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whatyoutolkienabout's review against another edition
5.0
Introduction
I was given an e-book to review as part of a book tour for Henry Roi PR and Black Tide Book Tours. My reviews are always honest and all opinions are my own. #BookReview #TheCovenantSacrifice #LeeAllenHoward #HorrorFiction #BlackTideBookTours #HenryRoiPR #ad
Review
Wow what a read! The Covenant Sacrifice was a book I wasn’t sure what to expect but I have to say it blew me a away in a good way. It had all the elements of a fantastic ‘small town’ horror with the added bonus of a strong message weaved into the tale. We focus primarily on Jarod Huntingdon who wants nothing more than to start a family but he finds himself unable to commit to his girlfriend and is unsure why. When the father of his childhood best friend, Scotty, passes away Jarod believes he can take the opportunity to return home to the remote rural community town of Annastasis Creek for a season of much needed soul-searching. But it seems those plans might be disrupted. Overnight a rainstorm traps everyone in the valley, blocking all the road and severing communication with the world outside. To make matters worse the residents of the Creek begin to go missing.
As Jarod helps with the search efforts he finds out of a curse as old as he is that is tied to the town and reappearance of the cicadas. The curse was placed on the community after five young people perished in a fire years before. But Jarod isn’t the only one aware of the curse and to temporarily appease it the defrocked Pentecostal pastor Uriah Zalmon is convinced he must find a sinner to sacrifice.
Now we all know I dislike spoilers and this is a hard one to review without spoilers but I will try my best. First and foremost the story was brilliantly woven together and I really enjoyed slowly learning about the curse and the people in the community along with Jarod. While I completely despised Zalmon it was also interesting to read his thoughts and reasoning throughout as well, however flawed, twisted and warped it was. Now some aspects of the book are obviously ‘fantastical’ in a sense – such as the curse. However what I loved and also despised was the realistic representation of some people’s views that are still unfortunately prevalent in today’s world. I particularly liked how despite there being potentially a very real monster it was questionable which was worse, the monster or the people who turned into monsters to try and appease it? And worse how those people tried to justify what they were doing with their faith. So, it is safe to say this made me mad but in a good way. It shows Howard’s skill at making a believable plot and cast of characters. So my anger was not at the author, far from it, I completely love their writing capability and skill, but the characters they created.
Speaking of Howard’s skill the writing itself it wonderful. It flows well and suits the narrative and characters perfectly. There are some beautiful and terrifying descriptions in this one. Howard really brings vivid images to mind as you read and I found it incredibly easy, if it made me a little uneasy, to imagine the monster and setting. But my favourite bit was the end, not because I wanted the book to be over, but Howard reaffirmed the message that I had already gotten from their writing. While this is a horror novel and it showcases not only supernatural horrors but the horrors humans will commit as well it is also a novel about love, true love and not just the fairy tale kind. The idea that love is about acceptance and fighting for that acceptance. I really enjoyed this one and if you like your horror with a touch of reality and really well written you will too. I will definitely be looking at Howard’s other work too.
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#BookReview #TheCovenantSacrifice #LeeAllenHoward #HorrorFiction #BlackTideBookTours #HenryRoiPR #ad #BookReviewer #BookBlogger #BookHoader #FantasticRead #BookDragon #BookShark #BookReader #Bookstagram #BookNerd #BookReader #BookLover #BooksBooksBooks #BookAddict #Book
I was given an e-book to review as part of a book tour for Henry Roi PR and Black Tide Book Tours. My reviews are always honest and all opinions are my own. #BookReview #TheCovenantSacrifice #LeeAllenHoward #HorrorFiction #BlackTideBookTours #HenryRoiPR #ad
Review
Wow what a read! The Covenant Sacrifice was a book I wasn’t sure what to expect but I have to say it blew me a away in a good way. It had all the elements of a fantastic ‘small town’ horror with the added bonus of a strong message weaved into the tale. We focus primarily on Jarod Huntingdon who wants nothing more than to start a family but he finds himself unable to commit to his girlfriend and is unsure why. When the father of his childhood best friend, Scotty, passes away Jarod believes he can take the opportunity to return home to the remote rural community town of Annastasis Creek for a season of much needed soul-searching. But it seems those plans might be disrupted. Overnight a rainstorm traps everyone in the valley, blocking all the road and severing communication with the world outside. To make matters worse the residents of the Creek begin to go missing.
