Speaks the Nightbird

I love it! It's a serious 'can't put it down' book. I had no idea what I was getting into, this was my first McCammon novel, and I just happened to stumble on it. I haven't put this book series down. McCammon is an outstanding author, and I can't believe I've never heard of him before! He's instantly shot to the list of my favorite Must-Reads.
Seriously. Read it.

I've been a McCammon fan for many years now, and I found his Speaks the Nightbird to be an interesting piece of fiction...not really horror or supernatural as I was expecting, but definitely full of great characters and humor too.
I was disappointed that this read more like a murder mystery, but the way it unfolded, with each individual somehow connected to each other like a chain, was spellbinding. You just had to keep reading to find out how each individual had secrets. Without giving a lot of spoilers away, I'd say that you'd be hard-pressed to find such a variety of personalities and hidden secrets in a town as small as Fount Royal. From the uh, amorous Blacksmith to the pimp-like Preacher, from the beautiful accused witch to the Magistrate and his inquisitive young assistant, the characters each held their individuality while contributing to the entire story...much like instruments in a symphony. My only comment is that this symphony's music should have been a little more horrific and supernatural...as I was really expecting there would be...but in the end, the harmony plays out just fine.

This story takes place in America at the end of the 17th century. It is about a magistrate's clerk named Matthew Corbett, who solves a mystery concerning a town plagued by a so-called witch. I especially enjoyed the realistic descriptions of life in this time period. It was so interesting to watch a doctor try to "cure" someone who had a bad, common cold. The cure actually made the patient even sicker, until he finally died. Life was very hard during those times. I think anyone interested in this time period will enjoy this novel. It was written so well, that you know that the author must have spent a great deal of time doing research, before undertaking this book. If you are interested in something different to read, then this is the novel for you.

It's always a delightful surprise when an author who's been a great genre writer ("Boy's Life" & "Gone South", to name but two) suddenly after a long delay comes up with a novel that is as good a read as (No exaggeration here!)Charles Dickens. Long, multi-faceted and filled with realized character's facing the kind of moral questions that define humanity within the context of life, yet so well researched a historical novel is nothing less than stunning. I've been used to recommending Robert McCammon's work for years but his last two books(Which are a separate, but interconnected series) are so much better as to be the work of almost different, more mature author. McCammon's getting older, but I hope I do it with half the class and advance of creative power that I see here. Read this, then buy the next "Queen of Bedlam" and enjoy! Hopefully there's more on the burner. Damn, I wish I'd written this!

I have always maintained that there are three great modern American horror writers: Stephen King, Peter Straub, and Robert McCammon. King and Straub, of course, have been churning out books of varying quality for the last twenty-five years - but McCammon inexplicably vanished from the scene ten years ago and hasn't been heard from.

Until now.

And he marks his return with a different kind of horror story. At the turn of the 18th century a magistrate and his clerk ride toward a recently established village in the Carolinas to deal with a charge of witchcraft. But all is not as it seems. I won't spoil the plot except to say that if you're a McCammon fan this novel is not what you're expecting; but it's great nonetheless.

If you haven't realized it already this novel has been split into two separate books. Part I is titled "Judgement of the Witch" and part II is "Evil Unveiled". The two books need to be read in order to avoid any confusion.

I have always maintained that there are three great modern American horror writers: Stephen King, Peter Straub, and Robert McCammon. King and Straub, of course, have been churning out books of varying quality for the last twenty-five years - but McCammon inexplicably vanished from the scene ten years ago and hasn't been heard from.

Until now.

And he marks his return with a different kind of horror story. At the turn of the 18th century a magistrate and his clerk ride toward a recently established village in the Carolinas to deal with a charge of witchcraft. But all is not as it seems. I won't spoil the plot except to say that if you're a McCammon fan this novel is not what you're expecting; but it's great nonetheless.

If you haven't realized it already this novel has been split into two separate books. Part I is titled "Judgement of the Witch" and part II is "Evil Unveiled". The two books need to be read in order to avoid any confusion.

It's been ten long years since Robert McCammon's last published book, but I'm happy to say that the author is finally back in full form with SPEAKS THE NIGHTBIRD, a novel that tackles the injustice of the witchcraft trials in Colonial America and how one young man dares to resist the mob mentality in order to save the woman he loves. It begins in 1699 when Magistrate Isaac Woodward and his clerk, Matthew Corbett, are called to the small town of Fount Royal, which is on the coast of the Carolinas, to investigate the accusations of witchcraft and murder against the beautiful Rachel Howarth. She has been accursed of killing her own husband, Daniel, and the Reverend Grove, as well as having sexual intercourse with the Devil, and causing the slow demise of the community. The town's people are ready to lynch Rachel, but Magistrate Woodward uses the power of his position to insist that a fair trail takes place before anything is done to the woman. As the witnesses are called forth during the days ahead, each one describes in explicit detail how they saw Mrs. Howarth in the throes of passion with her supposedly dark Master. Woodward firmly believes that the witnesses are telling the truth, but young Matthew begins to suspect that there's someone else behind the scenes-someone who's pulling the strings of the local town's people, intent of destroying Fount Royal and making Rachel the scapegoat to divert attention from his evil plans. When Rachel is sentenced to burn at the stake, Matthew's left with only a few days to prove her innocence and to find out the identity of the real murderer. SPEAKS THE NIGHTBIRD clearly surpasses any of Robert McCammon's earlier novels in sheer scope and craftsmanship. In fact, I consider it to be his crowning achievement in the field of fiction. Unlike his previous work in the horror genre, this is a historical novel of grand proportions (729 pages of small print) that delves into the hardships of day-to-day living during Colonial times, along with the fears and superstitions that caused many people to behave in the most hideous manner toward their fellow brothers. Mr. McCammon takes us into this desolate world, creating a murder mystery of such complexity that the reader is kept on his toes in a futile effort to guess who the killer really is. One can't help but be delighted in the multitude of characters that come alive within this story, each with their own uniqueness, perversity, and hidden agendas. It isn't long before you realize that almost everyone living in the town has something to hide and a strong reason for wanting Rachel to be convicted. Of course, it's Matthew Corbett who's the real star of the story as he quickly makes the journey into manhood, trusting his own instincts for discovering the truth and refusing to give up when faced with the impossible, believing in the power of justice and love. But, is he strong enough to take on the whole town and risk being burned at the stake with Rachel? SPEAKS THE NIGHTBIRD is a true masterpiece of literary fiction that's filled with nail-biting suspense and hard-hitting intrigue. This is the kind of novel that's sure to keep you up till the wee hours of the night, turning the pages in a hurried frenzy to find out what happens next. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

Welcome Back Sir.
Set in 1699 Carolinas, Mccammon again departs from the gruesome horror he made his name with.
Rachel Howarth an attractive young widow of mixed blood stands accused of witchcraft. A magistrate is summoned and is in fact the third magistrate to attempt to reach the settlement to try the accused, but after a misadventure he arrives with his young intelligent clerk.
This book as I stated isn't rightfully classified as horror unlike Stinger or some of his works it is instead almost an historical suspense novel. Yet there is dark underlining to the town and real evil which I feel makes it a very borderline book bridging multi genres. It could be horror the way Swan Song was horror, or historical mystery as the root is to solve who killed Rachel's husband, and the Reverend.
McCammon's writing has obviously matured greatly during his writing sabbatacal, this novel transports the reader to late 17th century America. The character's speak and act as settler's probably did in that time, and McCammon's gift of painting a scene with words increased with time. A very eerie ( not scary mind you haha) first volume of a two-volume novel.

