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Writer's Block Trilogy #1
The Possession
"A famed horror author is on the verge of his magnum opus—a labyrinthine cryptogram that details the end of days . . . "
When Gregory Stillingsworth buys an antique doll in India, the bestselling horror novelist doesn’t haggle over the steep price. He simply has to have the beautiful, enchanting doll. Only months later, when it is far too late, will he realize that he is merely the latest in a long line of victims to become possessed by Christie, a pernicious tool of Satan.
What follows is a battle for Gregory’s soul, as well as his sanity, and the casualties are legion. Chief among them is Jamie Stillingsworth, Gregory’s devoted wife, who finds not only her love for her husband but her courage tested as well. Can she deliver his baby and cherish it as though it were their own, not the offspring of something monstrous? As the battle lines between the angels of light and darkness are drawn, Gregory and Jamie become trapped in an ancient war that has no beginning and no end, a conflict that turns time inside out and reason on its head. What is real? Who can be trusted? When is the end truly the end?
The Possession is the first book in the “Writer’s Block” trilogy, exploring the age-old War of Angels.
When Gregory Stillingsworth buys an antique doll in India, the bestselling horror novelist doesn’t haggle over the steep price. He simply has to have the beautiful, enchanting doll. Only months later, when it is far too late, will he realize that he is merely the latest in a long line of victims to become possessed by Christie, a pernicious tool of Satan.
What follows is a battle for Gregory’s soul, as well as his sanity, and the casualties are legion. Chief among them is Jamie Stillingsworth, Gregory’s devoted wife, who finds not only her love for her husband but her courage tested as well. Can she deliver his baby and cherish it as though it were their own, not the offspring of something monstrous? As the battle lines between the angels of light and darkness are drawn, Gregory and Jamie become trapped in an ancient war that has no beginning and no end, a conflict that turns time inside out and reason on its head. What is real? Who can be trusted? When is the end truly the end?
The Possession is the first book in the “Writer’s Block” trilogy, exploring the age-old War of Angels.
- GenresHorror
Published September 9, 2019
About the author
A.K. Kuykendall
8 books42 followersA.K. KUYKENDALL was born in Albany, Georgia, but grew up as a military brat on the Kaneohe Bay Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH), and later at the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base in Jacksonville, North Carolina. He is married to Magdiel Kuykendall (the love of his life) and, together, they are the proud parents of three sons—Felix, Kal-El, and Jor-El—two of whom are legally named after the Kryptonian House of El due to the author’s affinity for the story of Superman. He’s a corporate executive chef by trade, but his true passion in life is writing thought-provoking novels that blend the concepts of fact and fiction.
His writing career has been heavily inspired and influenced by Rod Serling and his classic ‘60s television series, The Twilight Zone, and by The Mercury Theatre’s October 30, 1938 broadcast of “The War of the Worlds” over the Columbia Broadcasting System radio. He was then and still is wholly enthralled with the way these two examples showcased ordinary people in extraordinary situations. He especially loved the remarkable plot twists common to The Twilight Zone stories, and the fright manifested by H.G. Wells.
When he’s not writing, he finds comfort in heading out to the golf course with his son and golf partner, Jor-El, where they altogether embarrass themselves on the fairway. He both creates and resides in Ruskin, Florida.
To view his complete biography, please visit his website, where “truth reads through fiction.” @ https://www.thewriterofbooks.com/the-....
His writing career has been heavily inspired and influenced by Rod Serling and his classic ‘60s television series, The Twilight Zone, and by The Mercury Theatre’s October 30, 1938 broadcast of “The War of the Worlds” over the Columbia Broadcasting System radio. He was then and still is wholly enthralled with the way these two examples showcased ordinary people in extraordinary situations. He especially loved the remarkable plot twists common to The Twilight Zone stories, and the fright manifested by H.G. Wells.
When he’s not writing, he finds comfort in heading out to the golf course with his son and golf partner, Jor-El, where they altogether embarrass themselves on the fairway. He both creates and resides in Ruskin, Florida.
To view his complete biography, please visit his website, where “truth reads through fiction.” @ https://www.thewriterofbooks.com/the-....
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 17, 2013
THE BAD:
I know you may have wondered what took me so long to read and review this book and the answer is quite simple: I took the liberty of reading it again as I fought like hell over whether to give this book a 5 or a 4 star rating. If you’re wondering why such a stressful time in making this decision—that would be the scattered formatting errors, which damn near ruined it for me if not for such a fantastic story. For such an intelligent read, the formatting errors were unfortunate and easily avoidable if the authors publisher would’ve put forth just a little more effort when producing the book.