As Jarod helps with the search efforts he finds out of a curse as old as he is that is tied to the town and reappearance of the cicadas. The curse was placed on the community after five young people perished in a fire years before. But Jarod isn’t the only one aware of the curse and to temporarily appease it the defrocked Pentecostal pastor Uriah Zalmon is convinced he must find a sinner to sacrifice.
Now we all know I dislike spoilers and this is a hard one to review without spoilers but I will try my best. First and foremost the story was brilliantly woven together and I really enjoyed slowly learning about the curse and the people in the community along with Jarod. While I completely despised Zalmon it was also interesting to read his thoughts and reasoning throughout as well, however flawed, twisted and warped it was. Now some aspects of the book are obviously ‘fantastical’ in a sense – such as the curse. However what I loved and also despised was the realistic representation of some people’s views that are still unfortunately prevalent in today’s world. I particularly liked how despite there being potentially a very real monster it was questionable which was worse, the monster or the people who turned into monsters to try and appease it? And worse how those people tried to justify what they were doing with their faith. So, it is safe to say this made me mad but in a good way. It shows Howard’s skill at making a believable plot and cast of characters. So my anger was not at the author, far from it, I completely love their writing capability and skill, but the characters they created.
Speaking of Howard’s skill the writing itself it wonderful. It flows well and suits the narrative and characters perfectly. There are some beautiful and terrifying descriptions in this one. Howard really brings vivid images to mind as you read and I found it incredibly easy, if it made me a little uneasy, to imagine the monster and setting. But my favourite bit was the end, not because I wanted the book to be over, but Howard reaffirmed the message that I had already gotten from their writing. While this is a horror novel and it showcases not only supernatural horrors but the horrors humans will commit as well it is also a novel about love, true love and not just the fairy tale kind. The idea that love is about acceptance and fighting for that acceptance. I really enjoyed this one and if you like your horror with a touch of reality and really well written you will too. I will definitely be looking at Howard’s other work too.
Hashtags
#BookReview #TheCovenantSacrifice #LeeAllenHoward #HorrorFiction #BlackTideBookTours #HenryRoiPR #ad #BookReviewer #BookBlogger #BookHoader #FantasticRead #BookDragon #BookShark #BookReader #Bookstagram #BookNerd #BookReader #BookLover #BooksBooksBooks #BookAddict #Book
briarsreviews's review
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
5.0
Lee Allen Howard's "The Covenant Sacrifice" delves into the depths of psychological horror with a narrative that is both chilling and thought-provoking. Set in a community plagued by a sinister curse, the story follows Jarod Huntingdon as he confronts his past traumas and the dark forces that haunt his hometown. Howard expertly blends traditional horror elements with psychological depth, weaving a tale that is as unsettling as it is captivating. While the novel demands full immersion from its readers, those who are willing to invest the time will be rewarded with a truly unforgettable reading experience that pushes the boundaries of the genre.
With its gripping narrative, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, "The Covenant Sacrifice" stands as a testament to Howard's talent as a storyteller. While it may not be suitable for all readers, particularly those who prefer lighter fare, fans of psychological horror will find much to appreciate in this haunting tale. From its gothic atmosphere to its spine-tingling suspense, "The Covenant Sacrifice" is a masterfully crafted novel that showcases Howard's skill and creativity in the realm of horror fiction.
Five out of five stars.
I received this book for free from the author, Lee Allen Howard, in exchange for an honest review.
With its gripping narrative, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, "The Covenant Sacrifice" stands as a testament to Howard's talent as a storyteller. While it may not be suitable for all readers, particularly those who prefer lighter fare, fans of psychological horror will find much to appreciate in this haunting tale. From its gothic atmosphere to its spine-tingling suspense, "The Covenant Sacrifice" is a masterfully crafted novel that showcases Howard's skill and creativity in the realm of horror fiction.
Five out of five stars.