After an EXTREMELY long hiatus, over 10 years, I think, Robert R. McCammon has finally released a new book and I have to say that I just polished it off last night & it's excellent. I've always enjoyed him far more than Stephen King and I only wish he was as prolific. This is the tale of a young man who is a clerk to a magistrate (judge) that journeys to a small town in the Colonies (South Carolina, by today's map) to judge a woman that has been deemed a witch. This little town (Fount Royale) has many dark secrets and nothing is ever what it seems. This is an excellent and compelling read and I only wish I knew why McCammon chose to stay away from writing for so long. He's a grossly underrated writer and while I know his books are still on the shelves of your local bookstore, he's much better than Stephen King, in my humble opinion. Run, do not walk, to your nearest bookstore or wherever and snatch this up, it's well worth your time.

All I have to say is wow. This book was really long but it really had me going. Not a great book to start off your day with but in the end and truly entertaining and well written piece of historical fiction. The great thing about this is that the reader doesn't know if this is supernatural or not for the longest time! So it kind of puts you into the perspective of someone from that time period with all their superstitions and faulty beliefs. The way that McCammon describes Matthew Corbett seeing a window for the first time as a child was wonderful, it put a smile on my face when I finally realized what he was describing because he never actually comes out and says it. The things you always take for granted is something magical to someone else. Really enjoyable but a really depressing book.

I would like to announce, with trembling enthusiasm, the appearance of a wonderful new book! If you like richly developed charachters, gripping mysteries, and being emotionally transported to another place and time, then this book is for you. I have read thousands of books and this was one of only three where I purposely forced myself to read the last 100 pages at a very slow pace to delay the end of the book.
I won't go into the details of the book, as other reviewers have already done so, but I will take the time to disagree with the reviewer who said McCammon spent too much time on the Magistrate's illness. I found it extremely interesting to learn about the state of medicine and unbelievable treatments used in 1699!
McCammon is a great writer, well ahead of excellent authors such as King and Koontz. Please read this book and get the word out! Hopefully we will not have to wait another 10 years for the next McCammon book.

McCAMMON took a ten year hiatus from writing and just got better. This is an absolutely great American novel. The prose transports the reader to 1699 in chapter one and never lets go, telling the tale of an up and comming colonial village with a small, troubling witch problem. The characters are rich and extreemely well drawn out, making it impossible to put the book down without finding out what will happen to them next. The first in a two book set (which was one as a hardcover, but a single paperback would've been close to 900 pages and the publisher must've decided the price wasn't enough, so they split it in two to make more cash. Bogus, however WELL worth it), part one sucks you in to a world as vivid as anything ever experienced and those familiar with McCAMMON's stellar work will be overly pleased. Cut off in the middle of a chapter, the cliffhanger ending of the first book leads us to volume two......

Poor Robert McCammon--he's so good at his best (Boy's Life) that when he falls somewhat short of his own, very high bar, he gets faulted for it.
Others have recounted the plot. What's good about this book is he doesn't patronize his audience with lengthy exposition regarding its historical setting, he expects his readers to be literate and well-educated; he has a whiz-bang opening to get you into his story (and it's needed, as the story drags in the middle of volume one, which essentially parades its whodunnit-style suspects before us); he's a graceful and articulate writer.
The characters could be a little more compelling, the emotional stakes a little higher, but it's a good read once you commit to it. If you enjoy McCammon, you know you'll like this well enough--and if you've never read him, this isn't a bad place to begin; see if you like it, and know that greater delights await.
Note: a 3 star ranking from me is actually fairly good; I reserve 4 stars for tremendously good works, and 5 only for the rare few that are or ought to be classic; unfortunately most books published are 2 or less.

McCammon fans will be surprised and entertained by his latest novel about a witch trial set in North Carolina in 1699. The characters are developed, it is rich in detail and the pace is quick. All the qualities that earned him such a loyal fan base are here. His use of dialog has never been used for effectively. Prepare yourself for some late night reading. Those worried that this is not a scary book, be at ease. McCammon creates some wonderfully intense and macabre scenes and proves that some aspects of humanity are more frightening than anything supernatural. In retrospect, it's similar aspects and the attention to relationships in his stories that made "Mystery Walk", "Wolf's Hour" and others that much better. After reading this, I looked on his website where he states that he "got bored" with writing horror. This latest entry is a great way to cross over into historical fiction. I just hope his publisher and fans allow him to do so. Great reading and I look forward to his next, whatever the genre.

Let me start by saying I'm a very picky reader. I get bored easy, so the writing better be good or I shut the book and never pick it up again. This book was amazing, considering it is almost 800 pages long not once did it get dull. Matthew Corbett, is a great intellectual character and I can't wait to see how he progresses through the series. I am really looking forward to reading the next book The Queen of Bedlam. This author should definitely have a larger section on the bookstore bookshelf. I can't for the life of me figure out why he isn't more well known. If you have even the slightest interest in this book do not hesitate to pick this one up, it's a great entertaining read.

There are many fine reviews of SPEAKS THE NIGHTBIRD on this website, the vast majority of them favorable. I'm not surprised -- this is a tremendously well done historical mystery, set in the colonial America period of 1699. Everything about this novel is good -- the layered storytelling, the exciting pacing, the vivid characterization, the gripping dialogue, the sly and bawdy humor, and the careful attention to historical detail.

McCammon is a first class storyteller, and I count several of his novels (this one, BOY'S LIFE, SWAN'S SONG) as some of my favorite books of all time. Sadly, McCammon never came close to the success level of fellow speculative fiction authors Stephen King and Dean Koontz, despite being their equal in almost every way. Indeed, McCammon even disappeared from the publishing world for over a decade, largely because of his struggle to get SPEAKS THE NIGHTBIRD published.

Fortunately, McCammon has found a new publisher that is supportive of his curent work, and has re-issued SPEAKS THE NIGHTBIRD in a splendid new edition. Hopefully, this will lead to new fans discovering McCammon's talents. If you enjoy historical mysteries, I strongly encourage you to give this book a try. It's one of McCammon's best books, and he plans on writing several sequels to it.

A magistrate and his clerk are summoned to the Carolinas in 1699 to try the case of an accused witch, who appears to have a damning case against her. Matthew, the clerk, is not convinced that the woman is actually a witch, but may simply be the scapegoat in an elaborate plot to cause the fledgling town of Fount Royal to fail.

