Second Chances by Dannye Williamsen
Tops among the positives regarding author Dannye Williamsen is how clearly she cares about the art and craft of her storytelling. She plots her dark fiction to reveal deeper spiritual issues even as she entertains her readers. For those who enjoy the writing style of Darcie Chan (The Mill River Recluse), Carmen DeSousa (She Belongs to Me) and metaphysical twists to their reads, Ms. Williamsen will not disappoint. - K.L. Nappier
Is there really evil in the world? Yes. It goes by the name of Darian. I want to start out by saying that I am a paranormal junkie. This book, SECOND CHANCES by DANNYE WILLIAMSEN, is so much more than your everyday paranormal read. There are no vampires. There are no werewolves, although there is a wolf, Avatar, with a very interesting back story.
Second Chances has a character, Darian, that is so evil, yet the author found a way to write his story that compels the reader to feel sorrow and sympathy for him. The writing in this book was scintillating! - Sandy Wolters
The author creates a world that is both engaging and frightening. I'm not generally a fan of paranormal fiction, but this one grabbed me. The author's careful craftsmanship and imaginative plotting took me places I didn't expect to go. Be forewarned that there are some scenes of sexual violence, but they're not gratuitous. Well-done book! My recommendation is to read it during daylight hours. - Leland Dirks
Gripping, enthralling and heart-hammering paranormal thriller! This is quite simply one of the best paranormal thrillers I have read. Second Chances grips the reader from the outset and carries them along in a huge tide of eloquent, flowing style, intriguing characters, and heart-hammering plot.
Centering around two characters: Darian and Fredrika, Dannye Williamsen's novel is not merely about good versus evil. It examines the complexity of human characteristics and demonstrates that fate and circumstance play their part, too. Both characters have substance. Fredrika represents goodness and has a well-balanced strength. Darian is truly disturbing, yet fascinating. He is bent on destruction, but salvation could be around the corner if only Fredrika is willing to accept his conditions and, indeed, him.
Ms Williamsen is a mistress of suspense. Her plot unfolds methodically, building considerable tension and emotion. Her use of language is masterful. I have read only a handful of novels that have left me begging for more, and Second Chances is one of those.
Reminiscent of Dean Koontz's books, this novel is actually better than any other of this genre that I have read. I, for one, am eagerly looking forward to reading Ms Williamsen's next novel, The Threads That Bind.
A definite five star read. - Carol E. Wyer
I have read more than a few paranormal novels, and I have to say this is among the best, if not the best, I have read in a long while. The writing is almost electric, you can feel the tension in the air around you as you fall deeper into the abyss of madness the author creates.
Dark, deep and filled with protagonists you can both love and hate, feel sorry for and wish they are defeated, this is the one book I don't think will be easily put aside or forgotten. Once you have read it, you still need time to think about it.
Ms. Williamsen brings her characters to life with depth and dimension. Each character is multi-faceted, coming to life on the page. The narration flows so well it is hardly noticed, and the dialogue is realistic. Beautifully edited and presented, the book is easy to get lost in. I did. I was unable to put it down.
If Amazon had 6 Stars this book would get them from me. - Karen Doering
I found myself reading Second Chances in a period in which I had precious little time to devote to reading… and after the first few pages I was so hooked that I started carving out every possible moment to go on reading… during meals and even in the bathtub, something I never do for fear of damaging the reader!
Today, I finished the book, and I must confess I did not read the incipit for the following book, Threads that Bind, because I want to be surprised and enchanted again by the dexterity with which Dannye Williamsen manages to bind the reader, both with the plot and with her fluent, rich style, full of beautiful descriptions so well calibrated that they become precious ornaments to the story without suffocating it.
A five star book, no doubt! - Annarita Guarnieri
This book is out of sight...kicking myself for not reading sooner. It's books like these that show what an Indie is all about. - Grace Guerra
Dannye Williamsen presents a classic and terrifying battle between good and evil in Second Chances. Fredrika thinks she is losing her mind as unexplained happenings begin to pile up around her. Darian can't explain why Fredrika is so compelling to him. As the mystery and terror grow and grow, Fredrika and Darian identify and then confront the ying and yang of good and evil. The adversaries learn that every heart holds both good and evil, and none of us are willing to destroy any piece of our own heart. Will Fredrika survive her challenges? Will Darian devolve into pure evil? You'll have to read to the very end to find out. And after turning that last page you'll be reaching for the first page of the sequel, The Threads That Bind. - JT Kalnay
Firstly, this is an excellent paranormal story by Dannye Williamsen. She has a way of captivating her readers with her confident style of writing, easy flow and a very good plot. There are no boring fillers; scenes are described with such expertise that you almost feel that you are there. The editing and grammar, in my opinion, was flawless.
