Book Jacket

 

rank 2
word count 114726
date submitted 18.04.2011
date updated 24.05.2013
genres: Fiction, Literary Fiction
classification: adult
incomplete

Where She Lies

Nick Goulding

Dark secrets haunt the old novelist as she strives to complete her final work before it is too late. Can she really re-write childhood?

 

She turned her body into stone. Stone cannot feel. Stone cannot bleed.

As Emma lies dying, she has one urgent request. Words must be spoken if she is to finally let go.

In Edwardian Dorset, four children running carefree through Heaventree Wood become entangled in threads of good and evil that have rippled and weaved since time beyond memory. Enmeshed, their lives will never be free. Three men plot to take over the wood, but what is their real motive? Who is the girl in white flitting between the trees, and why is she so afraid? Drawn by an ancient mystery, the children place their trust in Tewt, the enigmatic man of the woods, and face betrayal.

Were they really days of innocence and imagination? An old lady, haunted and tortured by the past, prays she has enough time to finish her last work. The wood had always healed itself and hidden its secrets. But some things refuse to lie quietly. In the dark, evil does not always recognize itself.

A surreal novel within a novel, a tale of hidden things, 'Where She Lies' is a journey through time that questions reality and the nature of guilt and responsibility.

 
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tags

abuse, coming of age, crime, dark, deceit, dorset, historical, life, magic, murder, mystery, philosophy, psychological, secrets, sex, spiritelli, stea...

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446 comments

 

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Stellajr wrote 4 days ago

This is beautifully written. I felt powerfully drawn into the story from the first page. Several threads are interwoven, creating an atmosphere of mystery and suspense. The supernatural elements, such as the hollow tree, green orb, and gift shop, felt plausible and real. I could hear the rustling of the trees and smell the fragrance of the orb and Emily's leaf-wrapped gift.

For the past week, this has been my bedtime story to myself. Although it made for some disturbing dreams, it was a rare treat. In my opinion, this is destined to become a classic.

K E Shaw wrote 36 days ago

I read this first chapter, many moons ago, and then again dipped in briefly for one of those 3-word only reviews - and I still remember it. I think all that may have been before you made some changes. Now it is just as haunting - and disturbing - but it's grown into something truly special that grips the gut and doesn't let go. I certainly don't remember what Emma had seen at the bedroom window! The prose is a delight to read - it's perfectly polished, and I can't imagine changing a single thing. From the wrenching start to the uneasy finish with Emma as an old woman, this comes across as wonderfully professional, Nick. I can't think what else to say without gushing messily all over your comments, so I will finish with this: I don't know what your plans in terms of publishing are, but I'd snap this up the instant it's available to buy. It's a keeper.

B&B wrote 100 days ago


Where She Lies is in my opinion a masterpiece. The set up of the story is well rounded and the details well placed. Nick sure has a talent for telling a beautiful story.

Where She Lies is truly a gem and I´m surprised that Nick has not had any invitation from HC or any other publishers outside of Autho. The writer himself has a natural talent and the story begins on the first line of the manuscript.

While reading what I have read of Where She Lies I did not find myself wondering when the story will take off and where is the author going with the story. This is one of those stories that is the story as soon as we start reading.

The characters and the detail are well placed and the reader is taking into the life of the protagonist, which I presume is Emma as I have not had the time to continue this magnificent and well written story and will certainly be back for more.

The part I have read of Where She Lies gives me the confidence that the rest of manuscript is written in the same professional manner and that the author´s target audience will not be disappointed.

It is always difficult to write a comment about a master piece. A manuscript where the reader cannot find fault and only has praising words to describe the author.

Best of luck with where she lies and of course the six star rating is what this story deserves.

Stark Silvercoin wrote 166 days ago

I read this novel about a year ago and came back for a second look. I’m really glad I did. It’s easy to see why Where She Lies is rising up the charts.

Author Nick Goulding is able to combine literary fiction with fantasy and horror in a way not dissimilar to H.P. Lovecraft. Goulding has both the ability to weave a fantastic story with the statesmen-like prose of a seasoned writer.

