What Guides Us

The Black Book Series, Book 2

By: Dennis Joslyn

Narrated by: Naomi Rose-Mock

A cursed book has surfaced in a quiet Upstate New York town—and it doesn’t just guide, it controls.

When a restless college student and a weary bookstore owner cross paths with the Black Book, reality begins to fracture. Memories twist. Dreams bleed into waking nightmares. And as its influence spreads, a buried piece of history claws its way back: the violent 1933 farmers’ strike that scarred the region.

The only one immune to its pull is an ordinary friend. But to stop the book before it consumes everyone he loves, he must uncover its secrets—and face the horrors that history tried to erase.

What Guides Us is a psychological thriller of haunted history, fractured memory, and the dangerous allure of power. Perfect for fans of Needful Things and the Heart-Shaped Box, this is the next chilling installment in The Black Book Series.

©2025 Dennis Joslyn (P)2025 Dennis Joslyn

First time reader, now a fan forever

This book was so fun to listen to! It had everything that makes for a good listen, a fantastic narrator, great character development, a plot that keeps you guessing and moments of "GASP!!" The only issue I have with this book is that there is no third one out yet. TELL ME IT'S NOT OVER!!!!!

Creepy Story

This story was twisted in a good way. I would really like another book telling the origin story of the black book. I really liked the narration I do think thia one would be with a full cast as well.

What guides us

A very creepy and scary story of a cursed book that wreeks havoc to all that come across it I look forward to the next book

Frightfully Good and Scary!

A cursed book appears in a quiet upstate New York town, and instead of offering guidance, it quietly takes control of those who encounter it. As a restless college student and a worn-down bookstore owner fall under its influence, reality begins to splinter—memories shift, dreams blur into waking life, and echoes of a long-buried 1933 farmers’ strike resurface with unsettling force. The only person untouched must unravel the book’s dark history and confront the past before it consumes everyone he cares about.

Author Dennis Joslyn’s writing is clear and easy to follow, creating a strong foundation that allows the story to unfold smoothly from scene to scene. The storyline flows naturally, with each moment building on the last, so the progression feels cohesive rather than forced. Plot twists are unique and genuinely intriguing, adding fresh turns that keep the narrative engaging without relying on shock value alone.

Character development is handled thoughtfully, with each person shaped appropriately for their role and the actions they take within the story. No one feels overdrawn or unnecessary; instead, their growth supports the tension and stakes of the plot. What really stands out is the way the author subtly plays with the listener’s mind—layering in psychological elements and quiet, powerful shifts that challenge perception and keep you questioning what’s real.

The narrator, Naomi Rose-Mock, delivers a clear, articulate performance that makes the story easy to follow from start to finish. Their subtle tonal inflections add just the right amount of emotion and nuance, enhancing the atmosphere without ever feeling overdone or distracting. It’s a restrained style that fits the material well and allows the narrative itself to shine.
The pacing remains steady throughout, which helps maintain tension and keeps the listener quietly on edge as events unfold.
Rather than relying on dramatic flourishes, the narrator supports the intensity of each scene with controlled energy and thoughtful emphasis. Her performance is strong and consistent, which complements the psychological tone of the story and keeps the listener fully engaged.

This is a well-crafted, mentally engaging listen enhanced by a strong performance that lingers long after the final word.