finally, my first read from Karina Halle, (I'm a late Halle bloomer), and my first read of the Experiment in Terror Series,(obviously). And let me just say, it felt fantastic to finally get to experience what people have been raving about.
All I can say is the hype is definitely warranted. This is just the first book but already I can safely say, I am hooked. I already love Perry. Dex...he's definitely growing on me.
This book had the right amount of creep, mystery, chemistry and it had also had a lot of funny moments. I thought it would be too heavy for me but I felt that the author was able to balance the whole thing. It's not too dark that you get suffocated by it, neither it is too light, you end up not taking it seriously. But what really made the book for me was Perry.
Her struggles as a 20-something trying to pursue her dreams, (kinda hard when you don't even have an idea what you want to do), was very relatable. She was like totally me 12 years ago. I'm so glad Ms. Halle didn't write her as this perfect girl with the perfect figure and the face that's to die for.
So it's safe to say, I found another series to sink my teeth into. :)
Finally, my first read from Karina Halle, (I'm a late Halle bloomer), and my first read of the Experiment in Terror Series,(obviously). And let me just say, it felt fantastic to finally get to experience what people have been raving about.
All I can say is the hype is definitely warranted. This is just the first book but already I can safely say, I am hooked. I already love Perry. Dex...he's definitely growing on me.
This book had the right amount of creep, mystery, chemistry and it had also had a lot of funny moments. I thought it would be too heavy for me but I felt that the author was able to balance the whole thing. It's not too dark that you get suffocated by it, neither it is too light, you end up not taking it seriously. But what really made the book for me was Perry.
Her struggles as a 20-something trying to pursue her dreams, (kinda hard when you don't even have an idea what you want to do), was very relatable. She was like totally me 12 years ago. I'm so glad Ms. Halle didn't write her as this perfect girl with the perfect figure and the face that's to die for.
So it's safe to say, I found another series to sink my teeth into. :)
July 16, 2013
Dex and Perry...
Two amateur ghost hunters who have lots and lots of secrets.....Some would call them CRAZY but would I.....nah!!
Their reality is some what skewed but I ended up loving these two quirky characters!!!
This book started out just kinda "meh" for me. The descriptions were overly wordy and there was barely any dialogue between the main characters. I struggled because I really wanted to like this book, I had heard great things about this series!!!
Well finally, after almost dnf'ing the book, it happened at about 60%!!! The moment I was waiting for......hell I don't even know precisely what turned it around but I'm sooooo happy it happened!! So the last 40%...was great!!!!! The clown lady also helped....I LOVED her creepy ass!!!! She was about the creepiest thing I encountered:)
Happy Dance!!!!!
Although I think it helped that there was more interaction in the 2nd half of this book.
Now on to the spooky or scary aspect of this book....well it just wasn't scary at all. I don't know maybe I've read to many paranormal books and I'm immune to it now...but just NO on the scary for me.
However, I did enjoy the characters....I'm VERY VERY curious about what will happen next, so I'm starting the next book NOW!!!
So in the end....
Very happy I stuck with it and finished.....I also have heard the books only get better from here:))
*****buddy read with Vishous******
Two amateur ghost hunters who have lots and lots of secrets.....Some would call them CRAZY but would I.....nah!!
Their reality is some what skewed but I ended up loving these two quirky characters!!!
This book started out just kinda "meh" for me. The descriptions were overly wordy and there was barely any dialogue between the main characters. I struggled because I really wanted to like this book, I had heard great things about this series!!!
Well finally, after almost dnf'ing the book, it happened at about 60%!!! The moment I was waiting for......hell I don't even know precisely what turned it around but I'm sooooo happy it happened!! So the last 40%...was great!!!!! The clown lady also helped....I LOVED her creepy ass!!!! She was about the creepiest thing I encountered:)
Happy Dance!!!!!
Although I think it helped that there was more interaction in the 2nd half of this book.
