Book Review: The Occultist Diary

Reviewed by Chelsey Tucker

A mysterious paranormal adventure steeped in history that evokes selfless heroism and testing friendships to the absolute limit

Fatima and B are best friends who are interested in history, true crime, and the paranormal. Oftentimes their hobbies have put them in more precarious situations than your average history buff, mostly due to Fatima’s unexplainable pull toward danger (or gift for sensing how to save the world). However, their last adventure down in New Orleans really shocked the duo up. They desperately needed a break from it all. 

A short roadtrip to attend an antique festival in Fernandina Beach is their perfect idea for a low-key vacation. They invite their fellow adventurer Alexander Blackwood to join them and blow off steam while exploring the unique town. 

After multiple times assuring B that they are there to relax and not go searching for ghosts, Fatima comes across a mysterious diary that turns their vacation into their most dangerous adventure yet. It frustrates B that Fatima can only attract danger and never peace. Fatima feels bad for B but knows the diary is connected to something really important that they are obligated to figure out.

When it becomes clear that what is in the diary is very dangerous, Fatima calls in backup to better protect themselves and understand how to perform the necessary rituals on the amulet they had found in New Orleans. “The amulet was a presence, ancient and terrible, that had seen more than humans could comprehend.” Elias and Mama Jude come to their aid with extensive knowledge of how to decipher the rituals and protect against any evil spirits.

When it becomes clear that Fatima must put her life on the line to save countless lives, the team knows they can’t screw any of it up. It is life or death; every symbol and incantation has to be perfect. The high-stakes of needing five pints of blood from one person because “they acted as a conduit for channeling the spirit’s energy into the amulet” deepens the bonds between the characters who have to hold each other’s lives in their hands. The friends in The Occultist Diary are tested by extraordinary situations which cause their friendships to become lifelong and impenetrable. Readers who love strong friendships in their paranormal adventures will love what The Occultist Diary has to offer.

One of the brightest aspects of this novel is its emphasis on preserving history and making sure future generations are informed. “For now, we were not merely survivors– we were storytellers, chroniclers capturing the truths behind humanity’s most perplexing mysteries. And through this lens, we anew framed our future together.” Those who have studied history will have a special appreciation for Fouty’s care to highlight historical places and processes, especially the importance of keeping a written record of what happened.

Thank you for reading Chelsey Tucker’s book review of The Occultist Diary by James Fouty! If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

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