Very good story line, skillfully planned throughout, the author had complete control of her characters at all times, no waffle or straying off the point. The underlying material is there if you want to analyse it; if not, just enjoy the book for what it is. I did! - Sue Palmer
This wonderful story comes with a strong message that while subtle, cannot be dismissed. The story holds the reader spellbound with its tale of paranormal events, evil deeds, suspense, friendship and romance. At the end of the day, however, the message comes through loud and clear. Everything is love; everything can be transformed by love. - Sylvia Massara
After reading a few paragraphs, I encountered a beautiful description of a tree’s insides: “differences in shade between the hollow shells of the trees, barely distinguishable to the eye, created concentric borders.” It was very difficult to take breaks, especially after being introduced to a pattern of swinging between fantasy and reality – sometimes distorted.
I was swooned by the continuous, almost perfect content. My dear Nora Roberts: Move over! - Alex Canton
Dannye Williamsen's style of writing is very intriguing and well developed. I like the way she uses descriptive writing to set the scene and make the reader see what is happening and become one with the story. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to read the sequel, The Threads That Bind." - Greta Burroughs
...all in all, a good story line, some fascinating ideas, a good plot, interesting and rounded characters, good pace and a definite page turner, along with some creepy scenes, a drop of romance and some genuinely spooky goings on. Fans of this book will be happy to know there is a follow-up, called The Threads That Bind. - Vickie Johnstone
Is there really evil in the world? Yes. It goes by the name of Darian. I want to start out by saying that I am a paranormal junkie. This book, SECOND CHANCES by DANNYE WILLIAMSEN, is so much more than your everyday paranormal read. There are no vampires. There are no werewolves, although there is a wolf, Avatar, with a very interesting back story.
Second Chances has a character, Darian, that is so evil, yet the author found a way to write his story that compels the reader to feel sorrow and sympathy for him. The writing in this book was scintillating! - Sandy Wolters
The author creates a world that is both engaging and frightening. I'm not generally a fan of paranormal fiction, but this one grabbed me. The author's careful craftsmanship and imaginative plotting took me places I didn't expect to go. Be forewarned that there are some scenes of sexual violence, but they're not gratuitous. Well-done book! My recommendation is to read it during daylight hours. - Leland Dirks
Gripping, enthralling and heart-hammering paranormal thriller! This is quite simply one of the best paranormal thrillers I have read. Second Chances grips the reader from the outset and carries them along in a huge tide of eloquent, flowing style, intriguing characters, and heart-hammering plot.
Centering around two characters: Darian and Fredrika, Dannye Williamsen's novel is not merely about good versus evil. It examines the complexity of human characteristics and demonstrates that fate and circumstance play their part, too. Both characters have substance. Fredrika represents goodness and has a well-balanced strength. Darian is truly disturbing, yet fascinating. He is bent on destruction, but salvation could be around the corner if only Fredrika is willing to accept his conditions and, indeed, him.
Ms Williamsen is a mistress of suspense. Her plot unfolds methodically, building considerable tension and emotion. Her use of language is masterful. I have read only a handful of novels that have left me begging for more, and Second Chances is one of those.
Reminiscent of Dean Koontz's books, this novel is actually better than any other of this genre that I have read. I, for one, am eagerly looking forward to reading Ms Williamsen's next novel, The Threads That Bind.
A definite five star read. - Carol E. Wyer
I have read more than a few paranormal novels, and I have to say this is among the best, if not the best, I have read in a long while. The writing is almost electric, you can feel the tension in the air around you as you fall deeper into the abyss of madness the author creates.
Dark, deep and filled with protagonists you can both love and hate, feel sorry for and wish they are defeated, this is the one book I don't think will be easily put aside or forgotten. Once you have read it, you still need time to think about it.
