Devils in the Dark

By: Marcus Damanda

Narrated by: Jessica McEvoy

Length: 3 hrs and 40 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

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.

3 of 3 people found this review helpful

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.

5 of 6 people found this review helpful

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.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

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.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

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.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

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.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

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.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

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

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

You never know who's watching

You never know who's watching.

This is a gripping tale about a girl who was bullied and eventually decides to commit suicide but fails. - thankfully.
It's about her struggles.
It's not your typical poor me book it also has had a scare to it as something is watching her keeping track of her every move and her bullies moves as well. I don't want to say to much here to give it away but it is worth the read. It is not what I would call a teenage drama. It's more about what's haunting her and watching her, waiting for her. The writer does an excellent job describing her well-being and the other characters as well in the book. I'm waiting for book 2 in the series!
The narrator is great definitely makes you feel what's going on. And remember you never know who's watching...

This book was given to me by Audiobook Boom! for my honest unbiased review

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Can't wait to read book 2!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would highly recommend this story to my friends! I am not a fan of the audiobook format. I am a visual person and I found it hard to figure out what to focus on without the words to follow along with. That being said, I truly enjoyed the voice changes and performance by Jessica McEvoy. The script was relative to the world we live in. I felt the character development and setting made you feel like you had just stepped into Audrey's world. I spent my afternoon in her world and found myself wanting to remain there. I was left wanting more. I can't wait to read the next book!

Who was your favorite character and why?

Of course I was drawn to Audrey as the main character. I also liked Gail. The descriptions, voices, and emotions made them seem to be real people. I found myself rooting for them in their struggles.

Which character – as performed by Jessica McEvoy – was your favorite?

I found Jessica's portrayal of Maggie to be the most interesting. She really made you believe that she was a spoiled brat (to put it mildly).

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

Yes. I did need to stop for a few breaks, but immediately went back to find out what was happening next.

Any additional comments?

I found the idea of the host/observer to be creepy, but a very interesting twist to the story. I look forward to reading more in the next book.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

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.