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The Keeper
When a famous artist is kidnapped, the only one who can save him has a body no one can see, and a voice few can hear.
Angel, spirit, or ghost—the Keeper doesn’t know exactly what he is. But he knows he needs to protect Michael Delacroix, a famous artist who is kidnapped and locked in a windowless room deep beneath a Napa Valley vineyard.
Desperate to save the only person who knows he exists, the Keeper uses his abilities to convince two strong-willed women to search for Michael: a reporter who thinks her visions are signs from the Universe, and a nun who swears she hears the voice of God.
Together they close in on the kidnapper—a psychotic killer who also hears a voice inside his head, pushing him toward murder. But once the Keeper learns the tragic reason he feels so connected to Michael, is it too late to save him?
Finalist for the Claymore Award
Angel, spirit, or ghost—the Keeper doesn’t know exactly what he is. But he knows he needs to protect Michael Delacroix, a famous artist who is kidnapped and locked in a windowless room deep beneath a Napa Valley vineyard.
Desperate to save the only person who knows he exists, the Keeper uses his abilities to convince two strong-willed women to search for Michael: a reporter who thinks her visions are signs from the Universe, and a nun who swears she hears the voice of God.
Together they close in on the kidnapper—a psychotic killer who also hears a voice inside his head, pushing him toward murder. But once the Keeper learns the tragic reason he feels so connected to Michael, is it too late to save him?
Finalist for the Claymore Award
254 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
May 6, 2019
I was pulled into this book from the first page. The premise of "an entity" who is as clueless who it is as we are introduces itself and gets the ball rolling. This entity becomes known as "the keeper." I loved the way this story progressed along with the keeper itself.
Many scenes had my heart racing as I was unsure of a negative or fatal outcome for one of the characters. It was written in such a way that I definitely connected with every character, even the not-so-good guys. T.F. Allen does not miss a beat in his debut novel and I am excited for more to come!
4 stars! A semi-supernatural thriller with action and heart! Thank you to the author for this book in exchange for an honest review!
Many scenes had my heart racing as I was unsure of a negative or fatal outcome for one of the characters. It was written in such a way that I definitely connected with every character, even the not-so-good guys. T.F. Allen does not miss a beat in his debut novel and I am excited for more to come!
4 stars! A semi-supernatural thriller with action and heart! Thank you to the author for this book in exchange for an honest review!
January 10, 2019
The Keeper, T. F. Allen's debut novel and finalist for the Claymore Award, is a hybrid of the thriller and paranormal genres and brings a unique twist to the same old, same old. This was a wonderfully refreshing tale that was fast-paced and ever so fascinating. The action barely stops and you hurtle along. Before long you realise you've read it all in a single, fun-filled and entertaining session. This storyline makes use of the well-recycled, yet still wholly enjoyable, Good vs. Evil concept, and each of the characters are on either one side or the other of this age-old ruckus. From then on paranormal elements are explored, I don't want to say too much as that would spoil it for potential readers, suffice to say that it's very compelling and immersive.
The complex nature of the plot and the twists and turns that appear throughout both propel the book forward and give you food for thought. Because of some of the twists being rather silly and ever so slightly ludicrous and the killer being a complete madman you need to be able to suspend your disbelief quite heftily here to continue to enjoy it, but what is fiction for if not to push the boundaries? Written in an easy, readable style with an uneasy claustrophobia and touching emotional scenes, this is worth picking up if you're a fan of writers such as Joe Hart, Marcus Sakey and Blake Crouch.
Many thanks to Weapenry Co-Op for an ARC.
The complex nature of the plot and the twists and turns that appear throughout both propel the book forward and give you food for thought. Because of some of the twists being rather silly and ever so slightly ludicrous and the killer being a complete madman you need to be able to suspend your disbelief quite heftily here to continue to enjoy it, but what is fiction for if not to push the boundaries? Written in an easy, readable style with an uneasy claustrophobia and touching emotional scenes, this is worth picking up if you're a fan of writers such as Joe Hart, Marcus Sakey and Blake Crouch.
Many thanks to Weapenry Co-Op for an ARC.
February 20, 2019
3.5 Stars
This is a ghost story .... told by the ghost. But is he really a ghost? Could he be an angel sent to watch over Michael, a famous artist who was kidnapped after he destroyed his most famous painting.
The keeper, alone, knows where Michael was taken and he must use his abilities to convince two women to look for him. One is is reporter who thinks her visions are signs and the other is a nun who thinks she hears the voice of God.
