The Night Singers
by London Clarke
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Pub Date May 28 2024 | Archive Date Jul 21 2024
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Description
Ghostwriter Callie Rowe has landed on what seems like a dream job: penning the memoir of her 90s rockstar crush, Riff Fall. But as she sets foot on remote Invisible Island, where Riff resides in his enigmatic beachfront mansion, she quickly realizes that beneath the allure of fame lies something more sinister.
Rumors swirl around Riff and his secluded existence, particularly concerning the inexplicable disappearance of his wife years ago.
And entering Riff's world comes with a set of rules: never venture outside after midnight and steer clear of the blue door upstairs. Despite her best intentions to keep personal and professional boundaries intact, Callie is drawn to Riff, whose troubled past intertwines with his present reality. Bound by a contract from decades ago, Riff is haunted not only by his lost reputation but also by something lurking just beyond the edges of his property. But as Callie becomes entangled in Riff's self-imprisonment, she realizes that she, too, is being hunted by something malevolent.
Forced to confront the darkness of her past and the terrifying truth about the price of fame, Callie wonders if she will discover Riff’s secrets or become the next victim of the night singers’ deadly symphony. A music-laden tale of terror, The Night Singers explores the echoes of the past and the demented and dangerous journey that can lead to success or ruin.
Available Editions
ISBN | 8906745673234 |
PRICE | $4.99 (USD) |
Links
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
I did not expect to love this as much as I do. Riff seems awesome and our protagonist has her trauma but she is clearly a brilliant ghost writer. I loved the setting, especially the resort and how it has decayed in only 12 years. It is amazing how quickly that can happen.
I love their weird interactions and I especially loved the night singers. OMG They are so perfectly creepy.
I also love the greek mythology connections.
That ending too! Beautiful!
I love a good ghost story and this did not disappoint. I remember learning about sirens in Greek mythology in high school and I'm pretty sure this is the first book I've read that used them. Just when you think you have it figured out, London Clarke twists things making you second guess what you think you know. There are some trigger warnings for this book. I could relate with Riff and his agoraphobia but love how he was still very much a caring person throughout the book. Would definitely recommend!
I discovered this author quite by accident and I am so glad I did. Her books always have some kind of mystery with supernatural elements. This book was no different. I had some idea of what a ghostwriter was, this book just educated me more on the subject. Sirens have always fascinated me since I love Greek mythology. The descriptions of these creatures fit perfectly as to how I thought they looked. I cannot imagine having to cut oneself off from everyone and everything in order to survive these creatures. Knowing that any day could be your last day on earth would be most depressing. I was hoping for a better outcome for Riff and Callie but it was not meant to be. This was a horror book without gore and was frightening. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
London Clarke's books contain supernatural elements, and this book was no exception. Ghostwriter Callie Rowe has just been asked to be the ghostwriter of the elusive, reclusive, and mysterious rock star, Riff Fall's memoir. Callie is no stranger to rock stars; her father was in a band, and she loves music. But when she gets to Riff's home to interview the man whose wife mysterious vanished years ago, she is met with a set of rules.
"Don’t go near the attic door.
Don’t go outside after midnight.
Don’t ever listen to them."
Strange, but doable, right? But why those rules? Rock stars are eccentric but what is going on? Who shouldn’t she listen to and why? Why has Riff never left his home? When things begin to go bump in the night, and more is revealed, she realizes that danger really is lurking, waiting, and watching.
This book is in the horror category but is more on the creepy side than the horror side, in my opinion. Things that happen are horrific but not gory. I enjoyed the sense of unease, tension, and the mounting danger in the book. Plus, this book oozes with atmosphere. It also has the isolated trapped feeling that I enjoy in books.
I first read London Clarke's work when I read The Neighbor and was excited to read this book as well. I found this book to be well written, well thought out, creepy, mysterious, dark, entertaining, and an enjoyable read.
