This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.
Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite
The Apparition by Lori R. Lopez is a captivating dystopian ghost story that is part of her Spooktacular Tales series. Set against the backdrop of an oppressive, futuristic metropolis, the narrative unfolds the unlikely romance between Arnold Stamp, a kind-hearted ghost trapped in the monotony of his old life, and Renata Stowe, a lonely woman disenchanted by the authoritarian society surrounding her. The story begins with Arnold, who met an untimely and mysterious end, as he aimlessly wanders through his past haunts, observing Renata, the new inhabitant of his former apartment. There’s something about Renata’s old-fashioned charm and her evident sadness that draws Arnold in, fostering a connection that transcends time. One fateful night, Arnold musters up the courage to step into her apartment where Renata welcomes him, having felt his ghostly presence. As their surprising romance unfolds across dimensions, the story explores themes of love, loss, and defiance against oppressive systems. The stark contrast between the dark, futuristic setting and moments of tenderness creates a heartwarming and chilling narrative.
What really struck me was how skillfully Lori R. Lopez balanced the eerie with the emotional. Even amidst the chaos of their dystopian world, the bond between Arnold and Renata felt authentic and deeply moving. The societal critique on technology and human agency was sharp and thought-provoking, yet it never overshadowed the central love story. I particularly appreciated the vivid descriptions of their environment, from the ominous drones to the quiet refuge found in forbidden books. Lori effectively uses imagery to paint a vivid picture of the dystopian setting and the emotional states of the characters. For example, the descriptions of the drone attacks and the cemetery scenes are particularly striking. The lingering impact of the story stayed with me long after I turned the last page. Lori’s talent for weaving a narrative that resonates emotionally and intellectually makes The Apparition an unforgettable read.
