Abe is a young musician and he finds himself trapped in a gas station bathroom at night, caught between the horrors outside the door and the terrifyinAbe is a young musician and he finds himself trapped in a gas station bathroom at night, caught between the horrors outside the door and the terrifying creatures crawling inside. This horror novella, perfect for Halloween season. It stressed me out and made me vow never to stop at a rest stop again without my phone. Abe’s desperate fight for survival while battling his own mind was fascinating, though the mind-bending ending left me feeling confused—in the best way possible. The story is funny, gross, gory, and intensely anxiety-inducing as things spiral from bad to worse. It was a quick, and fun read for sure....more
I was so excited to pick up American Rapture after hearing that Rachel Harrison absolutely loved it. A deadly virus is sweeping across America, turninI was so excited to pick up American Rapture after hearing that Rachel Harrison absolutely loved it. A deadly virus is sweeping across America, turning the infected into feral, lust-driven creatures. Sophie, a devout Catholic girl, must navigate the nightmare of a collapsing Midwest as she searches for her family amidst the chaos. As the world around her crumbles, she soon realizes that there are far worse horrors than dying a virgin.
I didn’t love Maeve Fly, so I was apprehensive. That being said, my opinion on this book was mixed. The first 40 pages really hooked me in, but then it slowed down so significantly that I wanted to put it down multiple times. At times, the plot was difficult to immerse myself in and was very frustrating.
However, the latter part of the book picked back up for me, especially when it delved into themes of religious trauma. I enjoyed the apocalyptic setting and appreciated the tension created by the virus's sexual component, which added to the horror. Though the writing style felt choppy and could’ve used an edit of maybe 100 pages shorter, the intense conflict did hold my attention even when I wanted to DNF. This book is getting a lot of 5-star reviews and it dives into unique storylines and metaphorical themes, so if you’re interested in the synopsis, it definitely is worth picking up. STARS: 3, PUB: out now!...more
Delilah S. Dawson is a well-known horror author, but I ultimately discovered her after reading and loving THE VIOLENCE in 2022. After reading THE VIOLDelilah S. Dawson is a well-known horror author, but I ultimately discovered her after reading and loving THE VIOLENCE in 2022. After reading THE VIOLENCE, I fell in love with Dawson's use of metaphorical messaging in her stories, so I knew I needed to dive into her latest horror novel, GUILLOTINE. The book is just over 200 pages, so you can easily read this in one sitting.
Thrift fashionista Dez Lane isn't interested in dating Patrick Ruskin; she just wants to meet his mother, the editor-in-chief of Nouveau magazine, to secure an internship she couldn't get through normal channels. When Patrick invites her to his family's Easter reunion at their lavish lake mansion, Dez is prepared to tolerate his arrogance to achieve her goal. However, once they're isolated on the island, she discovers the dark reality of the Ruskin family's treatment of their servants, who have been forced into near-slavery for decades and are now seeking deadly revenge. As Dez witnesses the gruesome fallout and learns the truth, her desire to work for Marie Caulfield-Ruskin fades—leaving her with the urge to strangle Marie with her own chunky pearls.
I really had a blast reading this novel—it's being labeled as The Menu meets Ready or Not, which totally makes sense! I loved GOOD RICH PEOPLE (Eliza Jane Brazier) and THE FAMILY GAME (Catherine Steadman), so if you enjoyed those books, you MUST pick up GUILLOTINE. Dez is such a likeable protagonist and the commentary throughout the book really makes you think. I alternated reading this book via audiobook through @librofm and the physical copy and I recommend doing either since they're both great journeys. Delilah S. Dawson continues to slay the horror game and I'll continue to be along for the ride. ...more
Alex Segura’s Alter Ego dives into the comic book world, where Annie Bustamante—a big-shot filmmaker and comic artist—finally gets a shot at reviving Alex Segura’s Alter Ego dives into the comic book world, where Annie Bustamante—a big-shot filmmaker and comic artist—finally gets a shot at reviving her favorite superhero, the Lethal Lynx. But things get shady fast when the offer comes with strings attached, plus some creepy anonymous warnings to boot. Annie’s tired of cash grabs and ready to tell this story her way, no matter what dark secrets she uncovers.