Ms. Williamsen brings her characters to life with depth and dimension. Each character is multi-faceted, coming to life on the page. The narration flows so well it is hardly noticed, and the dialogue is realistic. Beautifully edited and presented, the book is easy to get lost in. I did. I was unable to put it down.
If Amazon had 6 Stars this book would get them from me. - Karen Doering
I found myself reading Second Chances in a period in which I had precious little time to devote to reading… and after the first few pages I was so hooked that I started carving out every possible moment to go on reading… during meals and even in the bathtub, something I never do for fear of damaging the reader!
Today, I finished the book, and I must confess I did not read the incipit for the following book, Threads that Bind, because I want to be surprised and enchanted again by the dexterity with which Dannye Williamsen manages to bind the reader, both with the plot and with her fluent, rich style, full of beautiful descriptions so well calibrated that they become precious ornaments to the story without suffocating it.
A five star book, no doubt! - Annarita Guarnieri
This book is out of sight...kicking myself for not reading sooner. It's books like these that show what an Indie is all about. - Grace Guerra
Dannye Williamsen presents a classic and terrifying battle between good and evil in Second Chances. Fredrika thinks she is losing her mind as unexplained happenings begin to pile up around her. Darian can't explain why Fredrika is so compelling to him. As the mystery and terror grow and grow, Fredrika and Darian identify and then confront the ying and yang of good and evil. The adversaries learn that every heart holds both good and evil, and none of us are willing to destroy any piece of our own heart. Will Fredrika survive her challenges? Will Darian devolve into pure evil? You'll have to read to the very end to find out. And after turning that last page you'll be reaching for the first page of the sequel, The Threads That Bind. - JT Kalnay
Firstly, this is an excellent paranormal story by Dannye Williamsen. She has a way of captivating her readers with her confident style of writing, easy flow and a very good plot. There are no boring fillers; scenes are described with such expertise that you almost feel that you are there. The editing and grammar, in my opinion, was flawless.
Very good story line, skillfully planned throughout, the author had complete control of her characters at all times, no waffle or straying off the point. The underlying material is there if you want to analyse it; if not, just enjoy the book for what it is. I did! - Sue Palmer
This wonderful story comes with a strong message that while subtle, cannot be dismissed. The story holds the reader spellbound with its tale of paranormal events, evil deeds, suspense, friendship and romance. At the end of the day, however, the message comes through loud and clear. Everything is love; everything can be transformed by love. - Sylvia Massara
After reading a few paragraphs, I encountered a beautiful description of a tree’s insides: “differences in shade between the hollow shells of the trees, barely distinguishable to the eye, created concentric borders.” It was very difficult to take breaks, especially after being introduced to a pattern of swinging between fantasy and reality – sometimes distorted.
I was swooned by the continuous, almost perfect content. My dear Nora Roberts: Move over! - Alex Canton
Dannye Williamsen's style of writing is very intriguing and well developed. I like the way she uses descriptive writing to set the scene and make the reader see what is happening and become one with the story. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to read the sequel, The Threads That Bind." - Greta Burroughs
...all in all, a good story line, some fascinating ideas, a good plot, interesting and rounded characters, good pace and a definite page turner, along with some creepy scenes, a drop of romance and some genuinely spooky goings on. Fans of this book will be happy to know there is a follow-up, called The Threads That Bind. - Vickie Johnstone
The Threads That Bind by Dannye Williamsen
This second book was to me all the previous one had been and much more.
There is the suspense of discovering how events will develop, there is a thread of mystery about some unexplained deaths, there is a little hint of romance, not so much that the real plot gets suffocated by it, but enough to add some spice here and there, to make the taste perfect.
And there are the characters, fully and artfully developed, and their interaction that offers to the author the occasion to delve deeply in the workings of the human mind.
I found this work even more complete and deeper than the previous one, loved all the new characters it introduces (Mandy most of all) and was so very happy at finding an old friend, Avatar, again.
This is one of those novels that, once read, stay with you forever because the characters are so alive and real, the story so mesmerizing, that it is impossible to forget either.