Coming back a year later, it’s clear that Where She Lies is even more polished than before, with an amazing beginning that hooks readers and begins to pull them through the tale. And once inside, each answer leads to more questions, with the reader getting deeper and more involved with each page turned.

Where She Lies is certainly bound for the desk here, and will pick up many fans once published. And Goulding, I believe, has the ability to become not just a well-known author, but one who matters.

John Breeden II
Old Number Seven

Kirstie wrote 380 days ago

I would buy this tomorrow if I could!
I have never read anything quite like it but I want to read more.You have an amazing writing style, particluarly with descriptions. And the story is so mysterious. It felt more like dreaming than reading.
I love the dialogue, particularly Polly Popinjay.
I have only read the first two chapters but I will definitely be reading more.
The writing is of such a high standard that there is not much to criticise, however I did notice 'Don't Gorge, George' with a misplaced capital.
I also wondered if 'quarr' should have a y or perhaps this is a regional variation.
Personally I thought that the line 'Bit tender. but I won't die from it,' sounded a little mature for the character Emma.
But these are the only tiny points I can find.
I'm glad to see it doing so well on Authonomy. Have given full stars and a place on my shelf.
best wishes
Kirstie

Stellajr wrote 4 days ago

This is beautifully written. I felt powerfully drawn into the story from the first page. Several threads are interwoven, creating an atmosphere of mystery and suspense. The supernatural elements, such as the hollow tree, green orb, and gift shop, felt plausible and real. I could hear the rustling of the trees and smell the fragrance of the orb and Emily's leaf-wrapped gift.

For the past week, this has been my bedtime story to myself. Although it made for some disturbing dreams, it was a rare treat. In my opinion, this is destined to become a classic.

LondonFog wrote 9 days ago

Hi Nick,

I was just wondering if you could give me some advice on my work, as i was just getting ready to delve deeper into your work after reading the first chapter about a week ago, seeing as your book is ranked number 2 i would very much appreciate your words of advice.

Tom
Paradise, Volume I

Odette67 wrote 9 days ago

What a wonderful and moving opening. The words flow so beautifully.
I held my breath for the first few paragraphs. the story is haunting, intriging and echos inside my head.

The descriptions are wonderful, it holds my attention. i have put you on my bookshelf and will read later today.

wonderful

Kate web of deceit

Patsy4 wrote 13 days ago

This is clever. The rape scene in 1897 is followed by a beautiful description of Dorset countryside. The contrast magnifies the horror. Both scenes contain slabs: in the first she's tied to it and buriied underneath it and in the second she's sitting in the sunshine watching the ants. I've only read the first chapter so far and I wonder if I'll be able to keep track of 3 time periods in the one book - that's the nearest to a negative comment I can think of!
I olso have dialect in my book and when I pitched to 2 agents last year they both suggested that it would put publishers off. Have you had any such feedback?
Hope your book continues to do well.
Anne

LondonFog wrote 15 days ago

I read the first chapter and i must say i will be coming back for more, that is for certain. Your erratic style of layout intragues me, to me it's a great symbol of the erratic thoughts that must be compounding the mind of the protagonist. Keep up the good work!

LondonFog wrote 15 days ago

I read the first chapter and i must say i will be coming back for more, that is for certain. Your erratic style of layout intragues me, to me it's a great symbol of the erratic thoughts that must be compounding the mind of the protagonist. Keep up the good work!

LondonFog wrote 15 days ago

I read the first chapter and i must say i will be coming back for more, that is for certain. Your erratic style of layout intragues me, to me it's a great symbol of the erratic thoughts that must be compounding the mind of the protagonist. Keep up the good work!

LondonFog wrote 15 days ago

I read the first chapter and i must say i will be coming back for more, that is for certain. Your erratic style of layout intragues me, to me it's a great symbol of the erratic thoughts that must be compounding the mind of the protagonist. Keep up the good work!