Book Blurb: Together they close in on the kidnapper--a psychotic killer who also hears a voice inside his head, pushing him toward murder. But once the Keeper learns the tragic reason he feels so connected to Michael, is it too late to save him?
This was an intriguing story... very unique in that the story is told through the ghost. There's a lot of action, many twists and turns leading to a very satisfactory ending. A bit different from my preferred genre, this held my interest from the very beginning, through the suspenseful middle, to the very last page.
Many thanks to the author / Netgalley for the digital copy of this paranormal thriller. Opinons expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
This is a ghost story .... told by the ghost. But is he really a ghost? Could he be an angel sent to watch over Michael, a famous artist who was kidnapped after he destroyed his most famous painting.
The keeper, alone, knows where Michael was taken and he must use his abilities to convince two women to look for him. One is is reporter who thinks her visions are signs and the other is a nun who thinks she hears the voice of God.
Book Blurb: Together they close in on the kidnapper--a psychotic killer who also hears a voice inside his head, pushing him toward murder. But once the Keeper learns the tragic reason he feels so connected to Michael, is it too late to save him?
This was an intriguing story... very unique in that the story is told through the ghost. There's a lot of action, many twists and turns leading to a very satisfactory ending. A bit different from my preferred genre, this held my interest from the very beginning, through the suspenseful middle, to the very last page.
Many thanks to the author / Netgalley for the digital copy of this paranormal thriller. Opinons expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
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January 22, 2019The Keeper by T.F Allen is a psychological thriller with a supernatural twist.
You don’t want to miss this one!
First, let me thank NetGalley, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis:
Michael Delacroix is an artist whose painting entitled “Jolene” introduced him to the world, and now hangs in a museum in Chicago. When Michael snaps and destroys the painting, everyone wants to know why. Shortly after the incident, Michael is kidnapped by a psychotic killer, but no one sees.
Meet Sister Mary Elizabeth, who swore to keep Michael safe, at any cost, since she found him in a dumpster when he was a baby. She is the first to notice Michael’s absence and immediately boards a plane.
Meet Reporter Hannah Klein, who needs to find the truth in any story, and to find it first. Although she doesn’t believe in God, she does believe that the Universe directs her. She meets Sister Mary Elizabeth, and they discover a recording of Michael’s kidnapping. They take it to the police, but decide to find him on their own.
Meet The Keeper. You could call him a spirit, or maybe an angel, but he doesn’t really know what he is. He has been with Michael since birth, and his only reason for being there is to keep Michael safe. Only Michael can hear him when he talks, but The Keeper is able to travel into other’s minds, and that is how he is going to help Michael. By entering the kidnapper’s mind, he knows his plans. By entering the minds of the nun and reporter, he will leave clues. This should work, if they follow the clues.
You don't really want to meet the Kidnapper. His mind is filled with anger...and something else.
My Opinions:
Can’t believe this is a debut novel. This author is one to watch!
Todd Allen created wonderful, deep, and very “real” characters, that the reader could easily love or hate. Good vs Evil, and no in-between. It was interesting to see their strengths grow as the story developed, and I think they all learned something about themselves.
The story was fresh, action-packed, and fast-paced. There were no lulls. I didn’t want to put it down.
Highly recommend this book…..and I want more from this author!!
For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
You don’t want to miss this one!
First, let me thank NetGalley, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis:
Michael Delacroix is an artist whose painting entitled “Jolene” introduced him to the world, and now hangs in a museum in Chicago. When Michael snaps and destroys the painting, everyone wants to know why. Shortly after the incident, Michael is kidnapped by a psychotic killer, but no one sees.
Meet Sister Mary Elizabeth, who swore to keep Michael safe, at any cost, since she found him in a dumpster when he was a baby. She is the first to notice Michael’s absence and immediately boards a plane.
Meet Reporter Hannah Klein, who needs to find the truth in any story, and to find it first. Although she doesn’t believe in God, she does believe that the Universe directs her. She meets Sister Mary Elizabeth, and they discover a recording of Michael’s kidnapping. They take it to the police, but decide to find him on their own.
Meet The Keeper. You could call him a spirit, or maybe an angel, but he doesn’t really know what he is. He has been with Michael since birth, and his only reason for being there is to keep Michael safe. Only Michael can hear him when he talks, but The Keeper is able to travel into other’s minds, and that is how he is going to help Michael. By entering the kidnapper’s mind, he knows his plans. By entering the minds of the nun and reporter, he will leave clues. This should work, if they follow the clues.
You don't really want to meet the Kidnapper. His mind is filled with anger...and something else.
My Opinions:
Can’t believe this is a debut novel. This author is one to watch!