THE GOOD:
When I was on page 168 of the novel I commented that the author had me coasting on a roller coaster and that I've always loved roller coasters. Literally [pun intended] this author had me on both a scary and fascinating ride into a world many of us claim to grasp with our individual religious understandings of good vs. evil when, in fact, we haven’t a clue. Painstakingly well researched, this novel takes us into the past and outlines a diabolical scheme that has been underway since the beginning of humanities existence then drops us into the present where two: Gregory and Jamie Stillingsworth seem to be connected—not only to each other, but to us all.
When I arrived at Part II of the book entitled The Evolution of Legions Lord; I was already hooked. When completing my read, I found it to be a truly original story with classic ties to the stories of old. I have such a nagging want to divulge spoilers, but I won’t out of respect for those of you who, like me, love great stories. I will say, though, that there are so many possibilities for where this story could go with the next installment to which I hope the author doesn’t let me down.
THE SUMMARY:
This is a book from an author that seems to really take his craft seriously. It is a book of high intelligence and brave conviction in that it dares to challenge the possibilities of our individual faiths wherever we may stand or have been conditioned to believe since our conception. This all wrapped in an obvious fictitious tale, which reads as if it’s a book of fact—a well-placed puzzle for which the author rather easily convinces us to piece together.
Unfortunately, I settled on giving this book 4 stars though I believe it to be a 5 star read. I rated this book this way only because the author happened to have been ill served by his publisher prior to publication. These errors had to be taken into consideration.
I know you may have wondered what took me so long to read and review this book and the answer is quite simple: I took the liberty of reading it again as I fought like hell over whether to give this book a 5 or a 4 star rating. If you’re wondering why such a stressful time in making this decision—that would be the scattered formatting errors, which damn near ruined it for me if not for such a fantastic story. For such an intelligent read, the formatting errors were unfortunate and easily avoidable if the authors publisher would’ve put forth just a little more effort when producing the book.
THE GOOD:
When I was on page 168 of the novel I commented that the author had me coasting on a roller coaster and that I've always loved roller coasters. Literally [pun intended] this author had me on both a scary and fascinating ride into a world many of us claim to grasp with our individual religious understandings of good vs. evil when, in fact, we haven’t a clue. Painstakingly well researched, this novel takes us into the past and outlines a diabolical scheme that has been underway since the beginning of humanities existence then drops us into the present where two: Gregory and Jamie Stillingsworth seem to be connected—not only to each other, but to us all.
When I arrived at Part II of the book entitled The Evolution of Legions Lord; I was already hooked. When completing my read, I found it to be a truly original story with classic ties to the stories of old. I have such a nagging want to divulge spoilers, but I won’t out of respect for those of you who, like me, love great stories. I will say, though, that there are so many possibilities for where this story could go with the next installment to which I hope the author doesn’t let me down.
THE SUMMARY:
This is a book from an author that seems to really take his craft seriously. It is a book of high intelligence and brave conviction in that it dares to challenge the possibilities of our individual faiths wherever we may stand or have been conditioned to believe since our conception. This all wrapped in an obvious fictitious tale, which reads as if it’s a book of fact—a well-placed puzzle for which the author rather easily convinces us to piece together.
Unfortunately, I settled on giving this book 4 stars though I believe it to be a 5 star read. I rated this book this way only because the author happened to have been ill served by his publisher prior to publication. These errors had to be taken into consideration.
January 1, 2013
I haven’t read a good horror since Stephen King’s, The Stand, about 15 years ago. I was curious what I would think. This book had me all over the place in the first half but, eventually, smoothed out and ended with a bang.
The Bad: First of all, I was having to read around some serious formatting errors, which may have somewhat effected my rating of the book. There were some broken sentences with words scattered over the page in random places, but I think I managed well.
While well written, it was a bit wordy at times. For the first 6 chapters, we just get to watch a famous author throw a temper tantrum of epic proportions. While you know that there is something more supernatural going on (because of a really cool prologue that introduces us to a demonic doll), it felt like there was something missing. There are a few large chunks of information in the first few chapters that just feel ill-placed and could have been used a little better. I was expecting to see the doll’s “journey”, but instead got some history on the Michigan area (I still don’t quite understand).
The Good: As I said, it was well written in that the author really has a way with words and description (though he used the word “pulchritude” a lot). While the book was slow, I believe it was a tool to show the reader the gradual decline of the writer’s mind. It was interesting to watch Gregory Stillingsworth sink into the role of a serial killer. It was, also, a bit unexpected.
