“The parts of us that they are attacking are the best parts of us, and that is what makes us special.”
PLOT SUMMARY:
When Dylan Mulvaney came out as a woman online, she was a viral sensation almost overnight, emerging as a trailblazing voice on social media. Dylan’s personal coming-out story blossomed into a platform for advocacy and empowerment for trans people all over the world.
Through her “Days of Girlhood” series, she connected with followers by exploring what it means to be a girl, from experimenting with makeup to story times to spilling the tea about laser hair removal, while never shying away from discussing the transphobia she faced online. Nevertheless, she was determined to be a beacon of positivity.
But shortly after she celebrated day 365 of being a girl, it all came screeching to a halt when an innocuous post sparked a media firestorm and right-wing backlash she couldn’t have expected. Despite the vitriolic press and relentless paparazzi, Dylan was determined to remain loud and proud.
In Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer, Dylan pulls back the curtain of her “It Girl” lifestyle with a witty and intimate reflection of her life pre- and post-transition. She covers everything from her first big break in theater to the first time her dad recognized her as a girl to how she handled scandals, cancellations, and . . . tucking. It’s both laugh-out-loud funny and powerfully honest—and is a love letter to everyone who stands up for queer joy.
GRADE: A
REVIEW:
I experienced this memoir as an audiobook which I think is the best way to experience it. Dylan Mulvaney delivers a memoir that is as full of heart as it is sharp with humor. Known for her viral “Days of Girlhood” series, Mulvaney brings the same charisma and vulnerability to the page, blending deeply personal storytelling with punchy, self-aware wit. The book is a kaleidoscope of moments—some raw, some hilarious, all profoundly human.
Her humor never feels performative; it’s the kind that springs from resilience, used not to mask pain but to reshape it into something empowering. She recounts awkward adolescence, awkward adulthood, and everything in between with a comedic timing that never undercuts the seriousness of her journey. Instead, it complements the memoir’s emotional core.
What elevates Paper Doll beyond a personal story is its quiet, powerful wisdom. Mulvaney doesn’t pretend to have all the answers. Instead, she offers hard-won insights about identity, self-worth, and the freedom of living authentically. Her voice is candid and warm, turning the memoir into a conversation more than a proclamation.
Paper Doll is ultimately a triumph of spirit—a joyful, honest, and sharply observant reflection of what it means to grow into oneself, and to do so with grace, grit, and a perfectly timed joke.
*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Harry N. Abrams for the audiobook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
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But she didn’t realize it was the last normal day on Earth as she’d known it… the last normal day anyone had known.
PLOT SUMMARY:
The meanest teen queen in high school might be the world’s only chance against killer plants run amok!
Camellia Dume is the meanest teen queen in her Malibu high school, a rich daddy’s girl thanks to her father’s elaborate scams. But she might be the only hero for humanity as an extraterrestrial mutation sends plants tearing across the country and through people in bloody fashion. As if that weren’t enough drama, Camellia just might meet her own personal match or worst enemy, in the new student Wray, as sparks fly and opposites attract. Only by working together can they uproot a deadly conspiracy that may have torn Camellia’s family apart.
GRADE: A
REVIEW:
Mean Girls meets Day of the Triffids in this fast paced horror. Move over Regina George, there’s a new bad bitch in town – Camellia Dume. She’s disgustingly rich and very influential both at her school and online realm, where she’s both loved and feared. Upon her first encounter with Wray, things don’t go down very well, but soon the two are going to be faced with killer plants and life as Camellia knows it will no longer exist. These two unlikely heroes will capture your heart and have you rooting for them in this campy, yet very fun scary book!
Doomflower by Jendia Gammon is a relentless, fast-paced horror thriller that grips the reader from the very first page and littered with hilarious moments that will have you laughing! The narrative is a whirlwind of tension, with each chapter escalating the horror as the protagonist is drawn deeper into a nightmarish world. Gammon masterfully builds a sense of dread, using sharp, vivid imagery that keeps the reader on edge. The pacing is swift, ensuring that the suspense never lets up, while the horror elements hit hard with shocking twists and grotesque killer plants. Doomflower is a wild, adrenaline-fueled ride for fans of chilling, fast-paced terror.
*Thank you so much to Encyclopocalypse Publications for the digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
SHORT Q & A WITH AUTHOR:
What inspired you to write Doomflower?