LondonFog wrote 15 days ago

I read the first chapter and i must say i will be coming back for more, that is for certain. You're erratic style of layout intragues me, to me it's a great symbol of the erratic thoughts that must be compounding the mind of the protagonist. Keep up the good work!

emoo125 wrote 16 days ago

I've only read the first couple chapters of "Where She Lies" thus far...but just wanted to say I'm already enthralled. Wonderful character development and use of dialogue, the imagery is stunning and very vivid. The combination of fantastical and creepy elements in an adult context is unique and just downright intriguing. I'm really looking forward to reading more of this book, and hope that it does well!

BeeJoy wrote 20 days ago

Hauntingly creepy, but so well written. You weave an intricate tale, deeper than the parts I am grasping as I read. I love your description and flow, your mix of quotes, italics and the switch-back-and-forth style. It is engaging and keeps the reader moving forward, wanting to know more. I'm sure this has all been said before... and I hope Where She Lies receives the accolades it deserves...

EngLit Traveller wrote 20 days ago

Where She Lies is a truly outstanding work of literary fiction. The perspective of the child contrasted with that of the old lady is masterfully crafted. I became totally involved in this novel, emotionally and intellectually. It is a treat, a joy and a superb work.
ELT

andrew skaife wrote 22 days ago

This is fantastic and of the highest quality. I think the word "malevolent" is the perfect ascription to the opening sequence and your excellent descriptive narrative voice carries the work brilliantly. The throb of the "stone" stanza is gripping.

You certainly have a storyteller's skill and a crafting artist's handle on language.

Also, I very much enjoyed the punctuated resonance of the italics- it makes for a powerful structure and form.

Superbly crafted work.

andrew skaife wrote 22 days ago

This is fantastic and of the highest quality. I think the word "malevolent" is the perfect ascription to the opening sequence and your excellent descriptive narrative voice carries the work brilliantly. The throb of the "stone" stanza is gripping.

You certainly have a storyteller's skill and a crafting artist's handle on language.

Also, I very much enjoyed the punctuated resonance of the italics- it makes for a powerful structure and form.

Superbly crafted work.

Michelle Richardson wrote 25 days ago

Nick, I have been meaning to take a look at your book for a couple of weeks now and I'm so glad I did. The story is haunting and yet mesmerizing, and you weave the innocent everyday things with the unfolding mystery with great ease. I will return to read more and have given this highest stars.
Michelle- 43 Primrose Avenue

Nick Goulding wrote 29 days ago

A very gripping and engrossing start to an intriguing tale. I've so far just read the first couple of chapters and have put it on my watchlist to come back to.

Couple of little things which are probably completely inconsequential, so just me rambling. Was the Dorset coastline really called the Jurassic coast in 1907? I only ask as it wasn't when I lived in Dorset in the 1990s, it only seemed to become widely called that after the charter in 2001. And Ems somehow sounds a very modern abbreviation for Emma, but I'm sure you have researched all this inside out!

Very best of luck with it, it deserves to do well.

Tottie Limejuice
Sell the Pig "

Thanks very much, Tottie.

The shortened forms such as ‘Ems’ were in common use in Edwardian times. For example, this from a postcard dated July 19th 1906. ‘Dear Ems, Thanks for the card + paper, we are having very dull weather now, it makes us all down on our luck. Hope things are looking up your way, and a bit brighter for you all. Best love from us all Mum x’

The ‘Jurassic’ reference was a marketing hook, to be honest! It is a selling point for this area. However, the term ‘Jurassic’ dates from the time of Alexandre Brogniart in the early 1800’s, and links to the geological map of William Smith in 1815. Although a character like Ivy, with her scientific background and knowledgeable father, would have come across such terms I could be pushing it a bit, so I may wait to see if anyone else finds it intrusive. Mary Anning (d.1847), the famous local palaeontologist, would also have been familiar to some characters. I may put ‘craggy coastline’ back in for the alliteration. (Ref: ‘The Map that Changed the World’, by Simon Winchester).

Thanks again,
Nick

Tottie Limejuice wrote 30 days ago

A very gripping and engrossing start to an intriguing tale. I've so far just read the first couple of chapters and have put it on my watchlist to come back to.

