5.0 out of 5 stars
OWL MANOR: THE DAWNING by Zita Harrison, is book #1 in the planned OWL MANOR series. It begins in 1859 near Denver during the Colorado Gold Rush, with miners discovering the strangulation murder of a prostitute in the river they’re panning in. The story centers on a defiant Evelyn Moore, known as Eva, who is unsettled by the traditionally limited roles of nineteenth century women. So she escapes what she considers her oppressed home in Chicago by marrying Lewis, a man who drags her to Denver in his search for gold. But all does not work out well for her, Lewis, and their daughter Abigail. At this point Eva finds herself drawn to Owl Manor, despite the dark and mysterious master of the estate.
It is written in Eva’s first-person point of view, other third-person POVs and, interestingly, letters from a serial killer to his dead father. Harrison holds a masters degree in English literature, and the influence of Edgar Allen Poe and the Bronte sisters is evident. The writing is very polished, indicating either a rigorous revision method or professional editing. Fifty-five short chapters make for convenient stopping and re-starting points. Highly recommended for fans of gothic suspense and macabre ghost stories. Looking forward to OWL MANOR: ABIGAIL, the next novel in the OWL MANOR series.
It is written in Eva’s first-person point of view, other third-person POVs and, interestingly, letters from a serial killer to his dead father. Harrison holds a masters degree in English literature, and the influence of Edgar Allen Poe and the Bronte sisters is evident. The writing is very polished, indicating either a rigorous revision method or professional editing. Fifty-five short chapters make for convenient stopping and re-starting points. Highly recommended for fans of gothic suspense and macabre ghost stories. Looking forward to OWL MANOR: ABIGAIL, the next novel in the OWL MANOR series.
Reviewed in the United States on March 28, 2020
5.0 out of 5 stars
In this work of historical fiction set mostly in 1859 during the Colorado Gold Rush, we are invited into the world of Eva, a willful and intelligent growing young woman who is looking for a life of freedom and independence. Alongside her is another character where the darkness inside his mind is known early on and the reader comes to know as the Master of Owl Manor.
The story is written with poetic, exquisite descriptions that takes one on an unforgettable journey into the context of the historical setting, Owl Manor itself, the minds of these characters, and aspects of the paranormal that blur the lines between physical reality with the unknown. With some unexpected plot twists, it evolves into a gothic suspense and psychological thriller at its finest. By the end, it had me examining my own darkness, the nature of attraction, and what happens when intelligent free thinking leads to a disregard for society’s laws and moral standards. Owl Manor – the Dawning had me hooked from beginning to end.
The story is written with poetic, exquisite descriptions that takes one on an unforgettable journey into the context of the historical setting, Owl Manor itself, the minds of these characters, and aspects of the paranormal that blur the lines between physical reality with the unknown. With some unexpected plot twists, it evolves into a gothic suspense and psychological thriller at its finest. By the end, it had me examining my own darkness, the nature of attraction, and what happens when intelligent free thinking leads to a disregard for society’s laws and moral standards. Owl Manor – the Dawning had me hooked from beginning to end.
– Laura Clementz
Reviewed in the United States on March 17, 2020
5.0 out of 5 stars
It’s rare for me to give 5 STAR reviews on a first read of a new author I haven’t read before. I literally read this book in 2 days!! This is my favorite genre and what an astounding read this was!!! I bought this book on a recommendation from a friend. INCREDIBLE READ!! This author puts you in the story and it’s edge of your seat awesome!! Very detailed in every aspect of the story. Bottom line: READ THIS NOVEL!!! IT’S A WINNER!!!
– JacqueB63
Reviewed in the United States on March 5, 2020
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