Now on to the spooky or scary aspect of this book....well it just wasn't scary at all. I don't know maybe I've read to many paranormal books and I'm immune to it now...but just NO on the scary for me.
However, I did enjoy the characters....I'm VERY VERY curious about what will happen next, so I'm starting the next book NOW!!!
So in the end....
Very happy I stuck with it and finished.....I also have heard the books only get better from here:))
*****buddy read with Vishous******
January 13, 2015
OHMYGOSH!!!!! THAT WAS TOTAL AMAZEBALLS!!!!!!
Seriously....this book was crazy good. just CRAZY GOOD. It's been on my TBR forever and I've actually attempted to read it several times but was never quite ready for it... until now. WOW. I have totally been missing out on this!
ON TO BOOK#2 !!!!!
Seriously....this book was crazy good. just CRAZY GOOD. It's been on my TBR forever and I've actually attempted to read it several times but was never quite ready for it... until now. WOW. I have totally been missing out on this!
ON TO BOOK#2 !!!!!
May 30, 2014
FREE ->http://amzn.to/1jC3zCK
5/30/2014
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
**4 Expect the Unexpected stars**
KC had mentioned to me about wanting to read this series a couple months ago but I was too chicken to take the leap of faith. But after a bad run on romance books lately I knew I had to cleanse my palate. After reading the first couple of pages and seeing my hometown mentioned and my alma mater I knew it was going to be okay!!! Plus there is a lot of humor in this book.
Perry and Dex both have the ability to see and communicate with ghost. Perry is working in Portland as a receptionist and Dex is a internet filmmaker in Seattle. He is 10 years older than Perry.
A lighthouse on Perry's uncle's property is what draws these two to their first meeting of each other. It's no chance meeting because the spirit world has been beaconing them there. A Creepy Clown Lady has been communicating to both them as their 'spirit guide'. She keeps appearing in random places (like the women's bathroom) and giving them cryptic messages.
I did it!! I finished my first scary book!
Before I started the book this was my review.
SERIES:
Must be read in order. Continuing story.
Novellas:
(#2.5)(#5.5)(#5.7)(#6.5)
5/30/2014
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
**4 Expect the Unexpected stars**
KC had mentioned to me about wanting to read this series a couple months ago but I was too chicken to take the leap of faith. But after a bad run on romance books lately I knew I had to cleanse my palate. After reading the first couple of pages and seeing my hometown mentioned and my alma mater I knew it was going to be okay!!! Plus there is a lot of humor in this book.
Perry and Dex both have the ability to see and communicate with ghost. Perry is working in Portland as a receptionist and Dex is a internet filmmaker in Seattle. He is 10 years older than Perry.
A lighthouse on Perry's uncle's property is what draws these two to their first meeting of each other. It's no chance meeting because the spirit world has been beaconing them there. A Creepy Clown Lady has been communicating to both them as their 'spirit guide'. She keeps appearing in random places (like the women's bathroom) and giving them cryptic messages.
"You'll find out. It's not over yet. You're just discovering. You're just starting."
I did it!! I finished my first scary book!
Before I started the book this was my review.
SERIES:
Must be read in order. Continuing story.
Novellas:
(#2.5)(#5.5)(#5.7)(#6.5)
June 15, 2013
Okay, I’ll be really quick on this review, because I want to jump on this series and since they told the more the series advance, the better it gets... well, I want to read this the fast as I can.
I’m usually not the biggest fan of horror stories (basically because I’m a chicken) but I’ve got to say that I was seriously missing out on this books. Karina Halle is a hell of a horror genius.
So Perry is a 22 years old, bored with her life and with no idea what to do. One night, when spending a weekend in her uncle’s farm she decides to go see the lighthouse that the farm has. She immediately understands that there’s something wrong there. Something that she’s not even sure it’s real.
In the lighthouse she meets Dex, the cameraman of some webcast tv-shows and long story short, she ends up doing a test show for an online tv-show of ghost hunting.