Couple of little things which are probably completely inconsequential, so just me rambling. Was the Dorset coastline really called the Jurassic coast in 1907? I only ask as it wasn't when I lived in Dorset in the 1990s, it only seemed to become widely called that after the charter in 2001. And Ems somehow sounds a very modern abbreviation for Emma, but I'm sure you have researched all this inside out!

Very best of luck with it, it deserves to do well.

Tottie Limejuice
Sell the Pig

Rusty Bernard wrote 31 days ago

7 is my lucky number an this ranks at that so I thought I would have a dabble. Will be back very soon. Mx

Sheena Macleod wrote 31 days ago

Where She Lies by Nick Goulding
Wow, this is just the sort of book I like to read. Expressive, thoughful and full of deep meaning. I have to admit I found the first section harrowing, and had to leave it and come back again. Very disturbing.
The writing is very detailed, and I could visualise everything. This is an exceptionally well written piece of classic literature. It is worthy of high praise.
High stars
Sheena
The Popish Plot

K E Shaw wrote 36 days ago

I read this first chapter, many moons ago, and then again dipped in briefly for one of those 3-word only reviews - and I still remember it. I think all that may have been before you made some changes. Now it is just as haunting - and disturbing - but it's grown into something truly special that grips the gut and doesn't let go. I certainly don't remember what Emma had seen at the bedroom window! The prose is a delight to read - it's perfectly polished, and I can't imagine changing a single thing. From the wrenching start to the uneasy finish with Emma as an old woman, this comes across as wonderfully professional, Nick. I can't think what else to say without gushing messily all over your comments, so I will finish with this: I don't know what your plans in terms of publishing are, but I'd snap this up the instant it's available to buy. It's a keeper.

Katefin wrote 44 days ago

Your writing is so evocatice of the strange magic of the countryside, lyrical and beautiful. The opening scene, though disturbing, is very powerful with the refrain"she turned her body into stone." Heart wrenching. It is ambitious to jump through time periods, but I think it works. I think this is brilliant!

Nick Goulding wrote 69 days ago

CLAW review

This is by far the most beautiful and scary novel I have read on this site, and not only that, polished to the point of impeccability.

I tried hard to find imperfections, confusions, too wordy bits and pieces but could not. This is clearly out of my league, and I am not qualified to criticize this piece of literature.

However, I have tried very hard to find something to contribute, as CLAW review is not meant to be flattery, and I think I have found it. A very minor point and embarrassing scrutinizing though.
Chapter 23 - "Claret red" : I know that what you call "claret" wines are very popular in UK and every Brits knows what color is claret red but it means nothing outside of UK (except for Australia and NZ that I have no idea of). It's apparently a very old variety of grape or something that used to be produced in Bordeaux but nowadays, no known French wine producers use that variety, and they have developed different varieties out of it. So, no French except for the ones who have lived in the UK have heard of 'Claret' (in fact, the closest thing is "Clairet" or "Clairette" that they make rose or white wines from. Naturally, the importers of wines (i.e. US, Japan etc.) do not know what Claret wine and claret red.
I would suggest using "Bordeaux" or simply "wine red" or something like that if you intend to market this novel outside of UK.
I hope you did not mind me scrutinizing this teeny weeny thing.

R


Thank you so much, R.
Claret was the most popular wine of Edwardian times in England and it was a common descriptor of colour. So, as historical accuracy is important I'll probably keep it. Personally, I enjoy coming across new words that relate to different cultures and periods of history. Just found this quote from the 'Seattle Times':

'A search of the Wine Enthusiast database turns up some 90 reviews for wines labeled claret. They come from all corners of the wine world: Australia, Chile, Spain, Missouri, New England, Oregon and Virginia. But most by far are from California and Washington, and they cost anywhere from $10 to $125 a bottle.'

Interesting point, though. Thanks again,
N

R. Dango wrote 70 days ago

CLAW review

This is by far the most beautiful and scary novel I have read on this site, and not only that, polished to the point of impeccability.