This novel is a well-written mystery that, despite it's length, kept me on the edge of my seat, so to speak. McCammon captures the time period without bogging the reader down in it. I enjoyed the book, and thought it to be one of McCammon's best, though it is very different from his other novels. There are very few horror elements in the story, so I can see how it might alienate a few long-time fans of the author's. But my advice (as a longtime fan myself) is to give it a chance --- you won't be disappointed.

I'm a long time Robert McCammon fan. I think I've read every one of this books, and I was thrilled when I discoverd he'd written another.

Nightbird, however, is completely different from anything he's written previously, but every bit as good. . . just, as I said, different. If you loved his early horror/suspense novels, don't pick up Nightbird expecting the same. This is a historical novel, set in the Carolinas, and it explores the delusions and prejudices of that time. It's the story of a struggling, wilderness town on the verge of collapse, the town's conviction that their misfortune is caused by a witch, and one man's struggle to find the truth against incredible odds. It is a long book - 700 pages - and I didn't once consider not finishing it.

Robert McCammon is a master story teller, who I hope keeps writing.

This concerns Vol.I, Judgment of the Witch and Vol.II, Evil Unveiled. I have read several works by McCommon and enjoyed them all. 'Swan Song' is one of the best books I have ever read. These two (which should be considered as one) come close. These works are grand tales by a storytelling master. The characters are so well drawn, you feel they are your friends...and enemies! From the first skirmish in the hovel-like tavern, through the twists and turns of a fiendish mystery with infinite puzzles to the fabulous conclusion, this is an epic story. I definitely had to read both volumes together. Matthew is so honorable and decent. His fantastic mind is like a many-faceted jewel. You ache for him and yearn for his success. Each part of the story is carefully crafted and every detail is important. Everyone has a secret agenda. I had guesed the 'who' and the 'why' but not the 'how'. And I could never have imagined the ending! It reminded my of the classic mystery where the earnest sleuth gathers all the suspects in the library and reveals the guilty! Absolutely wonderful! McCammon's prose is beautifully elegant. At times, I had to laugh out loud. A powerful look at hell and salvation deep in the human soul. OUTSTANDING! Don't miss this!

I got through to the end of this one more out of dogged commitment to finishing a book than from thinking it was very good. While the story is entertaining enough in a "fun mystery to read at the beach" sense, it's filled with pretty much every predictable trope you can think of for a novel set in the American Colonies in 1699. There's an _Accused Witch Who Isn't Really a Witch_. There's a _Pompous, Self-Interested Town Father_. There's a _Firebrand Preacher_. There are some _Pitchfork-Waving Villagers_. There's a _Too-Smart-For-His-Britches Young Man_ who suspects that _Something Fishy Is Going On_ and applies _Logic and Reason_ to the situation. There's a _By-the-Book Judge_. There are _Helpful, Earthy Indians_ and negro slaves. There are several characters who are _Not What They Seem_. There are _Convenient Coincidences_.

While I expect novelists to take creative liberties with historical accuracy, there are so many flagrant anachronisms here, it gets a bit ridiculous. For example, not only does one character say to another, "put that in your pipe and smoke it", but there's actually a scene where two characters light up some joints. I wouldn't have been surprised, at that point, if they'd wheeled out a steampunk microwave and cooked some burritos. Where McCammon does get in some plausible detail, there's rarely a sense that his research went much deeper than the level needed for a theme park.

I wouldn't go so far as to call this novel TERRIBLE; the characters, despite their cliche, are well-drawn. The first half of the book is reasonably entertaining. The author seems to mean well. But, I'm bumping what might have been a three star rating down to a two because the resolution to the mystery was so phoned in. If all you care about in an audiobook is that it provide diversion during your commute to work, Speaks the Nightbird might be worth your while, but if you're looking for any kind of complexity or depth, it's thoroughly mediocre.

I can't fault audiobook narrator Edoardo Ballerini for his performance, though. He does as capable a job with the material as can be expected.

I always thought Robert McCammon's novels ranged from the ordinary (Wolf's Hour,Stinger) to the great(Swan Song,Boy's Life) but this book,his first novel in years,may be his best yet.Set in the 1600's concerning a magistrate and his young assistant investigating a woman charged with witchcraft I expected just another typical witchcraft trial tale.Thankfully I was so wrong.Without giving anything away I will say the mystery elements will keep you guessing but also that it works as a coming of age tale as well and has an emotional impact most mysteries lack.The dialogue is simply brillant and often very funny,the prose is vivid and there are plenty of great surprises.Despite the novel's length it never feels too long.I've been reading a book a week since 2003 and this is still my personal favorite.Mesmerizing and very entertaining if you get this book you will not be disappointed!

How come you? That's the way people talked back in 1699 and McCammon's incredible ability to write characters captures the language of the time. In fact, even the narrative parts have an "old english" flavor to them. After reading this gargantuan-sized novel, I found myself answering the front door saying, "How come you to stand upon my doorstep?"
Despite the fact that McCammon is one of my all time favorite authors and hadn't written anything in nearly a decade, I entered Speaks the Nightbird with a little trepidation. I am not a fan of historical novels. I prefer stories set in a timeframe where I was at least alive and can relate to! If you are the same way, don't let the 1699 setting rob you of the pleasure of reading this book. Nightbird is entertaining from page one and carries you swiftly to its page 726 conclusion.

Great story ! Just too long, although there is so much happening in these pages that it's difficult to know what to cut out. ( maybe some of the aberrant behavior of some of the citizens of Font Royale). Prepare to be immersed in the grimy, primitive world the Carolinas, circa 1699.

I must admit that I was, at first, put off by the size of the book. 700+ pages is a lot of book but I also knew how much I had enjoyed McCammon's previous book " A Boy's Life" so I decided to give it a try. The phrase " can't put down" is used way to often to describe many average books today but in this case it is true. The story moves with a well-crafted plot that makes this book more memorable than many of the books we tend to read today. The characters are so well drawn that you identify with them, worry with them and get angry with them. Many others have detailed the plot so I won't cover that ground again. Simply let me say that you quickly drop into the year 1699 and just as quickly find yourself pulled into a superb story by an exceptional storyteller. This is a very atmospheric trip through a town on the edge of terror.
By the end of the story I was hungry for more. If you're looking for a mystery par excellent, you could do not better. If you're looking for a scary story, again this is your book. If you like finely crafted ideas with believable characters, this is the one for you.
Matthew, the main character is believable and someone you can cheer on as he goes for danger-to-danger and clue-to-clue looking for justice.
Forget the size of the book it would be worth it at twice the size. It is a story seldom found today. Thanks Mr. McCammon. I only hope we don't have to wait another 10 years for the next book. Hang on, it really is `A book you can't put down." I'd give it six stars if I could.

I enjoyed the story and it was excellent writing, but about two thirds of the way through, I was ready for the climax and completion

I'm glad I stuck with it, but more concise writing would have helped.