Dex has some secrets, she has also secrets in her past and they both have a lot to learn from each other in order to stay alive in the end.
Okay, this was pretty good.
Perry was probably the female heroine with whom I had identified the most. Without the whole ghost hunting thing, because let’s face it... I’m too chicken to ever do something like that.
Dex was also awesome and their chemistry was out of the charts. I'm really anxious to see what will happens next.
Definitely a series worth to remember! ;)
I’m usually not the biggest fan of horror stories (basically because I’m a chicken) but I’ve got to say that I was seriously missing out on this books. Karina Halle is a hell of a horror genius.
So Perry is a 22 years old, bored with her life and with no idea what to do. One night, when spending a weekend in her uncle’s farm she decides to go see the lighthouse that the farm has. She immediately understands that there’s something wrong there. Something that she’s not even sure it’s real.
In the lighthouse she meets Dex, the cameraman of some webcast tv-shows and long story short, she ends up doing a test show for an online tv-show of ghost hunting.
Dex has some secrets, she has also secrets in her past and they both have a lot to learn from each other in order to stay alive in the end.
Okay, this was pretty good.
Perry was probably the female heroine with whom I had identified the most. Without the whole ghost hunting thing, because let’s face it... I’m too chicken to ever do something like that.
Dex was also awesome and their chemistry was out of the charts. I'm really anxious to see what will happens next.
Definitely a series worth to remember! ;)
November 1, 2016
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We're doing a Halloween Reading Challenge in the Unapologetic Romance Readers group. I picked DARKHOUSE to fulfill the "romance set in/near a haunted house" category. Halle actually turned out to be a perfect author for this challenge, because I'm going to use the sequel to this book, RED FOX, for the "romance novel with a skull on the cover" category (it was toss-up between this book and PASSION & VENOM).
DARKHOUSE sounds great as a concept (GHOST HUNTERS!!!!), but isn't so great in execution. This really disappointed me, because I thought the cover was gorgeous, and the idea of ghost hunters (GHOST HUNTERS!!!!!) making a living through Youtube was really great. Ghosts in a creepy old lighthouse? Nightmares that might actually be real? Yaaaaaa to the ssssss.
Unfortunately, I really had to push myself to finish this one. I was so hyped up for it, too. All of my friends loved this one, including some whose opinions I really trust. I think only two people on my friends list actually gave it a one star. I wanted to like it, too, so I, too, could be one of the cool kids.
But I didn't.
Part of the problem was the narrator, Perry Palomino. I didn't like her "voice" much at all. Sometimes I can read about an unlikable character and still enjoy their narrative even if I don't like the person, but that wasn't the case here. She was selfish and rude and went on all these random asides about irrelevant things - and the "voice" itself was inconsistent. There were some genuinely spooky passages in here, which would be immediately followed my some random flashback or thought that detracted from the doom & gloom. I didn't care for all the woman hate in this book, either, or how she chases after Dex, even when she finds out that he has a girlfriend (she just demonizes the girlfriend instead). I didn't like that she goes after someone with mental illness, either, using her knowledge of it to insult them as soon as they have a fight, and referring to them as a "madman." Not cool, Perry.
Dex wasn't so great, either. He's a little overly fond of the r-word for my liking, which I think some people will find off-putting or offensive. He's described as looking like "Errol Flynn", which is an odd comparison for a twenty-year-old to make. I know who Errol Flynn is, but I like older books and movies. I'm not sure most millennials would know who that is. I did like that we actually got to see Dex at work, though. Wine Babes actually sounds like an awesome show, despite what Perry seems to think about the aforementioned babes and the fact that Dex is dating one. I love wine, and think the idea of traveling around and judging and tasting wines sounds like a blast. And knowing what I learned about him towards the end, I was able to sympathize with him a little more, too.