I tried hard to find imperfections, confusions, too wordy bits and pieces but could not. This is clearly out of my league, and I am not qualified to criticize this piece of literature.

However, I have tried very hard to find something to contribute, as CLAW review is not meant to be flattery, and I think I have found it. A very minor point and embarrassing scrutinizing though.
Chapter 23 - "Claret red" : I know that what you call "claret" wines are very popular in UK and every Brits knows what color is claret red but it means nothing outside of UK (except for Australia and NZ that I have no idea of). It's apparently a very old variety of grape or something that used to be produced in Bordeaux but nowadays, no known French wine producers use that variety, and they have developed different varieties out of it. So, no French except for the ones who have lived in the UK have heard of 'Claret' (in fact, the closest thing is "Clairet" or "Clairette" that they make rose or white wines from. Naturally, the importers of wines (i.e. US, Japan etc.) do not know what Claret wine and claret red.
I would suggest using "Bordeaux" or simply "wine red" or something like that if you intend to market this novel outside of UK.
I hope you did not mind me scrutinizing this teeny weeny thing.

R

Nartana wrote 81 days ago

This is very good, I have only started but can't wait to read more.

Twistedbiscuits wrote 85 days ago

This shouldn't be on here. It should be in Waterstones. It should be on my bookshelf at home.

Sneaky Long wrote 86 days ago

Hi Nick, - CLAW Review and Comments on "Where She Lies"

This is quite well done. You have managed to blend the real with the surreal very adeptly. We have a young girl starting to experience troubling images and visions, yet is always pulled back to reality. At least so far, through two chapters. There are things happening both mystical and magical but we don't know what their source is. We also have another story being told outside of the regular story which is also mysterious. Your writing is very descriptive and imaginative. This is not my usual genre, but I enjoyed your story and your writing very much.

I only noticed one little stumbling block. - All subjective and only worth the price - "Nothing". In Chapter 1, after the mention of piano lessons, you are suddenly talking about Ivy and her conversations with Emma and Ivy's father and mother. I found this shift perplexing and had to stop and read again. It might just be me, but it seems Emma should be recalling these events to let the reader know how we went from Emma to Ivy.

Other than that, your style and story telling is great. I will be back for more. Highly starred and watch list for now.

Sneaky Long
"Trophy Wives"

Marlene's Ghost wrote 87 days ago

WHERE SHE LIES
Guillermo del Toro would be interested in casting his eye over the script of this dark tale. You achieve a similar tone of poetic and visual beauty. The blend of horror, fantasy and oppression seen through a child’s eyes is disturbing yet gripping. I loved the gradual unfolding of the Edwardian storyline and running parallel to it the old lady’s disintegrating world. Emma? Or are you messing with our minds? Love the ambiguity.
I enjoyed the range of believable characters. They are perfectly drawn with superb dialogue. You have a natural ability with words, which won me over. You achieved the perfect balance between description and action, dialogue and narration. The appreciation of beauty contrasts starkly with extreme darkness. Taking children through the paths you choose is inspired. I was moved too. That tug of loss, the dark side of nostalgia, so well portrayed.
I struggle to offer advice on how to improve your work. Perhaps some tighter linking of plot in the old writer sequences? But then I love the mystery of these and I would hate to see this become too obvious. I got confused over the name Coombe Martin as I thought this was in Devon but it’s spelt differently. Your style and the content are unique, I think. You tackle subjects that few writers are brave enough to confront, like the causes of abuse. It chilled me that you had me seeing things through the eyes of your sinister Phineas. I saw Jeremy Irons or Alan Rickman nailing that role! I can see from your profile that you have a background in psychology and teaching and it shows here.
You know, I’d love to see this story brought alive on screen, though I don’t know how. Give me a role in it – I feel I’ve lived it already!!
Marlene

Fragmented wrote 90 days ago

Hi Nick,

Eventually catching up on my watchlisted book, and commenting. Ive dipped into this book a few times in the past few weeks whilst ive had you on my WL, and all I can say, first of all, i...WOW. I LOVE creepy, gothic, scary, ghost stories, supernatural mysteries, and anything to do with woods and ravens, and children...reminds me of being a child, and immersing myelf in fairy tales...but for an adult, in this case. The writing is very unique, very individual, the story is unlike anything i have read prior, and i cant think of an etablished author to compare you to...which i a good thing! It mean that when you are publsihed, which im sure you will, youre very own voice of narrative will tand out amongst the rivals.

