[Blurb goes here]

Webster, the sequel to the haunted house/horror story "Smithy" (3.58 stars on Goodreads), takes readers on a chilling journey as Smithy, the sign language communicating chimpanzee, faces new horrors in a California research lab (CSAM).

Following the tragic events in Rhode Island, Smithy's handlers relocate to the lab, hoping to care for him. However, a sinister force seems to have tagged along, creating an atmosphere of unease and suspense.

The narrative unfolds through a unique blend of diary entries, letters, CCTV footage, recordings, interviews with scientists, and more. While this format adds an intriguing layer to the storytelling, it's not without its challenges, especially for readers navigating the story.

One stumbling block for me was the shifting points of view. The small narrations seemed to dance to their own rhythm, not always following the same rules as the preceding or subsequent sections. This made it a bit like trying to navigate a highway filled with potholes. Each perspective switch felt like a jolt, interrupting the flow and making it hard for me to fully immerse in the story.

Despite the narrative hurdles, the overall adventure and characters managed to keep me interested. The plot unfolds like a mystery, keeping you on edge, eager to uncover the secrets behind Smithy's eerie experiences.

While I would have gladly given this story five stars for its captivating plot and characters, the constant interruptions created by the disjointed narrative structure held me back.

Thank you for the advanced copy!

Smithy returns, once again in epistolary form, in this sequel set a short while after the events of the first novel. Moving from the old manor setting of the first to a research laboratory, we follow the signing chimp as he adjusts to his new confines and begins to exhibit signs that perhaps a dark entity may have followed him to his new home.

A good, creepy follow up to the original, if a bit heavy in courtroom drama in the back half of the book. Highly recommended, must read the first however!

**I was given a copy of this book by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to Inkshares and Netgalley**

I was so intrigued by the blur band the unique spin on a horror tale. But this was slow, too slow. I tried to slog through so much unnecessary tangents but couldn't do it. Would love to read a more condensed version with a quicker pace.