A must for all those who want to read a really good book! - Annarita Guarnieri
Dannye weaves a story line that grabs hold of you and doesn't let you go until the very last word. I love her novels because they are intelligent and logical as well as original and spellbinding! - Patricia Caldwell
The story is very well written, with good character development and a fast pace that keeps the reader glued to the story. The author created a very believable tale with a moral that can be carried over into our everyday lives. We can all learn a lesson from this story: we have a chance in life to change our path and make a difference no matter what is expected by others because love underlies everything. - Greta Burroughs
Once again, Ms. Williamsen has created a character that is easily despised. Throughout the book, I kept wondering how that maniac was going to get his in the end, and BAM, Ms. Williamsen made the reader's heart go out to him in the end. I found that I wanted to wrap my arms around him and let him know everything was going to be okay. I just can't believe that an author has the ability to make a reader revile a character in such a way and then change that emotion to complete and utter compassion. AMAZING!
This book has it all. Beautiful writing, suspenseful moments, thrills that will have you jumping up and screaming, "No!!!!", tender interactions between the characters and a story line that sucks you in and won't let go. At times, I found myself struck by how profound some of the sentiments made from mother to daughter or father to daughter were. So much so, that Jillian, while too young to understand what her mother was telling her, she would write the statements down in her journal knowing that one day they would make sense to her and make a difference in her life. These statements were so thought provoking, so inspired that I, myself, highlighted them so I could re-read them and continue to think about them. - Sandy Wolters
There is the suspense of discovering how events will develop, there is a thread of mystery about some unexplained deaths, there is a little hint of romance, not so much that the real plot gets suffocated by it, but enough to add some spice here and there, to make the taste perfect.
And there are the characters, fully and artfully developed, and their interaction that offers to the author the occasion to delve deeply in the workings of the human mind.
I found this work even more complete and deeper than the previous one, loved all the new characters it introduces (Mandy most of all) and was so very happy at finding an old friend, Avatar, again.
This is one of those novels that, once read, stay with you forever because the characters are so alive and real, the story so mesmerizing, that it is impossible to forget either.
A must for all those who want to read a really good book! - Annarita Guarnieri
Dannye weaves a story line that grabs hold of you and doesn't let you go until the very last word. I love her novels because they are intelligent and logical as well as original and spellbinding! - Patricia Caldwell
The story is very well written, with good character development and a fast pace that keeps the reader glued to the story. The author created a very believable tale with a moral that can be carried over into our everyday lives. We can all learn a lesson from this story: we have a chance in life to change our path and make a difference no matter what is expected by others because love underlies everything. - Greta Burroughs
Once again, Ms. Williamsen has created a character that is easily despised. Throughout the book, I kept wondering how that maniac was going to get his in the end, and BAM, Ms. Williamsen made the reader's heart go out to him in the end. I found that I wanted to wrap my arms around him and let him know everything was going to be okay. I just can't believe that an author has the ability to make a reader revile a character in such a way and then change that emotion to complete and utter compassion. AMAZING!
This book has it all. Beautiful writing, suspenseful moments, thrills that will have you jumping up and screaming, "No!!!!", tender interactions between the characters and a story line that sucks you in and won't let go. At times, I found myself struck by how profound some of the sentiments made from mother to daughter or father to daughter were. So much so, that Jillian, while too young to understand what her mother was telling her, she would write the statements down in her journal knowing that one day they would make sense to her and make a difference in her life. These statements were so thought provoking, so inspired that I, myself, highlighted them so I could re-read them and continue to think about them. - Sandy Wolters
Center Stage by Dannye Williamsen
The writing in this book is magic, just as with all other books written by Ms. Williamsen. She spins a tail so breathtaking with her words that the reader literally forgets they are reading and feels more like a fly on the wall, watching as each scene progresses and feeling the pain and anguish within the words. My emotions ran the gambit while reading CENTER STAGE. I was filled with anger toward this woman, but by the end of the book, tears were flowing so freely that I was forced to put my Kindle down and regroup before reading the conclusion. Ms. Williamsen has that uncanny ability to make the reader feel empathy for a character that is so unlikeable you just want to beat her with a stick. - Sandy Wolters
This is an awesome story, making one think about one's own life and how we have not always been nice to others. It's never too late to become that better person. A very thoughtful, extraordinary story, one I could not put down until the very end, and it's a story which I will remember for a long time. - Nancy Silk
This is an awesome story, making one think about one's own life and how we have not always been nice to others. It's never too late to become that better person. A very thoughtful, extraordinary story, one I could not put down until the very end, and it's a story which I will remember for a long time. - Nancy Silk
The Evolution Of A Slingshot by John Dean Williamsen
The Evolution of a Slingshot by John Dean Williamsen is a coming of age novel of Jake Tierney. This work of historical fiction takes us back to the summer of 1946. We meet the 11-year-old Jake with his friends Lexie and Chips as they are hanging out on the flat roof of the shed just being boys. In those first moments of the book, we get a feel for the different personalities of these three boys. Through Mr. Williamsen's writing, we also get a feel for this time and place in history.
