‘Comparisons with Stephen King are far too frequent in reviews of horror fiction, but in this
case, such a reference is valid both for the particular type of fiction and for the chatty,
engaging storytelling that sinks its teeth into the reader and just won’t let go until the final page.’ Guardian

‘The language creates an extra frisson of delight throughout the deeply suspenseful, chilling
story. A riveting, masterful debut.’ Irish Examiner

‘The Darkening is a mind-blowing supernatural suspense thriller. Read this book and I guarantee
you’ll sleep with the lights on!’ Newbooks

‘This is quite simply the scariest book I have ever read.’ The American Book Center Blog

‘I can’t remember being this creeped out by a book since reading King’s The Shining.’
HorrorScope

‘The Dead Path is astonishingly assured novel for a debut … a taut thriller.’ ABC Radio

‘The Darkening (or The Dead Path) is a stunning debut … while the novel is not a typical thriller,
given its large number of supernatural elements, it will appeal to thriller readers with its pace,
mystery, and excitement. 4 _ Stars.’ Books’n’Bytes

‘Best read in sunlight. 4 stars.’ Who Weekly

‘A very, very fine debut.’ West Australian

‘Irwin is not satisfied with simply telling a story of modern day witchcraft in the woods of terror;
he decided to add a dose more horror into the mix to ensure the reader is kept on their toes …
Irwin blends the very correct writing style of James Herbert with the free-flowing naturalistic style
of Stephen King to produce a novel that will certainly keep you up in the morning.’ Scary Minds