Once the action gets going, it is a little bit more of a page turner. There are snippets of wordiness here and there, but it didn’t slow the pace too much. It was disturbing and shocking, which it should be...it’s a horror novel, after all.
Bottom Line: This is an intelligent book. The story has a lot of possibilities, I just didn’t appreciate the slow start. Without the prologue, I probably wouldn’t have continued past the 2nd or 3rd chapter. The prologue grabbed me, however, and I knew something good was coming. This may be a book for you, if you like smart reads and are a patient person.
The Bad: First of all, I was having to read around some serious formatting errors, which may have somewhat effected my rating of the book. There were some broken sentences with words scattered over the page in random places, but I think I managed well.
While well written, it was a bit wordy at times. For the first 6 chapters, we just get to watch a famous author throw a temper tantrum of epic proportions. While you know that there is something more supernatural going on (because of a really cool prologue that introduces us to a demonic doll), it felt like there was something missing. There are a few large chunks of information in the first few chapters that just feel ill-placed and could have been used a little better. I was expecting to see the doll’s “journey”, but instead got some history on the Michigan area (I still don’t quite understand).
The Good: As I said, it was well written in that the author really has a way with words and description (though he used the word “pulchritude” a lot). While the book was slow, I believe it was a tool to show the reader the gradual decline of the writer’s mind. It was interesting to watch Gregory Stillingsworth sink into the role of a serial killer. It was, also, a bit unexpected.
Once the action gets going, it is a little bit more of a page turner. There are snippets of wordiness here and there, but it didn’t slow the pace too much. It was disturbing and shocking, which it should be...it’s a horror novel, after all.
Bottom Line: This is an intelligent book. The story has a lot of possibilities, I just didn’t appreciate the slow start. Without the prologue, I probably wouldn’t have continued past the 2nd or 3rd chapter. The prologue grabbed me, however, and I knew something good was coming. This may be a book for you, if you like smart reads and are a patient person.
July 27, 2022
Forget "The Exorcist", "The Omen" and even "The Da Vinci Code" and get ready for the evil and demon that is Christie!
My video review here:
https://youtu.be/tfrrBGRfpD0
After accidentally coming across this on my Scribd account almost a year ago, and never being able to find it again....well, as if the Devil was telling me 'JUST LISTEN TO THIS NOW!', I started it last night and just finished it.....and Wow! A.K. Kuykendall had to have done his research on this one!!
Alright.....that was SCARY! I have been reading horror for over 50 years, and this took me back to the first time in the early 70's when I read the Exorcist, which I thought was just thought provoking.....not really scary, and 'The Omen' which i thought was WAY more scary than Regan McNeil and her 'crucifix'.
This book; is VERY graphic, and very scary! The doll that is named Christie is one of, if NOT the scariest and evil demonic character ever in fiction!! LOVED this....and now there had BETTER be another in the 'Trilogy'!
5 🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸
My video review here:
https://youtu.be/tfrrBGRfpD0
After accidentally coming across this on my Scribd account almost a year ago, and never being able to find it again....well, as if the Devil was telling me 'JUST LISTEN TO THIS NOW!', I started it last night and just finished it.....and Wow! A.K. Kuykendall had to have done his research on this one!!
Alright.....that was SCARY! I have been reading horror for over 50 years, and this took me back to the first time in the early 70's when I read the Exorcist, which I thought was just thought provoking.....not really scary, and 'The Omen' which i thought was WAY more scary than Regan McNeil and her 'crucifix'.
This book; is VERY graphic, and very scary! The doll that is named Christie is one of, if NOT the scariest and evil demonic character ever in fiction!! LOVED this....and now there had BETTER be another in the 'Trilogy'!
5 🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸
December 31, 2012
The Possession is captivating! I thought it was very suspenseful from start to finish. It really holds your attention. The author captured the character of Mr. Stillingsworth in great detail and made it seem as if it were a book of nonfiction. If you're an avid reader and intrigued with mystery--this book will easily possess you from the start.
November 1, 2019
Gregory Stillingsworth is an internationally acclaimed, bestselling horror novelist. On vacation in India with his wife, Jamie, he finds himself drawn to an antique doll and the exorbitant price can't keep him away from purchasing the antique. Once at home, they place the doll on the shelf and the couple forget about it. Months later, Gregory comes to realize that he has become possessed by Christie, a pernicious tool of Satan living inside the doll. The battle for Gregory's soul and sanity results in numerous casualties including his loving wife. Is the baby she carries Gregory's or the offspring of a monster? While God and the fallen angel, Lucifer play chess, the war between the angels of light and darkness rushes towards a climax. What is real? Who can be trusted? When is the end truly the end?