Todd Allen created wonderful, deep, and very “real” characters, that the reader could easily love or hate. Good vs Evil, and no in-between. It was interesting to see their strengths grow as the story developed, and I think they all learned something about themselves.
The story was fresh, action-packed, and fast-paced. There were no lulls. I didn’t want to put it down.
Highly recommend this book…..and I want more from this author!!
For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
April 29, 2019
*I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.*
T.F. Allen arrives on the literary scene with his outstanding debut novel The Keeper. A hybrid of psychological thriller and paranormal, The Keeper is a unique and fresh twist on the overused ghost trope. With an intriguing plot, a small, but colorful and interesting cast of characters, and so many twists it will leave your head spinning, The Keeper is one mysterious tale that will not disappoint!
When Michael, a famous painter, destroys his most beloved piece of work out of rage, he is kidnapped by an obsessed madman. He is held prisoner in a windowless room, forced to create more work and teach his kidnapper how to paint the way he does, or else. The probem is, no one saw Michael being kidnapped. No one, except the narrator that calls himself “The Keeper”. He doesn't know what he is. A ghost? A guardian angel? What he does know is that he has been with Michael since his birth and has to protect Michael at all costs. But the only person who can communicate with The Keeper is Michael. But what he can also do is jump into peoples minds and see what they are thinking and he is able to plant ideas or clues into their heads as well. If only they would listen. His first try is with Sister Mary Elizabeth, a Nun who found Michael in a dumpster when he was a baby. The second is Hannah Klein, a reporter desperate for a story. One thinks God is speaking to them, one thinks she is following signs from the universe, both find each other and are determined to find Michael. As the killer is growing more impatient and is hearing voices in his head, urging him to kill Michael, The Keeper is desperately trying to lead the two women to the kidnapper. But once The Keeper learns the tragic reason he feels so connected to Michael, will it be too late to save him?
This book is an emotional roller coaster! There is suspense, action, mystery, terror, heartbreak! You feel a bit of everything when reading this book, and that's not a bad thing. I thought this was a very well rounded story, that covered multiple scenarios that would solicate all of these reactions.
The plot was definitely original, especially with the narrator not even knowing who or what he is. But this worked in the books favor. The complex nature of the plot moves the story along at a steady, sometimes brisk pace and in a way that always keeps the readers curiousity and interest piqued. Who is The Keeper? What is his connection to Michael? Why can only Michael hear him? These are a few questions you will be asking yourself along the way. Searching for the answers, which are eventually revealed.
As for the characters, Michael is your typical angsty artist, but with good reason to be. Sister Mary and Hannah are quite the dynamic duo! At times they will make your eyes roll, but they are over all very endearing and likable. All of the characters become much more developed as the story goes on and The Keeper and Michael start to discover who they really are. Allen did a great job at describing the feelings of each character. He brought out raw emotions from his characters, and that's seldom seen done so well.
Also, because The Keeper can jump into people's heads and see/hear what they are thinking, and he is the narrator, we get interesting perspectives when The Keeper jumps into someone's mind and we are allowed to eavesdrop with him and learn what is twirling about in someone's brain. This ability was put to good use and made the characters more real and as the reader, we understand more why they do what they do and what their real motivations are.
The Keeper is a fantastic debut by T.F Allen, that takes the classic Good vs. Evil trope and turns it squarely on it's head. The story flowed with ease and Allen left us with plenty of jaw dropping moments. Thrilling, exciting, tense, and even heartwarming, The Keeper is a solid psychological thriller that will hold your attention from the very beginning to the very end. A definite must read!
T.F. Allen arrives on the literary scene with his outstanding debut novel The Keeper. A hybrid of psychological thriller and paranormal, The Keeper is a unique and fresh twist on the overused ghost trope. With an intriguing plot, a small, but colorful and interesting cast of characters, and so many twists it will leave your head spinning, The Keeper is one mysterious tale that will not disappoint!
When Michael, a famous painter, destroys his most beloved piece of work out of rage, he is kidnapped by an obsessed madman. He is held prisoner in a windowless room, forced to create more work and teach his kidnapper how to paint the way he does, or else. The probem is, no one saw Michael being kidnapped. No one, except the narrator that calls himself “The Keeper”. He doesn't know what he is. A ghost? A guardian angel? What he does know is that he has been with Michael since his birth and has to protect Michael at all costs. But the only person who can communicate with The Keeper is Michael. But what he can also do is jump into peoples minds and see what they are thinking and he is able to plant ideas or clues into their heads as well. If only they would listen. His first try is with Sister Mary Elizabeth, a Nun who found Michael in a dumpster when he was a baby. The second is Hannah Klein, a reporter desperate for a story. One thinks God is speaking to them, one thinks she is following signs from the universe, both find each other and are determined to find Michael. As the killer is growing more impatient and is hearing voices in his head, urging him to kill Michael, The Keeper is desperately trying to lead the two women to the kidnapper. But once The Keeper learns the tragic reason he feels so connected to Michael, will it be too late to save him?
