Devils in the Dark

The Devil in Miss Drake's Class, Book 1

By: Marcus Damanda

Narrated by: Jessica McEvoy

Length: 3 hrs and 38 mins

Publisher's summary

"The paramedics shared a look: This one was serious."

To most of the Facebook 15, bullying Audrey Bales was just a game - until two deep cuts with a Swiss army knife changed everything forever. Audrey didn't want attention anymore. After five weeks at Fairview High School, Audrey wanted to die.

The doctors did the only thing they could with her: they put her away.

But in Fairview, Virginia, the nightmare is only beginning. The chat session had not gone unobserved. The Facebook 15 have drawn the attention of an ancient evil that lives only to punish those who would prey upon the weak.

They are the ghosts of 1,000 dead children - 1,000 suicides - and their master....

Their master likes Audrey Bales.

And as Audrey attempts to heal her mind and body, far from home, their master prepares for the justice he will unleash upon her return.

©2014 Marcus Damanda (P)2015 Marcus Damanda

Book 1

What did you love best about Devils in the Dark?

The story is heartfelt and definitely dark, but there's part with of humor and there that help light the way. Possibly the best part was the great characterization. Each of the characters were very well fleshed out . Even in the darkest situations, I could understand motivations and found myself cheering Audrey on, while seriously hating a few of the Facebook Fifteen.

You won't want to put this book down.

This book is amazingly refreshing! I found myself trying to find things to do that would allow me to keep listening. Yes, it is that good.

This book begins with tension and suspense--will the girl kill herself or not? Will the "Facebook 15" be punished for bullying or merely get a slap on the wrist? What happens to the souls of those that have committed suicide? I am having a difficult time writing a review without giving anything away. So let's stick to this:

This is one of the best books I have listened to all year. I love the suspense throughout without a single moment of "down time"; every single part is riveting!

Here is my only complaint. 3 hours!? This is book 1 in only 3 hours? Now I need to get the next book. Perhaps that is the point--to get people to buy more books. But this is such a short book that I feel like all the other ones should be added to this one to make a decent sized novel. Yes, this book is way too short! If that is my only complaint, then, you know this is a good book.

This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom dot com.

Skillful Writing, Superb Narration

This is a young adult story, skillfully and intimately told in third person by writer Marcus Demanda and narrator Jessica McEvoy. The dark, suspenseful mood comes early-- it is deep and absorbing and lasting. The attraction of the writing is in its simplicity: It is a study in "less-is-more," Hemingway style. Main character Audrey Bales is the target of bullies and… a supernatural otherness. It is the “otherness” that gives this tale a fresh, unique take on story-telling.

Demanda's work clearly stands on its own, but McEvoy does a fantastic job bringing it to person-to-person life.

This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks AudioBlast.

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Excellent suspense

Love this story. Filled with suspense, I found myself hating the Facebook Five. This storyline is not just about the devil, although he's a huge part of it. It's about the dangers of cyber bullies, which is a huge interest of mine. The isn't over yet, though. On to book two.

Jessica McEvoy does it again!

Jessica McEvoy brings this very relatable story to life. Her narration is a true treat. I can't wait to hear book 2.

Really impressive first book!

As I said in the title this book was very impressive. The story, pacing, prose, and acting were all on point. I don't like spoiler-y reviews so to keep it concise I listened to the whole thing in one sitting and couldn't have been more entertained. Jessica McEvoy did a fantastic job portraying the characters and Damanda crafted a well-paced and subtle story that focused more on a mysterious and creepy atmosphere which worked amazingly. I'd definitely recommend this book.

Emotionally Gripping and Relatable

I acquired this book with previous exposure to Marcus and Jessica's work and once again they didn't disappoint.

The very start of the book is constructed in a way that pulls you into the storyline and grants an experience that anyone can relate to in one form or another. The theme of self-acceptance is a powerful one, the book shows this from several different perspectives, and does it incredibly well.

In many ways the book drives the power behind personality and individualism. While taking this powerful logic the tie of a sinister being, something that has been hinted toward and given some exposure, remains a force that keeps you guessing.

While the book is crafted around a supernatural theme, it drives very powerful messages that any reader/listener can connect with.

This was a great story that was complimented with great narration. It's a book that anyone can enjoy and I heavily suggest checking it out.

Great Book One

Wow, I loved it. Can't wait to hear the rest of the story.
Great subject matter,
I can't really say much because of spoilers but, believe me it is a good book

I was given this book in exchanged for my honest review.

Quite eerie and delivers a message on a serious topic

Bullying these days especially that of cyber bullying is a huge hot topic and o feel that this story captured the essence of that issue. And like any good horror style novel mixed it in with the supernatural. The 1000 ghosts reminds me of the haunted mansion "999 and room for one more". Interesting concept. I look forward to the other stories to see where the author takes it. Well narrated. I received this audiobook from the author narrator or publisher for free via audiobookblast in exchange for an unbiased review

What Happens on Social Media...

What made the experience of listening to Devils in the Dark the most enjoyable?

The combination of compelling fiction and great narration. The main character, Audrey Bales, who the action whirls around.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

The author involves you with the situation of the story immediately.

What about Jessica McEvoy’s performance did you like?

Her voices gave me the listener a distinct visualization of each character and evoked feelings of sympathy, anger, etc appropriately to each section of the story

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I actually did.

Any additional comments?

Very involved with characters and story. The narration added much to the experience.Thank you for making this available for review. This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom dot com.

Scene setting

Dark! Possible triggers. Very well thought out. Appears to be the scene setting novel and leaves many questions making you want more. Jessica’s performance as always is brilliant.