Hacked off in mid chapter, McCAMMON's opus continues exactly where volume one (JUDGEMENT OF THE WITCH) left off. The second installment ups the intensity as the compelling story draws closer to the thrilling conclusion. I did not want this marvelous book to end. So deeply I became attached to the superbly fleshed out characters I was teary eyed at the touching second to last chapter. Both paperbacks telling this story are must haves for any fan of excellent literature. McCAMMON rises to the top of his game and yet again proves his skills as a story teller are near unparalleled in ANY genre. Check out anything he has written, you won't be dissapointed.

I have read several of McCammon's novels, and while they are okay, they don't stand out in the crowd of horror. That said, Speaks the Nightbird is a surprise. I plodded through Koontz's latest, By the Light of the Moon--a decent affair that barely ensured my allegiance with Koontz--and started Nightbird the next day. I cannot put it down--I'm late for work, I stay up entirely too late;I've only just begun and read about 300 pages, normally I wouldn't write a review without finishing the book first, but I'm captivated by it. It has been a while since I've experienced this indescribible feeling of pure enjoyment; I look forward to reading it everyday; hours go by before I know it. I bought the book because the story of a 1699 witch hunt/trial intrigued me, and so far it does not disappoint. McCammon obviously did his research well, and it shows, blending into the story with invisible threads that don't jar the reader. Every character is strong, and each addition to the plot works well. Great so far. The 4 stars are because I haven't finished it yet; it is a 4 star book so far, and could easily be 5.

I'm sure this novel will be compared to Miller's "The Crucible" because of it's theme, but trust me, it's definately a Robert R. McCammon novel, written in his unique and beautiful style that he demonstrated profusely in his later work. It's not so much a horror novel, but rather a highly involving and well crafted tell that revolves around very horrific events that actually took place. I don't want to get into the actual story or characters because I don't won't to give anything away, but, this is one of those rare novels that should appeal to a wide spectrum of fans. McCammon is an extremely gifted author that puts you THERE, smack dab in the middle of things, and creates characters so vivid.....surely they must be real. If any reader enjoys atmosphere, and a story that truly takes you away, then grab a copy of "Speaks the Nightbird." You'll discover how McCammon is that rarest of authors who is as intelligent as he is 'down to Earth." Rare indeed !

What a true treat it was to find that Robert McCammon was back on the shelves after ten long years. With "Gone South," he was just beginning to reach a level of mastering suspense while never quite leaving the world of horror.
His latest work does not step into the world of McCammon that his loyal readers remember, but it is a book well worth picking up and reading. It is obvious that McCammon has taken his time to create this rich tale of intrigue. Characters are well flushed out, and his historical references "feel" true. I for one read this book quickly and handed it off to my wife who has also waited with patience for McCammon's next work.
Epic, historic and well developed. I only hope that some of my other favorite authors can take a lesson from McCammon, waiting a while before throwing out your next, best, book is a good thing!
Good to see you back!

McCammon's latest effort after a ten year hiatus was well worth the wait. Set back in the age of the Salem Witch Trials, this story might just be McCammon's best story ever, which is a strong statement considering his epic novel Swan Song.
For the most part, I would have to qualify this as a mystery because there are two stories going on at once. The first is the main story about a magistrate and his relationship with his clerk and the witch in question, but underlying is a complex mystery in regards to the townspeople.
In Speaks the Nightbird, McCammon gets totally into character with the setting, the year 1699. Even during the narrative paragraphs he uses an old english flavor while most of the characters are speaking in heavily accented and Shakespearean patterns. I'm not really a fan of the old classics, but reading this book was fun. I almost felt like I was propelled back in time into one of my junior high Dungeons and Dragons games...that's how I talked for my characters back then!

I did enjoy the story but the author goes in to unnecessary detail that makes the story drag in many places. Also, the storyline really stretched the limits of believability. After I finished the entire book I looked back at the plot and was surprised at how incredibly crazy the story was. I am a fan of Swan Song and do like the author's writing but I hope that the next book I read of his is 1) Much, Much Shorter! This book (on Audible) is nearly 16 hours long and 2) more believable or more like Swan Song - science fiction. I'm not giving up on reading other books by Robert McCammon but I doubt I will pay for any.

McCammon introduces a new character in the person of Matthew Corbett, a rescued orphan-turned law clerk. Matthew comes up against the entire town of Fort Royal, Carolina colony to battle for the life of an accused witch, murderer. Petty intigue, rich history fill the story, set in 1699, as readers whose history is rusty will recall as about 80 years before the American Revolution and the colonies are still under British rule. Attention to detail is impressive. The research for this novel must have been extravagent and well worth the effort. Excellent choice for those who like detail, a good story not over quickly, as it is almost 800 pages.

I can not emphasize enough how great this novel was. For a 700 page book I was expecting it to slow down at a point but it never did. This truly was a great mystery. I was also wondering if I would find it interesting since it takes place in 1699, but after reading this, the time setting made the story even better. The history and descriptions of the background was really amazing. This is the first book I read by him and I look foward to reading many more of his works. Robert McCammon really has a talent for writing. It was dissapointing having to finish the book and few book do that for me.

This review is going to be short, (and hopefully sweet). As I pretty much feel the conclusion to the 2 volume epic of a witch's trial was worthy of the suspense and insight of the first volume (Judgement Of The Witch.) McCammon's prose didn't flag or let up at all in this incredible story and only addenum really to my review of volume one will be if there was ever any doubt this novel should soldify McCammon's reputation as a master story teller. I hope the rumours of his retirement are false as this novel made me thirst (no pun on his novel They Thirst ok maybe little pun); for more!

Enter the world of Matthew Corbett, indelibly curious magistrate's clerk in 1699 colonial America. Only Robert McCammon can bring this world to life with humor, terror, and suspense in one short chapter. If you're a fan of historical fiction, these complex plots and and in-depth characters will keep you coming back to the Matthew Corbett series. I've loved all 4 so far, and eagerly await future installments.

While I did enjoy the Speaks The Nightbird books, and am hopeful for more books from Robert McCammon, I was just a little disappointed that these books were not along the same awesome lines of his usual horror stories. No one write horror like McCammon, and I wish he would continue to write horror. His unique skill of taking a tired ole character like a werewolf (Wolf's Hour) and putting a totally new spin on it is unsurpassed. If you're just starting with Speaks the Nightbird, go back and read ALL his previous novels for a real trip! Speaks the Nightbird, while not exactly a horror novel, is however a great story and a real page-turner. I, too, am glad he's back!

This was my first book by McCammon, and I just loved it! At the time, I had no "clue" that this was his first mystery. I was hooked from the first page. The characters were wonderfully developed. He was skillful with his clues. If you paid attention, you could figure it out. I hate mysteries where either the answer is obvious, or where the author hides the essential clue so that you can't figure it out. "Detective So-and-So was amazed by what was written on the paper. He knew what he had to do." I like using my brain in a mystery and being able to ferret out the truth. And the setting of the book, was wonderfully done. I also loved the humor. All-in-all, one of the best books I've read.