This book is an emotional roller coaster! There is suspense, action, mystery, terror, heartbreak! You feel a bit of everything when reading this book, and that's not a bad thing. I thought this was a very well rounded story, that covered multiple scenarios that would solicate all of these reactions.
The plot was definitely original, especially with the narrator not even knowing who or what he is. But this worked in the books favor. The complex nature of the plot moves the story along at a steady, sometimes brisk pace and in a way that always keeps the readers curiousity and interest piqued. Who is The Keeper? What is his connection to Michael? Why can only Michael hear him? These are a few questions you will be asking yourself along the way. Searching for the answers, which are eventually revealed.
As for the characters, Michael is your typical angsty artist, but with good reason to be. Sister Mary and Hannah are quite the dynamic duo! At times they will make your eyes roll, but they are over all very endearing and likable. All of the characters become much more developed as the story goes on and The Keeper and Michael start to discover who they really are. Allen did a great job at describing the feelings of each character. He brought out raw emotions from his characters, and that's seldom seen done so well.
Also, because The Keeper can jump into people's heads and see/hear what they are thinking, and he is the narrator, we get interesting perspectives when The Keeper jumps into someone's mind and we are allowed to eavesdrop with him and learn what is twirling about in someone's brain. This ability was put to good use and made the characters more real and as the reader, we understand more why they do what they do and what their real motivations are.
The Keeper is a fantastic debut by T.F Allen, that takes the classic Good vs. Evil trope and turns it squarely on it's head. The story flowed with ease and Allen left us with plenty of jaw dropping moments. Thrilling, exciting, tense, and even heartwarming, The Keeper is a solid psychological thriller that will hold your attention from the very beginning to the very end. A definite must read!
December 19, 2018
I was looking for something to fill my void after watching the Netflix hit Happy and this book completely did that for me.
I was completely hooked from this book from the very beginning. The pacing of this book is fantastic and the cast and crew of this book are great. Each with their own personalities.
I don’t want to give too much away about this book. But if you loved Happy as much as I did then you do not want to miss out on this book as it will satisfy your cravings of more episodes before the new series starts. An amazing craftsman of his work. This book grabbed me from the beginning and I for one will be looking out for more books by this author in the future.
When a famous artist is kidnapped, the only one who can save him has a body no one can see, and a voice few can hear.
Angel, spirit, or ghost—the Keeper doesn’t know exactly what he is. But he knows he needs to protect Michael Delacroix, a famous artist who is kidnapped and locked in a windowless room deep beneath a Napa Valley vineyard.
Desperate to save the only person who knows he exists, the Keeper uses his abilities to convince two strong-willed women to search for Michael: a reporter who thinks her visions are signs from the Universe, and a nun who swears she hears the voice of God.
Together they close in on the kidnapper—a psychotic killer who also hears a voice inside his head, pushing him toward murder. But once the Keeper learns the tragic reason he feels so connected to Michael, is it too late to save him?
I was completely hooked from this book from the very beginning. The pacing of this book is fantastic and the cast and crew of this book are great. Each with their own personalities.
I don’t want to give too much away about this book. But if you loved Happy as much as I did then you do not want to miss out on this book as it will satisfy your cravings of more episodes before the new series starts. An amazing craftsman of his work. This book grabbed me from the beginning and I for one will be looking out for more books by this author in the future.
When a famous artist is kidnapped, the only one who can save him has a body no one can see, and a voice few can hear.
Angel, spirit, or ghost—the Keeper doesn’t know exactly what he is. But he knows he needs to protect Michael Delacroix, a famous artist who is kidnapped and locked in a windowless room deep beneath a Napa Valley vineyard.
Desperate to save the only person who knows he exists, the Keeper uses his abilities to convince two strong-willed women to search for Michael: a reporter who thinks her visions are signs from the Universe, and a nun who swears she hears the voice of God.
Together they close in on the kidnapper—a psychotic killer who also hears a voice inside his head, pushing him toward murder. But once the Keeper learns the tragic reason he feels so connected to Michael, is it too late to save him?