There's also some editing mistakes in here. At one point, "enviously" is used where "enviably" should have been used, and "conscience" is used in lieu of "conscious." I think there were one or two instances where a word was used incorrectly or in an awkward way. It's really not that bad for an independent work, and this actually did not factor into my rating because it was minor enough that it really didn't impact my reading, but I thought it'd be worth pointing out because in the future the author might want to consider running this by an editor, trimming down Perry's rambling and fixing the mistakes. I honestly think it would be a much tighter work with a second person on board.
DARKHOUSE may have been a disappointment...but I've been assured that the later books are much better. I peeked at the summaries of RED FOX and DEAD SKY MORNING, and they do look interesting. Navajo folklore and leper colonies? That does sound like something straight out of Stevie King's horror playbook, and I love me some Stephen King-style creeps. I bought books 1-6 in this series in ebook (they're on sale right now!), so I guess we'll just have to wait and see!
1 to 1.5 stars.
October 21, 2015
*** 4 Creepy Clown Lady Stars***
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Perry-- “How come you aren’t afraid?”
Dex-- “Because I find life to be scarier than death,” he replied matter-of-factly."
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I would usually not go for a book like this. But, since everyone talks highly of this series, I had to give it a try. I had no idea what to expect, well except for that fact that it was gonna freak me out. I am surprised that I actually enjoyed it alot. It did start off a bit slow. But I instantly felt a kinship to Perry. I totally got her. I loved her sense of humour and how she kind of just didn't give a fuck.
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“Somehow, by dealing with the dead, I had never felt so alive.”
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Perry Palomino is trying to find her place in the world. She knows that the nine to five life just doesn't suit her. But she does it to please her parents. She is 22 years old and not sure what it is she wants to do with her life. On a family trip to her Uncle Al's home, she decides to explore the lighthouse that resides in his property. What she stumbles upon is a man doing the exact same thing, but with a video camera, Declan "Dex" Foray. He is a producer and camera man, among other things, for Shownet. A website that produces online shows.
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“Because sometimes I lie, Perry. We all lie, even you, but not everyone is brave enough to admit it.”
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Dex was really confusing to me. He kinda freaked me out in the beginning but then later on I also found myself trusting him like Perry did. I didn't know what to think of him. But I have to agree with Perry... he was freaking sexy.... in a brooding, arrogant, sarcastic way. Plus, he was also hilarious! I loved the banter between these two. There was one point in particular where I just couldn't help but fall for Dex. He can be so sweet and just plain awesome!! He asks Perry to join him in making a web show called "Experiment in Terror" where they will investigate different locations for paranormal experiences. Of course she accepts!
The story grabbed my attention when the "creepy clown lady" kept showing up. I would piss my pants if this lady ever appeared, I'm not kidding. The creepy smile... scary!! She seems to be following Perry everywhere and never says too much, but when she does, her messages are cryptic and confusing.
The events that took place in the lighthouse also freaked the heck out of me!! I would need to wear my depends at all times, because I am totally not kidding when I say, I WOULD PISS MY PANTS!! It was terrifying. Old Roddy with the kelp, water, disfigured face... yeah, not fun.
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I narrowed my eyes at him. "Were you staring at my ass?"
"Yes," he replied without hesitation.
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What was fun was the subtle sexual tension between Dex and Perry. I wonder if that will end up increasing with each book? This book was a really great read. I really enjoyed the characters immensely and can't wait to see what the next book has in store.
April 27, 2017
I was late high school/early college when X-Files was on TV. Every Friday night, after my evening shift at work, it was me, late-night takeout, textbooks, and X-Files. It may sound like a sad routine but I loved it. You'd think Karina Halle's Experiment in Terror series would be a distant memory for me then, right? It's got X-Files written all over it! Truth is, when I discovered Ms. Halle in 2013, this series was already released and for whatever reason just didn't make it onto my "priority" radar. A goodreads friend just experienced this series for the first time so I kindly gave myself permission to play catch up too. I'm so excited!!!