I have just completed a welcome reunion with Robert McCammon. In SPEAKS THE NIGHTBIRD he has created a novel of epic status that engages the reader immediately and doesn't let go. Despite the length of the book, it is no chore to read. Though I am not a great fan of period novels, I found difficulty letting the people of Fount Royal rest.
McCammon's use of language and historic, scientific, religious and psychological detail is without parallel in anything I have read in years. The words are lyrical even when describing the most disturbing circumstances. It is, however, the depth of his characters that supercedes the average author's abilities. The reader lives within them.
As a published author, I cannot imagine the awesome task Mr. McCammon undertook when beginning this book. It is truly a masterpiece!
Carl T. Smith
Fripp Island, SC

I really enjoyed Speaks the Nightbird. This was the first Robert McCammon book I read and I was quite impressed. I went on to read the second book in this series, The Queen of Bedlam, and enjoyed it even more than Speaks the Nightbird. A great series that any reader of mystery, suspense, and even historical fiction will find thoroughly entertaining.

First in the Matthew Corbett historical suspense series revolving around Matthew, a judge's clerk. This story takes place in Fount Royal, Carolina in 1699.

My Take
Wow, talk about a trip to the past. And an amazing example of psychological terror affecting the ignorant.

McCammon does an excellent job of conveying the atmosphere of the time from the food to the traveling conditions. The bathing and clothing options. And most especially the ignorance. It certainly made me happy to have the fridge, microwave, and bathroom handy! Not to mention our current standard of healthcare!! EEEEEKKK!

It was an appalling trial with even worse detection. Definitely an excellent example of how much policework and law has improved since 1699. What they considered acceptable evidence in those days...oh, lord. It was just maddening how the powers-that-be treated her. All they wanted was an official stamp making what they wanted to do acceptable. Nor can I understand Woodward's accepting this! Then there are the crimes that they think are acceptable! Beating one's wife so badly that bone shows and an arm breaks. The abuse of one's children! Ahh, such fine Christian people. Gag.

I really don't understand why Woodward refuses to listen to his clerk when he claims to have such esteem for him. It's Matthew's ache for the truth that has him following strangers in the night, diving into the depths, breaking into people's privacy, and finally, breaking the law.

These people are such hypocrites. First they claim that all Rachel has to do is say the Lord's Prayer or swear upon the Bible and as soon as she touches the Bible and proclaims her innocence, they turn it around to claim that her Master has done something to enable it.

We do finally learn why the waistcoat means so much to Woodward. I just wanted to cry.

Well, I expect that Eben Ausley will be one of the interests in The Queen of Bedlam (Matthew Corbett, #2).

The Story
Magistrate Kingsbury disappeared on his trek to Fount Royal, hence Woodward's journey into the primitive conditions prevailing between Charles Town and the new town of Fount Royal.

Its leader is anxious to retain the stamp of legality to ensure that his town will rise above this taint of witchcraft. But Bidwell's desire for a good reputation wars greedily with his desperate need to rid the town of the disasters that have befallen it. Disasters he attributes to the witch, Rachel Howarth.

I'd like to think that if Woodward hadn't fallen so desperately ill that he'd have listened to his clerk and not been so easily swayed to Bidwell's version.

Almost every single person in town is demanding that Woodward hang the woman. That there's no need to actually speak to her. She's obviously guilty.

And they wonder why Rachel refuses to speak to them...

The Characters
Matthew Corbett is Woodward's clerk. Rescued by him some five years ago from the asylum he'd landed in when his parents died. Matthew has always been curious. Curious enough to want to learn all he can and enough to not cease questioning those around him. Magistrate Isaac Woodward is a judge sent to Fount Royal to learn what happened to Kingsbury and to preside over the witch's trial. He looks upon Matthew as a son.

Rachel Howarth is the accused witch. She's beautiful and dark-skinned due to her Portuguese-English ancestry, which is enough to set many against her. To embrace the charges of which she's accused. It doesn't help that her husband Daniel was brutally murdered.

Robert Bidwell is a very wealthy, arrogant, obnoxious, bullying shipbuilder who worked his way up from nothing. Now, he has a dream about building a major port city in Fount Royal, Carolina. A dream that is crashing about his ears. Emma Nettles is his scared, yet angry, housekeeper. Edward Winston is Bidwell's accountant and the primary reason his business is doing so well. John Goode is a slave, a very observant one. His wife May prefers to keep to herself. Or run.

Bidwell's particular cronies include:
Nicholas Paine, with his hidden past, is the leader of Fount Royal's militia. Alan Johnstone is the Oxford-educated schoolteacher. Dr. Benjamin Shields tends the sick as well as the rum bottle.

Hannibal Green is the gaoler. He's an interesting mix of some compassion and greater brutality. Lucretia Vaughan is a piece of work! I'm surprised they didn't make her out to be the witch. I for one would have cheered! Ooh, that didn't come out very nicely...I'm being as nasty as the others... She earns money for the family by baking goods while her husband Steven is a carpenter. Seth Hazelton is the very perverse blacksmith. Gwinett Linch is the town's very whiffy ratcatcher.

The witnesses against Rachel include
Elias Garrick, a slow-witted farmer; Jeremiah Buckner is an old geezer; and, Violet Adams, the young daughter of one of the townspeople.

Running the only inn between Charles Town and Fount Royal, Shawcombe is a petty tyrant with a very shortsighted view of the future. Girl, Uncle Abner, and Maude are the family that he uses to run the place.

Exodus Jerusalem is an itinerant preacher who can save any woman as long as she's willing to lie with him. Any one who disagrees with him, is obviously corrupted by Satan. Phillip Brightman is the founder and principal actor of the Red Bull Players. David Smythe is another of the actors and tells Matthew about a Mr. Jonathan Lancaster and his peculiar talents.

The Indians
Nawpawpay leads this tribe of Indians. Their place of worship will provide the final clue.

The Cover
The cover is vague with its blur of white face and animal-like yellow-orange-black eyes. A ribbon of fire cuts diagonally from left to right through the lower-middle and the whole is grounded in black.

Woodward believes that Matthew is affected by the nightbird. The parable about the merchant who becomes so enthralled by how Speaks the Nightbird that he neglects his business, his health, his life.

McCammon delivers an excellently constructed story in his new novel. Obviously, painstaking research went into the work, yet various historical points, such as medical treatment of the day, were presented in a matter-of-fact way. A lot of today's authors give way too much focus to the results of research with detrimental effects to the story. This author utilizes historical context to add a unique dimension to the mystery of what is transpiring in the town of Fount Royal.
Highly recommended.

I just felt compelled to review this even though there are already numerous comments here. This book was FANTASTIC, I knew from the first sentence it was going to be a keeper. I wish I would have been recommended this instead of stumbling onto it, I can't believe this book wasn't advertised more. There is a review on the jacket by Stephen King which I thought was ridiculous because this story is not even in the same league. Please read this, there is no reason whatsoever there should be one single review here that has given this book less than five stars.

