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“You should not have answered its call...�
Professor Stephen Barlow is no longer a skeptic. Having faced the horrors of Chaythe Asylum, he turns his attention to the man responsible for the Third Ward Incident—the enigmatic Dr. Corvine—in the hopes of finding answers to his many questions.
But some things, he soon learns, are better left lost to history.
Traveling to a remote cabin in Michigan in search of the doctor and his research, Stephen finds himself descending deeper into a world of terror and madness. He and his students uncover the frightful truth about Corvine's experiments and realize that they may have unleashed something terrible in their meddling.
Professor Stephen Barlow is no longer a skeptic. Having faced the horrors of Chaythe Asylum, he turns his attention to the man responsible for the Third Ward Incident—the enigmatic Dr. Corvine—in the hopes of finding answers to his many questions.
But some things, he soon learns, are better left lost to history.
Traveling to a remote cabin in Michigan in search of the doctor and his research, Stephen finds himself descending deeper into a world of terror and madness. He and his students uncover the frightful truth about Corvine's experiments and realize that they may have unleashed something terrible in their meddling.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2017
288 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
About the author
Ambrose Ibsen
56books632followersOnce upon a time, a young Ambrose Ibsen discovered a collection of ghost stories on his father's bookshelf. He was never the same again.
Apart from horror fiction, he enjoys good coffee, brewed strong.
Apart from horror fiction, he enjoys good coffee, brewed strong.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
October 2, 2017
Forest: The Afterlife Investigations, Book 2
Written by: Ambrose Ibsen
Narrated by: Joe Hempel
This is an audible book I requested and the review is voluntary.
This is book two but could be read as a stand alone, the author catches the listener up pretty good but do yourself a big favor and listen to the first one, it is sooo freaky scary! There is stuff in there that helps you in this book. Subtle things. Creepy things. I wish these two books would be made into a movie! I wouldn't go, it would be tooo scary, I had to stop at points in the book but the curiosity got to me but I can't stop a movie. I have a good imagination and between that and the great descriptions and the narrator with the creepy or panic in his voice....ah! These two books are just awesome! The thing that was in the Asylum is now loose and the Professor and students were going to help find clues but... let's just say things aren't going as planned. Not at all. They are going to the cabin in the forest...
The book will keep you listening with the lights on and a pillow clutched tight. Great job.
The narrator does half the job and does it too well. He freaks me out. He can make me panic, or my heart to speed up with the suspenseful pauses. He is great at all the voices, especially the evil ones! LOL. Great job all the way around.
Written by: Ambrose Ibsen
Narrated by: Joe Hempel
This is an audible book I requested and the review is voluntary.
This is book two but could be read as a stand alone, the author catches the listener up pretty good but do yourself a big favor and listen to the first one, it is sooo freaky scary! There is stuff in there that helps you in this book. Subtle things. Creepy things. I wish these two books would be made into a movie! I wouldn't go, it would be tooo scary, I had to stop at points in the book but the curiosity got to me but I can't stop a movie. I have a good imagination and between that and the great descriptions and the narrator with the creepy or panic in his voice....ah! These two books are just awesome! The thing that was in the Asylum is now loose and the Professor and students were going to help find clues but... let's just say things aren't going as planned. Not at all. They are going to the cabin in the forest...
The book will keep you listening with the lights on and a pillow clutched tight. Great job.
The narrator does half the job and does it too well. He freaks me out. He can make me panic, or my heart to speed up with the suspenseful pauses. He is great at all the voices, especially the evil ones! LOL. Great job all the way around.
April 6, 2019
The substance of the story in the trilogy is in this book. This is where you find out the details, history, and enough to keep you hooked� as if you weren’t already ...
Where does the line lead? Professor Barlow slowly starts to realize coincidences aren’t so common and that maybe something has had its hands in this all along and for a very long time. Longer than he has been alive ..
Where does the line lead? Professor Barlow slowly starts to realize coincidences aren’t so common and that maybe something has had its hands in this all along and for a very long time. Longer than he has been alive ..
April 5, 2019
Creepy second installment of the Afterlife Investigations. These are short books with a lot of filler. Have actually finished the 3rd book and realized those three could have/should have (?) made up one bigger book. Take out the repetition and main characters unnecessary internal thoughts and you would have one kick-A book.
March 12, 2021
Effectively Creepy
Second book in series. Well written. Quick read. Very suspenseful and creepy. I was easily immersed into the story and kept wanting more. This reads more like a novella instead of full novel. Worth reading.