"The Possession" by A.K. Kuykendall is the best horror story, and by extension, the best horror author I have ever read — hands down. Yes, that includes a long list of horror masters including Poe, Stoker, Koontz, Laymon, and the King.
I realize that's a huge assertion, but will prove defensible as I am not the first, nor will I be the last, to make that claim. This is not a run-of-the-mill, cut and slash smorgasbord of supernatural or physical violence. It is not merely the tale of a war between the religious characters God and Satan acted upon the pawns, Gregory and Jamie. No, "The Possession" is book one in a finely tuned, intricately plotted trilogy that encompasses the psychology of a mind possessed, the ages old stories of God and Satan, and the impacts both have on the lives of everyday humans. Kuykendall is a master storyteller. His writing style, unique perspectives, and belief defying imagination are superbly tuned to carry out what may be his chosen second career or perhaps fated?
"The Possession" details the humanity and the individual ordeals of characters trying to make sense of the bizarre actions surrounding an otherwise well respected, internationally acclaimed author, and loving husband. It describes the effects of superstition and religion on the psychological evolution of humanity while, in the tradition of great horror stories, makes you want to turn on the lights, lock the doors and windows, and huddle in a corner with a weapon and a crucifix (even if you're not religious). "The Possession" follows a short story I read and reviewed about the horrors and sexual abuse of young boys behind the doors of the Catholic Church ("The Confessional"). The combination of the two provided all I needed to put A.K. Kuykendall at the top of my favorite author list.
"The Possession" by A.K. Kuykendall is the best horror story, and by extension, the best horror author I have ever read — hands down. Yes, that includes a long list of horror masters including Poe, Stoker, Koontz, Laymon, and the King.
I realize that's a huge assertion, but will prove defensible as I am not the first, nor will I be the last, to make that claim. This is not a run-of-the-mill, cut and slash smorgasbord of supernatural or physical violence. It is not merely the tale of a war between the religious characters God and Satan acted upon the pawns, Gregory and Jamie. No, "The Possession" is book one in a finely tuned, intricately plotted trilogy that encompasses the psychology of a mind possessed, the ages old stories of God and Satan, and the impacts both have on the lives of everyday humans. Kuykendall is a master storyteller. His writing style, unique perspectives, and belief defying imagination are superbly tuned to carry out what may be his chosen second career or perhaps fated?
"The Possession" details the humanity and the individual ordeals of characters trying to make sense of the bizarre actions surrounding an otherwise well respected, internationally acclaimed author, and loving husband. It describes the effects of superstition and religion on the psychological evolution of humanity while, in the tradition of great horror stories, makes you want to turn on the lights, lock the doors and windows, and huddle in a corner with a weapon and a crucifix (even if you're not religious). "The Possession" follows a short story I read and reviewed about the horrors and sexual abuse of young boys behind the doors of the Catholic Church ("The Confessional"). The combination of the two provided all I needed to put A.K. Kuykendall at the top of my favorite author list.
October 28, 2020
There are a couple of good parts in this book whose plot lifts largely from the Omen, Rosemary's Baby, and the Da Vinci Code. The prologue was so good it kept me reading the next 255 pages no matter how many times I literally facepalmed with the book, and the description of the little antichrists birth scene had some really effective imagery.
Other than that the characters aside from
It takes a lot for me to give a book lower than 4 stars, it must be pretty bad even for 3 with me. This book I give 1 star. DO NOT RECOMMEND.
November 19, 2013
* I was given a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
The beginning of the book was slow for me....i found it to be a little wordy for my tastes. The back and forth switch form time and place kind of threw me for a loop a few times and I had to go back a few pages and re-read to remember where in time I was. Overall, the book was chilling and distrurbing. Gregory (the main character) drew me in almost immediately and did NOT let go until the very end. There were times that I had to walk away from the book, because the sheer madness of it, was quite disturbing. I found there to be a lot of religious references and being a non-religious person, I sometimes felt a little lost. Not because the writing was unclear, just my understanding of that subject is limited. A.K. Kuykendall can definitely hold his own with some of my favortie horror/thriller writers (Dean Koontz & Stephen King). I also liked the touch with the doll....it made the story that much more eerie . I would definitely recommend this book to those looking for something along the lines of what Koontz and King write.