As I sit down to write a review on this novel, one word seems to epitomize how I feel about this book. Beautiful. It has some of the most gorgeous prose I've ever seen in a horror novel. Stephen King writes amazing characters, when you want a fantastic good versus evil storyline you go to Dean Koontz. Bentley Little is your guy if you want to read about a mundane subject that becomes evil. But if you want to read a book that transports you, a book that is more like a beautiful painting than a simple novel -- then you need to read Robert R. McCammon. His books, this one in particular, are simply breathtaking.

McCammon is probably my favorite author and I was elated to find him back from a 10 year break. It's seems with Nightbird he hasn't missed a beat and is back to his old form. As in his previous works the characters are beautifully done and believable. Each character has multiple layers and even the villain of the text you find yourself feeling a little sorry for at the end. The plot is also multi-layered and just when you think you figured out who-done-it he springs another surprise on you. The setting is also wonderfully done.

Nightbird isn't horror as McCammon's early work is but rather a sort of gothic/dark mystery. There is a feel of horror in it with the witch craft trial and the visions of the devil but it should be noted that it's not a horror novel per se. Still this is probably one of the author's best works and well worth the wait.

Gosh, has it been ten years? Finding this book was like returning home. "Speaks the Nightbird" is everything you love about Robert McCammon - thouroughly researched, a fascinating story, memorable characters and gorgeous writing. I'm just happy that I won't have to wait another ten years for the sequel! I sincerely hope that this wasn't just a one-off, and that McCammon will continue writing in the future.
Don't rush through this book. Savor every last letter and punctuation mark.

This was a very long book but worth every page. It was my first book by Mr McCammon but, I'm sure, not my last.
The author can weave a tale! I loved it all, from all the descriptions to the intrigues and the Indians.
It starts as a tale of witchcraft but ends up being much more. I love the way the tale starts on the periphery and works its way in and, at the end, all the threads come together in a beautiful tapestry.
Great book!

This (along with the first book in this series) was my first McCammon story, and it most definitely won't be my last. I rate this book 4 stars only because I felt that the first book did such a good job of setting the stage and creating suspense that the second didn't quite live up to the excitement of the first. It seems the journey is, in fact, more enjoyable than the conclusion.
I don't understand why other reviewers can't figure out that this is the second book in a 2-part story, not a sequel. The second book didn't repeat the first at all. The first book left you with such a cliffhanger ending and then the second picks up immediately where the other leaves off. Book 2 was truly a conclusion to the events that were set up in the first book. And a wonderful conclusion it is.
I would be interested in reading about the "further adventures of young Matthew", and I could only hope that Mr. McCammon decides to pick up this great character again in a future story.
I give the first book 5 stars, and this one I give 4. I thoroughly enjoyed both. Now my only problem is what McCammon book to read next.

What a fantastic read, really looking forward to part two. And for those of you that down loaded with
Kindle unlimited you'll be happy to know this is an actual book and not a ten part mini series I've found Kindle Unlimited choices to be....

Looking for a book that'll make you laugh-- even when you shouldn't? One that reminds you to think before you speak and be slow to anger? :) I found myself laughing uproariously, nibbling my nails with the suspense, contemplating the divide between calm and thoughtful people and myriad others... Very interesting read. Hard to put down. Enjoy!

I loved the first 400 pages of the book. As the mysteries and plot threads began to emerge and revolve and tangle, I was fascinated, waiting to see how McCammon would explain the strange goings on in his wonderfully real and remarkably detailed little town.
And then he brought out the machete. Plot threads came to a screeching halt with bald description that did nothing to forward the story as a whole, the protagonists suddenly gained remarkable abilities and faculties never before to described and the "plot twist," the answer to the whole mystery, was a bitter disappointment.
But the first 400 pages are great, and the book ends adequately enough.

McCammon has done it again. This book is extremely entertaining. McCammon makes it's above-average length melt away quickly. He does this with a formula that works for him (and would work for any author who could master it like McCammon has):

1. Well thought-out, original plot
2. Very well developed, interesting characters
3. Descriptions that are well written, but that don't hinder the flow
4. Action and suspense regularly interspersed in just the right intervals
5. Satisfying resolution

I'm sure there's more to add, but those are the trademarks of McCammon that come to mind.

I've read all three of the Matthew Corbett series, and I wish The Providence Rider was already complete! Great job, Mr. McCammon! Your imagination and writing skills are as good as it gets!

Ever since reading "Boy's Life" by Robert McCammon I have been a huge fan of his. "Speaks the Nightbird" is much different than his previous works, but I still found it highly enjoyable. He is a talented author who draws you into his characters and stories. This is more than anything else a mystery even though there are references to the supernatural; however, do not expect a horror novel. The story takes place in the late 1600's as America is in its infancy as it deals with colonization. It is a time of superstition when people still persecute witchcraft.

The novel concerns a young man named Matthew who falls in love with a woman accused of being a witch. He sets out to prove her innocence, and during the story goes from a boy into a man. As in Boy's Life, McCammon is skilled at developing characters especially as they grow. As I stated previously, this novel should be classified as a historical mystery. Because it's Robert McCammon, you expect a story of the supernatural, but it's not. I have given it 4 stars because it's a very good book and is unique; the reason I didn't give it 4 stars is I think compared to "Boy's Life" it isn't quite as good. However, I still highly recommend it along with the others in the series.

I read Speaks the Nightbird several years ago when it was in two books. The story was exciting and fun to follow the characters through an exciting journey. The setting in the late 1600s was interesting and thought-provoking. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, fast-moving action, and just a bit of quirkiness.

Probably one of the best historical fiction novels that I have either read or listened to. The narrator does a good job and varying the different characters in the book. I would highly recommend this book and look forward to the next books in the series.

Sings the Nightbird is the finest novel this author has yet produced, and considering his other works, such as Boy's Life, Gone South, and the epic Swan Song, that's saying something. The novel concerns the coming age of a Magistrate's squire in a struggling colonial town, and a witchcraft trial which will forever change his life. The book richly evocates it's setting, and it's obvious McCammon has done a great deal of research into his subject matter. Although not an out and out horror novel, this has it's fair share of grisly moments, but bottom line it's an intensely involving and absorbing read with (unusually in this reader's experience) a richly rewarding climax. Not only that: but the book, despite being a fantastic stand alone work, manages to offer the tantalising prospect of a sequel. Robert McCammon is simply one of the finest authors working today. Read this, you will love it.

I am a voracious reader of historical novels, particularly those in the mystery vein. I don't expect the authors of these books to be 100 percent accurate in their depiction of the grammar, slang, and vocabulary of the periods they depict. I do expect, however, that the author bring a historical flavor to his work. This, sadly, is missing in "Speaks the Nightbird." What McCammon does is simply awkward and distracting. The dialog is replete with modernisms that no one in the 17th Century would ever have thought of uttering. The book is also full of anachronisms that deflect any reader who hopes to lose himself in the plot. I'll admit the story itself is compelling - I did finish the book after all - but the characters are cardboard and the exposition is, to say the least, wanting. I began this book expecting that I would like it; I was hugely disappointed.

