Really atmospheric gothic read, story was very well told, and that creepy feeling at the back of the neck was firmly in place during the book. Highly recommmend.

First off- If I ever see the word/phrase/ nickname "Hayseed" ever again it will be too soon. This nickname for Hayden was not only never explained nor was it cute, endearing or funny the first time or the thousandth time. I cannot express how grating this was.

I don't really have much positive to say about this book. The chapters were short and I did zoom through the pages. I really enjoyed the chapters from Cora Jean's perspective- I feel like THAT is where the story was. There were a few super unsettling gore descriptions. Other than that this book was kind of a mess.

It was a super slow burn- the paranormal/haunting side was so minimal a few unexplained sounds (until the very end) I was really rather bored. Hayden shares a really traumatic past that wasn't necessary to the plot in a wildly dismissive way. The way the two of them react- or rather don't react at all- to finding several dead bodies was absurd.

The ending...was exciting I guess, but the twist was so ridiculous. just why? I think this book wanted to be 3 different stories and the author should've picked one instead of trying to shove them all into the end of one book.

A chilling story of a woman desperate to get away from the horrors of her life, only to discover horrors of the past. Stunning story.

I chose this as the cover was giving spooky vibes so perfect for October. It was a fairly quick read but I'm hovering between a 2 and 3 star rating mainly because of the ending. I was really enjoying the book up until the last 10% or so and then it just went off the rails. I particularly liked the middle section set in the past where we got the history of what happened in the children's hospital and what led to the building being haunted.
There are some very dark themes explored here and it does take some time to go anywhere. The relationship between Abby and Hayden just didn't click with me and felt very insta-love for someone coming out of an abusive relationship, but the ending just kinda ruined it for me a bit
I don't think it was very well explained and although I know these kinds of stories expect you to suspend your disbelief, this one was just too far fetched without any substance behind certain characters actions.

This book was so strange. It kept me hooked for sure, but I also had a feeling I knew where it was going early on. That said, it was an entertaining story and I had a good time with it.

The Dead Pennies
Robert Ford
3.5/5


After escaping an abusive relationship, Abby seeks refuge with an old friend, Hayden, on her way to her mother's in Florida. Hayden's Uncle Jack is renovating a building into high-end apartments and offers Abby the caretaker role, allowing her to live rent-free in a beautiful loft. The building, formerly Harper's Grove, has a dark history as a home for infirm and unwanted children—known as the Dead Pennies.

As Abby starts hearing strange sounds and seeing moving shadows, she and Hayden uncover the building's haunting past. Meanwhile, Abby's vengeful ex-boyfriend, Nick, is determined to drag her back into his clutches. However, Nick doesn’t anticipate the wrath of the restless spirits of the Dead Pennies.

Compared to Ford's previous works, "The Dead Pennies" offers a different reading experience. Initially, it feels like a slow burn—a calm before the storm. The first 75% of the book coasts along, which might test the patience of some readers. However, Ford's narrative shift hits hard, making the payoff worth the wait.

The characters have a certain grit and edge, which makes them intriguing. Abby, while showing strength, makes some puzzling decisions, like running away with a mannequin. The chemistry between Abby and Hayden is lukewarm, and their conversations sometimes feel forced and cringeworthy. The supporting characters, like the mysterious Uncle Jack and the sinister Dr. Ray Dobsen, add depth to the story, though some of their arcs lack closure.

Ford excels in setting the eerie, suspenseful atmosphere of Harper's Grove. The building's history as a facility for unwanted children adds a layer of chilling horror. The spirits of the Dead Pennies seeking vengeance create a palpable sense of dread that builds throughout the story.

The story is divided into two books. The first book takes a while to get going, with the plot only truly engaging around page 54. The initial chapters feel like filler, which might turn off some readers. However, the narrative picks up significantly in the second book, diving into the haunting past of 1964, where the horrors of Harper's Grove unfold.

The book touches on dark themes like child abuse, paedophilia, and the failings of the system, particularly the Catholic Church. These elements are handled with a mix of crass humor and graphic descriptions, which might be off-putting to some readers. The portrayal of the Catholic priest, Fr Walker, using disrespectful language and questionable beliefs, could also be controversial for some.

Ford's writing is engaging and descriptive, but the book could benefit from tighter editing. There are some inconsistencies, such as Hayden mistakenly calling Abby "Lucy" and unnecessary details like "a pair of forks" when "two forks" would suffice. These minor issues, along with the repetitive references to Australia despite the story being set in Philadelphia, detract slightly from the overall experience.

"The Dead Pennies" is a mixed bag. The initial slow pacing might deter some readers, but the story's latter half delivers a satisfying horror experience. Ford's venture into unfamiliar territory is commendable, and this book could attract new fans. However, the lack of closure for several characters and the focus shift in the conclusion leave some threads unresolved.

Despite its flaws, "The Dead Pennies" is worth a read for horror enthusiasts and Robert Ford fans. The chilling atmosphere and haunting narrative make it an intriguing addition to Ford's body of work.