If you're looking for a book that will stay with you for awhile after you have finished reading it...this will do it!
*This review is done in conjunction with A Girl Amongst Books Blog. For more information on my reviews, please visit my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/agirlamongstbooks*
The beginning of the book was slow for me....i found it to be a little wordy for my tastes. The back and forth switch form time and place kind of threw me for a loop a few times and I had to go back a few pages and re-read to remember where in time I was. Overall, the book was chilling and distrurbing. Gregory (the main character) drew me in almost immediately and did NOT let go until the very end. There were times that I had to walk away from the book, because the sheer madness of it, was quite disturbing. I found there to be a lot of religious references and being a non-religious person, I sometimes felt a little lost. Not because the writing was unclear, just my understanding of that subject is limited. A.K. Kuykendall can definitely hold his own with some of my favortie horror/thriller writers (Dean Koontz & Stephen King). I also liked the touch with the doll....it made the story that much more eerie . I would definitely recommend this book to those looking for something along the lines of what Koontz and King write.
If you're looking for a book that will stay with you for awhile after you have finished reading it...this will do it!
*This review is done in conjunction with A Girl Amongst Books Blog. For more information on my reviews, please visit my Facebook page: www.facebook.com/agirlamongstbooks*
September 28, 2023
Some books that are challenging to read and keep track of what's going on when, where, how, and why are totally worth the effort, like the novels of David Mitchell, IMO. This one is not. I believe it is up to the writer to keep the reader engaged enough to pay the amount of attention necessary to follow, and readers shouldn't be chided for not reading carefully enough. (Some review on Amazon really irked me along these lines.)
I doubt many seasoned readers of demonic horror will find this very scary. Some reviews said it really picks up after the halfway mark but I didn't find that to be the case-hence the DNF.
Plus it seemed curiously dated in parts: use of pagers and embarrassingly passé dialogue between characters of different races.
I doubt many seasoned readers of demonic horror will find this very scary. Some reviews said it really picks up after the halfway mark but I didn't find that to be the case-hence the DNF.
Plus it seemed curiously dated in parts: use of pagers and embarrassingly passé dialogue between characters of different races.
November 4, 2020
3.5 stars. Slow start but eventually gets crazy!
January 5, 2023
A lot of evil going on… but the plot was pretty confusing to enjoy thoroughly.
October 27, 2013
“The Possession” is a hard book to review. I just want to say that up top.
For the first half, “The Possession” feels like a mash-up of “Rosemary’s Baby,” “The Dark Half,” and “Child’s Play." It’s clunky and hard to follow, with characters and time-frames moving around enough to give you whiplash.
For example, we’ve seen that on Date X, Y happened to Character Z. Period. Then, suddenly, we’re back at Date X-2, and Z is fine, because Y hasn’t happened yet. Get it?
I’m sorry to use algebra in a book review, but I don’t want to spoil anything. Also, at Date X-2, suddenly Z has a kid of whom there was no mention during the lead up to Date X. Just to complicate it more.
The first half, maybe two-thirds of “The Possession” were often difficult to follow, as I said, because it wasn’t always clear where we were or why we were there. Most novels that slap us around timeframes will have a page saying, “May, 2001,” so that we can put this section of the story in its proper context. Like, “Oh! We’re going back five years and change, because the previous chapter was `November, 2006.’”
(When I was in broadcast advertising, we called this “idiot-proofing.” Don’t assume the listener will be able to find “19993 U.S. 19 N.” Rather, say “On U.S. 19 North a block past Algebra Ford.” Keep the simple but crucial things as simple as possible.)
One petty annoyance for me: any time somebody ate a meal, it developed into gourmet-speak. The author is trained as an executive chef—which explains the vast, no doubt legitimate detail—but I don’t think we need a whole paragraph for each meal. Seriously, everything after “White Alaskan Salmon” is lovingly written overkill, perhaps only to me. “They ate fish and drank wine. After dinner, they went to a square dance and murdered people.”
Then around the halfway or two-thirds mark, “The Possession” really hits its stride. It���s like driving through Atlanta at rush-hour, then suddenly, you’re on wide-open I-75 South, hauling ass, unimpeded
This is when the story gets really good. First off, we are able to contextualize some of the earlier information that didn’t seem to advance the plot on the first read-through. Things start happening, and “The Possession” starts eliciting shivers. This was the point where I couldn’t put the book down. It got that good—double-A ball to the major leagues. THAT good.