Ever since reading "Boy's Life" by Robert McCammon I have been a huge fan of his. "Speaks the Nightbird" is much different than his previous works, but I still found it highly enjoyable. He is a talented author who draws you into his characters and stories. This is more than anything else a mystery even though there are references to the supernatural; however, do not expect a horror novel. The story takes place in the late 1600's as America is in its infancy as it deals with colonization. It is a time of superstition when people still persecute witchcraft.

The novel concerns a young man named Matthew who falls in love with a woman accused of being a witch. He sets out to prove her innocence, and during the story goes from a boy into a man. As in Boy's Life, McCammon is skilled at developing characters especially as they grow. As I stated previously, this novel should be classified as a historical mystery. Because it's Robert McCammon, you expect a story of the supernatural, but it's not. I have given it 4 stars because it's a very good book and is unique; the reason I didn't give it 4 stars is I think compared to "Boy's Life" it isn't quite as good. However, I still highly recommend it along with the others in the series.

I read Speaks the Nightbird several years ago when it was in two books. The story was exciting and fun to follow the characters through an exciting journey. The setting in the late 1600s was interesting and thought-provoking. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, fast-moving action, and just a bit of quirkiness.

Probably one of the best historical fiction novels that I have either read or listened to. The narrator does a good job and varying the different characters in the book. I would highly recommend this book and look forward to the next books in the series.

Sings the Nightbird is the finest novel this author has yet produced, and considering his other works, such as Boy's Life, Gone South, and the epic Swan Song, that's saying something. The novel concerns the coming age of a Magistrate's squire in a struggling colonial town, and a witchcraft trial which will forever change his life. The book richly evocates it's setting, and it's obvious McCammon has done a great deal of research into his subject matter. Although not an out and out horror novel, this has it's fair share of grisly moments, but bottom line it's an intensely involving and absorbing read with (unusually in this reader's experience) a richly rewarding climax. Not only that: but the book, despite being a fantastic stand alone work, manages to offer the tantalising prospect of a sequel. Robert McCammon is simply one of the finest authors working today. Read this, you will love it.

I am a voracious reader of historical novels, particularly those in the mystery vein. I don't expect the authors of these books to be 100 percent accurate in their depiction of the grammar, slang, and vocabulary of the periods they depict. I do expect, however, that the author bring a historical flavor to his work. This, sadly, is missing in "Speaks the Nightbird." What McCammon does is simply awkward and distracting. The dialog is replete with modernisms that no one in the 17th Century would ever have thought of uttering. The book is also full of anachronisms that deflect any reader who hopes to lose himself in the plot. I'll admit the story itself is compelling - I did finish the book after all - but the characters are cardboard and the exposition is, to say the least, wanting. I began this book expecting that I would like it; I was hugely disappointed.

An intelligent, suspenseful historical mystery interspersed with gruesome scenes of gory spectacle that gave me chills. The story from start to finish is truly absorbing with a great setting and characters that are fully fleshed out. The tale centers around a witch trial and other evils plaguing a Carolina settlement in the year 1699. Highly recommended.
McCammon is a rare writer. I have recently read the excellent Boy's Life and Gone South and will be moving on to Swan Song and others.

Great writers dictate the trajectory of the tension in their stories, building up to peaks, releasing the tension as they like, and building to yet higher peaks. Of the thousands of books I have enjoyed, Speaks the Nightbird stands alone as a modern metal rail rollercoaster in a world of kiddie rides. Chapter three accelerated like no other chapter I've ever come across. Literally dozens of times, after reading a paragraph or a few pages, I heard myself say "man, this guy can write". Fantastic.

A long story with many twist and turns. In the hours I wasn't reading this I was wondering what was happening in the story. I also listen to the narrative oh this book between the reading and enjoyed the narration.

The first in Robert McCammon's Matthew Corbett series, Speaks the Nightbird is an excellent read. The novel is full of history, while also moving along at a very fast pace. A wonderful thriller, Speaks the Nightbird definitely hooked me into the rest of the Matthew Corbett novels (which are also excellent!).

If you like King, Koontz, Clegg, Simmons, etc... you will love McCammon. This book is a rare find and one I could not put down. I promise you will love this book!!!!! This book has everything: friendship, love, hate, truth, evil, suspense, an on and on. Take my word on this...DON'T MISS THIS BOOK!

I will keep this short and sweet. This is a very good book. It's in my top ten list of books that I have read. I was hesitant at first to start a 700+ page book that deals with a witch trial set in the late 1600's. I usually find myself reading fantasy novels from authors like Raymond E. Feist. But I read Boy's Life a few months back and thoroughly enjoyed it, so I thought I would give this a try. I am very glad that I did because I thought this actually topped Boy's Life. I highly recommend this book. It is excellent.

This is an excellent story about a magistrate and a clerk who travel to a small town in 1699 to try a witch.

Most everyone in the town is convinced she's a witch, but the clerk, who's curious by nature, has a lot of questions, and things aren't adding up.

It's a character-heavy story, and the characters are extremely well-drawn.

Once again McCammon proves hes the best at what he does. I am not sure how he does it, but from the very beginning of this story, I was enthralled. McCammon does a sensational job of thoroughly creating the scenes and characters without miring the reader in endless pages of flashbacks a la King. The development between the characters was consistent and McCammon never failed to deliver satisfaction. I would suggest this book to anyone. I have long thought that McCammon is is underrated as an author. Hopefully with these latest editions, he can take his place among the others at the top of the hill.

A few caveats off the bat: I listened to this via Audible instead of reading it [I listen to about half my books, I'm in the car a lot]. I didn't finish the book, so if it suddenly got better in the second half, the writer took too long to make it interesting.

I love historical fiction [and nonfiction] so I started this novel expecting to like it. Many reviews were very positive, people saying they were going to rush out and get the next book. So I was pumped to read something so gripping.

But this book is BORING. Coming from someone who enjoys reading history, that says a lot. There were pages upon pages of set-up for nothing particular to happen. It wasn't even done on purpose, as suspense, it was just... page filler.

I WILL say the author has excellent writing style. As a grammar geek, I am often annoyed when an otherwise good book is spoiled by bad writing. This author is a good writer, in a technical sense. Also, the historical facts are fascinating: all the little things about daily life, clothing, the use of a chamber pot, grooming norms, landscape standards and so on. This is why I kept going: the writing was good, accurate, and thorough.

But the actual story line, halfway into the book, was a big nothing. I was bored out of my mind and I came to realize I didn't really care what happened next, decided that I'd rather read something else. So, I didn't *hate* this book, but I didn't enjoy it enough to finish it, and I certainly can't recommend it. I'm sorry if this offends the plethora of people who clearly saw something in this book that I did not... but for others who found this book lacking in sufficient intrigue to keep you going, this review was for you.