Second book in series. Well written. Quick read. Very suspenseful and creepy. I was easily immersed into the story and kept wanting more. This reads more like a novella instead of full novel. Worth reading.
August 14, 2020
I found this book to be a good, second part to the ‘Afterlife Investigations� trilogy but should definitely not be seen as a stand-alone story in its own right.
The book gives clear information and explanation to many of the events that happened in ‘Asylum� whilst still leaving enough intriguing open-ended questions needing further address in ‘The Occupant� before the overall story finally arrives at its end.
Although ‘Forest� does contain some clever ideas and is creepy in parts, as well as being part of a fascinating storyline, I felt a little disappointed that the book lacked the introduction and impact of some sudden and shocking blood curdling gruesome events which would have undoubtedly spiced up proceedings rather than relying on the ongoing storyline and its rather expected, obvious and predictable relatively few incidents of real horror. Unfortunately I also felt that the ending to this instalment was also far too unresolved, flat and ordinary, especially for any future stand- alone book readers.
Anyway, on completion of ‘Forest� I am pleased to say that I am still thoroughly looking forward to the final episode and learning the fate of Stephen, Elizabeth, Jake, Dr Corvine, the Occupant and the rest of the crew, whilst hopefully being fed some twists and turns and experiencing a genuine shock or two on the way to discovering ‘Afterlife’s� ultimate conclusions.
Rating: 3.2 stars.
The book gives clear information and explanation to many of the events that happened in ‘Asylum� whilst still leaving enough intriguing open-ended questions needing further address in ‘The Occupant� before the overall story finally arrives at its end.
Although ‘Forest� does contain some clever ideas and is creepy in parts, as well as being part of a fascinating storyline, I felt a little disappointed that the book lacked the introduction and impact of some sudden and shocking blood curdling gruesome events which would have undoubtedly spiced up proceedings rather than relying on the ongoing storyline and its rather expected, obvious and predictable relatively few incidents of real horror. Unfortunately I also felt that the ending to this instalment was also far too unresolved, flat and ordinary, especially for any future stand- alone book readers.
Anyway, on completion of ‘Forest� I am pleased to say that I am still thoroughly looking forward to the final episode and learning the fate of Stephen, Elizabeth, Jake, Dr Corvine, the Occupant and the rest of the crew, whilst hopefully being fed some twists and turns and experiencing a genuine shock or two on the way to discovering ‘Afterlife’s� ultimate conclusions.
Rating: 3.2 stars.
December 20, 2017
This is the second book in a horror-trilogy by Ambrose Ibsen I picked up on Audible.
Book one, , was nothing new, but fun and creepy enough. It could work as a stand alone, but I wanted to get all the answers, and so I went on to pick up the rest of the series.
This book, book 2, isn't as creepy as book 1, but still creepy enough. It seem to play more on the human psyche, how we can freak out ourselves, more than on anything actually horror related.
Had it been the first book in a series, I'm not sure I'd have bothered with the rest of the series.
It is an OK book, though, as it is so short, it's not a problem that it's not as creepy as I'd want it.
One thing I've noticed, though, is how this author isn't really original in any way.
He tell good stories, but it isn't the best books, if you know what I mean?
Book one, , was nothing new, but fun and creepy enough. It could work as a stand alone, but I wanted to get all the answers, and so I went on to pick up the rest of the series.
This book, book 2, isn't as creepy as book 1, but still creepy enough. It seem to play more on the human psyche, how we can freak out ourselves, more than on anything actually horror related.
Had it been the first book in a series, I'm not sure I'd have bothered with the rest of the series.
It is an OK book, though, as it is so short, it's not a problem that it's not as creepy as I'd want it.
One thing I've noticed, though, is how this author isn't really original in any way.
He tell good stories, but it isn't the best books, if you know what I mean?
October 15, 2017
Review originally published at:
We continue the story where we left it in the previous book. Professor Stephen Barlow is decided to continue his investigation after finding some old tapes at the Asylum. Despite the warnings given by Elizabeth and Jake, he drives to a remote location where Dr. Corvine is supposed to have a cabin. But it seems Stephen is not alone in his trip, and he will learn that Elizabeth is in grave danger.
I was looking forward to this one after listening to ‘Asylum�. One of the thinks I enjoy from Ibsen’s books is how well everything is described. It does not feel that descriptions are overdone, but one can see at all time the surroundings of the main character. This is one of the things that helps me get into the story.