Doomflower was one of those secret-sauce ideas that bubbled up about 6 years ago, when I was getting to know Los Angeles better, and fell hard for Point Dume. I had been a fan of dark humor most of my life, so that’s reflected in the book; notably Heathers, as well as various high school dramedies over the decades, as well as pulpy slasher films of the 80s and 90s. I also love a mixture of sci-fi and horror, like The Thing, Day of the Triffids, etc.
And as I was a fan of antihero dramas like Mad Men and Better Call Saul, as well as growing up with How the Grinch Stole Christmas, I thought, “What if the absolute worst person in high school had to save the world? Who would want to follow her, and why?” And that’s Camellia Dume. She the richest and meanest teen queen in Killian High School, and her father is very much a shyster conman like Saul Goodman. They’re ghastly…but there’s a reason.
As I transferred schools in the middle of high school, from a county/semi-rural area to city school, I was suddenly faced with very wealthy cliques, and I was…not wealthy. So I identified a bit with Wray Blythe in that regard. I love fish-out-of-water stories.
I also love the enemies-to-lovers trope, especially when it leads to character growth.
And, frankly, I love L.A. Much of this story takes place in Malibu, and I lean into some Los Angeles tropes with love for the city I love and live in now.
Camellia is the ultimate mean girl when we meet her, but becomes the unlikely hero. Who could you see portraying her in a film adaptation or mini series?
It’s likely that at this point, she’d have to be a younger GenZ or a Gen Alpha actress, and I think in many ways this would be a breakout role for someone. I don’t have anyone particular in mind. I’d know her if I saw her audition. And I hope Doomflower IS made into a film or show, because I think a lot of people would enjoy it. It’s very cinematic, raw, funny, and filled with one-liners.
Several writers have explored deadly plants in the past few years such as Wilder Girls and Annihilation. What is it about plants that you find personally terrifying?
As I have a degree in ecology (which plays a role in the book), I’m not so terrified of plants as I am of genetic manipulation and the thwarting of nature to greed or malice. Given an extraordinary situation here–trying to avoid spoiling for readers–I’m reminded of Ripley’s quote in ALIENS that starts with, “You know, Burke, I don’t know which species is worse…” But in terms of monster appeal, I actually love pulpy horror, and nothing screams pulp like plant horror!
Can we ever expect a sequel to Doomflower?
If Doomflower does well, I do have framework for a sequel. So let’s hope it does. There’s definitely more to unravel! Meanwhile, I hope I get a movie or show option. Then you can be sure I’ll wrote a sequel!
Are you working on anything new?
Hot on the heels of Doomflower is my thriller/horror/sci-fi novel Atacama, out May 13, 2025. That has a more unsettling vibe, delving into mystery and grief (which both do play a role in Doomflower as well; I lost both parents in the past 5 years, and that definitely left huge effects on my writing). Atacama is a bit like The X-Files plus Annihilation plus Black Mirror and The Thing. Following that, I have a SFF short story collection out in July called To Wonder and Starshine, a dragon fantasy out next spring, The Vale of Seven Dragons, and a Choose Your Own Adventure middle grade horror out next spring as well, called Dungeon Crawl at the Haunted Mall. I’m also a publisher of speculative fiction at Stars and Sabers Publishing, and we have all sorts of books coming out from various authors there.
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Perihan gazed at the opulent villas lined up like precious pearls on a necklace, feeling overwhelmed by their excessive beauty. The sight was almost terrifying, reminiscent of the antique pearls adorning her own necklace. As the dark clouds were illuminated by a sudden flash of lightning, she shook off her thoughts and quickened her pace along the deserted road. The gentle raindrops on her tired face felt like an ominous sign. The unexpected gust of wind, unusual for a mild November afternoon, added to her unease.
On her seventieth birthday, Perihan had indulged in a day of shopping at Milan’s most luxurious stores. Despite her age, she possessed a strong physique, with firm knees, agile movements, and enough strength to carry her shopping bags from the stores to her home. The kind store managers at Cartier and Valentino had offered to send the packages to her address with a courier, but she declined, insisting she could manage on her own. Though she lacked a family to celebrate with, her small group of friends had arranged to gather at the villa, refusing to let her spend the evening alone. They had asked her to leave the house and return around seven o’clock. Glancing at her watch, Perihan realized she was already half an hour late.