The story concerns the most popular writer on earth, who develops writer’s block, and finds he can write again, but only if he performs an evil task. His evil tasks are bad enough, but they turn out to be part of a much larger, much more evil happening. The idea of fate comes into play, with characters helpless to fight off their destinies.
“The Possession” was so enthralling by the end that I can’t wait to read the trilogy’s second book.
One technical note: there were some formatting errors that made for challenging reading on my Kindle, but I imagine those will be fixed—I received a review copy from the publisher via Edelweiss.
I’m giving “The Possession” three stars. Read it this way: the first half is a two, and the second half is a solid four. There was that much dichotomy between the two parts. Here’s hoping the second book continues “The Possession’s” late momentum. Then we’ll be cooking with gas.
Recommended, with the above caveats
For the first half, “The Possession” feels like a mash-up of “Rosemary’s Baby,” “The Dark Half,” and “Child’s Play." It’s clunky and hard to follow, with characters and time-frames moving around enough to give you whiplash.
For example, we’ve seen that on Date X, Y happened to Character Z. Period. Then, suddenly, we’re back at Date X-2, and Z is fine, because Y hasn’t happened yet. Get it?
I’m sorry to use algebra in a book review, but I don’t want to spoil anything. Also, at Date X-2, suddenly Z has a kid of whom there was no mention during the lead up to Date X. Just to complicate it more.
The first half, maybe two-thirds of “The Possession” were often difficult to follow, as I said, because it wasn’t always clear where we were or why we were there. Most novels that slap us around timeframes will have a page saying, “May, 2001,” so that we can put this section of the story in its proper context. Like, “Oh! We’re going back five years and change, because the previous chapter was `November, 2006.’”
(When I was in broadcast advertising, we called this “idiot-proofing.” Don’t assume the listener will be able to find “19993 U.S. 19 N.” Rather, say “On U.S. 19 North a block past Algebra Ford.” Keep the simple but crucial things as simple as possible.)
One petty annoyance for me: any time somebody ate a meal, it developed into gourmet-speak. The author is trained as an executive chef—which explains the vast, no doubt legitimate detail—but I don’t think we need a whole paragraph for each meal. Seriously, everything after “White Alaskan Salmon” is lovingly written overkill, perhaps only to me. “They ate fish and drank wine. After dinner, they went to a square dance and murdered people.”
Then around the halfway or two-thirds mark, “The Possession” really hits its stride. It���s like driving through Atlanta at rush-hour, then suddenly, you’re on wide-open I-75 South, hauling ass, unimpeded
This is when the story gets really good. First off, we are able to contextualize some of the earlier information that didn’t seem to advance the plot on the first read-through. Things start happening, and “The Possession” starts eliciting shivers. This was the point where I couldn’t put the book down. It got that good—double-A ball to the major leagues. THAT good.
The story concerns the most popular writer on earth, who develops writer’s block, and finds he can write again, but only if he performs an evil task. His evil tasks are bad enough, but they turn out to be part of a much larger, much more evil happening. The idea of fate comes into play, with characters helpless to fight off their destinies.
“The Possession” was so enthralling by the end that I can’t wait to read the trilogy’s second book.
One technical note: there were some formatting errors that made for challenging reading on my Kindle, but I imagine those will be fixed—I received a review copy from the publisher via Edelweiss.
I’m giving “The Possession” three stars. Read it this way: the first half is a two, and the second half is a solid four. There was that much dichotomy between the two parts. Here’s hoping the second book continues “The Possession’s” late momentum. Then we’ll be cooking with gas.
Recommended, with the above caveats
October 18, 2013
This book is definitely a work of dark fiction. It’s got such a chilling vibe to it, it draws you in even when you want to put it down and pretend it’s not there. It’s well written, so there are no issues with reading, the flow was quite good, and you could get lost in the story quite easily. The book gave you a lot of helpful details in the prologue to help you get settled into the story easily. There is a bit of wordiness to the author’s style but it wasn’t distracting, and I didn’t think it really took anything away from the story, but for those of you who can’t deal with wordiness, be warned.
The main character, Gregory and his wife, felt realistic. Their relationship is quite happy at times, and a little excessively for such a long marriage, but one cannot judge that, because all relationships are different and that might be how these characters are meant to interact. I liked the presence of the doll, and the fact that it didn’t always have to spotlight. You don’t really get to know how it got there, but it’s there, and that’s all that matters. Gregory’s slow decline is what really gets this story moving. This writer starts to turn into something more sinister and more terrifying. This is a true horror book, it keeps you on the edge of your seat. It doesn’t shrink away from the gore. Horror has gore a lot of times, there’s a place for it, and a way to use it properly, and I think the author did a great job with that.