There are three main characters again in this book, plus some secondaries, and Ibsen has really brought them to life in his writing. The speak like real people and one can’t help but care for them.
But in what Ibsen excels is in creating the mystery and building up the tension. This is one of those books that I couldn’t put down because I needed to know what was coming up next. The forest looms like a heavy presence on Stephen, and I was able to feel it.
Even though this is a great book, my main reason for going for it is that it is narrated by Joe Hempel, one of my favorite narrators. Hempel is unique in bringing characters to life with great interpretation skills, giving each one a unique voice. He has a pleasant and clear voice, and the audio production is absolutely spotless. You can’t go wrong with Joe Hempel.
I received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
We continue the story where we left it in the previous book. Professor Stephen Barlow is decided to continue his investigation after finding some old tapes at the Asylum. Despite the warnings given by Elizabeth and Jake, he drives to a remote location where Dr. Corvine is supposed to have a cabin. But it seems Stephen is not alone in his trip, and he will learn that Elizabeth is in grave danger.
I was looking forward to this one after listening to ‘Asylum�. One of the thinks I enjoy from Ibsen’s books is how well everything is described. It does not feel that descriptions are overdone, but one can see at all time the surroundings of the main character. This is one of the things that helps me get into the story.
There are three main characters again in this book, plus some secondaries, and Ibsen has really brought them to life in his writing. The speak like real people and one can’t help but care for them.
But in what Ibsen excels is in creating the mystery and building up the tension. This is one of those books that I couldn’t put down because I needed to know what was coming up next. The forest looms like a heavy presence on Stephen, and I was able to feel it.
Even though this is a great book, my main reason for going for it is that it is narrated by Joe Hempel, one of my favorite narrators. Hempel is unique in bringing characters to life with great interpretation skills, giving each one a unique voice. He has a pleasant and clear voice, and the audio production is absolutely spotless. You can’t go wrong with Joe Hempel.
I received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2020
Summary:
Following the trip to a haunted asylum, Stephen Barlow continues to search for answers regarding the creature he and his students let loose into the world.
A trip to the evil Dr. Corvine's cabin in the woods leads Stephen to Michigan where he finds much more than he expected. While he is away, however, the Occupant he released has big plans after it's 28 years locked in an abandoned asylum.
Personal opinion:
I found this one to be quite a bit more enjoyable than Asylum was. This book takes the time to dig deeper into the mystery that is the Occupant as well as Dr. Corvine's research and experiments. There was more action and more scares as well.
Ambrose's writing style continues to pull me in and keep me reading. He also does extremely well with writing both creepy and unique monsters that would definitely give me a heart attack in real life.
However, I still get the feeling that this one, like the first in the trilogy, is being dragged out simply to bridge the way to the third and final book. In my opinion this would be a much better, and binge worthy, read if all three shorter books were compiled into one longer story.
I had settled on a rating of 3.5, but rounded up considering I did like it more than Asylum. I am really hoping for a big finale with the third and final book.
Following the trip to a haunted asylum, Stephen Barlow continues to search for answers regarding the creature he and his students let loose into the world.
A trip to the evil Dr. Corvine's cabin in the woods leads Stephen to Michigan where he finds much more than he expected. While he is away, however, the Occupant he released has big plans after it's 28 years locked in an abandoned asylum.
Personal opinion:
I found this one to be quite a bit more enjoyable than Asylum was. This book takes the time to dig deeper into the mystery that is the Occupant as well as Dr. Corvine's research and experiments. There was more action and more scares as well.
Ambrose's writing style continues to pull me in and keep me reading. He also does extremely well with writing both creepy and unique monsters that would definitely give me a heart attack in real life.
However, I still get the feeling that this one, like the first in the trilogy, is being dragged out simply to bridge the way to the third and final book. In my opinion this would be a much better, and binge worthy, read if all three shorter books were compiled into one longer story.
I had settled on a rating of 3.5, but rounded up considering I did like it more than Asylum. I am really hoping for a big finale with the third and final book.
October 25, 2017
This second book in The Afterlife Investigations series is even more creepy and spine chilling than the first. Stephen, not as sceptical or naive as in the first book, is determined to try to find out more about the entity in order to eliminate it. Elizabeth and Jake are both traumatized by what happened in the asylum and refuse to help, but are drawn in by a scary twist. Most of the action takes place in the forest, where they once again face a horrifying and dangerous entity. The narrator really brought out the creepiness with his tone and inflection. His pace and voice kept in line with what was happening and he gave each character individual voices, which added greatly to the intensity, scariness and tension of this story. Well written and narrated this audiobook will have you sleeping with all the lights on and dying for the next book so you can find out what happened.