Darkhouse is the first installment in what appears to be a nine-book series. This one reads like a pilot episode: making introductions, developing characters and relationships, setting the paranormal scene and dictating the roles for these characters. It's mysterious, suspenseful, and full of ghostly scares. I am super motivated to continue, and it feels nostalgic for me personally as it reminds me of the Friday nights I so looked forward to. Check it out!
My favorite quote:
“If you want to be all like smart and adult about this shit then do the right thing. But if you want to do something fun and take a chance, then screw what anyone else thinks. Rock and roll, man!”
Karina Halle's Experiment in Terror series includes the following installments as of April 2017:
1-Darkhouse
2-Red Fox
2.5-The Benson
3-Dead Sky Morning
4-Lying Season
5-On Demon Wings
5.5-Old Blood
5.7-The Dex-Files
6-Into the Hollow
6.5-And With Madness Comes the Light
7-Come Alive
8-Ashes to Ashes
9-Dust to Dust
4/25/17:
I'm finally reading this book. I put it on my TBR shelf in 2013!
Darkhouse is the first installment in what appears to be a nine-book series. This one reads like a pilot episode: making introductions, developing characters and relationships, setting the paranormal scene and dictating the roles for these characters. It's mysterious, suspenseful, and full of ghostly scares. I am super motivated to continue, and it feels nostalgic for me personally as it reminds me of the Friday nights I so looked forward to. Check it out!
My favorite quote:
“If you want to be all like smart and adult about this shit then do the right thing. But if you want to do something fun and take a chance, then screw what anyone else thinks. Rock and roll, man!”
Karina Halle's Experiment in Terror series includes the following installments as of April 2017:
1-Darkhouse
2-Red Fox
2.5-The Benson
3-Dead Sky Morning
4-Lying Season
5-On Demon Wings
5.5-Old Blood
5.7-The Dex-Files
6-Into the Hollow
6.5-And With Madness Comes the Light
7-Come Alive
8-Ashes to Ashes
9-Dust to Dust
4/25/17:
I'm finally reading this book. I put it on my TBR shelf in 2013!
June 20, 2022
5 stars
Every once in a while I stumble across an author that just completely takes me by surprise in a wonderful, squee-inducing way. This time, it was Karina Halle.
I had heard some amazing things about her Experiment in Terror series, and have been meaning to check it out for quite a while. And after only reading the first few pages of Darkhouse, I knew this was something special.
22 yr old Perry Palomino has been haunted by bizarre dreams that have a habit of coming true. While on a weekend getaway with her family, she decides to explore an abandoned lighthouse on her uncle's property.
A lighthouse that is rumored to be haunted.
While there, Perry not only gets the bejesus scared out of her, but she stumbles across one Mr Dex Foray. Filmmaker and wannabe ghost hunter. The two form an unlikely alliance as Dex convinces Perry to help him make a 'demo' ghost hunting documentary for a website he works for.
Perry...oh how I loved this spunky little spit-fire. And I could relate to her on so many levels which only added to my love of this book. She's snarky, and insecure. Just trying to find her way in life & she sees Dex and his plan of becoming ghost hunters as a way out of her dull life.
And speaking of Mr Foray. He's mysterious and sexy...a smartass to Perry one minute, and fiercely loyal to her the next. He can be a little scary, and a lot vulnerable. He's a hipster with a porn 'stache, and probably more than a little crazy. He is all those things and more, and I love him to pieces.
The creep factor in this book was impressive. I don't spook easily, but there were definitely times when this book made me feel unsettled. And don't get me started on Crazy Clown Lady...
Some of my favorite highlights:
"Now wait a minute," I started, "how do I know that this is legitimate? I mean, you could still be a bald-headed meth addict hobo I stumbled upon in the lighthouse."
"I'm not bald yet."
"If we head into that lighthouse and see a bunch of weird whatnots and such and such, it's not going to make any sense unless we know the how, the why and when."
"We should probably have a safety word too," he said.
"A safety word? Like in S&M?"
His smile flashed, animated and bright.
"The safety word is 'Jell-O'."
