Shining Rock

Shining Rock cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Technical
  • ID: 3635
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-18
  • Published: 2010-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

In the heart of the North Carolina mountains, an older couple seeks solace and tranquility during a camping trip. Their peaceful retreat is shattered when a strange and menacing visitor appears, claiming to know them intimately and revealing secrets they thought were long buried. What begins as an unsettling encounter quickly escalates into a fight for their lives as they become convinced that they may never leave the mountains alive. The stranger's eerie familiarity and the couple's growing fear create a tense and suspenseful atmosphere that keeps readers on the edge of their seats./n/nThe novel delves into the psychological terror of being trapped with someone who seems to know your deepest secrets. As the couple struggles to understand the stranger's motives and find a way to escape, the story explores themes of memory, identity, and the dark side of human nature. The remote and rugged setting of the North Carolina mountains adds to the sense of isolation and dread, making for a chilling and unforgettable reading experience.

Reviews
Over-Blog Kiwi · 2023-08-23
joyful 4.00

The story is praised for its absurdity and the fun it has with its premise, exploring a path-not-taken fantasy in a joyful manner.

The reviewer highlights the story's absurdity as a strength, finding it proud and joyful. They appreciate how the story plays with the path-not-taken fantasy, making it a fun and engaging read. The reviewer's enthusiasm suggests a positive reception of the story's unique approach.


Quick quotes

    It is proud and joyful in its absurdity, and having a lot of fun with it too.

    Crouch's exploration of the path-not-taken fantasy is

    Crouch's exploration of the path-not-taken fantasy is

Amazon · 2010-07-03
entertaining 3.50

The story is entertaining and reminiscent of Alfred Hitchcock's works, with just the right length. The reviewer plans to explore more of the author's work.

The reviewer found the story to be reminiscent of Alfred Hitchcock's works, which made it particularly enjoyable. They appreciated the length of the story, finding it just right for the narrative. The reviewer was intrigued enough to consider reading more of the author's work, indicating a positive impression.


Quick quotes

    Reminiscent of Alfred Hitchcock stories, I found this to be entertaining and just long enough.

    Won't give away the plot.

    Will read more of this author's short stories.

Goodreads · 2010-07-03
excellent 4.50

The story is described as an excellent and affordable introduction to the author's work, making it a worthwhile read.

The reviewer considers the story a great introduction to the author's work, highlighting its excellence and affordability. They imply that the story is a good starting point for those unfamiliar with the author, suggesting it effectively captures their style and quality.


Quick quotes

    From the author of DESERT PLACES, ABANDON, and “Serial,” comes this short story which is an excellent and affordable introduction to the author

    This short story which is an excellent and affordable introduction to the author

    An excellent and affordable introduction to the author