I discovered Robert R McCammon as a reference in a Christopher Rice book. Glad I did! This book is a great read! A wonderful murder mystery . I read usually 3 or 4 books a week,this is the first review I've written because I enjoyed this book and so glad I discovered Robert McCammon

Robert McCammon is one of my all-time favorite writers.

"Swan Song" might be the best book I ever read.

"Boy's Life" was brilliant.

"Stinger" was wildly entertaining.

I've read all of his books except for "Gone South"

When he retired about 10 or twelve years ago, I was really sad.

So imagine how happy i was when I saw "Speaks the Nightbird" at my local bookseller.

When I saw it was a two parter. I instantly bought both volumes and rushed home with my heart beating out of my chest.

But when I finished I was struck by two thoughts...

1. this is only a slightly above average book.

Of course it's well written,but not nearly as entertaining as some of his other works.

And when the mystery was revealed....I was thinking"you gotta be kiddin me...10 yrs. and that's the best you can do??!!"

2. Why did this have to be two books?wlth a little editing it could have easily been one 7 of 8 hundred page book or leave it in it's entirety as one big paperback, but don't make me pay $7.00 twice~!

So... it's a 3 star book, but I took a star away for ripping me off.

I've always like Robert McCammon books and up until now had determined that Swan Song was my all time favorite of his. Not any longer....this book kept me captivated from beginning to end. I recommend to anyone who LOVES a great story done by a wonderful storyteller.

Between Matthew Corbett's pubescent erections and Woodward's getting high in Dr. Shield's infirmary, there is a story to be gleaned about a witch's unfair persecution, but the reader must slash through whole swathes of not only unnecessary pages but whole chapters just to reach it. The book is about 800 pages, but with a good editor this story could have been told in 300.

The dialogue is inefficiently wordy, which McCammon believes makes it antique and bygone, but rings in the ear as cheesy. And because the dialogue is cheesy so are the characters.

But for some bizarre reason the book still works. McCammon is such a natural storyteller that his books no matter how poorly done smack with a charm that cannot be denied.

Ever since I picked up "Stinger" I have been hooked on Mr. McCammon's books. His newest is a very well thought out historical thriller about a witch trial. The characterization is excellent as usual. There are a lot of memorable scenes in this one. I highly recommend it. The other reviewers described the novel well so I won't elaborate.

Up until now my favorite McCammon book was "The Wolf's Hour". "Speaks the Nightbird" is my new favorite. McCammon is able to transport the reader to 1699 and involve us in a mystery involving murder and a witch trial. I was quite excited to find this book to be not only a well-written historical fiction but also a great mystery novel

Witchhunts and pioneer colonial history is appreciated in the 21st century. In addition to superior writing, Robert McCammon once again allows us to experience history firsthand. We lived thru the 60's in the south in "Boy's Life" and now we are on the edge of our seats as we live thru the struggles of establishing a new town in the future United States. A great mystery is our added bonus. You will be surprised at how quickly you finish this book. It's hard to put down.

This is one of those rare books, where you are actually disappointed when it is over. It is such an exciting and intriguing read you want it to last forever.

I have always been a Robert McCammon fan. He has not released a novel for almost 10 years. Speaks the Nightbird was worth the wait.

It is a disturbing tale of prejudice,corruption and greed. It brings to light the evils that ignorance and fear can create. I would like to go on but I do not want to give any details and ruin the story for anyone.

Having read "Swan Song" several years ago, I realized that Mr. McCammon possessed the gift of storytelling like few others. This book proves his gift thrives. Lavish in detail and plot, readers will find here a well-researched tale of murder, witchcraft, and one man's pursuit of truth in the Carolina wilderness. "Speaks the Nightbird" kept me up late and got me up early until I finished its reading. Bravo, sir, for another fine story.

Do the right thing. Robert McCammon has created a character here that people would do well to emulate. In addition to that he has given an interesting accounting of the state's at the end of the 17th century

An excellent book on many levels. A well written, enticing mystery that takes the reader back in time to the late 17th century. Though long at 700+ pages, I highly recommend this novel, as it provides the reader with a rarely seen view of life in early colonial days, that I found to be very interesting and most informative.

I have thoroughly enjoyed most of McCammon's books, especially Boys Life and Gone South, third choice is Wolf's Hour. This one I'd rate fourth in line. Too much ..., I found myself skipping pages to avoid undesirable mental images.

Speaks the Nightbird is again e great epic novel. don't get confused and think that this is probably another horror novel with witches, devils and all kind of supernatural stuff. Well that's all I can say not disclosing to much about the plot.
Reading in the train I nearly missed my station. That should give you an impression how breathtaking this adventure is (I even didn't work in the train, because I wanted to know the clue)

After reading a few of McCammon's works I was looking forward to this one. Maybe it was the language he used or perhaps the subject matter but I just couldn't get into it. I read it to the end half-hoping for a boost of interest to spark in my noodle but it was not to be. A fair read although not one I would recommend.

McCammon is gifted at weaving a story. I am a huge fan of historical fiction, but it is always a letdown when the author has his characters from another century speak and act the way we do today. These are supposed to be puritans folks; yet he has his men, women and children speaking often and openly with profanities that wouldn't even be used in the same settings today (teens openly describing sex acts at dinner with guests; women and children describe viewing the witch performing sex acts). And then there's the lengthy and graphic description of a man having sex with a horse. It just spoiled the story because it is so inauthentic that it seemed he just took the opportunity to use the historical period as a setting for modern day characters and couldn't go more than a few paragraphs without inserting scenes that seemed like they were copied from a men's magazine.

I loved it. My first introduction to McCammon, and I couldnt put the book down. Took me 3 days to get through it. Very well written...wow. I cant say enough. I will definitly be reading other books by him as well.

Horrible. The plot is contrived, the main character is an annoying hypocrite, as well as insufferable, and the writing is so contrived and overblown that I laughed out loud many times. The ludicrous "colonial era" language was made up out of whole cloth by the author, and includes tidbits like "put that in your pipe and smoke it". His sex scenes, both deviant and "normal" are so unintentionally funny that it was almost worth reading them. Historical inaccuracies and mistakes abound, anachronisms (like the pot smoking scene, including a roach clip, with the doctor and magistrate) are distracting, the English language is mangled (our author calls the man the smithy, not the place, etc.), and your patience will be tested by many plot devices and characters that go nowhere.
I am incredulous that so many people loved this book. I found it a waste of time. You were warned.

McCammon is one of the few writers who can switch around within the overall "horror" genre and manage to be fresh and unique and fascinating, whether he is writing about the end of the world or a point back in history. Great stuff.

Loved McCammons earlier works. This novel was disjointed and utterly lacking his usual charm and sense of timing. May give the sequel a look-see just on general principles. This guy used to be wonderful!

The used book was in good condition and arrived promptly. I was a little surprised to see that it was a library book with the name of the library stamped on the outside and the pocket for the check-out card still attached to the inside of the back cover. I hope it wasn't stolen from the library.