I've been wanting to read Alex Segura's books since his last book, Secret Identity, so I made sure to prioritize this one. You do not need to read Secret Identity to follow this book as I was easily able to follow. This book was such a freaking blast! I highly encourage you to listen to the audiobook as it felt like I was listening to a Marvel movie on my headphones. They really go the extra mile in this narration. This story really dives into the world of comics and superheroes, but also about mothers and daughters and some other themes throughout the story. If you like X-Men, Marvel, The Boys, or comics in general, Secrety Identity is a MUST READ. I cannot wait to read the next Alex Segura novel!...more
Shell Games follows Julie, who’s caught in the chaos when her uber wealth and influential mother, Kate, marries her high school sweetheart, Charlie. KShell Games follows Julie, who’s caught in the chaos when her uber wealth and influential mother, Kate, marries her high school sweetheart, Charlie. Kate’s an influential real estate mogul and political figure in Florida, and Julie’s thrilled her mom seems happy—until their wedding night when Kate accuses Charlie of confessing to an old crime, throwing everyone into confusion. While Kate insists it happened, Charlie claims she’s delusional, and others suggest she might be showing signs of dementia. Julie’s stuck wondering if her mom’s truly losing it or if Charlie’s just pulling off an elaborate scheme.
As the story ventures into chaos, Julie starts noticing cracks in her own marriage, adding layers of distrust and paranoia. Even her husband, Eric, seems to be hiding something, leaving Julie unsure who to believe or trust. The book heavily relies on gaslighting themes, adding tension but sometimes veering into over-the-top territory. Yet, the final twist hits hard, truly winning me over in the end....more
THE BOYFRIEND is my favorite Freida McFadden to date. I said what I said. I've really been enjoying thrillers that infuse dating/romance/dark f'd up pTHE BOYFRIEND is my favorite Freida McFadden to date. I said what I said. I've really been enjoying thrillers that infuse dating/romance/dark f'd up partners lately (I wonder why) and THE BOYFRIEND fits the bill! The story is centered around Sydney Shaw, a mid-30s year old woman living in New York trying to navigate online dating. When a date goes awry, Sydney ends up meeting someone who ends up being everything she'd want in a relationship. He is charming, handsome, confident, and a physician. As the two begin to date, Sydney starts suspecting that her new relationship isn't as stable as she thought it was, especially when a string of deaths start popping up. These murders involve women around her age demographic.
I almost gave this book 5 stars because it was so much fun, but I immediately clocked what was going to happen (for the most part) early on. That didn't take away from my enjoyment, but I wish the secrets were held a bit better. This book is juicy and fun in all the best ways, and I did get tricked with one of the twists, so I was pleasantly surprised at some of the developments. This is an easy read for sure and won't be anything you haven't seen before in thrillers, but the way the story is told really is a fun journey. I definitely would recommend any Freida fans to pick this one up because it really is a fun, mindless, escape. I definitely needed this read to take my mind of ~life~ lately. This book will be perfect for a vacation read or a rainy day read because you will get lost in the story. I have mixed opinions about this author, but I definitely do not with THE BOYFRIEND....more
THE UNMOTHERS is a truly unique story, but I don't think it's really horror and more so a mystery/literary fiction folklore. The story surrounds MarshTHE UNMOTHERS is a truly unique story, but I don't think it's really horror and more so a mystery/literary fiction folklore. The story surrounds Marshall after reeling from the death of her husband. She is sent by her editor to the small, backward town of Raeford to investigate a seemingly absurd rumor that a horse has given birth to a healthy human baby boy. Upon arrival, she finds a town more concerned with its famous horse breeding than with the welfare of its own people. However, when two horribly mangled bodies—one human and one horse—are discovered in a field, Marshall begins to suspect there’s a real story to uncover. As she delves deeper into the town and its secretive inhabitants, her grip on reality falters. Is she losing her mind, or has she stumbled upon a dark secret that has haunted the women of Raeford for generations?