I cant find any errors, or points and I dont like...and it is for this reaon you are so high up in the charts. Normally I comment on grammar etc, but i jut cant find any. I cant fault the story. Nothing.

LOVE this, well done, and thanks for uploading it to authonomy!

Best of luck

Rachel

The Bloodline

JR Hughes wrote 95 days ago

Atmosphere, precision. Each scene is a nugget of gold. Beautifully written.
JR Hughes
Southpaw
http://www.facebook.com/JRHughesWriter

B&B wrote 100 days ago


Where She Lies is in my opinion a masterpiece. The set up of the story is well rounded and the details well placed. Nick sure has a talent for telling a beautiful story.

Where She Lies is truly a gem and I´m surprised that Nick has not had any invitation from HC or any other publishers outside of Autho. The writer himself has a natural talent and the story begins on the first line of the manuscript.

While reading what I have read of Where She Lies I did not find myself wondering when the story will take off and where is the author going with the story. This is one of those stories that is the story as soon as we start reading.

The characters and the detail are well placed and the reader is taking into the life of the protagonist, which I presume is Emma as I have not had the time to continue this magnificent and well written story and will certainly be back for more.

The part I have read of Where She Lies gives me the confidence that the rest of manuscript is written in the same professional manner and that the author´s target audience will not be disappointed.

It is always difficult to write a comment about a master piece. A manuscript where the reader cannot find fault and only has praising words to describe the author.

Best of luck with where she lies and of course the six star rating is what this story deserves.

MC Storm wrote 101 days ago

I've read the first 2 chapters and must say it certainly held my interest. I especially loved the beginning so well written. The dialogue between the girls reads clear. The slipping between then and now works effortlessly. I can see why this book is headed for the desk. Well done!!
MC
Exposed

phillc wrote 101 days ago

have to admit im not really into anything like this ...until now i could not stop reading it it fantastic

Lin-C wrote 102 days ago

Hi Nick, This is some creepy tale! I have read the first two chapters and I'm impressed. You have pulled off an incredible hook with the opening and kept me facinated throughout.
Pace is great as you slip through the different time-lines, and you give just the right amount of information whilst keeping the reader engaged with so much going on. You have managed to build the foundations of fear slowly by adding snippets of scary bits into the story, the bit where Emma is in the hollow oak and she sees the black cloak was superbly written and you incorporated so much in that scene like the wound on her knee healing.
I enjoyed your style of writing, it was easy to read and flowed well, there was only one part where I had to back track to understand. Where you have Emma and Ivy together there's a bit where you have Ivy imitate 'her mother', I had to re-read to fully understand whose mother she was imitating.
Dialogue is all great, and again, it flowed well and fitted the piece perfectly.
Your characters are all believable, and the plot weaves around them. It's as if they all have their own individual stories like the way you have Tom feeling distanced from Rebecca, but then you draw him into the story with the oak leaf. And you do the same with Polly.
You have an amazing story here, and you have the ability to write it well. It's original and should be published.
Lin

sherit wrote 102 days ago

Well, Nick...it's after midnight here in good ol' Atlanta GA, and apologies I was only able to read one chapter at this sitting...but what a wild ride. I have a feeling something very wicked this way comes, only I have no idea what. The beginning was just so horrific, it quickly knocked me for a loop. Then the normalcy of school girl talk and play contrasted with these ever so weird going ons that I haven't a clue to where they're going. I will be back to read more. Just be patient with me. Happy to see you on your way to ED and you remain on my WL and highly starred. I thank you again for your kind words and support.