The Night Singers by London Clarke is a gripping and atmospheric tale that masterfully blends the allure of rock 'n' roll fame with a chilling descent into supernatural horror. This novel captures the reader's attention from the very beginning, delivering a suspenseful and haunting narrative that lingers long after the final page is turned.
The story centers on Callie Rowe, a ghostwriter who secures what seems like a dream assignment: writing the memoir of her 90s rockstar idol, Riff Fall. Her excitement quickly turns to unease as she arrives at Invisible Island, where Riff lives in a secluded beachfront mansion. Clarke’s vivid descriptions of the remote and enigmatic setting create an immediate sense of foreboding, setting the tone for the mysteries and horrors that follow.
Riff Fall is a complex character, his charismatic yet troubled persona drawing Callie—and the reader—into his world. The mansion itself, with its eerie rules and forbidden areas, especially the ominous blue door upstairs, becomes a character in its own right, exuding a palpable sense of dread. The rules, particularly the prohibition against venturing outside after midnight, heighten the tension and build an atmosphere of suspense.
As Callie delves deeper into Riff’s life, she uncovers unsettling rumors about the disappearance of his wife and begins to sense that something sinister is at play. Clarke skillfully intertwines Riff’s troubled past with his present, revealing the psychological and supernatural elements that haunt him. The mysterious contract that binds Riff adds another layer of intrigue, suggesting a Faustian bargain that has left him imprisoned by more than just his fame.
The supernatural elements in The Night Singers are handled with a deft touch, gradually revealing the malevolent forces at work on the island. Clarke’s portrayal of the haunting and the “night singers” is both eerie and original, providing a fresh take on the haunted house genre. The creeping horror that Callie experiences is effectively conveyed, making the reader feel her growing fear and desperation.
Callie’s own backstory and her struggle with personal demons add depth to her character, making her more than just a passive observer in Riff’s world. Her evolution from a star-struck ghostwriter to a determined survivor is compelling, and her courage in confronting the darkness both within and around her is inspiring.
The novel’s pacing is excellent, with a steady build-up of suspense that keeps the reader engaged. Clarke’s writing is atmospheric and evocative, painting vivid scenes that enhance the horror elements. The climax is both thrilling and satisfying, tying together the various plot threads in a way that is both unexpected and logical.
The Night Singers is a standout novel that combines the glamour and decay of rockstar fame with the chilling elements of a ghost story. London Clarke has crafted a tale that is as much about the human condition—exploring themes of fame, regret, and redemption—as it is about supernatural terror. This book is a must-read for fans of horror and psychological thrillers, offering a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is terrifying. Clarke’s ability to weave a tale of suspense, horror, and personal growth makes The Night Singers a memorable and haunting read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for this book.
The Night Singers is a thriller about a lead singer being haunted by the supernatural. Not my normal read but it was fast pace and a page turner. It kept me guessing if things in the singers life would change.
Thank you to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book had a very creepy vibe the entire way through. The characters complexity added to the intriguing plot. In my opinion I haven't seen this kind of plot done before, very unique read. It's not ofter I can find a good horror book about sirens! London pulled it off swimmingly! There are only three rules in this book. Don't go near the attic door, don't go outside after midnight, and don't ever listen to them. Could you do it??? I highly recommend this book if you love creepy horror stories without a lot of gore!
I struggled between giving this book four or five stars - it’s really right in the middle! This book is more horror and it was right up my alley. I was impressed with the creative concept - finally, something that hasn’t been done before! I flew through it and was anxious to find out how the story would conclude - the only reason I did not ultimately give it 5 stars was that the conclusion wasn’t exactly what I was looking for. Overall it is 100% worth a read for any horror enthusiast, and will make a great movie if it were ever to get that far! Give it a read! Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.
"The Night Singers" is a mesmerizing tale that effortlessly transports readers to a vividly depicted world, where mystery and intrigue lurk around every corner. From the bustling streets of a historic city to the secretive gatherings of the titular Night Singers, the setting is meticulously crafted, immersing readers in its rich atmosphere.