THE UNMOTHERS is very interesting, but I did feel that the story lacked the horror elements that I expected with this story. It's more of a mystery-driven character-based fiction novel. At times, I felt lost within the story and had to reread it a few times, but I did feel engaged while reading this story. I did feel a bit of a distance with the storyline—I didn't feel fully immersed and feeling a bit like I was being told a story versus witnessing it—but I do believe this is a very strong debut. Horror is hit or miss with me because I definitely expect deeply rooted suspense, so this may be a horror novel, so if you are interested, definitely consider picking this one up!...more
Nick Cutter is a very well-known horror author, especially after his massive hit The Troop, so I was very excited to pick up his upcoming novel, THE QNick Cutter is a very well-known horror author, especially after his massive hit The Troop, so I was very excited to pick up his upcoming novel, THE QUEEN. Thank you @gallerybooks for this gifted copy! THE QUEEN is another installment of Nick Cutter's most disturbing body horror novels for sure. The novel showcases intense and graphic insectile body horror and it delves into Cutter’s signature dark and twisted storytelling. Set over the course of a single day, the story follows a teenage girl as she unravels life-altering secrets about her recently disappeared friend. The revelations are devastating and will have a lasting impact on her life and everyone connected to her.
The novel's tension escalates to a fever pitch, with an ending that is brutal and wild. Cutter's knack for relentless horror left me numb by the conclusion. Although the book takes place over the course of a day, the book is a very slow-burning horror, so just pace yourself and you'll be fine. For fans of his work, I highly recommend it....more
When college student, awkward and shy Ryan, is assigned a new dorm roommate, he did not expect it to be Miller MacAvoy. Miller is gorgeous, athletic, When college student, awkward and shy Ryan, is assigned a new dorm roommate, he did not expect it to be Miller MacAvoy. Miller is gorgeous, athletic, confident, and wealthy. Miller is the only person Ryan knows that doesn’t get any ...more
Thank you to Stephanie Wrobel and Berkley Publishing for this gifted copy! The story centers on a reunion weekend at the Hitchcock Hotel, a Victorian Thank you to Stephanie Wrobel and Berkley Publishing for this gifted copy! The story centers on a reunion weekend at the Hitchcock Hotel, a Victorian mansion themed after Alfred Hitchcock, complete with movie props, screenings, and an aviary full of crows. Alfred, the hotel’s owner and a former member of the Film Club, invites his old friends for the hotel’s first anniversary, despite years of estrangement. As expected, the weekend takes a dark turn, culminating in a murder, just like a classic Hitchcock film.
The book’s premise is intriguing, especially for Hitchcock fans. The hotel’s atmosphere and the numerous Hitchcock references were highlights that added to the story's charm. However, the mystery itself was somewhat underwhelming, with a slow burn delivery. The characters, including Alfred, were difficult for me to love or love to hate.
Despite these flaws, the book was still an enjoyable read, particularly for fans of Hitchcock and Stephanie Wrobel's work. The setting and concept made it engaging, even if the mystery didn't fully deliver. I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys revenge-driven murder mysteries in a suspenseful, isolated setting—just keep in mind there are spoilers for a few Hitchcock films....more
Everyone was raving about Jessa Maxwell’s debut, The Golden Spoon, last year, but it just didn’t sound like the right fit for mI NEED YOU TO READ THIS
Everyone was raving about Jessa Maxwell’s debut, The Golden Spoon, last year, but it just didn’t sound like the right fit for me. However, when I heard about Maxwell’s sophomore novel, I NEED YOU TO READ THIS, I was intoxicated with excitement over a murder in the world of Dear Abby (well, in this case, Dear Constance). I used to love reading those columns in the newspaper and so did my mom. Thank you @atriabooks for this gifted copy!