October 1, 2018
I Love this writer! Yes Ambrose Ibsen!
This man has become one of my always go to writers! A lifelong die hard fan of Stephen King and Dean Koontz, Anne Rice, Peter Straub, Clive Barker, Shirley Jackson, and a few others, I dread the day when they can no longer entertain us. The time when new talent must take over. And it was scary as some of their best work! But recently a few have peered through the ranks with something special. And Ambrose Ibsen is one! While some are better than others, that is true for all! This series has been above average of what is out there. Personally, a few of Ibsen's stories scared me more, it wasn't by alot! This still deserves 5stars! And I am going right to the third in the series now!
This man has become one of my always go to writers! A lifelong die hard fan of Stephen King and Dean Koontz, Anne Rice, Peter Straub, Clive Barker, Shirley Jackson, and a few others, I dread the day when they can no longer entertain us. The time when new talent must take over. And it was scary as some of their best work! But recently a few have peered through the ranks with something special. And Ambrose Ibsen is one! While some are better than others, that is true for all! This series has been above average of what is out there. Personally, a few of Ibsen's stories scared me more, it wasn't by alot! This still deserves 5stars! And I am going right to the third in the series now!
July 11, 2019
I'm going to keep this short and simple. I am really enjoying this series, but I do believe it should have been one book and not three. The first book did end in a way that it could have ended there, but the second one (this one) makes you feel like you ended right in the middle of a scene. I hate it when books do that.
February 11, 2025
Still an ok read. I don't understand how everything happens to be lining up so perfectly tho. Like thinking of checking her phone tracking to see where she is when they're already in the car on the way there... like the occupant thing knew the bf knew the pass code for it?! There is just too many ifs for me that aren't working but since this book left it on a cliffhanger onto the next one.
December 27, 2017
I enjoyed this book much more than the first book of the series. The Forest started with solid chills and carried them throughout the book. I actually found myself jump at noises in my house while reading late at night. Starting book 3, The Occupant, now and hoping he can keep up the momentum.
November 23, 2022
The best ghost story I have ever read. I couldn’t put this done once I opened it. I can’t wait to see what the next book has in store.
October 24, 2017
The second in the Afterlife Investigations series, Forest did not let me down. Usually the second book is the one that divulges the history behind why the events in the first book happened, as well as to set the stage for the third book's climax. Not this one! This one was equal or better than the first book. In fact, Forest gave me nightmares two nights in a row and was the cause for multiple run-and-jumps when I had to venture to the bathroom in the middle of the night.
November 24, 2021
The next few nights I sleep with the light on. I read "Forest" by Ambrose Ibsen in bed and I no longer dare to sleep in the dark. It is a gruesome, scary, macabre and eerie story, in which I feel there is always a layer that I dare to call literary.
To start with because of the I perspective. That makes it even more intense, because the feelings of the person from whom the story is told come even closer. The main character's fears, tensions and worries show this macabre gem in the right way and that only increases the tension and makes it more scary!
In addition, Stephen Barlow (the narrator of the story) is someone you will love as a reader. He and the antagonist both cross borders in their own way and that gives an interesting tension to the conflict. In a way, it's also ironic that Stephen, who is a professor, is forced by the situation to move beyond the limits of the rational and into the shadows of the paranormal.
Ibsen deserves a compliment for the occupant. In every book by this great author there is always someone whom the reader will remember. From 'Stirrings in the Black House' (2017) that is Erik Wheaterby. He is my favorite character in the horror genre, leaving Pennywise, Dracula and Lestat behind. And now the occupant is in second place, because the author has outdone himself!
The semantic meaning of this ingeniously conceived monster, in my experience, is the awareness of temporality and death. First, he makes the heroes of the story realize that death is not the end and that there is something greater than man himself. The following quote strikes me at the heart of this:
“It is for good reason that men fear the dark. Our kind are transient, hopeless things. Things destined to live and die, leaving nary an echo in the yawning corridor of eons. I've always marveled at time, and at its ability to change things—to worsen, weaken and, however seldom, to improve—despite its intangibility. The cruelty of this world is that there is nothing in it that equates to permanence, and it is the burden of our kind to be saddled with—cursed by—that knowledge. The only commodity that endlessly endures is that invisible force that turns the pages; time.�
While reading this genius page turner, I occasionally thought of a chapter from 'Black: the brilliance of a noncolor'(1). The philosopher describes in this how black is the emptiness of all colors and the counterpart of purity. In Forest this approach touches on some motifs and it would be interesting to discuss this within a reading circle.