The characters are the heart of this story, each one intricately woven with layers of depth and complexity. From the enigmatic leader of the Night Singers to the determined protagonist grappling with their own inner demons, every character feels real and relatable. Their relationships and interactions drive the narrative forward, keeping readers engaged and invested until the very end.
But it's the plot that truly shines in "The Night Singers." Filled with unexpected twists and turns, it keeps readers guessing at every step, expertly balancing suspense and emotion. As secrets are uncovered and alliances are tested, the tension steadily mounts, culminating in a gripping climax that will leave readers breathless.
Overall, "The Night Singers" is a captivating read that seamlessly blends mystery, suspense, and drama. It's a story that stays with you long after you've finished.
“The Night Singers" by London Clarke is a captivating blend of supernatural mystery that will keep you hooked from the very first page. The author masterfully creates an eerie and atmospheric setting that draws you into the story. The characters are intricately developed, each with their own secrets and motivations, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. The plot is full of unexpected twists and turns that will leave you guessing until the very end. Clarke's storytelling prowess shines throughout this novel, making it a thrilling and engaging read for anyone who enjoys a good supernatural mystery. I highly recommend picking this book up!
The Night Singers
by: London Clarke
due 5-28-2024
5.0 stars
London Clarke never disappoints. She excels in creating an atmosphere and characters that seem real-so relatable-I felt their fear. I felt their longing. The slow, and immersive chill of this story, pulls you in like being lost in a rolling fog, as it slowly takes over and covers you. Being alone it becomes difficult, and fearful, but the mystery, and unique alone-ness intrigue you and you are surrounded and pulled in. I enjoyed The Night Singers, a gothic chiller by London Clarke.
'The Night Singers' is about Callie, a ghost writer of music biographies. She's working with former pin-up rock star, Riff Fall, the lead singer of 90's band, Cry of Crows, who had many platinum albums. Now it's 2016, and Callie learns Riff lives on Invisible Island, that is only accesible by boat or ferry. Riff has become a recluse, and never leaves the island. He wife Lila has idsappeared and he thinks she may have been murdered. Riff tells Callie he thinks the Island is haunted but she makes pland to spend a week on the Island to interview him for the book. Riff tells Callie to never go out at night because of the spirits that sing. Their voice mesmerizes you, and can control you, but thats just the beginning of the spooky lure of this island. The chilly overtones are offset by the slowly developing friendship between Riff and Callie and make this an unforgettable story.
Thank you to Net Galley for sending this e-book ARC for review.
#NetGalley #TheNightSingers
This book was about Callie getting a job as a ghostwriter to write the memoir of a 90's rockstar, Riff Fall. When she gets there all her excitement leaves when some really sinister things start taking place. This book was creepy, intriguing and had me on the edge of my seat.
Thank you, NetGalley and Books Go Social this is an amazing story about Callie, who is a ghost writer and gets her dream job of her life. She is able to write for her rockstar crush Rif Fall! I love the atmosphere and the sinister setting in this book. It made me feel like I was along with Callie at his island. I really enjoyed the aspect of murder and dealing with Riff’s missing wife. What is the cost of fame? That was definitely a big question in his book. I also learned about Sirens and I was very invested in this book from beginning to end.! I definitely recommend this book and I will be continuing to read more from this author. Thank you.! Works for me
The Night Singers was a very atmospheric book. As the reader I really felt a bit immersed in the world even though I also felt like some details were missing in places. The characters were complex and the plot was well fleshed out. This was the first book with Sirens that I've ever read which has me intrigued and wanting to go read more!
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. I really was sure what to expect. Great characters and enough suspense and intrigue to keep you wanting to read more.
This was an interesting book. I didn't think it was the best I'd ever read, but it wasn't bad. I feel like more time could have been spent on a few details, but the characters were enjoyable.