I received this book for free from the author, Lee Allen Howard, in exchange for an honest review.
madelisereads's review
1.0
I DNF'd this book at 20%. It just wasn't for me. There were interesting things happening from the beginning, but the writing didn't make me feel any suspense or anticipation to find out what would happen next. I like the concept, but I am not a fan of the writing. From what I read, there was a little more romance than I would prefer in a horror book - I am not sure if this changes as the book goes on. When I saw that it was LGBTQ+ horror I was expecting a horror with characters who happen to be queer and maybe there's a small side plot of romance. If you like your horror with a decent bit of romance, this book might be for you!
achillreads's review
DNF @25%
[I have received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ]
While it isn't a bad book, it didn't capture me enough to continue the story. As someone who has been an SPN fan and read many as such, The Covenant Sacrifice feels like a story that I have read many times before, and it doesn't give the nostalgic feeling enough for me to keep on reading, unfortunately. If I finished it, it probably would have been a 3-star read.
[I have received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ]
While it isn't a bad book, it didn't capture me enough to continue the story. As someone who has been an SPN fan and read many as such, The Covenant Sacrifice feels like a story that I have read many times before, and it doesn't give the nostalgic feeling enough for me to keep on reading, unfortunately. If I finished it, it probably would have been a 3-star read.
max_audet's review against another edition
3.0
There is so little gay adult relationship in the horror genre that it is hard not to want to support and promote any book that adds to the representation. Sadly, while this is an excellent read and I was entertained from start to finish,
I feel that the horror and romantic side of the novel were unbalanced and ended up holding the book back.
Fans of horror will most likely find this book mid at best. The atmosphere is built well, but the horror elements are pretty tame. Conversely, the romance seems to lack the time to develop organically alongside the main plot..
I feel that the horror and romantic side of the novel were unbalanced and ended up holding the book back.
Fans of horror will most likely find this book mid at best. The atmosphere is built well, but the horror elements are pretty tame. Conversely, the romance seems to lack the time to develop organically alongside the main plot..
bookishcatlady's review
4.0
I don't often have nightmares after reading but something about this book invaded my subconscious the first night I began reading.
The Covenant Sacrifice is a multilayered and engaging story. The book is set in the town of Annastasis Creek, a town that too has many layers much like its townspeople. Especially main characters Jarod and Scotty.
You will find yourself invested in the main characters stories (both past and present), as well as watching the whole thing all be revealed in this engaging story.
The Covenant Sacrifice is a multilayered and engaging story. The book is set in the town of Annastasis Creek, a town that too has many layers much like its townspeople. Especially main characters Jarod and Scotty.
You will find yourself invested in the main characters stories (both past and present), as well as watching the whole thing all be revealed in this engaging story.
the_evergrowing_library's review against another edition
4.0
The Covenant Sacrifice is the unity of religious/supernatural horror and small town/cult ideals. There is a lot to take in with this one as we cover a lot of metaphorical ground.
There was so much packed into this book, which at times was great….. but at others was just too much content and not enough explanation.
The general start to finish plot of the book carries itself well enough to provide all the key elements - backstory, build up, and conclusion. So with that statement, a success as far as books go.
There was some stuff that didn’t exactly make sense, or lacked any real explanation as to how/why certain aspects of the plot were there. I felt like I had to rely on “because it is.” A lot with some choices in this one.
The romance element of the book in itself did feel a little forced also. I liked it, but it felt very much not the time and place for the rekindling of old flames.
Bottom line, the book was great, but I personally would have liked to see the horror elements ramped up or explained more, while seeing less of certain other aspects.
Certainly worth a read if small town/religious fanaticism is your bag.
There was so much packed into this book, which at times was great….. but at others was just too much content and not enough explanation.
The general start to finish plot of the book carries itself well enough to provide all the key elements - backstory, build up, and conclusion. So with that statement, a success as far as books go.
There was some stuff that didn’t exactly make sense, or lacked any real explanation as to how/why certain aspects of the plot were there. I felt like I had to rely on “because it is.” A lot with some choices in this one.
The romance element of the book in itself did feel a little forced also. I liked it, but it felt very much not the time and place for the rekindling of old flames.
Bottom line, the book was great, but I personally would have liked to see the horror elements ramped up or explained more, while seeing less of certain other aspects.
