Publishers Weekly

Starred Selection!

Gorgeously creepy, strangely humorous, and sincerely terrifying tale… Gavin’s prose has both beautifully dark and startlingly scary moments, and his characters and their behaviors are refreshingly authentic for the genre: young people who are impulsive and full of bravado; older magicians who are slow to act, but protect their children; and vampires, who though undone by ambition, old enmities, and greed, act like people who have the perspective of centuries of (un)living.

Kirkus Reviews

Vampires run rampant in Gavin’s debut supernatural thriller. Teenager Sarah Englemann finds her life in 1913 Salem, Mass., turned upside down with the murder of a classmate—and his reappearance as a feral vampire. Drawn into an underworld of the occult, Sarah, with the help of her friends and a new classmate (a mysterious Greek named Alexandros Palaogos), must confront the forces of darkness in their town. These forces include Parris, a local pastor who is secretly a warlock, and an ancient, mysterious demon named Al-Nasir—together they search for Gabriel’s Horn, an instrument designed to bring about the end of the world. The teenagers struggle to stop their enemies in time, and they try to understand Sarah’s mysterious connection to Gabriel’s Horn. Before Sarah’s battle against the forces of darkness is over, there will be blood spilled, questions asked over who can actually be trusted, trips taken to other dimensions and all will be touched by tragedy. Gavin … gleefully transforms a story of teenagers battling vampires into something much more. The story turns into a mash-up of Greco-Roman mythology, Judeo-Christian imagery and the occult, making it a fresh take on the overdone vampire genre. Gavin’s writing also hints at a wonderfully twisted sense of humor, notable in one early scene with the beheading of a vampire that quickly turns comical as the young protagonists add “vampire killing” to the already stressful load of puberty. The action throughout is fast-paced and compelling, and the ending hits the right note, a brutal turn of events that strongly hints at a sequel—an enticing prospect. A vampire novel with actual bite.

IndieReader

4 out of 5 stars.

The intricate plot incorporates elements of the Kabbalah, Christianity, ancient Jewish rituals, and even more ancient Egyptian gods, along with good old-fashioned witchcraft and demonology… Peppered with humor, and full of twists, the story moves apace. A smart vampire novel with an interesting mystery and a compelling heroine.

Brian D. Anderson

author of the The Godling Chronicles

The Darkening Dream has everything I love in a story: Action, adventure, and romance-along with some unexpected twists and turns that keep it fresh and exciting. The writing is solid and composed, without losing style and momentum. The Darkening Dream will not disappoint!

Darkeva’s Dark Delights

Like going into a used bookstore and finding a rare and hidden gem stashed away in the horror section, and I’m glad I had the good fortune to discover it. For a highly entertaining, fast-paced, innovative, original horror read which, although intended for younger readers, will be enjoyed by teens and adults alike, pick up a copy of The Darkening Dream by Andy Gavin. This book is a serious contender for inclusion on one of my top pick lists.

Novels on the Run

4.75 out of 5 stars!

I enjoyed Andy’s tale filled with various religions, magic, darkness, death, gruesome murders and vampires you should be afraid of, the non sparkling variety… Pastor Parris is one of the creepier characters. He really enjoys the wrong side of the track [and he] and Al Nasir the bone snapping ( I actually felt some of those), flesh tearing, frightening vampire, are working in cahoots…

Mallory Heart Reviews

5 out of 5 stars!

“The Darkening Dream” is a satisfying read on so many levels: metaphysical, Spiritual, magickal, personal, developing love, relationship, sibling strength and rivalry, and much, much more. Any reader who enjoys purely good fiction owes it to herself or himself to pick this one up and give it the time it deserves.

Krystal’s Enchanting Reads

5 out of 5 stars!

I have no idea where to even begin saying how amazing this book turned out to be. I had no idea what kind of a thrill ride I was in for with this book. It’s original, fast paced and doesn’t slow down. The characters … aren’t merely characters but actual people who you too end up falling in love with… I’ve just found my new favorite author of 2013.

Fighting Monkey Press

5 out of 5 stars!