4.5 stars!!
What a nerve-shattering read! This book was SO dynamic and twisty, I was OBSESSED! The well-written plot constantly kept me on edge and the character development was out of this world!
Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. The Night Singers is the first book by London Clarke that I have read, and I am most certainly glad that I did read this book. The description immediately grabbed my attention. The first pages of the book reeled me in, and I had a hard time to put the book down. The atmosphere and the characters really push the story forward. There is depth and complexity in The Night Singers, which made for a most satisfying read.
I went in to this book with absolutely no expectations. I honestly wasn’t sure how I felt going in. I am so glad I went with my gut and read it. I thought this book was great! Mysterious, thrilling, haunting…Loved it!
I received this book from NetGalley for a review. It’s my first one from them and I was very excited. I was a little worried I wouldn’t like the book but I didn’t need to worry. I loved it. It was even pretty scary in some places, hitting my absolute goal of finding a book so scary, I’m afraid to go to the bathroom without my dog (I read in bed at night in the dark).
Callie is a ghost writer for musicians. Her newest client, Riff Fall, was a famous musician from the 90’s and 2000’s and is known as a reclusive hermit. He never leaves his property and doesn’t talk to the media. Callie and her agent are overjoyed for the opportunity. Once Callie gets into the interview, Riff is cagey with his answers. Usually, she likes to meet with her clients in person, but Riff refuses. She asks him why he refuses to leave his property, assuming he has agoraphobia, and he refuses to answer. After a few more questions, Riff declares this was a mistake and logs off.
The next day, Callie’s agent calls her and tells her Riff agreed to let her come to his house. She sets off for Invisible Island, where Riff lives.
Once Callie arrives, Riff shows her around the property. He has strange rules. Such as Callie can’t leave the house or open any windows after 11:59pm. She isn’t allowed to open or even go near a door upstairs. He tells her he’d prefer she doesn’t leave the house after dark. Callie agrees, but thinks it’s very strange.
Weird things begin happening. At night, she thinks she hears footsteps, tapping, and singing. As she explores the island, talks to the locals, and gets Riff to open up, what she learns about the island and Riff truly surprises her and opens her eyes to the possibility of the supernatural.
I loved this book. I couldn’t put it down. If you like horror and are interested in something different than a run of the mill ghost story, you’ll like this book. I can’t wait to check out what else the author has written.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
I really enjoyed this story. It sort of reads as a balance between a mythology love letter, a horror novel, and a sprinkling of romance (but not so much so that you lose the rest of the story due to it!). I really enjoyed Callie as a main character - she was headstrong, determined, curious, and a really enjoyable protagonist. Riff maybe felt a little 'Mary-Sue' in places (or whatever the male equivalent of that may be!), but he was still an enjoyable character, and the relationship between the two of them felt quite genuine.
The world building is also great, with the island feeling truly isolated and realistic in terms of the rich tourist visitors and the year-round population. The horror segments, particularly at the resort, are sculpted really beautifully, and while not entirely frightening, they certainly bring an air of menace that helps in the suspense enormously.
The mystery of the book is fantastic as well, and it does an exceptional job of blending old myth with new ideas, in a really successful way. This novel was just all around a good time, and the only critique that I have (besides the character one above!) is that I wish it were a little longer.
Thank you @netgalley for the ARC of The Night Singers by London Clarke. This was a creepy atmospheric novel with a build and then a suspenseful ending. I really liked the incorporation of Greek Mythology of the sirens from Homer’s Odyssey. The description of their singing made me feel like I was there and it hurt my ears.
Callie is a ghost writer and was called to write the biography of one of her favorite childhood music idols. He has become a recluse on an island and rumors have circulated that he may have killed his wife. When Callie goes to the island, there are many rules, don’t go out after midnight, don’t go in the attic…. As she uncovers the truth behind Riff’s isolation, she is in danger from the sirens that inhabit the island.