Certainly worth a read if small town/religious fanaticism is your bag.
mikkareads's review
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
The dead return to turn the living into monsters – or were they monsters all along?
Lee Allen Howard weaves a well-crafted, multi-layered plot, stringing together many storylines and complex topics. Oh, there are all the gripping, terrifying staples of the horror genre: secrets, curses, supernatural happenings, religion at its very worst, unexpected twists and turns, bloody retribution…
But add to that a chilling dose of reality – violent bigotry, prejudice, issues that are plucked right from our dark history —, and you get a highly original story that merges horror with deeper themes. The LGBTQIA++ romance ties it all together, showing both what's at stake and what's worth living for.
I do wish that the author went a bit heavier on the horror and a bit lighter on the romance – but that's likely because I'm not much of a romance reader!
In my eyes, the most important characters are very well-written, showing depth and complexity. I do feel like some side characters fell a bit flat; they could've been explored further, regarding their personality and motivation. However, since they are more on the fringes of the story, it does not detract much from the overall reading experience.
Some dialogue felt a bit unnatural, especially when the story nears its resolution. But other than that, the writing style is amazing. With vivid descriptions, it orchestrates an eerie feeling of dread and isolation, building up an atmosphere that appeals to all senses.
But what I appreciated most was that it conveys deeper meaning with horror and suspense, luring the reader into a captivating, thought-provoking tale.
Lee Allen Howard weaves a well-crafted, multi-layered plot, stringing together many storylines and complex topics. Oh, there are all the gripping, terrifying staples of the horror genre: secrets, curses, supernatural happenings, religion at its very worst, unexpected twists and turns, bloody retribution…
But add to that a chilling dose of reality – violent bigotry, prejudice, issues that are plucked right from our dark history —, and you get a highly original story that merges horror with deeper themes. The LGBTQIA++ romance ties it all together, showing both what's at stake and what's worth living for.
I do wish that the author went a bit heavier on the horror and a bit lighter on the romance – but that's likely because I'm not much of a romance reader!
In my eyes, the most important characters are very well-written, showing depth and complexity. I do feel like some side characters fell a bit flat; they could've been explored further, regarding their personality and motivation. However, since they are more on the fringes of the story, it does not detract much from the overall reading experience.
Some dialogue felt a bit unnatural, especially when the story nears its resolution. But other than that, the writing style is amazing. With vivid descriptions, it orchestrates an eerie feeling of dread and isolation, building up an atmosphere that appeals to all senses.
But what I appreciated most was that it conveys deeper meaning with horror and suspense, luring the reader into a captivating, thought-provoking tale.
hmgauthi's review
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
A huge thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an e-Arc in exchange for an honest review!
I loved the premise of this book, a gay horror novel set in rural Pennsylvania but it never really delivered on the horror or the romantic subplot for me.
This book has ALOT happening to a detrimental extent that it bogged down the plot trying to keep all the people and plot threads separate. I think I caught and understood everything but who knows.
The religious aspect was compelling if a little on the nose.
The epilogue was perfection.
I loved the premise of this book, a gay horror novel set in rural Pennsylvania but it never really delivered on the horror or the romantic subplot for me.
This book has ALOT happening to a detrimental extent that it bogged down the plot trying to keep all the people and plot threads separate. I think I caught and understood everything but who knows.
The religious aspect was compelling if a little on the nose.
The epilogue was perfection.
siena_j_p's review
dark
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.75
I gotta be honest, I simply have no feelings about this book. I read it because it was on my NetGalley app and because I don’t like DNFing books, but I really didn’t care much about the characters or the plot or any of it. The social commentary was kind of on the nose, the plot was confusing, the horror uninspiring, and the characters hard to tell apart. Plus I’m generally not a fan of demonic horror and magic systems in the first place; I think it’s really difficult to keep them from becoming contrived and to avoid getting bogged down in all the religious context. Not to mention most people either don’t find the devil to be an inherently frightening concept anymore, or are uncomfortable with the Biblical undertones (in my case, a bit of both). And there was just nothing about this book that addressed any of those issues. There wasn’t anything that I aggressively took issue with either; I just have no real thoughts or feelings about any of it. What I’m looking for in a book is something that resonates emotionally, and there was nothing here that did.