May 26, 2019
So there are plenty of wonderful things to say about this audiobook ranging from the unique character POV to the wonderfully suspenseful plot and the in-depth characters.
The Keeper’s role in life, as far as he can tell, is to watch over a young up and coming artist named Michael. The Keeper doesn’t know what he really is, but for his entire existence, he has made sure that Michael is safe. When Michael is suddenly kidnapped and taken hostage by a jealous artist, The Keeper embarks on a mission to influence people to come to Michael’s rescue. It’s this move that leads him to the truth of who he really is.
As I noted, I adored this audiobook. For some reason, the Keeper reminded me of Castiel from Supernatural and from there I was hooked. This book has all the wonderful things needed for a psychological thriller and even has an unlikely rescue duo of a Wiccan reporter and an elderly Nun.
This book will not disappoint.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
The Keeper’s role in life, as far as he can tell, is to watch over a young up and coming artist named Michael. The Keeper doesn’t know what he really is, but for his entire existence, he has made sure that Michael is safe. When Michael is suddenly kidnapped and taken hostage by a jealous artist, The Keeper embarks on a mission to influence people to come to Michael’s rescue. It’s this move that leads him to the truth of who he really is.
As I noted, I adored this audiobook. For some reason, the Keeper reminded me of Castiel from Supernatural and from there I was hooked. This book has all the wonderful things needed for a psychological thriller and even has an unlikely rescue duo of a Wiccan reporter and an elderly Nun.
This book will not disappoint.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
May 5, 2019
I’m always amazed by the amount of talent is out there in the self published world. Gems that should sparkle in the top of the literary world. This book is one of them. Michael is a tortured artist, depressed and angry but also the top artist of his time. When he destroys his one famous painting in a fit of rage in a museum he sets every thing into motion. He has a guardian though. A Keeper. This spirit has been with him all his life and from whom we get most of the story from in first person narration. A kidnapping, a crazed manic, a secret, a nun and a reporter are all tied together as they race against time to save Michael from an unspeakable end. No spoilers! I so very much enjoyed this book. Strong character development and the supernatural element was perfect without being overwhelming. My only little concern was the ending was a bit predictable, except the first last sentence. I look forward to so many more books by Mr. Allen! Read immediately!
February 26, 2019
The Keeper has an interesting—and in my experience, unique—twist: It’s narrator is a disembodied personality that can lodge in various characters’ minds and experience their thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. He has minimal personal identity and remains invested in the wellbeing of his primary host, a painter named Michael, who has been kidnapped and forced to create new output. The book’s title—The Keeper—refers to this spirit-like orphan, who hops from mind to mind and nudges characters toward their role in the mystery’s solution.
All told, we get action, art, otherworldliness, and fresh insights into the cast’s motivations as the Keeper eavesdrops on their thoughts.
All told, we get action, art, otherworldliness, and fresh insights into the cast’s motivations as the Keeper eavesdrops on their thoughts.
March 13, 2019
When I wasn't reading this book, I was thinking about it. It grabs you from the first page and doesn't let go. Touching, thrilling, scary, heartwarming.... it's an emotional rollercoaster. I loved every minute of it.
April 24, 2020
Great thriller
Terrific thriller with supernaturals elements. Excellent! I read it in a day and a half. Elements of King and Koontz.
Terrific thriller with supernaturals elements. Excellent! I read it in a day and a half. Elements of King and Koontz.
May 20, 2019
( Format : Audiobook )
"I always had a purpose in this world."
Michael, a reclusive artist already considered by many to be the greatist painted of his generation, and hit news headlines when found in the Chicago Art Institute having destroyed his most famous art work, known simply as Jolsne. It depicted the portrait of a young woman, one side of her face slashed with coloured scars. Michael had slashed the entire canvass with a knife, completely killing the picture.
Released from custody, Michael leaves his manager to return to his studio to paint but is, instead, abducted by a rival, a psychotic former art student at the same college as Michael, and jealous of his abilities. His disappearance might well have gone unnoticed for some time, but Michael has a guardian, a Keeper, who did not fully know who or what he was other than he needed to keep Michael safe.
A mystery thriller with a hint of the supernatural, the Keeper is cleverly written in the first person from the Keeper's point of view and since this character has the ability to move effortlessly between places and people, the reader is treated to an all round understanding from each of the small cast of protagonists. Sounds awkward to explain but actually works extremely well. The narrative is also visually bright, as befits a tale whose main characters are.painters. Narration is by B.Harrison who gives a powerfully emotional performance, perfectly in keeping with the story and each of the several protagonists are given clearly distinctive voices in keeping with their characters. It was a pleasure to listen to him read and he added to the overall enjoyment of the book's experience.