There’s some language in this book, so be warned, all you of fair ears, this author does use curse words quite often. It’s not really a deterrent to the plot, but if it’s not your thing, you should be aware of that ahead of time.
Overall, this book is a great read. Some other reviews mention formatting errors, but I didn’t come across any in my print copy of this book. I loved it. It’s smart, well researched, and written. It takes you on a ride, with or without your permission. It’s got an amazing storyline, with compelling characters. It’s the first book in a trilogy, and I only hope the following books are as good of a read as this one was. It’s a first class choice for lovers of horror, like Stephen King, or readers of thrillers like Dean Koontz. This book grabbed me, and didn’t let me go til the end. I did have a few questions once I finished but I assume that will be addressed in the next book.
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fan Site: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.NG***
The main character, Gregory and his wife, felt realistic. Their relationship is quite happy at times, and a little excessively for such a long marriage, but one cannot judge that, because all relationships are different and that might be how these characters are meant to interact. I liked the presence of the doll, and the fact that it didn’t always have to spotlight. You don’t really get to know how it got there, but it’s there, and that’s all that matters. Gregory’s slow decline is what really gets this story moving. This writer starts to turn into something more sinister and more terrifying. This is a true horror book, it keeps you on the edge of your seat. It doesn’t shrink away from the gore. Horror has gore a lot of times, there’s a place for it, and a way to use it properly, and I think the author did a great job with that.
There’s some language in this book, so be warned, all you of fair ears, this author does use curse words quite often. It’s not really a deterrent to the plot, but if it’s not your thing, you should be aware of that ahead of time.
Overall, this book is a great read. Some other reviews mention formatting errors, but I didn’t come across any in my print copy of this book. I loved it. It’s smart, well researched, and written. It takes you on a ride, with or without your permission. It’s got an amazing storyline, with compelling characters. It’s the first book in a trilogy, and I only hope the following books are as good of a read as this one was. It’s a first class choice for lovers of horror, like Stephen King, or readers of thrillers like Dean Koontz. This book grabbed me, and didn’t let me go til the end. I did have a few questions once I finished but I assume that will be addressed in the next book.
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fan Site: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.NG***
July 29, 2013
Title - The Possession (Writer's Block - bk 1)
Author - A.K. Kuykendall
Reviewer - Wende Sheets
Stars - 5
Gregory Stillingsworth knew he wanted to be a writer, at the age of 14 his parents gifted him with, Buford an old typewriter that did more than type. Buford would talk to Gregory, he would help Gregory write. Writting was Gregory's passion. Gregory become the number 1 best selling horror novelist in the world !
Gregory and Jamie has been married for 15 years. Living a quiet life in Michigan. Jamie who once was defense attorney is now a stay home wife, making sure all Gregory's needs are met while writing. After one book was started a new one was flowing from Buford by the next day.
What happens when the story and words are not there ?? With no words and story Gregory starts changing in ways that scaring Jamie. Gregory is suddenly drawn to an antique doll that he purchased while on a vacation with Jamie. The doll sat on a shelf in his office and her piercing glass eyes watched every move that was made. The doll named Christy had her eyes set on someone but how ??
This book was awesome ! So many twist and turns. At times I wasn't sure if it was part of Gregory's book or if it was really happening. Makes you stop and think before buying any antique dolls with piercing glass eyes ! ! What and how does she influence the writing of Gregory's book. This one will love you with chills. The author did a great job!
complimentary book for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
Author - A.K. Kuykendall
Reviewer - Wende Sheets
Stars - 5
Gregory Stillingsworth knew he wanted to be a writer, at the age of 14 his parents gifted him with, Buford an old typewriter that did more than type. Buford would talk to Gregory, he would help Gregory write. Writting was Gregory's passion. Gregory become the number 1 best selling horror novelist in the world !
Gregory and Jamie has been married for 15 years. Living a quiet life in Michigan. Jamie who once was defense attorney is now a stay home wife, making sure all Gregory's needs are met while writing. After one book was started a new one was flowing from Buford by the next day.
What happens when the story and words are not there ?? With no words and story Gregory starts changing in ways that scaring Jamie. Gregory is suddenly drawn to an antique doll that he purchased while on a vacation with Jamie. The doll sat on a shelf in his office and her piercing glass eyes watched every move that was made. The doll named Christy had her eyes set on someone but how ??
