S.A. Barnes delivers another masterful blend of sci-fi intrigue and horror that quickly turns from slow burn to “let’s get the f*** off this planet”. Barnes has crafted a narrative that is as chilling as it is thought-provoking, with the psychological depths of the characters adding a layer of complexity that elevates the novel beyond your average space thriller.
Like her previous novel Dead Silence, Barnes truly excels when it comes to creating emotionally resonating characters that evict strong relatability from readers. In Ghost Station, our protagonist is renowned and infamous psychologist Dr. Ophelia Bray. She is crafted with such care and detail that readers can’t help but feel her personal dedication to the terrifying Eckhart-Reiser syndrome (ERS), a pervasive disease that burrows deep into the minds of space travelers with horrifying results. Her determination to prevent another ERS-triggered massacre makes her journey deeply compelling. Ophelia’s expertise and vulnerability draw us into the heart of the story, where the line between science and the supernatural becomes increasingly blurred.
Barnes prides herself on being a world-builder, and the setting of an abandoned planet is richly imagined, providing a haunting backdrop to a tale that expertly weaves tension and mystery. As the crew, each with their own intricately designed backstories and motives, starts to unravel the inexplicable history of the planet, the sense of dread is palpable. The author’s ability to make the environment as much of a character as the crew members is a testament to her writing prowess.
Ghost Station is a triumph in its genre, a novel that not only explores the potential of human psychology under extreme stress but also provides an edge-of-your-seat experience. S.A. Barnes has delivered another story where trust is a rare commodity, and the twists will leave you breathless. It is a must-read for fans of horror and science fiction alike, a book that will haunt your thoughts long after the final page is turned.
Please enjoy this interview with the author!
Ghost Station by S.A. Barnes is out now and available for purchase at your local independent bookstore or wherever fine books are sold.