Deeply engaging characters, a forbidden and intoxicating romance, and vampires worthy of the name. The Darkening Dream is dark and everything I could have wanted from a novel to read while away with my In-Laws. Not for the faint of heart, this book is dark and challenging. It’s also brilliant. You should pick this one up before you pass go, before you collect $200, before you finish reading this review.

Hooks and Book

9 out of 10 stars!

This book was wonderful. I went into it expecting one thing, and was completely swept-up into the story. The Darkening Dream has something for everyone: a budding love, plenty of action, philosophy and mystery and suspense to spare. Plus, the huge twist had me on the edge of my seat, reading as fast as possible and clicking the page over button faster than my Kindle could think.

Ryatta Reviews

I’m taking the video review style to a book this week… the long promised review of Andy Gavin’s The Darkening Dream… long story short; it’s awesome… long story… watch this video.

Bookworm Babblings

I loved how this dark story had characters from multiple religious backgrounds join together to save Archangel Gabriel’s trumpet. This was a refreshing twist on the vampire genre, with a cast of interesting characters, action and adventure that will keep you wanting more.

Waiting on Sunday to Drown

5 out of 5 stars!

The Darkening Dream is pretty fast paced. I feel this writing style gives the book depth and texture. I read the story I one sitting. It’s very engrossing and after the first few chapters… became quite the page turner. I liked the characters. I liked the grit.

Little Miss Drama Queen

5 out of 5 stars!

This dark fantasy novel was brilliant, it has kick ass vampires, a group of clever, witty and awesome teenagers, twists in the plot, warlocks, a succubus, Egyptian Gods… etc Well, it just has everything to be honest. I definitely suggest you give this book a go! I really enjoyed it!

Books, Books, and More Books

5 out of 5 clouds!

I seriously couldn’t put this book down. I loved the cultural references and how that impacted the main characters and their interaction. I give this story 5 out of 5 clouds and recommend it for everyone. It would be the perfect Christmas gift for your fantasy/vampire reading fan (and no I don’t get paid to say that).

The Reading Pile

5 out of 5 stars!

Now this is a vampire novel! It flows so perfectly between character point of views, it’s a great blend of historical fiction, mythology and paranormal I couldn’t get through it quicker. I actually put so much off just to read it…

Blooding Book Reviews

5 out of 5 dragons!

And OMW! This plot! Wow! It was so fast!! We have vampires, a warlock, GODS from Egypt! Wow! And we’re in the early 1900′s in Salem with a female hero trying to save a trumpet. The plotline reminded me of some of the lines I get when I ask my kids, “Hey, I have a nightmare and a mechanic. How can I terrify them both?” Yeah, it’s a bit out there, but the writing is AMAZING! Mr. Gavin did a really exceptional job of weaving a storyline that was intriguing and intoxicating at the same time!

Turning the Pages

4.5 out of 5 stars.

Overall, this was a fantastic debut. It is completely and utterly unique in both the caliber of the writing as well as the plot. I think this would appeal to a wide variety of readers who like fantasy novels and paranormal novels.

My Personal Legend

It was refreshing to read a true vampire story, the likes I haven’t laid hands on since the writings of Ann Rice. The main vampire, [al-Nasir], is stunning and well written. He gives off a vibe of pure evil, his minions are just as frighting. Then there is the elusive Painted Man that is the master mind of all the dark evil things. Brilliant! All in all it’s an amazing book, and I can’t wait for the sequel.

Lizzy’s Dark Fiction

The Darkening Dream is meant to be sipped like a fine wine. The author… takes you through every little, forgotten path so that by the last page you have a full appreciation of the events that occurred. I was pleasantly shocked by the ending. OMG, how did I not see that coming! The Darkening Dream is a perfect fit.

The Avid Reader

The Darkening Dream is one of those novels that will drag you in to its lair in the first chapter. From the very beginning you are hooked and you do not want to stop turning the pages until you reach the very last page.

My Personal Legend

It was refreshing to read a true vampire story, the likes I haven’t laid hands on since the writings of Ann Rice. The main vampire, d’Naris, is stunning and well written. He gives off a vibe of pure evil, his minions are just as frighting. All in all it’s an amazing book, and I can’t wait for the sequel.

