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Customer Reviews for Thomas Nelson Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2

Thomas Nelson Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2

Dani Harris thought there wasn't much left that could surprise her after serving as a forensic psychiatrist in East Salem. And Tommy Gunderson has faced few challenges in his life that he couldn't overcome by either physical strength or his celebrity status.

But as they race to uncover what's really happening behind the high walls of St. Adrian's Academy, it becomes clear that supernatural forces have been at work here for generations. And now their focus is on making sure Dani and Tommy don't interfere.

Average Customer Rating:
4.455 out of 5
4.5
 out of 
5
(11 Reviews) 11
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11 out of 11100%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Review 1 for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Overall Rating: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5

Supernatural Warfare - Remniscent of Peretti

Date:December 14, 2012
Customer Avatar
luv2readjen
Location:Lisle, IL
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Value: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
The East Salem Trilogy is a great series (so far) with elements of mystery and supernatural embedded in an action-packed adventure. The books offer both a picture of evil and demons, but also the very real images of angels, who are part of the redemption story. Portions of the story bring to mind the Peretti novels This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness, in that there are towns that are experiencing a very definitive spiritual attack. However, the visions of Peretti and Wiehl differ and bring unique perspectives to similar concepts.
This particular book, which is the second in the series, focuses on a local private school in East Salem, New York, and how its benefactors and alum seem to be engaged in some nefarious activity – including murder. Demons are using the men who run the school to move forward with their agenda – and people who are either accidentally or purposefully engaged in thwarting that agenda are at risk and in danger. The main character of the series, Dani Harris is a forensic psychiatrist who is working with a few trusted people to understand the truth about the supernatural aspects, while at the same time working with the police to understand what is happening in the natural realm. The story is deep and engaging, and the spiritual warfare is powerful and realistic.
Lis Wiehl has a great ability to turn the amazing aspects of battles between good and evil into a very plausible real world story. I definitely enjoyed the first two books (I had to get the first one in the series myself once I realized this was part of a trilogy) and I cannot wait for the third. I want to see how everything falls together. Even though I know who wins, it’s fun to speculate about the manner and means in which the actual war takes place.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
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Review 2 for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Overall Rating: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5

Great book about Good vs Evil

Date:November 21, 2012
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Janet P
Location:El Cajon, CA
Quality: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Darkness Rising is book two of the East Salem Trilogy written by Lis Wiehl with Pete Nelson. Dani Harris is a forensic psychiatrist and Tommy Gunderson is her "assistant" who is also a former football player and minor celebrity. They previously solved a murder that was committed by a student at St. Adrian’s Academy (school for boys) and return to the school to find out what's really happening there. Dani and Tommy soon discover there are supernatural forces at work at the school and the forces start working to prevent them from finding out the truth.I really enjoyed reading this book and liked the main characters and the story. Don't feel that you need to read the first novel in the series before starting this one.The storyline stands on its own and a lot of the characters' backgrounds and what happened previously is covered in this book. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading a good vs evil story. Looking forward to reading book three! Thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishers for the copy.
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Review 3 for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Overall Rating: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5

Mystery, Adventure, Danger, Romance Thriller

Date:November 17, 2012
Customer Avatar
VicsMediaRoom
Location:Irvine, CA
Age:55-65
Gender:male
Quality: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Lis Wiehl with Pete Nelson in their new book, “Darkness Rising” Book Two in the East Salem series published by Thomas Nelson introduces us to the town of East Salem.
From the back cover: The evil in East Salem is no longer content to hide in the shadows. The stakes—and the darkness—are rising.
Dani Harris thought there wasn’t much left that could surprise her after serving as a forensic psychiatrist in East Salem. And Tommy Gunderson has faced few challenges in his life that he couldn’t overcome by either physical strength or his celebrity status.
But as they race to uncover what’s really happening behind the high walls of St. Adrian’s Academy, it becomes clear that supernatural forces have been at work here for generations. And now those forces are intent on making sure Dani and Tommy don’t interfere.
When the unseen becomes seen, faith is the only weapon strong enough to fight in a battle involving not just murder and betrayal—but angels and demons.
They just solved one mystery, now they have found there is an even bigger mystery. Just when they thought they could breathe Forensic psychiatrist Dani Harris and private investigator Tommy Gunderson find a new threat that is even more dangerous than what they just solved. For this one they need help and increase the team by two, both of their ex-fiancés. However, as the fore-some uncover the necessary evidence they need they also draw the attention of dark, unwanted forces against them. “Darkness Rising” is a thriller, which simply means that everyone is in grave danger from, practically, the beginning. The authors give us a really complex mystery and sections of story that will chill you. ”Darkness Rising” is full of twists and turns, with a few red herrings thrown in just to cause confusion. Dani and Tommy are warm and likable and we get engaged in their lives. This is an exciting book, extremely well paced and suspenseful. I am enjoying this series and look forward to the conclusion.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Review 4 for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Overall Rating: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5

Loved it!