This book was awesome ! So many twist and turns. At times I wasn't sure if it was part of Gregory's book or if it was really happening. Makes you stop and think before buying any antique dolls with piercing glass eyes ! ! What and how does she influence the writing of Gregory's book. This one will love you with chills. The author did a great job!
complimentary book for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
February 28, 2013
I was given this book to review and after a bit of a slow start, I enjoyed the story and was intrigued by the characters, including the typewriter, Buford. It is a real horror story with horrific deeds and thoughts, firstly by Gregory, the best selling writer. There are clever twists in this story where fact and fiction and horror overlap and leave the reader quite shaken.
The book is well written but the language is at times over the top and the relationship between Gregory and his wife in the good times seems unrealistically intense after being together for about fourteen years, but maybe that is the love cynic in me coming out.
There are enough changes of direction in the plot to keep you reading on to the end and there is a satisfactory ending with openings, of course, to go forward to the next part of the trilogy.
The jumps in time, for example at chapter ten, were unexpected and interesting and the story was overall original.
There is a really useful prologue which gives the origins of the doll in the story and an ‘afterword’ giving the writers thoughts and motivations. This is to me a very dark horror tale, the writer does not shirk from lots of blood, ‘teeth ripping into flesh’ and the like, gory at times, but well worth the read.
February 20, 2013
This novel was very gripping and engaging. It propels you forward, both to piece together what has already happened, and to learn what is coming next. A.K. Kuykendall is profoundly creative, just bursting with terrifying, fascinating, thought-provoking ideas. As an author myself, I especially appreciated his "Afterward," which discusses his personal motivations and involvement with writing this novel.
That being said, there are areas for constructive improvement as well: the narrative sentence structure is often wordy and convoluted; while profanity is expected given the diabolical subject matter, profanity in casual conversations is overused; and many of the sudden shifts in the plotline are confusing.
If the following two books in the trilogy take into account the aforementioned critiques, and clear up the plethora of questions that this first installment leaves open, the series as a whole will be a powerful, unforgettable work of art.
Cynthia Hey
That being said, there are areas for constructive improvement as well: the narrative sentence structure is often wordy and convoluted; while profanity is expected given the diabolical subject matter, profanity in casual conversations is overused; and many of the sudden shifts in the plotline are confusing.
If the following two books in the trilogy take into account the aforementioned critiques, and clear up the plethora of questions that this first installment leaves open, the series as a whole will be a powerful, unforgettable work of art.
Cynthia Hey
January 30, 2013
A.K. Kuykendall’s obsession with the horror genre seemingly has driven him to create a tale that is both smart and highly original. I’m proud to admit that Writer’s Block: The Possession; a thought provoking horror read that makes for some rich storytelling, has made it upon my bookshelf should I have a future desire to, again, be scared silly. With a compelling prose, the book opens in the 1300’s in Berkshire England and we are introduced to a pernicious tool of Satan—a doll [?]
The book crafts an accomplished horror debut! A horror-fused blend of historical facts with the finest fictional embellishments to keep the reader turning pages. And it’s a fastidiously researched one at that.
Intellectually developed, this book is a brainy read truly worth your time.
The book crafts an accomplished horror debut! A horror-fused blend of historical facts with the finest fictional embellishments to keep the reader turning pages. And it’s a fastidiously researched one at that.
Intellectually developed, this book is a brainy read truly worth your time.
January 31, 2013
If you are into Stephen King, or Dean Koontz or those types of dark horror books, you are going to LOVE this book. Gregory is a best selling author, who hits a block, but overcomes it...its HOW he overcomes it that makes the book. You learn about dolls, and his wife, and every sick side of things you never imagined. Its AWESOME. Kept me up at night a few times. Its amazingly written, and the plot twists and turns make you keep turning the page to see what is going to happen next! I honestly never knew what to expect, and for that, I LOVED IT!
August 23, 2014
The book was just awesome. It was fictional, but the way the writer describes the character of Gregory is great. Gregory wanted to be a writer, so his parents gifted him a typewriter. Jamie and Gregory have been married for 15 years. He wrote books one after another. What happens when letters disappear? Without words or story Gregory changed in a way that scared Jamie a lot. Suddenly he was attached to an antique doll which he bought on a vocation. So much to say, but I can't describe all that. After all, was a great book!
Want to read
May 10, 2013My good friend and fellow writer, J.S. Bailey, recently shared Kuykendall's novel on Facebook, and needless to say, the synopsis piqued my interest immediately. I'm so glad I found it at Goodreads! Thank you, my friend!!:)
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