Praise

FOR UTTER DARKNESS:
"Knapp it's been a pleasure reading your progression as an author. This fourth novel, in my humble opinion, is so polished. It is again apparent your research is thorough and dare I say your knowledge of scripture comes off as heartfelt. (Bad on me if I'm wrong.)
Though you've taken this small family of characters in a much different direction with a new life, I love the generous nod you've given to the characters, indeed 'friends', from your first series. You've seamlessly woven them together while still ensuring that Utter Darkness can stand completely on its own. All this while masterfully illustrating how our deep faith overcomes the tension and darkness of my favorite genres of thriller/suspense, that are all too real in this world we live in. No longer do I look forward to your next novel with curiosity but with eager anticipation! Well done and I'm happy to hit 5 stars, more if I could!"

UTTER DARKNESS
I love a book that teaches as well as entertains! This book is about justice, loyalty, and the powerful love of God that sustains us in a world that is filled with darkness. Mr. Knapp reminds us through his characters and their conflicts that we have the light of Christ that overcomes a darkness we can’t even see. I come away from this read with a new understanding of the spiritual realm and the power of God that overcomes it.

UTTER DARKNESS
Tony Knapp took a key character from his Hawk McCullough series and created Utter Darkness, featuring Ryan Fletcher, Hawk McCullough’s partner in Seattle. This is a case where the evil surrounding an FBI agent becomes too much, so he changes location to a quiet southern town. Each chapter and section leaves you hanging on as the characters are searching for clues, facing danger, or praying for deliverance. The characters are split into warriors, saints, and demons; at times, you’re not sure which is which. This is a supernatural thriller at its best, with psychological elements at play. I often thought of Frank Peretti’s books as I glimpsed the unseen realm through the author's eyes. This is by far one of the best books I have read, and I look forward to reading more from Tony Knapp.

UTTER DARKNESS:
Detailed, well-written, and engaging, Utter Darkness by Tony Knapp is a first-rate Christian supernatural thriller. The plot of this fine novel is two-fold, much like our existence. In the physical world, it centers on the struggle against vile criminals, while in the spiritual world, it is a continuation of the eternal conflict between good and evil. Christian themes permeate the narrative, including corruption, faith, and redemption, but this action-packed story is relatable to more than just adherents of Abrahamic religions. Strong character development includes a large and likeable cast confronting the vilest villains imaginable. The pacing is both fast and tense, which made the novel a quicker read than I anticipated. Overall, Utter Darkness is a perfect read for fans of the supernatural and Christian thrillers and a great reminder that while darkness will win many battles, it will never win the war.

Utter Darkness is a gripping supernatural thriller that blends suspense, faith, and spiritual warfare into a hauntingly powerful narrative. Tony Knapp introduces readers to Ryan Fletcher, a former FBI agent seeking refuge from his violent past in the quiet town of Cedar Grove, Tennessee. As the town’s new police chief, Fletcher hopes for peace—but the disappearance of a young girl reveals a far deeper and more ancient evil lurking beneath the surface.

Knapp skillfully builds tension as the story shifts from procedural investigation to a chilling battle between good and evil. The gradual blurring of the natural and supernatural keeps the stakes high, while themes of faith, sacrifice, and courage add emotional depth. Fletcher is a compelling protagonist—flawed, protective, and driven by love for his family—making his spiritual struggle feel authentic and deeply human.

Fans of faith-based thrillers will appreciate the echoes of classic spiritual warfare fiction, paired with modern pacing and relentless twists. Utter Darkness is intense, atmospheric, and thought-provoking, delivering both edge-of-your-seat suspense and meaningful reflection. A must-read for lovers of supernatural thrillers who want substance with their scares.