Date:October 10, 2012
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RonieK
Location:Virginia
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
DARKNESS RISING is a thrilling sequel in the East Salem series. Having read the first book, WAKING HOURS, I have to admit I sort of held my breath as I approached DARKNESS RISING because the first book barely touched the supernatural elements, which was a smidge disappointing. But fears be quieted! This book had an awesome supernatural thread--and I'm still a bit embarrassed at how giddy I got at the appearance of Swiss Army knives. . .with attachments. I'll never look at a pocketknife the same way (you'll have to read it to get that). Also, I thoroughly enjoyed the deeper spiritual elements found in DARKNESS RISING that perfectly complemented the supernatural ones. The absolutely compelling plot drove the story and characters through to a very satisfying ending with a promise of an exciting conclusion to the series with the third installment. Characters, with such unique professions as pro football and forensic psychiatrists can often come across as cliché or trite, but Wiehl and Nelson do a phenomenal job in keeping these characters unique and entertaining. I loved the intricate histories woven into the story that drive the mysteries and ultimately the darkness that rises is very a la Da Vinci Code but were also incredibly fascinating and had me Googling the various artists and pieces mentioned like the triptych. I adore books that make me learn something! Truly--one of the best yet by Wiehl! I cannot wait for FINAL TIDE.
I received this book as part of the BookSneeze program with the only agreement hat I would read and offer my honest review, which I have.
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Review 5 for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Overall Rating: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5

The Unseen becomes Seen

Date:October 3, 2012
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Vicky
Location:Lafayette, Indiana
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Value: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Darkness Rising is the second book of the East Salem Trilogy and as the title suggests, it is truly a supernatural suspense book. I am still trying to figure out if I liked it or not. It was good is spots and in spots I felt lost. This book continues the evil that lurks in East Salem except with a new twist. Dani Harris is a forensic psychiatrist and Tommy Gunderson is a ex football player from the first book and they are romantically involved as this story continues. They are trying to uncover what is happening at the St. Adrian's Academy with strange events happening and a death. Dani and Tommy are given clues by an older lady who has researched the supernatural forces at work in the town for generations. They must find out who and what is behind the evil and the battle of angels and demons come full force against each other throughout this story. When the unseen becomes seen. faith is the only weapon strong enough to fight a battle of murder and betrayal and angels and demons. More characters are enlisted to help this cause and a lot of science dealing with the brain, chemicals relating to autism and brain tumors left me completely in left field. I found that part not very interesting and made the storyline drag for me.
The authors have researched the supernatural, angels and demons and crafted a supernatural suspense with a lot of historical parts woven in the story. They did leave you hanging on the last page and now we have to wait a year till this storyline ends-bummer.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson for sending this book free of charge just for my honest opinion.
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Review 6 for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Overall Rating: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5

great nail biter that will keep you reading

Date:October 2, 2012
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shannon
Location:midwest
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
This book is great! I am abig fan of Liz, she writes the type of books I love! Those books that keep you up till all hours of the night, have you sneaking in moments to read. The type of book that has you jump at a noise outside or biting your nails in anticipation! Darkness Rising is one of them and more! While I was worried I hadn't read book 1 of the East Salem series, I was able to follow along and never felt lost. I now have book 1 from the library and plan to read it! I just love Liz Wiehl books and have never been disappointed in one! Looking for a great book then grab this one, it's available today! (October 2)
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Review 7 for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Overall Rating: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5

Date:October 1, 2012
Customer Avatar
Anonymous
Location:Columbus, GA
Gender:female
Quality: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
"Darkness Rising," Lis Wiehl’s sequel to "Waking Hours," is a fascinating read. A supernatural thriller set in East Salem, it picks up where "Waking Hours" left off. Though the main characters, Dani and Tommy, solved the mystery of the first book, they quickly discover there is a mystery behind the mystery yet unsolved. Further, the fate of the world may depend on them, with the help of friends and relatives unwittingly drawn into the quest, stopping events being put into motion by the forces of darkness rising. As "Darkness Rising" is Book Two of a trilogy, this book also concludes at a satisfying moment, while leaving the reader eager to get hold of the final book, "Final Tide," due out in September of 2013.
In case you can’t tell, I am really enjoying this series. The characters, both new and old, are fascinating and unexpected. I liked how Wiehl and her co-author, Pete Nelson, chose to have them come together and how they related in positive ways under extreme circumstances. Discussions between Dani and Quinn about how people’s brains work and how chemicals can affect them and how these relate to autism, teenage hormones, and brain tumors were intriguing and clearly explained. I also appreciated the subtle historical thread--with an obvious fictional bent. Wiehl and Nelson researched quite a variety of non-fiction topics to enhance this great fictional book.
I thank Thomas Nelson Publishers for sending a complimentary copy for this honest review. I recommend this book to fans of supernatural mysteries.
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Review 8 for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Overall Rating: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5

Riveting, skillfully written read!