All Things Writing

I think this is a refreshing change in a young adult novel. The character of Sarah is very well developed, and for me, the driving force of the novel. She is strong, able to stand up for herself, and has a great relationship with her father. Overall, I enjoyed this tale very much and plan to read Andy Gavin’s other novel, Untimed!

Beauty in Ruins

Andy Gavin does an admirable job of mixing magic and mythology, presenting us with a world that is fascinating to explore. Overall, an interesting story, well-told, with a nice layering of mythologies. It would make a great read…

My Cozy Corner

5 out of 5 stars

Andy pens “The Darkening Dream” in a unique original plot that is mixed with horror, occult and religious theories based on historic fact. A fast paced read that will captivate you from the beginning. This was one book I really had a hard time putting down. Highly recommended for all magickal, mystical, supernatural, horror, suspenseful vampire lovers.

Christine Rains

The Darkening Dream by Andy Gavin is a dark and detailed tale that holds nothing back. The vampires are like those of old, evil and ugly. It takes place in 1913, but it has a modern voice. It makes it easier to connect to the characters. Amazing story so far!

Lissette E. Manning

I honestly found this book very hard to put down. I truly enjoyed the historical elements of the book itself, though… It’s still chock full of the lore behind it. I think Andy did a wonderful job in crafting a world where good and evil collide during a time where witchcraft was highly believed, and practiced in the shadows. A great read, this is definitely a book I intend read again in the nearest future.

Deal Sharing Aunt

4 out of 5 stars

I didn’t want the story to end. I mean this book has everything from Salem Witches to Archangels. There are Egyptian Gods and of course vampires. I liked this book a lot because I like mythology and I enjoyed all of the “magic.”

TBR

After reading it, all I can say is WOW Andy well done. The pace of the book is perfect and the character building is wonderful. Simply put I loved this book!!!! Well done and congratulations Andy!

Vickieann’s Kindle Fever

Now this is a vampire novel! The vampires are doing the horrible evil things that you would expect vampires to do. They maim, kill, and torture their victims and generally commit acts of pure evil.

The Bunny’s Reviews

4 out of 5 Bunnies

Readers will get swept away with the characters and flow never stopping while reading. Yes, this book is that good. Thanks for a wonderful read…

Venture Galleries

One hell of a ride. This is a book that builds. In the first third, it lays its groundwork and creates its world. Then the rest is one breathless lunatic descent into madness: unrelenting, emotionally exhausting, nerve wracking, shocking, and ultimately cathartic. Try it.

The Wormhole

The story is gripping and terrifying. The language is vivid and descriptive, bringing to life a gruesome picture of a world in peril. If you are a fan of the Stoker style vampire – this one is for you.

Working for the Mandroid

The Darkening Dream turned out to be a thrilling adventure with properly horrific monsters and an intricate plot. Both Sarah and Alex are great protagonists, who are confident, willing to make difficult choices and don’t necessarily run directly into danger without thinking of potential consequences. [It’s] an emotional, alluring story with all the right elements of horror without it becoming bleak… the kind of book that might keep you up at night, but you really don’t mind.

Fangs for the Fantasy

Fascinating story, a well made world, excellent pacing, compelling characters, strong relationships, well maintained theme and tension, some excellent writing and nice big doses of the epic to keep me glued. Definitely worth a read and I look forward to the sequel to see it grow and change yet further. A great story and the potential for an excellent series.

Loving Literature

9 out of 10 stars!

The fact that these vampires were SCARY made it for me. Also the way alot more mythological beings and monsters were incorporated made it much more of an interesting read. Gripping and Thrilling!

Read to my Heart’s Content

4 out of 5 hearts!

You are left feeling like you just got off the ride of your life. The plot is pretty amazing and you can tell Gavin did a lot of research about the Jewish religion and different artifacts that are important to God.  This is definitely a good vs. evil story, but I love how Gavin incorporates the gray area.  This area is what  really makes the book… A Darkening Dream will shock you but you will be drawn in, devouring each word until you finally have to come up for air, just then realizing you already finished the entire novel.

