Whispers of a Gypsy — J.T. Patten

REMEMBER WHEN A BOOK COULD SCARE YOU? In what Kirkus Reviews describes as A haunting and often genuinely moving modern horror tale, this dark novel with harrowing twists and mystery taking from Jewish and Romani folklore, is focused on a uniquely gifted boy who falls into a dangerous cat-and-mouse game with the arrival of a monstrous protector...searching for something of the past within a unique bloodline. Whispers of a Gypsy brings fear back to horror and psychological suspense the way we remember classic Jack Ketchum, Stephen King, Clive Barker, and Thomas Harris novels, while adding Patten's trademark penchant for the unexpected in a fast-paced emotional and fear-driven rollercoaster ride. Screencraft's Cinematic Book Competition Quarterfinalist Whispers of a Gypsy is a deeply compelling and thrilling horror story that benefits from a strong handling of the horror genre and an immensely original setup. Akin to early works of King! Publishers Weekly BookLifeThis is a dark, haunting read, not for the faint of heart, but with humanity at its core. Readers of action-packed dark horror will be onboard. Takeaway: This polished horror story explores family obligation and the overwhelming costs of revenge. Great for fans of: Dan Simmons's Carrion Comfort, Bari Wood's The Tribe.SummaryNeurodivergent, young Dwight Skinner considers his mental challenges to be a superpower, but it's a pure bloodline that will put him in danger. When a tragic event brings a mysterious Romani neighbor, Mr. Mortimer, out of seclusion and into the Skinner family's lives, Dwight and his emotionally overloaded mother find an unsuspecting protector in this dark lurking whisperer. Death and horrific secrets trail the unfolding life of Mr. Mortimer's past, and questions soon arise as to who has the more sinister of intentions, Dwight or the Gypsy he unconditionally trusts. The whispers have the answer.