God help me if I ever had to say 'Jell-O' for any reason.
"How come you aren't afraid?"
"Because I find life scarier than death."
With just the right mix of chills, snark-tastic banter among two fantastic characters & a plot that kept me entertained from page one, Darkhouse is a great start to a series I'm anxious to dive back into.
DARKHOUSE IS STILL FREE ON AMAZON. NO REASON TO DELAY...CLICK HERE AND GRAB THIS BOOK NOW!!
Read more of my reviews at my blog: http://ravingbookaddict.blogspot.com/
Every once in a while I stumble across an author that just completely takes me by surprise in a wonderful, squee-inducing way. This time, it was Karina Halle.
I had heard some amazing things about her Experiment in Terror series, and have been meaning to check it out for quite a while. And after only reading the first few pages of Darkhouse, I knew this was something special.
22 yr old Perry Palomino has been haunted by bizarre dreams that have a habit of coming true. While on a weekend getaway with her family, she decides to explore an abandoned lighthouse on her uncle's property.
A lighthouse that is rumored to be haunted.
While there, Perry not only gets the bejesus scared out of her, but she stumbles across one Mr Dex Foray. Filmmaker and wannabe ghost hunter. The two form an unlikely alliance as Dex convinces Perry to help him make a 'demo' ghost hunting documentary for a website he works for.
Perry...oh how I loved this spunky little spit-fire. And I could relate to her on so many levels which only added to my love of this book. She's snarky, and insecure. Just trying to find her way in life & she sees Dex and his plan of becoming ghost hunters as a way out of her dull life.
And speaking of Mr Foray. He's mysterious and sexy...a smartass to Perry one minute, and fiercely loyal to her the next. He can be a little scary, and a lot vulnerable. He's a hipster with a porn 'stache, and probably more than a little crazy. He is all those things and more, and I love him to pieces.
The creep factor in this book was impressive. I don't spook easily, but there were definitely times when this book made me feel unsettled. And don't get me started on Crazy Clown Lady...
Some of my favorite highlights:
"Now wait a minute," I started, "how do I know that this is legitimate? I mean, you could still be a bald-headed meth addict hobo I stumbled upon in the lighthouse."
"I'm not bald yet."
"If we head into that lighthouse and see a bunch of weird whatnots and such and such, it's not going to make any sense unless we know the how, the why and when."
"We should probably have a safety word too," he said.
"A safety word? Like in S&M?"
His smile flashed, animated and bright.
"The safety word is 'Jell-O'."
God help me if I ever had to say 'Jell-O' for any reason.
"How come you aren't afraid?"
"Because I find life scarier than death."
With just the right mix of chills, snark-tastic banter among two fantastic characters & a plot that kept me entertained from page one, Darkhouse is a great start to a series I'm anxious to dive back into.
DARKHOUSE IS STILL FREE ON AMAZON. NO REASON TO DELAY...CLICK HERE AND GRAB THIS BOOK NOW!!
Read more of my reviews at my blog: http://ravingbookaddict.blogspot.com/
June 29, 2020
4.5 stars
Right after finishing this book
Which I suspect I'm not gonna get answers to anytime soon. And now I must read all the rest of this series. If I could I'd probably do this:
I adore a book that can keep me guessing until the end. I also kinda love/hate that to satisfy my curiosity I'd probably have to read every single book in the series.
Perry Palomino was a very intriguing character. Some aspects of her personality were typical but others were anything but. Generally I liked her but didn't really understand her and I get the feeling that you as a reader aren't supposed to at least not during this book. I mean how much can you actually understand a person that sees ghosts? And doesn't really own up to it. This book is more like a really descriptive ride that creeps you the hell out. And I do really mean it about the descriptive, there were moments that felt like I was actually seeing what Karina Halle had written, she is that good of an author.
In general I got the feeling that the author just wanted to take you on the scariest, creepiest ride with her but didn't really want to give you any tools to survive it. So in essence you just love everything you read but you understand diddlysquat of what's going on and neither does Dex and Perry.