If, as a reader, you enjoy character-driven novels, you have got to pick this book up. Reading this novel brought back memories of my father telling me stories from his youth. The characters were that real to me. The character of Jake touched my heart so deeply that when I had to put the book down because it was too late to read any longer, I dreamed of him and what life had in store for him.
This book speaks to living in poverty and overcoming that, unspeakable horrors perpetrated on people and the bravery it takes to help them, the love and loss between a boy and his family and friends, coming to a crossroad in a young boy's life and having to make a very adult decision at that one moment in time that will follow him through his life forever. But most of all, surviving all of these obstacles with beauty and grace. This was a beautifully written novel, and I highly recommend it.
- Sandy Wolters
If, as a reader, you enjoy character-driven novels, you have got to pick this book up. Reading this novel brought back memories of my father telling me stories from his youth. The characters were that real to me. The character of Jake touched my heart so deeply that when I had to put the book down because it was too late to read any longer, I dreamed of him and what life had in store for him.
This book speaks to living in poverty and overcoming that, unspeakable horrors perpetrated on people and the bravery it takes to help them, the love and loss between a boy and his family and friends, coming to a crossroad in a young boy's life and having to make a very adult decision at that one moment in time that will follow him through his life forever. But most of all, surviving all of these obstacles with beauty and grace. This was a beautifully written novel, and I highly recommend it.
- Sandy Wolters
Chasing Shadows by Dannye Williamsen
I am a fan of Dannye Williamsen's paranormal books. I was honored to receive a copy of "Chasing Shadows" to read and review. I was looking forward to getting lost in another one of her great novels and wasn't disappointed!
The story grabs you from the very beginning. There is no lengthy introduction of characters or setting of the scene. Williamsen weaves the necessary information in as the tale progresses. I love the way Dannye takes the reader along for the ride. With her descriptive style of writing, you can picture the events taking place and feel the emotions experienced by the characters.
The story line is not the run-of-the-mill typical self-assured psychic vs bad guy. It delves into Brita's reluctant acceptance of her psychic abilities and if she really wants to use them, as well as the prejudice encountered by non-believers. Of course, there is much more to the tale blending together to keep the reader interested in all aspects of the story.
I won't give a synopsis of the story, other reviewers have taken care of that. But I will tell you, if you want to read a fantastic paranormal book that will keep your interest from first page to last, "Chasing Shadows" is the one to read. I'm looking forward to reading book two in the series! - Greta Burroughs
Oh my goodness what a ride this book was! It had me on my toes at every page. I normally don't like to read suspense/mystery novels because I'm a person whose heart jumps even at reading words, but it was worth the risk. I couldn't seem to put the book down. The action almost starts immediately after a few pages, and from there is nothing but twists and turns. Two thumbs up.- Leslie Williams
Well this was quite a ride, the action starts almost as soon as the book begins so there is no long buildup to get things started. - Douglas Meeks
This is an exciting story to read with many twists and turns. It's very compelling with a very engaging story line. There is a hint of romance, which really didn't have a chance to develop in this novel, but perhaps the second book in this series... will have the romancing. Great read, highly recommend. - Nancy Silk
I loved reading this book. I couldn't put it down. Once you start reading it you want to know what's going to happen next so you keep reading. I recommend this book to anyone who loves reading paranormal books. And if you've never read one, this is a great book to start. - Paula Dumond
Chasing Shadows is one of those books that needs minimum effort to finish. Scene after scene flows easily and compels you, the reader, with just enough nudge to go on a few more paragraphs.Soon you will find yourself wanting to read a few more chapters. Suspense builds slowly and reaches its climax nearing the end of the book. The characters are likable, the romance is sweet. - Helmy Kusuma
The story grabs you from the very beginning. There is no lengthy introduction of characters or setting of the scene. Williamsen weaves the necessary information in as the tale progresses. I love the way Dannye takes the reader along for the ride. With her descriptive style of writing, you can picture the events taking place and feel the emotions experienced by the characters.