Much like Clarke, I am a lover of music and spent a fair share of my youth attending concerts, snapping photos, and using my press pass to spend the day hanging out with rock stars. I loved that juxtaposition of music and monster here, that the story was rooted in mythology, and that odd island culture was explored here. The story and its characters enchanted me, much like sirens singing out their irresistible songs. Give this one a try. Spend some time with Callie and Riff (what a phenomenal name).
London Clarke has done it again! I love the supernatural elements to London’s books, but this one may be my all time favorite! I have quite the obsession with Greek mythology, so that twist was absolutely fantastic! The prose of The Night Singers is enough to keep readers on the edge of their seats, and to keep them guessing up until the very end. I also enjoyed the character development, and how London shows the fragmented parts of humans and the choices one makes in life. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
"Night Singers" by London Clark is a gripping blend of suspense and supernatural intrigue. Ghostwriter Callie Rowe's journey working on the memoir of her 90s rockstar idol, Riff Fall, quickly turns eerie as she uncovers the dark secrets of Invisible Island. The atmosphere is rich with tension, and the enigmatic Riff adds layers of complexity to the narrative. Clark masterfully intertwines past and present, keeping readers on edge with unexpected revelations and sinister twists. While some plot points feel a bit predictable, the overall storytelling and character development make it a compelling read. Thanks so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
An incredibly fun, haunting read with ties to Greek mythology and nautical legends. Callisto, who goes by Callie, is a tough, chainsmoking ghostwriter who has her defensive walls up at all time. Her client, Riff Fall is a sexy, mysterious, slightly "washed up" former 90s rock frontman with a dark history that even he can't fully recall. Callie is quickly sucked into a dangerous and murky world of disembodied songs, a locked door that she isn't allowed to touch, and one firm rule- don't leave the house after midnight. She's writing a memoir for Riff, but hoping they'll both live long enough for her to finish the story.
This book is filled with dread, gorgeous ocean scenery, and a bit of romantic tension that kept me invested in both Callie and Riff. I recommend it to anyone who is interested in thrillers and light romance, and I'm so glad I was able to check out an ARC before buying my own copy.
London Clarke is a new name to me, and until the About the Author page at the end of the book, I didn't even know if they were male or female. She's a woman BTW.
In this book, Callie, a ghost writer, accepts the contact to write the life story of Riff Fall, a rock singer who now lives as a recluse on a small island off the coast of Florida.
When she stays with him on the island she finds herself growing closer to him than she should. But there are mysteries about his behaviour. Why is he so strict about not allowing her out after midnight? What did happen to his ex-wife who disappeared under strange circumstances? Why does he fall ill every time he leaves the boundaries of his property? And who are the strange beings who sing their hypnotic songs outside his house every night?
I think this is the first time I've seen sirens as the villains in a horror novel, and I really enjoyed it. Greek myths have a lot to offer, and this book takes full advantage.
The first two thirds of the book are excellent. the slow build up is masterfully handled and Callie's natural skepticism is swept away believably. It falls apart slightly in the final act, but not so much as to render this a bad book in any way.
It's well written with believable and sympathetic characters. The Sirens/water witches make for an effectively creepy and dangerous antagonist. The only issue I have with the book is the reasonably predictable Deus ex-machina in the final chapters.
She has a few more books out. I will be adding them to my already out-of-control TBR pile in due course.
This was a great suspenseful thriller infused with themes and ideas from Greek mythology. I wasn't sure how well these two ideas would merge, but they went together wonderfully! I really enjoyed the idea of the Sirens still being around and involving themselves in the modern music scene. I've never read a story like this before but I'm hoping that London Clarke decides to start creating more tales like this!
Thank you, NetGalley, for a very enjoyable ARC!
This was such a good book. It was very unique. It was downright creepy. I really enjoyed it. You really care about the characters and feel sorry for them.
This is the perfect horror story, but without the gore and adding in some supernatural elements.