As mentioned, I NEED YOU TO READ THIS dives into the world of Dear Constance, a popular newspaper advice column (think Dear Abby!). However, when Francis Keen, the person behind Dear Constance, is murdered, it takes front and center on the news. Given that the position is now open, Alex Marks applies for the position and learns that she is offered the position (it doesn’t hurt that it’s two times the salary she was making and this will change her life). Alex is excited to start her role, but her excitement completely does a 180 when she starts receiving increasingly intensely dark letters and starts feeling that her safety is at jeopardy. As Alex delves deeper into her Francis’ murder, she begins to wonder if she herself is a target as well. Could someone the newspaper be involved, someone from her past, or someone out there lurking…
First and foremost, this book is not a thriller. It’s a light mystery slow burn. That being said, it is a totally fine read for what it is. The idea is such a cool spin on the mystery genre, but the execution left a bit more to be desired. I felt that things were much tamer than I expected and the book told us what was happening versus letting us read into and imagine it. It’s hard to explain, but if you know you know and if you don’t you don’t. The plot was unique, but the story heavily involved slow moving plot points that left the characters a bit underwhelming. Overall, if you want something unique and lighter than the typical thriller coming out this year, I NEED YOU TO READ THIS is up your alley! STARS: 3, PUB: 8/13 ...more
I love Rachel Harrison's books so much and when I heard about her latest novel, SO THIRSTY, I knew that I wanted to prioritize it as soon as possible.I love Rachel Harrison's books so much and when I heard about her latest novel, SO THIRSTY, I knew that I wanted to prioritize it as soon as possible. Rachel Harrison creates the perfect cocktail of horror, contemporary fiction, feminist-empowering stories I've read in recent years, and and SO THIRSTY is no exception!
The story is centered around Sloane Parker and her friend Naomi. Sloane is about to celebrate her birthday and when her husband Joel surprises her with a weekend getaway with her friend Naomi, Sloane feels a bit concerned that he didn't want to spend it with her. Regardless, Sloane is excited to catch up with her chaos addicted friend and the two spend a weekend away at a nice bed and breakfast while enjoying wine tastings and relaxation. When Naomi plans a night out with Sloane, the two meet a group of people at the bar and are invited to their house for a party, but it quickly takes an unexpected turn. Sloane and Naomi must come to terms with what their new normal will be whether they like it or not.
SO THIRSTY is unique because it's a story about people turning into vampires and coming to accept it. There's so many metaphorical messages within this center of conflict that ring true for different types of things going on within peoples' lives. I found the journey of these new vampires utterly intriguing and also very satirical that I couldn't put it down and finished within two sittings. The is the ultimate testament to a good novel! I did not looooove the ending, as I felt like it ended a bit too early, but overall this book is an amazing installment in Rachel Harrison's rolodex of supernatural modern-day horror reads. If you've read and enjoyed any of this author's previous works, you will hands-down love this one. Rachel Harrison has become an auto-read author for me, so make sure you put this one on your TBR! ...more
In this atmospheric thriller by Delilah S. Dawson, a young woman named Sarah Carpenter arrives at an isolated artists' colony, hoping to leave behind In this atmospheric thriller by Delilah S. Dawson, a young woman named Sarah Carpenter arrives at an isolated artists' colony, hoping to leave behind her painful past and find solace in her pottery. Escaping an emotionally abusive mother and a toxic ex-boyfriend, she’s drawn to the quiet of Tranquil Falls, an abandoned hotel turned artists’ retreat with no cell signal or internet. But instead of achieving peace and tranquility, Sarah finds herself uncovering a body and gradually becoming suspect of the unsettling behaviors of her fellow artists and the dark history haunting the the complex.
Dawson once excels at immersing readers in her richly described settings, making the eerie artists' retreat vivid and tangible. The retreat, set deep in a rural setting, provides a claustrophobic and ominous environment as the suspense begins to unravel. The story’s atmosphere is very strong, but slow moving, so you really get a feel about Tranquil Falls, but I did want the story to move faster.
The story moved beyond Sarah’s artistic journey into chilling topics that may need Trigger Warnings (message me if you want them). Though suspenseful, the ending didn’t quite hit me in a very profound way. Although I wanted a more satisfying ending, I think the author's note provided me with context with why the book developed the way it did. While IT WILL ONLY HURT FOR A MOMENT fell a bit short of the two previous books I've read by this author, THE VIOLENCE and GUILLOTINE, I do really enjoy her writing style and I will continue to pick up what she has coming up next for readers. ...more
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