Dead Still

Erick W Mertz, author of the first installment in The Black Springs Saga, presents a narrative rooted in the backwoods of Lagoon County, Indiana. The story centers on Duncan Trembley, who has dedicated his life to safeguarding his family’s moonshine operation and the legacy established by previous generations. In this small Midwestern community, loyalty functions as currency, yet old grudges persist without fading. The tranquility of the town shatters when a malevolent force awakens within the Still, possessing someone close to Duncan. This event triggers a series of strange occurrences that transform everyday existence into a waking nightmare. Whispers of restless spirits and forgotten tragedies permeate the air, revealing long-buried sins that threaten to expose the entire community. Duncan finds himself trapped between his duties to his family and a dark secret that endangers everyone around him. To protect those he loves, he must descend into a realm defined by ghost stories, local folklore, and occult horrors. The past refuses to remain buried, forcing Duncan to confront an evil that has waited in the shadows for decades. This atmospheric blend of paranormal mystery and rural noir offers a chilling supernatural experience. The novel appeals to readers who enjoy character-driven mysteries and creeping dread within a small-town setting. It suits those interested in Midwestern gothic fiction where every secret carries a heavy price. Readers seeking fast-paced action or urban settings may find the slow-burn tension less engaging. The story concludes with Duncan facing an ancient darkness that collides with buried secrets, leaving the town’s fate uncertain.