I was completely hooked on this story. I couldn't put it down. I didn't love Callie in the beginning, but as the story progressed, she grew on me. It was truly a unique story, and I would highly recommend it for those who are looking for a spooky southern gothic story and are interested in the lore behind sirens.
The way London Clarke navigates the lore, the relationship building between characters, the twists, the turns... it's all truly done very well.
It's easily became a top 5 read so far for this year
What a thrilling book, I would definitely recommend
Thank you netgalley for allowing me to read it early
Callie thinks her career as a ghostwriter hit an all time high when the recluse musician, Riff, hires her and has her join him on his reclusive island, but, RIff's strange rules and phantom footsteps leave Callie wondering if there's something more sinister at play.
Clarke delivers an atmospheric novel unlike any other by building a world I felt like I was actually about to step into. The dread that builds is real and the suspense is nail biting. Callie and Riff are well built and relatable characters that I really enjoyed following along with.
The Night Singers should not be overlooked!
The Night Singers is a gripping tale that blends mystery with just the right touch of supernatural intrigue. The author weaves a haunting narrative that kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Some parts of the book genuinely spooked me, adding an exhilarating thrill to the reading experience. Clarke's vivid descriptions and atmospheric settings bring the story to life in a way that's both eerie and mesmerizing. The characters are well-developed, each with their own secrets and complexities, which kept me guessing until the very end. This book is definitely worth diving into!!
I really enjoyed The Night Singers; I wasn't quite sure what to expect but it definitely held my attention. Callie is working with a former popstar to ghost write his biography. When excepting the assignment, she does not realize the craziness she will encounter. I absolutely love the three rules.
The setting was haunting and quite creepy. Mr. Clarke described the setting perfectly. This story gave me all of the sensations of a supernatural/horror novel. There were quite a few twists and turns, some I never saw coming, but thoroughly enjoyed them.
Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC.
I love a book with a good setting. A little creepy, mysterious, with a haunting broodiness. That's exactly what this is, a Gothic horror with atmosphere instead of gore. Callie and Riff are great characters, and their story is interesting and drew me in quickly. I loved this book.
This was pretty good. To be honest my only real complaint is that I often found the main character to be a bit annoying and unlikable…but only sometimes. At other times I like her quite a bit and thought she was great.
I found this book very entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed the “rockstar” aspect of it all. I definitely recommend.
4.25 stars
This was a hard book for me to put down! I was drawn into the story early on and found myself tearing through so I could get to the thrilling, terrifying conclusion. Fans of Greek mythology will probably get a kick out of this book (even the main character's name, Callisto, is a nod to the epic poems and stories). It's evident pretty quickly what kind of creatures the author is referring to, and what kind of situation reclusive rocker Riff Fall has found himself locked into, but that's totally ok because it's still an engrossing story. I found there were enough plot twists and likeable characters to keep me invested.
All in all, a solid entry in the horror/thriller category, and now I definitely want to go and read some more of Clarke's other works.
Thanks to NetGalley, author London Clarke, and Books Go Social publishing, for the opportunity to read this digital ARC and review it. All opinions are my own.
The Night Singers was a 4 Star read for me. I really enjoyed it.
The plot really intrigued me and the story ended up being far different than I anticipated.
When I first started reading, I was very quickly invested in what was happening. Initially, it seemed like the horror aspects of this story were going to be similar to the creatures in the tv show 'From' (if you haven't watched it, definitely check it out!) but it ended up going in a very different direction. I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it quite as much once I found out what the creatures were, but I actually really enjoyed it.
London's writing was very enjoyable to read and I'm definitely keen to read more of her work.
While I loved the book, I do agree with other readers that the characters seemed to lack a bit of personality. I found myself connecting more with side characters, such as Zeke, than with Riff and Callie. That's not to say that I didn't like them, I just didn't really feel overly connected to them.
Regardless, I'd definitely recommend reading The Night Singers!
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