Oh my… Licia must have already set the table, she thought as she turned the corner onto Via Marco de Marchi, where she resided. Just then, another lightning bolt flashed across the sky, and a large monarch butterfly appeared seemingly out of nowhere. Despite the heavy rain, Perihan could hear the faint flapping of its wings. The butterfly had bright orange and black stripes, with one wing decorated with symmetric white dots. It seemed to hover in midair.
“What a miracle,” Perihan exclaimed, a smile stretching across her wrinkled face. “It’s been years since I last saw this one…and on my birthday!” Hastily shifting the heavy bags onto her shoulder, she wiped the raindrops from her eyes with her long red nails and followed the butterfly. It fluttered around in circles for a few moments, before darting straight ahead. Despite the downpour, the orange-and-black wings moved swiftly. Overwhelmed with excitement, Perihan disregarded the red light—and almost got hit by an old Ford passing by. The driver, an unattractive man with numerous moles and few teeth, leaned out of the window and cursed at her in an Italian dialect she couldn’t understand. Unfazed by his behavior, Perihan remained focused on following the butterfly, which flew rapidly and ascended into the sky.
“I wonder where it disappeared to,” she mused with a melancholic expression on her face. The rain intensified, the drainage problems in the area turning the road into a pool of water. Perihan’s bare feet were drenched as the rain seeped through the open toes of her green python slingbacks.
“You’re blocking my view.” The unexpected comment startled her. She looked at the stranger, hoping to recognize a friendly face, but it was no one she knew. She turned to notice the growing crowd of people with their faces hidden behind their phone screens. She wondered if they were filming her. Lacking an umbrella, her meticulously coiffed hair now wet, her makeup smudged, and her silk skirt ruined by the muddy street, Perihan was struck by the crowd’s indifference. They shifted slightly to the right, attempting to remove her from their line of sight, all the while continuing to record whatever had caught their attention. Curious, Perihan turned around and was terrified by what she saw. In shock, she dropped her red shopping bags, causing more muddy water to splatter onto her skirt and completely destroying her shoes.
“This can’t be happening,” she screamed to the sky at the top of her lungs. Her knees trembled uncontrollably, left her unsure about taking another five steps to cross the road. Perihan noticed the cameras turning toward her in her peripheral vision, but she paid no mind to the desperation and terror that would eventually go viral on numerous social media networks in multiple countries. Her villa loomed in front of her, concealed by high walls covered with lush green bushes—now invaded by hundreds, if not thousands, of butterflies. They hovered over the garden, flapping their wings vigorously despite the pouring rain. The entire structure, partially visible through the bushes, seemed imprisoned within a butterfly sanctuary. When Perihan realized the creatures were all monarchs, each one so exquisite and valuable, she paused. Beauty had a threshold, and beyond it, it became a captivating terror, holding people’s attention hostage to fulfill its own needs. She propelled herself into the flooded road, heading for the garden gate. With what little strength remained after the ordeal, she pushed her way through the floral Art Nouveau door.
“Licia! Where are you?” she shouted upon entering the garden. Before closing the door behind her, she turned to scream at the onlookers, “Leave! The show’s over! This is my property!” Yet, the crowd remained unaffected, mesmerized by the extraordinary natural phenomenon unfolding before them.
Licia, Perihan’s housekeeper and closest friend of nearly forty years, looked like a ghost. Her complexion was drained of color, her wet hair clung to her face in disheveled patches, and her shoes were ruined by dark mud. She trembled as she spoke. “Perihan… We did our best, but…” Licia glanced quickly at their small group of friends, who observed the scene from the kitchen window on the first floor of the house. Perihan brushed Licia aside with the back of her hand and made her way toward the large greenhouse on the left side of the garden. Orange butterflies continued to emerge rapidly through a broken pane in its ceiling, swarming through the air. Looking up at the vortex of butterflies resembling a brewing tornado, Perihan felt a wave of dizziness. Her bony hand reached for the intricately detailed metal handle of the greenhouse door, but fear gripped her body. She hesitated, afraid to enter, yet knowing she had no other choice. Slowly, she pushed the door open, entered, and closed it behind her.
Licia tried to conceal her sobbing behind her hands. Should she follow Perihan into the greenhouse or return to the house? The rain cascaded like a waterfall, obstructing not only her movements but her thoughts as well. She compelled herself to decide, but the sudden outburst from within the greenhouse froze her in place.