Must Read Faster

The cast of characters and the history [Gavin] has created, lend this book a sense of dread laced with humor. There is a very clear distinction between the good guys and the bad! I find that utterly refreshing… Let’s just say that the writing in awesome. Andy Gavin has a talent for writing a fun scene. The story flows from one well crafted line to the next. His eye for the fine details is very clear. This book will satisfy any fan of the vampire genre and then some!

Alchemy of Scrawl

Complicated dark fantasy but in a very good way. I started reading and by the time I looked up I’d already finished over half the story. A story that keeps me involved for that long is a GOOD story. A nice spin on the good vs evil saga!

Confessions of a Readaholic

The Darkening Dream is a fantastic novel, one which I’m sure will have fantasy nerds, historical-and-myth lovers, romance fans and just any one who wants a good book wrapped up into this marvelously thought-out story. The ending just BLEW MY MIND, and I really hope Gavin has a second book planned because I need more!

The Flashlight Reader

The great care that was taken to develop the setting in this book was amazing. It completely sucks you in… The characters were extremely well developed… The centuries old vampire … was interesting. The way he was described and the detail given to his inner thoughts, made him terrifying… You should read it during the daylight hours for the villains in this book are what nightmares are made of.

I Heart Reading

We’ve forgotten the roots of [vampires]. They’re not meant to fall in love or seduce our main characters. They’re meant to be terrifyingly scary, dark and dangerous, bloodthirsty murderers who maim and kill with a passion. No sparkling vampires if you read The Darkening Dream, and to be honest, aren’t we all glad for that? This book has such outstanding source material I have no doubt it could be enjoyed by young adults and adults alike.

Bookshelf Confessions

I love all the characters, good and bad. Each of them is unique, fresh and remarkable. From the moment I read the first word until the end, I was in Darkening Dream’s world… like breathing fresh air… Darkening dream is a dark vampire novel that was written with passion, that you feel the emotions, dread and excitement the author [felt] while writing this. Packed with action, suspense, fangs and a little bit romance, this book [will] leave you both satisfied and wanting for more. Highly Recommended!

Nocturnal Book Reviews

9 out of 10 stars!

Unexpected and brilliant, – that’s what comes to mind straight away. the writing is pretty mind-blowing. Dark fantasy, horror, Gothic literature, – call it what you like, but it has this old horror movies like Salem’s Lot or Nosferatu feel, gore and creepiness.

The Hollow Cupboards

4.5 out of 5 stars!

The plot involves a lot of twists and it gets weird at some points but I seriously loved it… This book had tons and tons of action, romance, sex and the aforementioned weirdness that made me cringe and want to keep reading at the same time.

The Insane Ramblings of a Crazed Writer

Freaking awesome. Bravo, Andy! This is a great debut book! I highly recommend it for my vampire loving readers and those that like books that touch a darkness while trying to keep to the light.

Reading.. Dreaming

4 out of 5 stars.

Just when you think you have read all about vampires, a book like The Darkening Dream comes and shakes your world. What a fantastic piece of writing and originality, full of suspense, excitement and most important, an incredible set of characters.

My Para-Hangover

4 out of 5 stars.

If you like downright creep-tastic, hairy-scary stories, don’t let the religious aspect of the story hold you back. It’s only used as a mechanism to define good and evil. Oh, and the evil that exists in this book!!

Babies, Books, and Signs

I loved that this book was set just after the turn of the century in 1913. It was the perfect time period to use to show the blending of the old world and the new. I highly suggest this book if you like paranormal books, horror, or just are looking for something new and different.

The Life of Fiction

4 out of 5 stars.

The Darkening Dream is a finely tuned thrilling dark historical fantasy about vampires with a witty female lead and some surprising twists throughout. Andy Gavin’s writing is marvelous and thoroughly detailed. This dark fantasy definitely left me feeling for light switches in dark hallways. And the pieces to the puzzle fall into place nicely, especially as the story changes narrators, which I really enjoyed. Overall, it’s a pretty unique read, filled with suspense and surprises.

Little Library Muse

4 out of 5 stars!