I was most fortunate in being freely gifted a complimentary copy of The Keeper, at my request, by the rights holder, via Audiobook Boom. Thank you so much. It is hard to believe that this is a first novel, so well was it presented. It is a story to keep the reader constantly on their metaphorical toes, one which demands there be no stopping along the way. And yet there is still sufficient space for some thoughtful ponderings along the way. Very enjoyable. In fact my only criticism is that the follow-up excerpt from another book, The Night Janitor, does not allow a space between the ending of The Keeper and the sample following it which tended to instantly destroy that good feeling which had been built up.
Good book, well written, good narration, interesting story - buy it, enjoy it, and keep your finger ready for the off switch as the ending comes in sight.
"I always had a purpose in this world."
Michael, a reclusive artist already considered by many to be the greatist painted of his generation, and hit news headlines when found in the Chicago Art Institute having destroyed his most famous art work, known simply as Jolsne. It depicted the portrait of a young woman, one side of her face slashed with coloured scars. Michael had slashed the entire canvass with a knife, completely killing the picture.
Released from custody, Michael leaves his manager to return to his studio to paint but is, instead, abducted by a rival, a psychotic former art student at the same college as Michael, and jealous of his abilities. His disappearance might well have gone unnoticed for some time, but Michael has a guardian, a Keeper, who did not fully know who or what he was other than he needed to keep Michael safe.
A mystery thriller with a hint of the supernatural, the Keeper is cleverly written in the first person from the Keeper's point of view and since this character has the ability to move effortlessly between places and people, the reader is treated to an all round understanding from each of the small cast of protagonists. Sounds awkward to explain but actually works extremely well. The narrative is also visually bright, as befits a tale whose main characters are.painters. Narration is by B.Harrison who gives a powerfully emotional performance, perfectly in keeping with the story and each of the several protagonists are given clearly distinctive voices in keeping with their characters. It was a pleasure to listen to him read and he added to the overall enjoyment of the book's experience.
I was most fortunate in being freely gifted a complimentary copy of The Keeper, at my request, by the rights holder, via Audiobook Boom. Thank you so much. It is hard to believe that this is a first novel, so well was it presented. It is a story to keep the reader constantly on their metaphorical toes, one which demands there be no stopping along the way. And yet there is still sufficient space for some thoughtful ponderings along the way. Very enjoyable. In fact my only criticism is that the follow-up excerpt from another book, The Night Janitor, does not allow a space between the ending of The Keeper and the sample following it which tended to instantly destroy that good feeling which had been built up.
Good book, well written, good narration, interesting story - buy it, enjoy it, and keep your finger ready for the off switch as the ending comes in sight.
December 24, 2019
I went into this book with no idea what I was getting into. I soon thought, "A ghost story told from the ghost's POV...could be interesting." It went beyond that to relationships, connections, and bonds.
Michael has always struggled, he was abandoned at birth, thrown away. But he became a world-famous artist. His most famous painting, that of a woman he had admired but never approached who disappeared one day years ago. When Michael takes a knife to his own painting in a museum, his fame only grows.
But why did he do it? What drove him to create his masterpiece and then destroy it? What happened to Jolene? And who is his Keeper, who watches over him and saves his life?
The twists sometimes were exaggerated and the villain is old school over the top crazy, but who doesn't love that?
Michael has always struggled, he was abandoned at birth, thrown away. But he became a world-famous artist. His most famous painting, that of a woman he had admired but never approached who disappeared one day years ago. When Michael takes a knife to his own painting in a museum, his fame only grows.
But why did he do it? What drove him to create his masterpiece and then destroy it? What happened to Jolene? And who is his Keeper, who watches over him and saves his life?
The twists sometimes were exaggerated and the villain is old school over the top crazy, but who doesn't love that?
September 23, 2019
This is a fast-paced action-packed thriller that is intriguing as well as riveting. I could not put this book down and lost so much sleep before having to go to work!! Yes, I have no will-power to self-regulate when it comes to reading! I was compelled to read it all so I can not really blame me! Great story, awesome characters and a story that will stay with you, I highly recommend this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 17, 2019
Very well done!
This was a wonderfully suspenseful novel with an unusual and captivating storyline. Very well written and edited (and I'm an editor so I'm very picky! :-). I read it in one sitting. The story never dragged and kept a steady pace that held this reader's attention without fail from start to finish. Get twist at the end too! Can't believe this is Mr. Allen's first novel...looking forward to many more.