"After leaving an abusive relationship, Abby visits an old friend on her way to her mother’s in Florida. Hayden’s Uncle Jack is renovating a building into high-end apartments in town, and with the lure of living rent-free in a beautiful loft, Abby becomes the caretaker with the entire building all to herself. Abby hears strange sounds in the building. Shadows move as if they’re alive. Led to believe the structure was previously a school, Abby is told by the last living employee of Harper’s Grove that the building used to be a home for the infirm and unwanted children, the Dead Pennies of society, unfit for circulation. Abby and Hayden search for the cause of the strange events at Harper’s Grove, and find out why the spirits of the dead children won’t sleep until they get vengeance. But there’s also another evil at play—this one of a human nature. Abby’s ex-boyfriend, Nick, finds out where she has run off to. He won’t stop for anything until she’s back in his clutches, but Nick doesn’t expect to come up against the raging spirits of the Dead Pennies."
Suspenseful, thrilling story, loved the storyline, kept my attention throughout the whole book. first time read author, will read more of his book. If you like dark horror this is the book for you. I give this book 4 stars.
Thank you netgalley, and the publisher for the opportunity to leave an honest review.
Published Sept 1st 2023

Thank you to Net Galley and the author for the ARC of The Dead Pennies. Life happened between getting the arc and now so I apologize for the delay in reviewing!

Abby is a very likable character and you do a little dance for her in the beginning as she forges her way out of a bad relationship. Things really seem like they will be good for her, but it can't be that easy right, it is a horror novel after all. I enjoyed the dynamic between Abby and Hayden, they kept the story moving nicely, though I would consider this a slower burn but worth it to see it to the end! Definitely has its spooky parts!

Definitely check for trigger warnings before diving in.

I loved this book until the ending. I found it unrealistic and it was very off putting for me.

Thank you so much Independent Book Publishers Association, Robert Ford, and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and honestly review this book.

“The Dead Pennies,” by Robert Ford

The beginning was pretty slow, but it got good after a few chapters in. I liked the characters, they felt real, some parts of their interaction were a bit cringe though. I wish the book was edited a little more because there were some story fails, like characters having same last name but not related and characters that were brought up and then quickly forgotten. There was a bunch of jumps scare type horror and abusive people type of horror. The ending was unexpected, and I didn’t see it exactly happening quite that way. 4 out of 5 stars.

Thank you for the free copy, Netgalley.

A chilling and haunting story which will keep you up at night. So good.
Many thanks to Cemetery Dance Publications and to Netgalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

A really chilling read! I absolutley loved this thought the prose was haunting, need to read more by this author for sure

Omg! What a fantastic, chilling experience! I absolutely will recommend this to all . 5 stars across the board

I really enjoyed this book by Robert Ford. This was my first book by the author and it was a great introduction! I enjoyed the story, the characters, and while the pacing was slow at times it felt fitting. Can't wait to read more from the author!

Thank you Netgalley and publisher for an arc ♥️
In “The Dead Pennies,” Robert Ford delivers a gripping and intense crime thriller that immerses readers in the gritty underbelly of small-town America. The story follows ex-con Mickey O’Hara, who returns to his hometown of Ash Falls, Virginia, seeking redemption and a fresh start. Instead, Mickey finds himself entangled in a web of corruption, violence, and family secrets.
One of the standout aspects of “The Dead Pennies” is its well-developed cast of characters. Mickey O’Hara is a complex and flawed protagonist, haunted by his past mistakes and struggling to find purpose. The supporting characters, such as Mickey’s cousin, Derek, and the enigmatic crime boss, Grim, add depth and intrigue to the narrative.
The Dead Pennies is a gripping and intense crime thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre. With its well-crafted characters, intricate plot, and gritty atmosphere.

Could not download and unable to provide accurate feedback. Was looking forward to reading this one.

Wow. Really enjoyed this book by Robert Ford. First time reading him, and will definitely need to read more from him. I enjoyed the characters, the plot, and the pacing. #THEDEADPENNIES #NetGalley

Compared to Robert Ford's previous books, this is quite a different reading experience. My initial thought was that it was a bit of a slow burn, but really, a better way of putting it would be to say it feels more like the calm before the storm kind of read. About 75% calm, if I'm being honest. And that's a lot. If this was a 500 page chunker, I probably would have DNF'd it, but saying that... it's Robert Ford. I do trust his work. There is always a shift in the narrative somewhere that's going to hit hard in some kind of way. And the pay off here is worth it.

The characters do have a certain grit to them. I appreciated that. There's an edge to them. You feel something genuinely lingering in their minds. It's intriguing enough. After finishing an audiobook called Fay by Larry Brown, it sat quite nicely as a follow on.

I am still in two minds of how much I enjoyed this as a whole, though.

It's well written. No two ways about it. It's not a boring read by any means. It's just sort of coasting for a shade too long.

What I will say is that I did kind of find it refreshing to see Robert Ford tackling unfamiliar ground as well, though. He usually throws it all at you pretty quickly. So, to take a step back and approach a story in this way was admirable.


THE DEAD PENNIES could, and should earn him some new fans. I'd love to see that happen. He's one of the best out there. I'll always read his work.
Always.

I think 3.5 stars out of 5 sits about right, but for Goodreads and Amazon, I am happy to round this one up to 4. As with Netgalley.

I also have to say, I purchased this book, even though I got this from Netgalley.

The story was intriguing. It has its creepy parts, but the end felt like rushed. Overall, I enjoyed reading it, but I'd warn those who can be triggered by Child abuse and Domestic violence.

The Dead Pennies is about a girl who is running from an abusive relationship and offers to stay at an old school that is being covered to apartments for a friend. But she was never told the truth of the buildings history. Normally these types of books don’t scare me but there was a trope that always freaks me out that crawled its way in. It did take a while to get into the beginning stuff but once I hit the halfway mark things really started happening. The ending took a turn I didn’t see coming but it made sense in the end.