I will never forget reading this book. Gavin has done an amazing job of blending all these different aspects together to make for a compelling read. Let’s just say my jaw dropped on several occasions from the grotesque nature of events that happened in this book… worth the read!

Keeping Up with the Rheinlanders

4 out of 5 stars!

This is a great read, keeps you thinking, questioning, and the pages turning! This is a unique dark and twisted tale, with a surprise ending! I would definitely recommend this book to fans of horror and paranormal. I am hoping there might be a sequel!

Living, Learning, and Loving Life

The plot was well-developed and original. I can usually tell a little (or a lot) of what’s coming up through foreshadowing… but not here. Things kept popping up and the end took me completely by surprise … The characters were well-done (actually, a vampire or two were extra-crispy), the dialogue was realistic, and the whole story over-all was a great read.

Les Livres

This book was great. It was action-packed and suspenseful, and there were twists all over the place. I had a really hard time putting it down when I needed to do other things! The mix of elements in this story – Egyptian mythology, warlocks, witchcraft, vampires, Judaic mysticism – made this book unlike anything I’ve read before, in a very good way. [And] as for Alexandros, I definitely developed a book-crush on him. What can I say? I have a soft spot for Mediterraneans, and all of this mysterious slayer-of-the-undead business just makes him that much more appealing.

Word Spelunking

4.5 out of 5 cupcakes!

A wonderfully refreshing and enticingly twisted read… Andy Gavin has taken a bevy of supernatural elements, compelling characters, and an intricate and superbly developed storyline, and expertly weaved them together to create an original and enthralling book. Full of the unexpected, thrilling action, a wicked dose of creepy, and with a Dare-To-Be-Bold-And-Provocative Attitude, The Darkening Dream takes readers on one helluva ride! I really love how bold, provocative and unafraid to Go There (and beyond) this story is. This isn’t a lighthearted read, nor should it be. Its intense, and at times relentless (in the best way), darkness is absolutely addicting and riveting… This book kept me up late at night, eagerly turning pages and excited to see just what would happen next… and something unexpected would always happen next…

writerreese

If you’re looking for another Edward, Angel, or even Eric, he’s not here. What you will find is monsters. Good, old-fashioned, eat you and leave your corpse for the local children to find monsters.

The LL Book Review

The story has been woven in a masterful manner, and it is difficult to know who to trust… It is not meant to comfort and pull on our heartstrings.  It is meant to terrify us and see something in every shadow… Gavin has given us a dark and gothic story that maintains the complex storyline right until the very end.

Underground Book Reviews

After the first ten pages I couldn’t put it down. I still hate vampire books, but I love The Darkening Dream. [It’s] a Dusk Till Dawn meets Yentle with just a dash of Buffy and The Mummy thrown in to spice it up. While you’re trying to wrap your mind around that, I’ll just say this book is the most original novel I’ve read in years and has made me an instant Andy Gavin fan.

The Literati Press

The story was great. It was full with action, great character development, religious/mythical history and a splash of the supernatural. My favorite dark supernatural character was Betty, the succubus. Them mystery unravels in all the rights and at the right pace.

Fictional Candy

Once the secrets start coming out, you will absolutely be glued to the pages. I’m also pretty sure this book was responsible for some less than savory dreams I had during the nights while reading.

Here Be Bookwyrms

The mix of elements in this story – Egyptian mythology, warlocks, witchcraft, vampires, Judaic mysticism – made this book unlike anything I’ve read before, in a very good way. The mash-up could have easily been very forced and clunky, but Gavin does a superb job (especially for a first novel!) of weaving them all together. Ultimately, this book was great. It was action-packed and suspenseful, and there were twists all over the place. I had a really hard time putting it down when I needed to do other things!

Library Mosaic

4 out of 5 stars.

The supernatural base of this book is very solid and the world created seemed real and constructed in a smart way. The book is well-written and there are several secrets that are slowly revealed as the story develops. The twists and turns kept me entertained and so did the adventure, mystery, suspense and romance.

Without a Book

A dark fantasy novel that packs a paranormal punch.

The View from Fairview

4 out of 5 stars.