In short, for all readers who like to read a creepy story with a layering and ambiguity in the story that makes it literary, this is a must. Even though it will definitely cost you your night's sleep! #aferlifechronicles #ambroseibsen
To start with because of the I perspective. That makes it even more intense, because the feelings of the person from whom the story is told come even closer. The main character's fears, tensions and worries show this macabre gem in the right way and that only increases the tension and makes it more scary!
In addition, Stephen Barlow (the narrator of the story) is someone you will love as a reader. He and the antagonist both cross borders in their own way and that gives an interesting tension to the conflict. In a way, it's also ironic that Stephen, who is a professor, is forced by the situation to move beyond the limits of the rational and into the shadows of the paranormal.
Ibsen deserves a compliment for the occupant. In every book by this great author there is always someone whom the reader will remember. From 'Stirrings in the Black House' (2017) that is Erik Wheaterby. He is my favorite character in the horror genre, leaving Pennywise, Dracula and Lestat behind. And now the occupant is in second place, because the author has outdone himself!
The semantic meaning of this ingeniously conceived monster, in my experience, is the awareness of temporality and death. First, he makes the heroes of the story realize that death is not the end and that there is something greater than man himself. The following quote strikes me at the heart of this:
“It is for good reason that men fear the dark. Our kind are transient, hopeless things. Things destined to live and die, leaving nary an echo in the yawning corridor of eons. I've always marveled at time, and at its ability to change things—to worsen, weaken and, however seldom, to improve—despite its intangibility. The cruelty of this world is that there is nothing in it that equates to permanence, and it is the burden of our kind to be saddled with—cursed by—that knowledge. The only commodity that endlessly endures is that invisible force that turns the pages; time.�
While reading this genius page turner, I occasionally thought of a chapter from 'Black: the brilliance of a noncolor'(1). The philosopher describes in this how black is the emptiness of all colors and the counterpart of purity. In Forest this approach touches on some motifs and it would be interesting to discuss this within a reading circle.
In short, for all readers who like to read a creepy story with a layering and ambiguity in the story that makes it literary, this is a must. Even though it will definitely cost you your night's sleep! #aferlifechronicles #ambroseibsen
October 6, 2017
I couldn't wait for this to come to audio because Joe Hempel really brought the first to life and I knew he would nail this one!
After the events of the first book, Stephen is intent on finding out more about what was released when they opened the Asylum. This time round, Elizabeth and Jake want nothing to do with it so Stephen sets off alone. But Jake soon calls him and tells him Elizabeth is acting strange. With everything Stephen learns about what Dr. Corvine was doing, it doesn't take him long to realise that Elizabeth is in serious danger.
I loved book 1 and couldn't wait to dive into this one!! This is just as good as book one, if not better!! There isn't as much supernatural happenings in this one. Instead we dive deeper into Dr. Corvines past and, to me anyway, that was much scarier!! Stephen and Jake's investigation takes them to places that were wiped off the maps. I had chills for pretty much all of the book!!
The characters are as good as ever. Stephen has grown a lot since the first book. He isn't the novice and skeptic he was back then. The deeper he goes into the doctors past and his experiments, the worse it is. Jake is his hesitant partner in crime, but again, he has grown a lot from the grunting, jealous boy he was in book 1! All the characters were well written and developed.
In all, this was such an amazing read. Ambrose Ibsen is a writer more should know about. Ever singe book I've read by him has been different and captivating. He knows how to write a scary book and when you pair that book with Joe Hempel, well, it's a winner!! Go read some of this authors work. You will be instantly hooked!!
Joe Hempel is such an easy narrator to listen to. He makes listening to books effortless!! He is always clear, always knows how to make inflections work and always, always delivers a flawless performance. He is a narrator I recommend to people because I know they will enjoy his performance.
I was voluntarily provided this audiobook for free from the author, narrator, or publisher. This in no way affected nor influenced my thoughts.