The story line is not the run-of-the-mill typical self-assured psychic vs bad guy. It delves into Brita's reluctant acceptance of her psychic abilities and if she really wants to use them, as well as the prejudice encountered by non-believers. Of course, there is much more to the tale blending together to keep the reader interested in all aspects of the story.
I won't give a synopsis of the story, other reviewers have taken care of that. But I will tell you, if you want to read a fantastic paranormal book that will keep your interest from first page to last, "Chasing Shadows" is the one to read. I'm looking forward to reading book two in the series! - Greta Burroughs
Oh my goodness what a ride this book was! It had me on my toes at every page. I normally don't like to read suspense/mystery novels because I'm a person whose heart jumps even at reading words, but it was worth the risk. I couldn't seem to put the book down. The action almost starts immediately after a few pages, and from there is nothing but twists and turns. Two thumbs up.- Leslie Williams
Well this was quite a ride, the action starts almost as soon as the book begins so there is no long buildup to get things started. - Douglas Meeks
This is an exciting story to read with many twists and turns. It's very compelling with a very engaging story line. There is a hint of romance, which really didn't have a chance to develop in this novel, but perhaps the second book in this series... will have the romancing. Great read, highly recommend. - Nancy Silk
I loved reading this book. I couldn't put it down. Once you start reading it you want to know what's going to happen next so you keep reading. I recommend this book to anyone who loves reading paranormal books. And if you've never read one, this is a great book to start. - Paula Dumond
Chasing Shadows is one of those books that needs minimum effort to finish. Scene after scene flows easily and compels you, the reader, with just enough nudge to go on a few more paragraphs.Soon you will find yourself wanting to read a few more chapters. Suspense builds slowly and reaches its climax nearing the end of the book. The characters are likable, the romance is sweet. - Helmy Kusuma
Shattered Hearts by Dannye Williamsen
I'm exhausted! "Shattered Hearts" took me on a ride I was not expecting.
Brita Madison encounters the ghost of a young child named Randy who was desperately looking for his brother. The two boys had been kidnapped and kept in cages awaiting a future worse than they could ever imagine. Trying to help Randy takes Brita and her friends into the dark world of a pedophile ring which nearly destroyed them all. Having paranormal abilities served as an advantage and disadvantage to Brita's new circle of friends as they used their abilities to chase down the whereabouts of Randy's brother. During the investigation, they discovered there were other boys subjected to the same fate. The task of rescuing one child became more complicated than they ever imagined.
From my abbreviated description this book sounds like the typical cat and mouse, good guys chasing bad guy tale. Far from it! This is where "Shattered Hearts" departs from the ordinary story. There are so many surprises, betrayals, and unexpected twists and turns; the reader expects one thing, but gets another. There's no way to predict what's going to happen, all the way to the last page.
This is one paranormal mystery you have to read, even if you normally don't enjoy this genre. My question to the author is - When is book three coming out? - Greta Burroughs
Brita Madison encounters the ghost of a young child named Randy who was desperately looking for his brother. The two boys had been kidnapped and kept in cages awaiting a future worse than they could ever imagine. Trying to help Randy takes Brita and her friends into the dark world of a pedophile ring which nearly destroyed them all. Having paranormal abilities served as an advantage and disadvantage to Brita's new circle of friends as they used their abilities to chase down the whereabouts of Randy's brother. During the investigation, they discovered there were other boys subjected to the same fate. The task of rescuing one child became more complicated than they ever imagined.
From my abbreviated description this book sounds like the typical cat and mouse, good guys chasing bad guy tale. Far from it! This is where "Shattered Hearts" departs from the ordinary story. There are so many surprises, betrayals, and unexpected twists and turns; the reader expects one thing, but gets another. There's no way to predict what's going to happen, all the way to the last page.
This is one paranormal mystery you have to read, even if you normally don't enjoy this genre. My question to the author is - When is book three coming out? - Greta Burroughs