I am in awe of this author’s writing style. To convey the language and customs of the period (1900s) and still make it easy to read and understand is a difficult task. And the research that must have gone into this is mind boggling… The characters were well written and I always felt I understood them. Even the evil ones.

Caught Between the Pages

4 out of 5 stars.

I loved the writing style, not very formal but not lax enough for the time period this is set in to be forgotten entirely. I also liked the alternating viewpoints, providing a chance for every perspective to be shown. That doesn’t mean that every secret is revealed as there are several twists and turns along the way. Especially the ending! I love the ending. It makes me want a lot more, now.

Sarah’s Reviews

A historical, dark fantasy full of action, paranormal, and a good deal of creepy, The Darkening Dream is an engaging read that leaves you looking for the sequel… Contains lies/deception, many disturbing and gruesome images of pain, injury, death, and killing; witchcraft, consorting with demons, and death rituals; religion related name calling and profanity; references to sodomy and sex slaves as well as sexual banter, male and female arousal, erections, full nudity with references to both male and female genitals, references to fingers being stuck up unmentionable places!

Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks

4 out of 5 stars.

The characters are very well written.  Their personalities and views on the world are steady throughout the book and I was able to connect with all of them. This is a very well written book that includes a lot of detail in order to captivate the audience.

Book Lovers Paradise

4 out of 5 stars.

I appreciate the talent and writing style of Mr. Gavin and his attention to detail.

Fantasy’s Ink

5 out of 5 stars.

The book was extremely well written and the characters realistic, Sarah and her group of friends were especially lovable. I also loved the close relationship Sarah shared with her father. The romance between Sarah and Alex was well done and I could really understand and see their growing attraction and love for one another…

Vampire Librarian

Andy Gavin has delivered an amazing and dark portrayal of vampires unlike much of what you will see in most of today’s fiction. Using the religious imagery of both Christian and Jewish faiths to portray an ancient battle between good and evil, this is a story that is rich in visual and verbal treasures. The Darkening Dream is an unbelievable first novel. I can’t wait to see what Gavin comes up with next!

Twisting the Lens

The story has been woven in a masterful manner, and it is difficult to know who to trust.  It brings in the conflict of religions in a way that is not often done so subtle, yet complex.

I Smell Sheep

The Darkening Dream gets 4.5 sheep!

If you are looking for a Twilight style of vampire book, this is not it. If you want something more of the darker side, this is the book you want to grab!

Drying Ink

The Darkening Dream is a refreshingly dark urban fantasy that will wipe any trace of vampiric sparkle from your literature. With some original choices as protagonists – both of whom dive, rather than stumble into the supernatural – and a delicious twist or two, this novel is recommended.

Jess Resides Here

The Darkening Dream is so rich in story I am blown away that it was written by a first time author. First time! Damn Andy that’s like someone painting like that white guy on PBS with the afro right off and not crappy stick figures.

The Subtle Chronicler

O for Outstanding

I grabbed each and every word and let it sink in as the story formed. Everything from the characters, to the way they spoke, to the way he narrated their actions was just perfectly written to the dot.

Word Vagabond

No words that I can use to adequately describe just how gloriously insane this book is. The summary in this review is just the bare bones; the actual story is just so out and keeps snowballing, it’s compelling to read on to see just how weird it can get.

Awesome Indies

An extremely well written story with finely-drawn, easy to relate to characters. The story moves along at a good pace, with just enough light and shade to make it satisfying, and there’s an unexpected twist before a chilling end.

Reading by the Fireside

I loved the vampiric mythology… really awesome.

Hooked on Books

The Darkening Dream has one of the most intriguing premises I’ve come across in the last year or so… an inventive and diverse read.