After the events of the first book, Stephen is intent on finding out more about what was released when they opened the Asylum. This time round, Elizabeth and Jake want nothing to do with it so Stephen sets off alone. But Jake soon calls him and tells him Elizabeth is acting strange. With everything Stephen learns about what Dr. Corvine was doing, it doesn't take him long to realise that Elizabeth is in serious danger.
I loved book 1 and couldn't wait to dive into this one!! This is just as good as book one, if not better!! There isn't as much supernatural happenings in this one. Instead we dive deeper into Dr. Corvines past and, to me anyway, that was much scarier!! Stephen and Jake's investigation takes them to places that were wiped off the maps. I had chills for pretty much all of the book!!
The characters are as good as ever. Stephen has grown a lot since the first book. He isn't the novice and skeptic he was back then. The deeper he goes into the doctors past and his experiments, the worse it is. Jake is his hesitant partner in crime, but again, he has grown a lot from the grunting, jealous boy he was in book 1! All the characters were well written and developed.
In all, this was such an amazing read. Ambrose Ibsen is a writer more should know about. Ever singe book I've read by him has been different and captivating. He knows how to write a scary book and when you pair that book with Joe Hempel, well, it's a winner!! Go read some of this authors work. You will be instantly hooked!!
Joe Hempel is such an easy narrator to listen to. He makes listening to books effortless!! He is always clear, always knows how to make inflections work and always, always delivers a flawless performance. He is a narrator I recommend to people because I know they will enjoy his performance.
I was voluntarily provided this audiobook for free from the author, narrator, or publisher. This in no way affected nor influenced my thoughts.
October 13, 2017
Wow! What a follow up book! I could not wait for The Forest audio book, after listening to The Asylum I was totally hooked on this story. The Forest has only strengthened my desire to hear this story out. Joe Hempel reads this story perfectly!! Hempel really portrays the confused college professor who is fiercely determined to figure all everything out. Hempel has this easy voice that makes listening to this book just fly by. His speaking and enunciation is clear and precise! He’s one of my favorite narrators.
The story line is great! Ambrose Ibsen and Joe Hempel create this perfect creepy feel with a gradual build up of tension. This series has been my first Ibsen books but they are so good that I’m going to have to research the authors work. I’m hooked! Dr. Corvine is a fascinating character to learn about� he was really messing with things way above his pay grade. We learn more in this book and we get a bit more into the fear that Stephan, Jake, and probably Elizabeth feel.
I’m again left waiting as patiently as I can for the next book� The Occupant! Can’t wait for more� is it too much to hope that it would be out before Halloween?
I was voluntarily provided this audiobook for free from the author, narrator, or publisher. This in no way affected nor influenced my thoughts. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
The story line is great! Ambrose Ibsen and Joe Hempel create this perfect creepy feel with a gradual build up of tension. This series has been my first Ibsen books but they are so good that I’m going to have to research the authors work. I’m hooked! Dr. Corvine is a fascinating character to learn about� he was really messing with things way above his pay grade. We learn more in this book and we get a bit more into the fear that Stephan, Jake, and probably Elizabeth feel.
I’m again left waiting as patiently as I can for the next book� The Occupant! Can’t wait for more� is it too much to hope that it would be out before Halloween?
I was voluntarily provided this audiobook for free from the author, narrator, or publisher. This in no way affected nor influenced my thoughts. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
August 25, 2017
Can't wait for the 3rd book!
The 2nd book in this trilogy, Forest, is even better than the first! You must read them in order, and this one does leave you hanging but also so excited for the next one! Forest leads the reader deeper into the Asylum stoiry of the Occupant. The professor gains knowledge about the background of Dr. Corvine and the reasons behind his "quest," as well as some additional knowledge. This leads the professor and Jake into a ghost town, which has been removed from all literature and maps, perhaps purposefully... the end of Forest had me feeling almost in as much despair as the characters were in, I didn't expect that ending. The walking backwards thing was a great and haunting visual. Love that someone can still throw some surprises out there and scare the reader, as nothing ever seems scary anymore. That is how I came across this author in the first place, looking for someone who could still write a scary book! He hasn't let me down yet. Starting the next one now!
