Member Reviews
Unfortunately this is the third book in this series and I haven’t read the other two. I definitely think reading the other books was important, however I could follow along.
"The Last Door" by Sheila Lowe is a hauntingly atmospheric tale that delves deep into the mysteries of a seemingly innocuous inheritance. Jenna's skepticism clashes with Jessica's curiosity as they embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of their newfound estate. From the moment they arrive, it's clear that something supernatural lurks within the walls of the house, leaving readers on edge as they unravel its chilling history.
Jessica's psychic abilities add an intriguing layer to the narrative, allowing readers to experience the eerie phenomena alongside her. As she grapples with her visions and impressions, the tension builds, drawing readers further into the mystery of the haunted house. The warning from the housekeeper about the last door in the corridor sets the stage for spine-tingling encounters and heart-pounding suspense.
The enigmatic Mr. Evanov and the spectral inhabitants of the house raise countless questions that demand answers. Who are these restless spirits, and what do they seek in the mortal realm? Lowe masterfully keeps readers guessing as they navigate the tangled web of family secrets and ghostly apparitions.
The dynamic between Jessica and her sister Jenna adds depth to the story, with their conflicting desires driving the narrative forward. While Jessica is determined to uncover the truth, Jenna's skepticism serves as a stark contrast, fueling the tension between them. The addition of Jessica's boyfriend Sage adds another dimension to the story, as he joins her in her quest to confront the malevolent spirit threatening her life.
Overall, "The Last Door" is a gripping paranormal mystery that will leave readers breathless with anticipation. Sheila Lowe's evocative prose and intricate plotting create a chilling atmosphere that lingers long after the final page is turned. If you're a fan of supernatural thrillers that keep you guessing until the very end, this book is a must-read.
The Last Door by Sheila Lowe is the third book of the Beyond the Veil series (see Gumshoe Review for reviews of What She Saw and Proof of Life). Jessica Mack and her identical twin, Jenna Sparks, are shocked to learn they have inherited an estate, Herron Pond, from Vadim Evanov, a man they have never met or even heard of. As far as they know, he's a complete stranger to them. They may be twins but their personalities are very different, Jessica is intrigued and can't wait to see the house while Jenna thinks it is some kind of scam.
Jenna is even more distrustful when they learn that there's a trust that will pay for servants, upkeep, and taxes. Jenna wants to sell sight unseen. Jessica insists they drive up to see what it looks like. She asks Jessica if she's getting any woo woo vibes about this inheritance. There are flashes but nothing definite. Jessica has been dealing with these visions, impressions, and insights ever since she was in a car accident and suffered a traumatic head injury. Nevertheless, they travel to Big Sur to check out the estate and house.
Putting two and two together, I'm sure you guessed it. The house is haunted. Jessica believes there is more than one spirit at play in the house. The housekeeper warned them to never open the last door in the corridor. It seems the house has a new wing--seemingly free of spirits--and the main house, is definitely haunted and one of the ghosts wants them out of there.
Who was Mr. Evanov and why did he leave them the house? Who are the spirits that remain in the house? What are the spirits waiting for? Are they dangerous? More importantly, what is going on with the combative and surly groundskeeper/handyman and the estate agent that doesn't seem to be telling them all she knows about the house? Things are definitely not as they seem.
Jessica believes she and her sister are somehow related to what is going on in the house. She plans to stay for a while to try to figure it out. Jenna plans to get away from the house as soon as possible and never return.
Jessica hopes to find the answers to some of these questions and she asks her boyfriend, Sage Boles, to join her and help determine how to clear the house of these restless spirits or at least the one that seems bent on killing her.
paranormal, suspense, romantic, mysteries, psychics, unputdownable, riveting, psychological, spirits, haunting, witty, family-drama, family-dynamics, inheritance, inner-strength, integrity, interpersonal-problems, twins*****
The publisher's blurb was a definitely good hook for me and I find no need to recap the story.
The characters are fascinating and the plot twists amazing. I enjoyed every minute of it!
I requested and received an EARC from Write Choice Ink via NetGalley. Thank you!
Third book, I have read the previous books, but I do think it can be a standalone as the relevant details are covered here. Twisty turns mystery about a mansion inherited by twin sisters, one who loves the place and the other wants nothing to do with it when the first get to the house. They know nothing of the person who leaves everything to the sisters, so the first mystery to solve, then the fact there are spirits in the house that aren't too quiet gives us another set of mysteries. Entertaining, I kept reading to find how it would all come together. At times the writing seems to stretch out the book, but in all lots of adventures in the finding out how everything correlates to the twins.
Part 3 of the series Beyond the Veil. A ghost story full of evil spirits, nasty people and a haunted house with mysterious music playing. I loved it. It covered everything I love about a ghost story. One of my favourite classical pieces of music “Fur Elise” was constantly being played.
Jessica Mack and her twin sister inherit a mansion from Vadim Evanov. They do not know him or why he left the mansion to them. Know-one will give them any information about Vadim Evanov.
Jessica and her sister Jenna visit the house. Jessica feels evil spirits in the house but wants to find out who lived in the house and what happened to them.
Fast paced and full of action. A ghost story about family relationships, adoption and identity.
Horribly written and desperately needs an editor before I even want to attempt reading and deciphering this again.
I received a free copy of, The Last Door, by Sheila Lowe, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book 3 in the Beyond the Veil Mysteries, Jessica is a medium, she can see and hear dead people. I really enjoyed this book, I have not read the other books in the series though. Jessica is staying at a Victorian house that haunted, the ghosts and people she meets, wow.
When identical twins inherit a Victorian mansion from a stranger, the bequest changes everything they knew about their past.
The house at Herron Pond is no stranger to tragedy. Accidental death. A devastating fire. Suicide.
Are the reports of supernatural activity the persistent gossip of visitors and staff? Or are the chilling tales true?
Jessica Mack is not afraid of ghosts. She has been communicating with the spirit world since last year, when she was forced to surrender to her psychic gifts. Since then, she has used those gifts to help the FBI, and to answer voices from the Other Side asking for favors. Most of the requests are poignant “tell my wife I’m sorry for the way I behaved.” “Let my son know I love him.”
But a dark presence lurks at the Victorian mansion, demanding more from her. Much more.
* Who was Vadim Evanov and why did he leave his entire estate to the twin sisters?
* Why was she warned not to enter the last door on the second-floor landing?
* Why does Beethoven’s wistful composition, Fur Elise, keep haunting her?
Jessica's visit to the Big Sur estate is a search for answers. She must uncover the truth before another catastrophe strikes Herron Pond one that could end her life.
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank you NetGalley and Write Choice Ink
I just reviewed The Last Door by Sheila Lowe. #TheLastDoor #NetGalley
The plot and mystery are interesting. While this is the third and last book in a series, I have only read this one, and feel that it is very readable as a stand-alone. The ending is satisfying. I find that the pace is quite slow and feels a bit overdrawn. Other than that, it is an entertaining read.
Background: The Veil is a land of mists. It is a curtain that separates our world from another world. The way through the curtain is called “The Last Door”. When identical twins inherit a Victorian mansion from a stranger, the bequest changes everything they knew about their past.
I was on the edge of my seat while reading this book. I don't usually read supernatural fiction, but I do love a good thriller. I'm glad to say I wasn't disappointed with this book and will be looking up more Sheila Lowe books to read for the month of October!
This ARC was provided to me via Kindle, from Write Choice Ink and #NetGalley. Thank you for the opportunity to preview and review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
The third book in the Beyond the Veil series. Suspense, turns and twists that keep you reading