All the best,

Sheri Emery / Crazy Quilt

Lauren Grey wrote 102 days ago

Nick,

This is just my kind of story, and as good as I remember it to be. I have only reread the first chapter and am envious of your storytelling and phrasing. A scene that really stands out because of your almost poetic style of descriptive writing is when Polly is eating the currant bun, and it opens memories from her past. As smells are a strong link for all of us to the past, because they do trigger forgotten memories, this passage was very well written. I also loved the phrase ...’a melody at once so familiar, yet unremembered.’ Very nice!

The only sentence I did stumble over was; ‘How could it feel at same instant only yesterday, and yet a lifetime, since her Albert, a stone quarryman, had died six years ago? This reads to me a bit clumsy, sorry I tried, but it really did break the natural flow of your writing for me. I think it needs to be reworded, or maybe it’s because I’m from the colonies and is just too British for me to understand the wording:)

This is an excellent read and one I will continue with as I really must find out what happens, took a peek at chapter two, and it looks most intriguing.

Really well done and the best of luck.

djchorus wrote 104 days ago

I'm quite astounded at your use of words, your ability to weave them together to paint a picture that is sharp and clear.
I had a bit of difficulty knowing the POV in the first chapter as it seemed to keep shifting and in understanding the relationship between the many characters you introduce. It's clear why your book is popular on this site but if you keep having difficulty attracting an agent or publisher, you might consider keeping that opening chapter tighter by not having such a scattering of characters.
You have a gift! Keep pursuing!
- David Johnson (I would appreciate a return read of my book "Tucker's Way.")

Patricia Laster wrote 105 days ago

Nick, I'm just a reader and, as such, my comments reflect only the impression made by your book and are not a critique. As an educated reader, but not a creative writer, I could see the beauty of your writing, the scenes within scenes, the vivid imagery, and your awesome skill/talent in expressing yourself. You are a very gifted author and your use of language is lyrical perfection. I could not find any flaws in your writing about which to comment and/or correct and thus have no suggestions to offer you.

I do have a question: for whom are you writing and what is your goal? If you're writing for the educated, skilled reader or fellow writer and your goal is to write a literary, beautifully written piece with potential to become a classic, you have achieved, I believe, your goal. This is brilliant writing (as far as this reader can tell).

If you're writing for the common man who's looking for a "grab me" read such as is found in popular novelists like Koontz or King, then your book won't find its audience. I continued reading through the third chapter because reading your words were like listening to classical music. I don't know that, for casual reading, I would read the whole book. Still, I recognize talent and beauty when I see it, and your book demonstrates both. I would certainly not be the one to suggest that you change your style. You write beautiful, musical, vivid prose and I am in awe of your talent.

with admiration,
Patricia

K E Shaw wrote 111 days ago

This is an ERS
Terror. Nightmare. Psyche.

http://authonomy.com/forums/threads/108600/extreme-read-swap-ers-/

Mike Spilligan wrote 113 days ago

Intriguing or what? Chapter One put me in a cold sweat at the very beginning, then lulled me with charming and atmospheric dialogue (I always like character revealing dialogue) then left me in a bit of a sweat again! I'll be reading more. You capture Dorset very well, Nick (not North Devon where lies Combe Martin) and your descriptions work one's imagination alarmingly in places. I wish you good luck with this. I'll be in a position to say more when I've read the entire story.

Mike Spilligan
'A Station In Life'

Mike Spilligan wrote 113 days ago

Intriguing or what? Chapter One put me in a cold sweat at the very beginning, then lulled me with charming and atmospheric dialogue (I always like character revealing dialogue) then left me in a bit of a sweat again! I'll be reading more. You capture Dorset very well, Nick (not North Devon where lies Combe Martin) and your descriptions work one's imagination alarmingly in places. I wish you good luck with this. I'll be in a position to say more when I've read the entire story.

Mike Spilligan
'A Station In Life'

Sally M wrote 114 days ago

Hi Nick,

Thoroughly enjoying Where She Lies!

I love the pace and the world you've created. I can see the colours and smell the horse dung!

The dialogue between the girls is so easy to read and I like the way the atmosphere changes when the mysterious stranger appears.