The 2nd book in this trilogy, Forest, is even better than the first! You must read them in order, and this one does leave you hanging but also so excited for the next one! Forest leads the reader deeper into the Asylum stoiry of the Occupant. The professor gains knowledge about the background of Dr. Corvine and the reasons behind his "quest," as well as some additional knowledge. This leads the professor and Jake into a ghost town, which has been removed from all literature and maps, perhaps purposefully... the end of Forest had me feeling almost in as much despair as the characters were in, I didn't expect that ending. The walking backwards thing was a great and haunting visual. Love that someone can still throw some surprises out there and scare the reader, as nothing ever seems scary anymore. That is how I came across this author in the first place, looking for someone who could still write a scary book! He hasn't let me down yet. Starting the next one now!
July 1, 2019
My Fourth Ibsen Book Doesn’t Disappoint
I thoroughly enjoyed Book 2 of “The Afterlife Investigations.� Now that I have read four books by Ibsen, I’m understanding his view on “afterlife,� “ghosts,� “demons,� and the plain supernatural. The idea of a web of dead souls (though I’m unsure if this just includes those who haven’t moved on, everyone(?), or something else), whether web or eyes in a throat (latter in House of Long Shadows B1 & 2), neither version precludes the other - or others. That does encourage me to try other Ibsen books once I’ve finished this series.
The writing is great - I enjoy learning while reading for pleasure, and Ibsen provides sone opportunities in every book.
Book 2 of this series (though in the non-Amazon world, all three Books would be one book, but that’s a larger topic) did satisfy and couldn’t have ended at a better place - especially for readers who know that the final Book has been written and published for awhile. No waiting!
I enjoyed this book and will be downloading Book 3 in this series later this evening.
I thoroughly enjoyed Book 2 of “The Afterlife Investigations.� Now that I have read four books by Ibsen, I’m understanding his view on “afterlife,� “ghosts,� “demons,� and the plain supernatural. The idea of a web of dead souls (though I’m unsure if this just includes those who haven’t moved on, everyone(?), or something else), whether web or eyes in a throat (latter in House of Long Shadows B1 & 2), neither version precludes the other - or others. That does encourage me to try other Ibsen books once I’ve finished this series.
The writing is great - I enjoy learning while reading for pleasure, and Ibsen provides sone opportunities in every book.
Book 2 of this series (though in the non-Amazon world, all three Books would be one book, but that’s a larger topic) did satisfy and couldn’t have ended at a better place - especially for readers who know that the final Book has been written and published for awhile. No waiting!
I enjoyed this book and will be downloading Book 3 in this series later this evening.
October 18, 2017
I liked parts of the book and didn't like others. I didn't hate it in any way, it just felt flat at times. The overall story is interesting and I am not opposed to reading Asylum and then The Occupant. It is mostly my own fault for not reading the first book in the series... first. When I got the chance to check out Forest, I failed to notice that it was a part 2 of 3. I am not sure that it would make much of a difference with my review because although it builds on the story started in Asylum, it is it's own book for all intents and purposes. If Asylum and The Occupant read like this one then I think they should have been combined into a larger and faster paced novel. I am not a writer though, I just like to read a lot.
This book was given to me for free at my request for my voluntary and unbiased review.
This book was given to me for free at my request for my voluntary and unbiased review.
August 5, 2017
I'm enjoying this...so far. But it's not a stand-alone. The end of book 1, Asylum, was only moderately satisfying, and you could tell there was more to come, but you could have reasonably stopped there. That's not true with the end of book 2, which is merely a cliff-hanger. If you care about the story at all, you have to continue on with book 3, The Occupant.
These 3 books really should have been written as a longer single. The prices weren't outrageous, as I got mine for $2.99, $3.99 and $3.99, but I find it annoying not to get to some sort of closure, albeit temporary, after each individual book. I deducted a star for that reason, and I'd recommend waiting for a special price on the series. I'm hoping the next book isn't just a cliff-hanger as well.
These 3 books really should have been written as a longer single. The prices weren't outrageous, as I got mine for $2.99, $3.99 and $3.99, but I find it annoying not to get to some sort of closure, albeit temporary, after each individual book. I deducted a star for that reason, and I'd recommend waiting for a special price on the series. I'm hoping the next book isn't just a cliff-hanger as well.
July 29, 2019
I patiently read this book from cover to cover though it did seem to have a lot of ramblings! I wasn't interested in the snacks or drinks being consumed, I just wanted to get to the crux of the story! The professor did some stupid things, things no sensible person would do such as, going in and out of a shed where papers, tapes, etc were found but kept going in and out to keep reading them ... I would have got them loaded into the car and read them elsewhere from the moment I found them! However, the story continued well and I am now ready for book 3 'The Occupant' .... and I look forward to the conclusion!