This was a wonderfully suspenseful novel with an unusual and captivating storyline. Very well written and edited (and I'm an editor so I'm very picky! :-). I read it in one sitting. The story never dragged and kept a steady pace that held this reader's attention without fail from start to finish. Get twist at the end too! Can't believe this is Mr. Allen's first novel...looking forward to many more.
June 6, 2019
Unexpected and wonderful book
I bought this on a daily deal - had never heard of the author but it was cheap enough to give it a try. By the first page I was hooked. I won't pick a category for this story. Action? Yes. Thriller? Yes. Heartfelt & touching? Yes. Completely enjoyable read with a wonderful message? Yes, yes, yes!
I bought this on a daily deal - had never heard of the author but it was cheap enough to give it a try. By the first page I was hooked. I won't pick a category for this story. Action? Yes. Thriller? Yes. Heartfelt & touching? Yes. Completely enjoyable read with a wonderful message? Yes, yes, yes!
December 8, 2018
I got this as a arc e book from Net Galley. I enjoyed reading it. It had a good story to it. It is my first book by this author. I liked the variety of characters in it. I hope to read more books by this author.
March 11, 2019
This book had me hooked by the first page. It starts off sort of reiterating what one of our protaginists thinks he might be. He knows he's not human, but that's about it and it sets up for me wondering throughout the book just exactly WHAT the Keeper is. Not a bad thing I might add, and definitely lends to the story in a shocking yet amazing way. It's told in the first person narrative(I seem to be reading a common theme as of late) but it works wonderfully in this story. Though its told from an entity's point of view. The cool narrative of having a being that can, in a sense, transport anywhere leadds to multiple angles and views of the characters in this novel. You even get an extensive look at the antagonist of the story(not something you would get with most other books). The plot was intersting and unique- something I haven't seen done before and the writing flowed wonderfully
Descriptions were spot on and one art room in particular made me think of like an artists weird torture chamber(I love my spooky and this was a nice imagery for me). T.F. Allen, the author, knows how to write! I liked the characters' way of thinking. It realy makes you think about how you percive the world and what your thoughts look or sound like; how they come across even to your own self.
You get an interesting prospective of the antagonist of the story.
The characters in this book are smart!!!!! Too many times I've read a story and wanted to smack my forehead over the characters,especially the protagonist, being a fool. Not for these characters though.
The Keeper had a happy, though still very sad ending with a wonderful twist that had me smiling and open mouthed at the same time. I had some thoughts of my own interpreation of what the Keeper was, but was still caught by surprise at the reveal.
Overall, I loved this book- gave it a 5 star review on Goodreads and would recommend you pick up a copy! It has a bit of everything for readers to enjoy whether you like thriller, horror, supernatural. You'll be hooked instantly and reading well into the evening to see how everything ends!This is the type of book I could read and re-read and never tire of. Personally, I'm looking forward to T.F. Allen's next book after reading the sneak peek at the end!!!!!
Descriptions were spot on and one art room in particular made me think of like an artists weird torture chamber(I love my spooky and this was a nice imagery for me). T.F. Allen, the author, knows how to write! I liked the characters' way of thinking. It realy makes you think about how you percive the world and what your thoughts look or sound like; how they come across even to your own self.
You get an interesting prospective of the antagonist of the story.
The characters in this book are smart!!!!! Too many times I've read a story and wanted to smack my forehead over the characters,especially the protagonist, being a fool. Not for these characters though.
The Keeper had a happy, though still very sad ending with a wonderful twist that had me smiling and open mouthed at the same time. I had some thoughts of my own interpreation of what the Keeper was, but was still caught by surprise at the reveal.
Overall, I loved this book- gave it a 5 star review on Goodreads and would recommend you pick up a copy! It has a bit of everything for readers to enjoy whether you like thriller, horror, supernatural. You'll be hooked instantly and reading well into the evening to see how everything ends!This is the type of book I could read and re-read and never tire of. Personally, I'm looking forward to T.F. Allen's next book after reading the sneak peek at the end!!!!!
February 27, 2019
Who or what is The Keeper? Don't ask him. He doesn't know. He only knows he must protect renowned artist Michael Delacroix.
This story is narrated in first-person, from The Keeper’s point of view. But since he can also enter people’s minds, we sometimes know what other characters are thinking.
What makes this story a Great Weekend Read is the over-the-top creativity of the story line. I’ll even forgive Allen for my elevated pulse and blood pressure as two women raced to rescue Michael. I mean, those ladies had no idea what they were dealing with.
If you like thrills and shivers with a strangely satisfying ending, I highly recommend The Keeper.