Great writing, good luck with your journey up to the ED.

Sally
The Psychic Detective Agency

Grace Lyssett wrote 119 days ago

Hello Nick,
I could hardly believe what I was reading, first in the thread, ‘Greetings from the Smallest Town Ever’ where you wrote about Corfe Castle, then your personal pitch, and finally your book, ‘Where She Lies’. We have so much in common! I live in Dorset and write about my small village, but because my story is about childhood abuse I use fictional names. I also come from a teaching background, years of doing supply work in inner London, and then running an art department in a special school. I too am an artist and have scanned the beaches for sea glass which I once used in children’s pottery and later in my own jewellery (have you been to the Baiter in Poole?) Since moving to Dorset I have put my psychic and spiritual skills into counselling and am fascinated by what makes people tick, how energy is exchanged, and what drives people to behave and speak in certain ways.

Naturally I am drawn to your book and have put it on my WL after reading the pitch alone. Can’t wait to get stuck in - however I want to honour my other watchlist titles first so it will take a while.

Great to have discovered you here on Authonomy.

Grace Lyssett
SORRY

PS My abuse happened many years before moving down to this beautiful county of Dorset

NowSpeakTruth wrote 119 days ago

I am reading this because your pitch is intriguing and drew me in.

This first bit here already has me shivering. The thought that she willfully 'turned herself to stone' so to speak in order to not feel the pain so harshly was a believable but tragic coping method. You've started this out by very effectively grabbing your readers attention.

And the intrigue was not lost throughout this entire chapter. The ages of your characters are all very believable, yet there are hints that a few may be wiser than what we've seen thus far.
Your characters are all together believable. Introducing us to them in how they react to their surroundings and reminisce of their past works well here.

While I've not read far enough to know whether your plot works from beginning to end, I can say that the idea for he story is both original and fascinating. I don't think you'll have much trouble finding a market for such a thought provoking tale.

My favorite part thus far would be the old man who was rambling to Emma. Were there bits of truths weaved into his madness, or was he just mad? Something I'm sure we'll discover more of later on.

While that was my favorite, the part that held the most power was your beginning, nicely tied up by the ending of this first chapter here I think.

There was nothing grammatically off, and nowhere I thought could really be reworded. All in all, great writing. high stars.

God bless

Suzi F wrote 134 days ago

Excellent opening - really moving and descriptive drawing the reader into the characters world.
Will come back for more.
Teresa
Love, Suzi x

Sara Stinson wrote 141 days ago

Wonderfully written and strong!
Sara

MoshiMoshiMike wrote 143 days ago

A top read. WHERE SHE LIES is a very moving and exciting work of fiction. It is up with the best of current literature in my opinion. I can see why the blend of horror, fantasy and thriller have won over so many readers. This is a book I have to own in hardback to cherish and enjoy at leisure.
I couldn't find fault with this writing. Highly polished and confidently written.

Pindy wrote 144 days ago

Where She Lies is a terrific book. I can see the link with HP Lovecraft and I love the steampunk references. I think this novel is in the right place at the right time. It's not a comfortable read at times but this contrasts perfectly and shockingly with the depictions of childhood.

Nick Goulding is a brilliant writer who can get into the heads of all his characters, the wicked and the good. As a reader I felt totally absorbed in the world he creates. Pure magic. The writing is accomplished, mature, sophisticated and real.

Licudi wrote 144 days ago

Where She Lies is a fantastic book. The plot is refreshingly original and powerful. It engaged me totally. The characters are beautifully crafted and the setting is so believable I felt I was there. This is one of the books I have read in my life that has stayed with me. I love this novel. It is bound to reach the Editor's Desk early in 2013 and publication soon after. Other reviewers have called it a modern classic and I agree.

subra_2k123 wrote 149 days ago

nice story

venkatarama
Ozoneraser

Seringapatam wrote 152 days ago

Its not difficult to see why this is doing so well. Its a cracking read and although not normally my cup of tea, I have enjoyed this so much.
Sean Connolly. British Army on the Rampage (B.A.O.R)