“No… No… No!” Perihan’s voice echoed, growing louder with each repetition—until the world fell silent, save for the raindrops tapping against any surface they encountered. The darkness beneath the swarm of butterflies gradually gave way to a dull light as they departed from the house. Licia collapsed onto her knees and allowed herself to sink into the saturated garden soil, her tears mingling with the raindrops. Once the first monarch butterfly Perihan had witnessed a few moments earlier found its way to her villa, it hovered briefly over the garden before heading in the same direction as the others. When the last of the butterflies vanished, no trace of the miraculous event remained.
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Haunted by the past . . . terrified of the present.
PLOT SUMMARY:
Penny knows she must forget about her ex, Nash. Ever since his father was revealed as the brutal serial killer who traumatized their small town last Halloween, Penny’s parents have forbidden her to have anything to do with Nash or his family. It’s hard not to think of him—but she’s trying.
That stops when she goes shopping with friends for a costume. What she finds instead is ripped from a horror movie: someone from school bleeding out on the floor of a dressing room. Stabbed.
People are quick to blame Nash and his sister, Grace, but as Halloween nears and the body count rises, Penny can’t help thinking this copycat killer is someone no one else suspects. . . .
GRADE: C
REVIEW:
Natasha Preston’s The Haunting is one of those books that offers an enjoyable escape, perfect for readers looking for something light and fun. With its chilling premise and short chapters, the novel presents a classic whodunit murder mystery, which immediately grabs attention. However, while it’s an easy read, it lacks the depth and engagement that some readers might crave.
One of the most appealing aspects of The Haunting is how quickly it can be devoured. The chapters are short, and the writing is straightforward, making it perfect for readers looking for a fast-paced, no-frills story. It doesn’t demand much of the reader’s attention or deep thinking. You can easily pick it up and read it in short bursts without losing track of the plot. For those who just want to unwind with a book without much complexity, it definitely serves its purpose.
However, while The Haunting is fun, it doesn’t quite offer the level of engagement that would make it a truly memorable read. The characters, for instance, are rather one-dimensional. Their development is minimal, and their personalities can feel somewhat stereotypical. The relationships between the characters don’t feel very authentic, and as a result, it’s difficult to form a real emotional connection with them. The plot, too, can feel predictable at times, with a few obvious twists that don’t pack the punch they could have. For readers looking for something with a bit more substance, The Haunting may leave them wanting more.
The Haunting by Natasha Preston is an easy, enjoyable read that offers just enough suspense to keep you turning the pages. It’s perfect for a quick read when you’re in the mood for something light, but it may not be the most engaging or thought-provoking book out there. It’s fun while it lasts but won’t necessarily leave a lasting impression.
*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Delacorte Press for the digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
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I am the Indian who can’t die. I’m the worst dream America ever had.
PLOT SUMMARY:
A diary, written in 1912 by a Lutheran pastor is discovered within a wall. What it unveils is a slow massacre, a chain of events that go back to 217 Blackfeet dead in the snow. Told in transcribed interviews by a Blackfeet named Good Stab, who shares the narrative of his peculiar life over a series of confessional visits. This is an American Indian revenge story written by one of the new masters of horror, Stephen Graham Jones.
GRADE: A
REVIEW:
Stephen Graham Jones is known for his sharp storytelling and his ability to blend horror with cultural commentary, and Buffalo Hunter Hunter is no exception. In this novel, Jones introduces a fresh, new take on vampires, turning the genre on its head with a unique narrative structure and an exploration of identity, family, and survival. Written in an epistolary format—through the use of diary entries—the book offers an intimate, and at times unsettling, journey into the world of vampirism that’s anything but ordinary. This novel is a slow burn compared to Jones’ previous novels, but once we’re introduced to Good Stab, the story flows in a way that we can’t help but wish to know more of.
The epistolary format is one of the book’s most engaging features. Jones uses this structure to create a sense of immediacy and emotional depth, drawing readers into the protagonist’s thoughts and feelings. The story is told through the journal entries of the main character, whose struggle with their own identity and their relationship with the world around them unfolds gradually, revealing layers of complexity with every new entry. It’s a brilliant technique that allows the reader to feel as if they’re uncovering secrets alongside the protagonist, rather than being told a story from a distance.
But what truly sets Buffalo Hunter Hunter apart is its fresh take on vampires. Gone are the brooding, glamorous immortals we’re used to in modern vampire tales. Instead, Jones introduces vampires who are connected to a larger cultural narrative, one that’s rooted in historical trauma, displacement, and the resilience of indigenous communities. The vampires in this novel aren’t just bloodsuckers; they’re symbolic of the larger struggles that people face, and Jones deftly uses the supernatural to explore themes of survival and transformation.