That's not to say though that the whole book is like that. It has lighter moments, humor and real life problems intersected throughout. You see how Perry is the average twenty year old trying to find her place, her fifteen year old sister acting like a total teenager and a mom that can be pushy and loving at the same time. You also have Dex.
Dex Foray is a mystery and since you never get his POV, you only have Perrys impression of him. I found him moody and slightly weird. You never expect his reactions and since Perry doesn't really know him neither do you. But you do feel the chemistry between them just as Perry does and again like her you can't quite decided whether it's good or bad.
So to conclude this is a great book, a helluva creepy ride but be prepared for unanswered questions and the need for the next book to immediately appear next to you.
Right after finishing this book
Which I suspect I'm not gonna get answers to anytime soon. And now I must read all the rest of this series. If I could I'd probably do this:
I adore a book that can keep me guessing until the end. I also kinda love/hate that to satisfy my curiosity I'd probably have to read every single book in the series.
Perry Palomino was a very intriguing character. Some aspects of her personality were typical but others were anything but. Generally I liked her but didn't really understand her and I get the feeling that you as a reader aren't supposed to at least not during this book. I mean how much can you actually understand a person that sees ghosts? And doesn't really own up to it. This book is more like a really descriptive ride that creeps you the hell out. And I do really mean it about the descriptive, there were moments that felt like I was actually seeing what Karina Halle had written, she is that good of an author.
In general I got the feeling that the author just wanted to take you on the scariest, creepiest ride with her but didn't really want to give you any tools to survive it. So in essence you just love everything you read but you understand diddlysquat of what's going on and neither does Dex and Perry.
That's not to say though that the whole book is like that. It has lighter moments, humor and real life problems intersected throughout. You see how Perry is the average twenty year old trying to find her place, her fifteen year old sister acting like a total teenager and a mom that can be pushy and loving at the same time. You also have Dex.
Dex Foray is a mystery and since you never get his POV, you only have Perrys impression of him. I found him moody and slightly weird. You never expect his reactions and since Perry doesn't really know him neither do you. But you do feel the chemistry between them just as Perry does and again like her you can't quite decided whether it's good or bad.
So to conclude this is a great book, a helluva creepy ride but be prepared for unanswered questions and the need for the next book to immediately appear next to you.
March 15, 2012
OMG !!!! When i started reading this one , i was'nt sure if this was a 5 star read at all . I'll tell you why , because it started out really slow and somewhat irritating . Well i'm not really sure about the irritating part , must have been the med's i took to get rid of this flu that i've been down with but anywhoo this book was totally not i expected it to be . Its scary , its funny , its adventurous , its got a little steam too building up on the Main Characters - Perry and Dex , in short its
downright amazing !!!
Romance and horror are two my most fav genres in book reading , mix or combine them together and WALLAH !!! i'm sold !
Karina Halle has impeccable timing when it comes to humour and horror . One moment she's gonna make you 'laugh out loud ' with Perry's sarcasm , Dex's grinny naughtiness or their bitter sweet banter and the next she'd have you 'pee in your pants 'kind of scared and quivering . I'm too excited to see where all this goes and whats next for our amateur ghost hunters . There are still too many unanswered questions concerning Dex and also Perry's , so i'm definitely dying to know more .
If horror is your thing then i would suggest you grab a copy of this book right now !! Its supah dupah amazing !!
Karina Halle has impeccable timing when it comes to humour and horror . One moment she's gonna make you 'laugh out loud ' with Perry's sarcasm , Dex's grinny naughtiness or their bitter sweet banter and the next she'd have you 'pee in your pants 'kind of scared and quivering . I'm too excited to see where all this goes and whats next for our amateur ghost hunters . There are still too many unanswered questions concerning Dex and also Perry's , so i'm definitely dying to know more .
If horror is your thing then i would suggest you grab a copy of this book right now !! Its supah dupah amazing !!
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