Date:September 30, 2012
Customer Avatar
Christianfictionaddiction
Quality: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
The East Salem series begun with "Waking Hours" continues in the second installment, "Darkness Rising". Forensic psychiatrist Dani Harris and private investigator Tommy Gunderson continue in their race to uncover the truth of what's happening behind the walls of St. Adrian's Academy. As they delve ever deeper into the mysteries surrounding the school, they discover that the truth is far more encompassing than they thought, revealing supernatural forces at work that have been spreading their influence for generations. Soon Dani and Tommy find themselves questioning who they can trust and battling with angels and demons in a true showdown of good versus evil.
I found Darkness Rising to be a riveting, skillfully written read, quickly absorbing me into the chilling world of East Salem. I loved the blend of hidden mysteries, supernatural suspense, and the ties to historical events. The writing is taut and fast-paced, and truly made it hard for me to be able to close the book for any length of time and tend to the world around me. I'm really enjoying the relationship continuing to unfold between Dani and Tommy, with just the right hint of romance that will appeal to a broad base of readers without being over the top. The dialogue is solid, moving the story forward while containing moments of humour that actually made me laugh out loud.
I have enjoyed every moment of the series so far, and am greatly impressed with the writing talents of Lis Wiehl and Pete Nelson. Readers who have enjoyed previous books from Lis Wiehl, and those who enjoy thrillers and mysteries with a supernatural undertone, are going to absolutely love this book. I did! 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Thomas Nelson, and the Booksneeze program, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
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Review 9 for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Overall Rating: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5

Darkness Rising

Date:September 29, 2012
Customer Avatar
TNMil
Darkness Rising, the second book in The East Salem Trilogy, is the newest book by Lis Wiehl, and it was as just as much of a page-turner as the other books she has written in the past. Dani Harris, a forensic psychiatrist, and Tommy Gunderson, a previous football player, are the main characters in this story, who were also in the original East Salem book. They are at St. Adrian’s Academy investigating the strange events that occurred, including a mysterious death.
Unfortunately, the book ended with a cliffhanger, and I’ll have to wait until the last book in the series comes out! Lis Wiehl’s books always keep me interested, and I really enjoyed this book and the focus on angels and demons. I cannot wait to see how the series will end!!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Booksneeze.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
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Review 10 for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Overall Rating: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5

Evil Walks the Streets of East Salem

Date:September 29, 2012
Customer Avatar
Nfam
Location:Morriston, Florida
Age:Over 65
Gender:female
Quality: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Value: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
5 out of 5
5 out of 5
Tommy and Dani are still pursuing the murder of Julie Leonard. They know Amos Kasden was the murderer, but the reason remains unclear. Although they find it hard to believe, St Adrian's Academy is becoming increasingly a focus of suspicion. A student contacts Dani but wont identify himself. He says the students are being subjected to pharmaceutical tests, but he won't participate and surreptitiously gives her a copy of the pill they're using. Things escalate as Dani and Tommy begin to doubt each other and there are signs that the demons have invaded East Salem. But who sent them?
I enjoyed this book. It's a combination of mystery, fantasy and science fiction with a religious base. The characters are likeable. In fact, I liked them better in this book than the previous book. Dani and Tommy seem more real.
The underlying theme is that we must be ready to fight for our beliefs, particularly our belief in the power of God and Jesus Christ. If we do this we will be saved. I find the messages particularly important in the present universe of terrorism, lies and deceit.
I recommend this book. It's the second book in the Easy Salem Triology. I can't wait to read the ending.
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Review 11 for Darkness Rising, East Salem Trilogy Series #2
Overall Rating: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5

Date:September 14, 2012
Customer Avatar
Anonymous
Location:San Antonio
Age:55-65
Gender:female
Quality: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Value: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
Meets Expectations: 
4 out of 5
4 out of 5
The evil in East Salem is no longer content to hide in the shadows. The stakes—and the darkness—are rising.
Dani Harris thought there wasn’t much left that could surprise her after serving as a forensic psychiatrist. Tommy Gunderson has faced few challenges in his life that he couldn’t overcome by either physical strength or his celebrity status.
They race to uncover what’s really happening behind the high walls of St. Adrian’s Academy, it becomes clear that supernatural forces have been at work here for generations. When the unseen becomes seen, faith is the only weapon strong enough to fight in a battle involving not just murder and betrayal—but angels and demons.
Wiehl’s latest is a supernatural thriller guaranteed to keep you turning the pages and with just enough romance to keep it interesting. Just when you are able to take a breath and think you are at the end there is still about 20 pages still to go. As you are deeply interested to find closure the unthinkable happens…to be continued. I will have to buy the next book to see what happens.
This book is scary enough to recognize how real it could be. I would recommend you read the book early in the afternoon and not right before bed.
I received a free copy of eBook from Thomas Nelson as part of their Booksneeze Blogger program.
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