Magic is in Words

This is a very interesting plot and I liked that it took place almost a hundred years ago… Alex was by far my favorite character. Dark curly hair, big eyes, sexy. Oh yes…

When Pen Met Paper

A unique take on vampire mythos that combines many religions and interesting historical facts…

Nightly Reading

if you are looking for something a little deeper, this book might just hit the spot…

Unputdownable Books

The moment I started reading The Darkening Dream, I noticed how complex, sophisticated and incredible unique the writing was, even the dialogue was different. You can tell how intelligent and talented Andy Gavin is just by the way he writes…

Heck of a Bunch

I was immersed into a world of wars between good and evil, vampires and other unworldly creatures…

Kimberly Kinrade

author of the Forbidden Trilogy

Andy Gavin has fast become one of my favorite authors. I loved his first book, the dark fantasy The Darkening Dream…

R.J. Cavender

editor of the Bram Stoker nominated Horror Library anthology series

Inventive, unexpected, and more than a little bit creepy — this book has something for everyone!

Andrew Reiner

Executive editor of Game Informer magazine

The Darkening Dream is a masterfully written supernatural tale is as chilling as it exciting. Scribe Andy Gavin establishes a brisk pace early on, yet knows when to slow momentum to keep readers submerged in suspense and horror. Within the first chapter, Gavin shows us that no one is safe, not even children. In a similar vein to George R.R. Martin’s writing style, Gavin often dangles his characters in the maws of danger and doesn’t shy away from changing the landscape of his story with their blood being spilled. This is a pager-turner of a story, offering a classic horror vibe, not unlike Stephen King or Anne Rice. I can’t wait to see what Gavin has in store for us next.

Jenny on the Book

Intelligent, well-written, very well edited and gripping… I was intrigued. I was frightened. And the end left me wanting more. I want to know what happens to the dear families and characters that I have come to know. I hope there is a sequel!

Misprinted Pages

I liked the author’s use of imagery (especially the bloody sycamore) and his demons, like the central vampire character. How often do vampires turn into bats anymore? Now that’s cool.

Ella Bella Reviews

The first few chapters are even reminiscent of Stephen King’s ‘SALEM’S LOT.

Raphaelle’s Things

I really liked how the setting was much earlier in the century, and how some history and mythologies coalesced into the story.

Sheila Deeth

Far more depth than the cover art suggests, all leading to a climax blending heaven and earth, even as the real (1900s) world tries to push faith into the shadows. By the end I’m enthralled.

Amazon

4.4/5 from 131+ reviewers!

“The author artfully mixes mystical, religious, and historical elements into a fascinating story.” — Keren

“The characters, especially Sarah, were really interesting and easy to care about.” — Greg

“When something can be read without effort, great effort has gone into its writing.” — William

“The writing quality is superb, and the pacing and characterization are spot on.” — Lauren

“The Darkening Dream was a fabulous surprise, a perfect blend of mystery, magic and myth.” — RebBloomer

“Perhaps the single greatest factor behind the success of the novel remains Gavin’s breadth of knowledge that permeates every paragraph of this book.” — Brent

“You won’t want to put it down.” — Jersey Girl

“Gavin’s Darkening Dream, with its precise attention to historical detail and intricate plot, turns the ubiquitous vampire novel on its head.” — Jonathan

“The writing style is just absolutely excellent, exhilarating to read, the kind of thing that makes you want to hug author and editor alike. I think the part with the horse’s head is what did it for me. That’s when I stepped back from the Kindle, looked around in exultant horror, and said aloud: ‘No. Way.'” — K. Barrett

“The story was enthralling and you will find yourself rooting for the characters over and over.” — LHelseth

“kept my interest through to the last page.” — AmberLight

“The book is dark, funny, gory and leaves you wanting more!” — Kim Edinger

“[Gavin] did a brilliant job of enveloping me in this world of everyday life in Salem Massachusetts in the early 1900’s, but at the same time allowing me to see a darker possibility. He made me believe that, just maybe, witches, warlocks, and vampires were real. I loved that!” — D. Pease

“Creates a world that is familiar, and yet different in that its inhabited by some supernaturals.” — Michael Santaly

“This is a book that I can recommend without reservations and it is one of the few books that I intend to read again in order to see the plot from a new perspective.” — Belleal

“If you have any doubts about buying and reading this book, please push them far far down and DO IT!!!!! Absolutely, positively one of the best books I have read in years.” — SystemDown311

Non-review press coverage can be found here.

NOTE: If you run a review site or book blog and are interested in reviewing The Darkening Dream, see here for more information.