This has been a great set of books so far and, already, book 3 is looking interesting!
This has been a great set of books so far and, already, book 3 is looking interesting!
April 10, 2019
So good!
This book was not as creepy as the first one but still just as good! This one dealt with uncovering the origins of the monster in book one.
I normally do not like stories written in first-person point of view, but Ibsen pulls it off nicely. The professor is a really fun character with a strong personality. And I thoroughly enjoyed taking this journey with him in learning about The Occupant.
This book ends with a huge cliffhanger, which again I normally despise, but in this story it works really well. I'm very excited to read the third book and see how the story ends.
This book was not as creepy as the first one but still just as good! This one dealt with uncovering the origins of the monster in book one.
I normally do not like stories written in first-person point of view, but Ibsen pulls it off nicely. The professor is a really fun character with a strong personality. And I thoroughly enjoyed taking this journey with him in learning about The Occupant.
This book ends with a huge cliffhanger, which again I normally despise, but in this story it works really well. I'm very excited to read the third book and see how the story ends.
June 26, 2019
This series keeps getting creepier! I love it! Professor Barlow and his two students thought they left the occupant behind at the asylum. They were dead wrong! They have to investigate the man responsible for the asylum incident, Dr Corvine, hoping he will know how to put an end to this. Their investigation leads them to the upper peninsula of Michigan to Dr Corvine's old cabin where they find a few answers and a whole lot of problems! Excellent narration by Joe Hempel! He really adds to the creepy feel of this series!
July 21, 2020
This book is number 2 in The Afterlife Investigations trilogy, I read The Asylum (#1) a few days ago and really enjoyed it so thought I'd crack on with this one too!!
After the events at Chaythe Asylum, and finding the coordinates that appear to lead deep in a forest, the professor decides to follow them and see what he can find out.
This book gives you a lot more history and backstory of 'The Occupant' and of Dr Corvines research.
I really enjoyed this book!! Definitely reccomend this series. I will read part 3 The Occupant some point soon I suspect!
After the events at Chaythe Asylum, and finding the coordinates that appear to lead deep in a forest, the professor decides to follow them and see what he can find out.
This book gives you a lot more history and backstory of 'The Occupant' and of Dr Corvines research.
I really enjoyed this book!! Definitely reccomend this series. I will read part 3 The Occupant some point soon I suspect!
November 5, 2022
This book continues almost immediately after the events of the first.
All the mains are back as it's only been a couple days. lol The malevolent entity is fleshed out much more in this book and it's quite gripping despite the short length.
He gets right to the point and keeps going at a constant, though not breakneck, pace. The expected herrings are red. The expected twists in backstory are enjoyable despite being expected. The break at the end is a wonderful cliffhanger.
I've really enjoyed the first two books of this series and can't wait to dig into the next.
All the mains are back as it's only been a couple days. lol The malevolent entity is fleshed out much more in this book and it's quite gripping despite the short length.
He gets right to the point and keeps going at a constant, though not breakneck, pace. The expected herrings are red. The expected twists in backstory are enjoyable despite being expected. The break at the end is a wonderful cliffhanger.
I've really enjoyed the first two books of this series and can't wait to dig into the next.
October 19, 2017
So, I did that thing that I hate when I do (does that make sense?)... I started immediately reading the third book in the The Afterlife Investigations instead of writing a review of book #2 first. Now I have to try to keep Forest separate from The Occupant inside my head while I hurriedly write this review on Forest, so that I can get back to reading This Occupant. This is all much more difficult than it sounds.
For the sake of laziness and the avoidance of any more 3 a.m. ramblings, I think that all I really need to say in this review is that Forest had me so engrossed that I didn't take the time to review it before diving right into the next creepy book of this series.
See what I did there? Oh, the cleverness of me.
For the sake of laziness and the avoidance of any more 3 a.m. ramblings, I think that all I really need to say in this review is that Forest had me so engrossed that I didn't take the time to review it before diving right into the next creepy book of this series.
See what I did there? Oh, the cleverness of me.
July 21, 2019
This is the second book in the Afterlife Investigations trilogy and OMG I just loved this book! The story continues to follow college professor Stephen Barlow after they narrowly fled the Asylum with their lives. Stephen wants to continue with the investigation into Dr. Corvine's work by driving up to the remote cabin but his two students, Elizabeth and Jake, are finished. I don't want to go into the story more as to not spoil it but I highly recommend this trilogy.
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