This story is narrated in first-person, from The Keeper’s point of view. But since he can also enter people’s minds, we sometimes know what other characters are thinking.
What makes this story a Great Weekend Read is the over-the-top creativity of the story line. I’ll even forgive Allen for my elevated pulse and blood pressure as two women raced to rescue Michael. I mean, those ladies had no idea what they were dealing with.
If you like thrills and shivers with a strangely satisfying ending, I highly recommend The Keeper.
April 13, 2019
3.5 stars rounded up.
This story is told by a non-living person, or, ghost, or whatever he is. We learn that his only purpose is to protect the artist, Michael Delacroix. I enjoyed the characters and felt the story moved along at a good pace. It was an interesting read, with plenty of twists to keep me reading. I did figure out some of the twists on my own, but I think that is because I am constantly analyzing, instead of just enjoying what I am reading.
Full disclosure, I won this book through a Goodreads Giveaway, but that did not affect my review.
This story is told by a non-living person, or, ghost, or whatever he is. We learn that his only purpose is to protect the artist, Michael Delacroix. I enjoyed the characters and felt the story moved along at a good pace. It was an interesting read, with plenty of twists to keep me reading. I did figure out some of the twists on my own, but I think that is because I am constantly analyzing, instead of just enjoying what I am reading.
Full disclosure, I won this book through a Goodreads Giveaway, but that did not affect my review.
April 14, 2019
3.7 rounded up
The Keeper is a psychological thriller which opens with a brilliant artist arriving and slashing one of his most famous paintings at an exhibit. Soon after, he disappears. From there, with the help of a young reporter and a nun, we learn the backstory as they search for Michael, the artist. This is all told by The Keeper, who has watched over Michael since birth. The premise is good but it was rather predictable and didn't keep me really involved. Good first book, though.
I won a digital copy through Goodreads.
The Keeper is a psychological thriller which opens with a brilliant artist arriving and slashing one of his most famous paintings at an exhibit. Soon after, he disappears. From there, with the help of a young reporter and a nun, we learn the backstory as they search for Michael, the artist. This is all told by The Keeper, who has watched over Michael since birth. The premise is good but it was rather predictable and didn't keep me really involved. Good first book, though.
I won a digital copy through Goodreads.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2019
Interesting and definitely different.
This story is written in a ghostly POV...... Or, maybe not a ghost. That's the fun part. Interesting concept coupled with a great story idea that held my interest from beginning to end. And, it had a satisfying ending with all the loose ends wrapped up! I intend to read his next offering, The Night Janitor.
This story is written in a ghostly POV...... Or, maybe not a ghost. That's the fun part. Interesting concept coupled with a great story idea that held my interest from beginning to end. And, it had a satisfying ending with all the loose ends wrapped up! I intend to read his next offering, The Night Janitor.
April 16, 2019
The premise of the book was unique to me. There’s an element of supernatural, spiritual and paranormal. I liked the characters, but they were a bit at the surface level. The storyline takes place over a very short period of time and it definitely captured my attention. It was a good book to read on a long plane ride. I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway.
June 9, 2019
I liked this book, but I felt it was a bit simplistic. I had a hard time caring too much for the main characters because their "background stories" were very thin. The concept of The Keeper was great and I wish I had one to help me sometimes... I hope Mr. Allen keeps the character and writes more books about him.
August 14, 2019
Won in a goodreads giveaway. I like this book quite well overall. It reads a little like a crime novel, of which I am normally not a fan. There was enough of a twist to keep me involved, and the characters were likable. It wrapped the ending up well, also. Definitely recommend.
November 18, 2021
Unusual and intriguing fantasy story
I love reading fantasy and supernatural type stories. This story was unusual as it was told from a supernatural beings point of view. It was different and intriguing. I enjoyed it!
I love reading fantasy and supernatural type stories. This story was unusual as it was told from a supernatural beings point of view. It was different and intriguing. I enjoyed it!
February 26, 2019
Great read!
This book hijacked my weekend . It hooked me in the first chapter and I didn't stop until the very satisfying ending. I can't wait for Me Allen's next book.
This book hijacked my weekend . It hooked me in the first chapter and I didn't stop until the very satisfying ending. I can't wait for Me Allen's next book.
March 9, 2019
Kept my interest throughout
March 20, 2019
A page turner of a thriller with a paranormal twist!
September 14, 2019
Exciting Read
Really enjoyed this book It held my interest throughout in fact couldn’t put it down Would definitely recommend purchasing it
Really enjoyed this book It held my interest throughout in fact couldn’t put it down Would definitely recommend purchasing it
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