At the heart of the novel is the tension between the Lutheran priest’s curiousity and the vampire Good Stab. Good Stab’s inner conflict is explored with great sensitivity, allowing the reader to feel the weight of their transformation not just physically, but emotionally. It’s a story about grappling with identity and legacy, and the challenges of reconciling personal history with the person you’re becoming.
Jones also delivers plenty of action, suspense, and moments of dark humor throughout the novel, ensuring that it’s not just a thought-provoking piece, but an entertaining one as well. The narrative, while contemplative, doesn’t shy away from the sharp edges of horror, offering thrills alongside its deep philosophical questions.
In conclusion, Buffalo Hunter Hunter is a compelling, innovative take on the vampire genre, presented in a format that’s both engaging and thought-provoking. Stephen Graham Jones masterfully blends supernatural horror with cultural commentary, and the epistolary format adds an extra layer of intimacy to this unique, thrilling story. If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on vampires with a deep, emotional core, this novel is a must-read.
*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Saga Press for the digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
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When you think of horror authors, a lot of names that probably come to mind are men—Stephen King, H.P. Lovecraft, and Edgar Allan Poe, for example. But did you know that women have been just as integral to the horror genre, crafting some of the most influential and spine-chilling stories? While their contributions were often overlooked, women in horror have not only shaped the genre but have also used it as a platform to explore deep, complex themes that resonate with us on a deeply personal level. And that’s something we shouldn’t overlook.
Breaking the Mold
For a long time, horror fiction was predominantly written by men, which, let’s be honest, often led to stories that focused on the same types of characters, plots, and themes. But then came women writers who weren’t afraid to push boundaries and challenge what horror could be. From Shirley Jackson’s unsettling psychological horror to Mary Shelley’s groundbreaking Frankenstein, women have always had a hand in redefining the genre. They brought something fresh, something that explored not only monsters and the supernatural, but also the very real monsters inside our heads, the complexities of human emotions, and societal fears.
Take The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson. It’s not just a ghost story; it’s a tale about loneliness, mental illness, and how isolation can destroy a person. It taps into very real human fears and makes us question what’s real and what isn’t. It’s this depth of emotion and the ability to blend the supernatural with personal struggles that women have brought to the genre. And that’s one reason why their contributions are so significant—they make horror more relatable, more reflective of the human condition.
Women Exploring Real Fears
One thing women authors in horror often excel at is turning the genre inward. While many male horror writers focused on external threats like monsters, women writers have frequently explored more internal, personal fears. Think of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale or Helen Oyeyemi’s White Is for Witching. These authors weave horror into narratives that reflect on real-world issues like power, control, identity, and societal structures. And that’s part of what makes women’s voices so important in horror—there’s an element of horror in everyday life that women, especially, are acutely attuned to.
In The Bloody Chamber, Angela Carter reimagines classic fairy tales, adding layers of feminist critique and sexual politics. Her retellings are dark, unsettling, and frequently tackle themes like power dynamics, gender, and the violence women endure, themes that often go unexplored in traditional horror. In this way, women in horror help broaden the conversation, allowing the genre to evolve into something that can address issues of inequality, fear, and vulnerability that are unique to women.
The Future of Women in Horror
The future of horror is bright, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that women will be driving the genre forward. More and more women authors are taking center stage, and the stories they are telling are diverse, powerful, and innovative. From psychological thrillers to body horror and speculative fiction, women are continuously expanding what horror can be. Authors like Tananarive Due, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and Carmen Maria Machado are blending horror with elements of cultural identity, race, and trauma, creating stories that are both terrifying and thought-provoking.
Horror isn’t just about scaring people—it’s about reflection, confrontation, and exploring the unknown. Women in horror give us a unique lens through which we can experience these emotions. They’re breaking down walls, amplifying marginalized voices, and creating more inclusive, diverse narratives. And that’s something the genre desperately needs.
Final Thoughts
So, why are women in horror so important? Because they bring new perspectives, new themes, and new layers of meaning to a genre that has the power to examine our deepest fears. They challenge us to look at the world through a different lens, to confront uncomfortable truths, and to question what really scares us. As the genre continues to grow and evolve, one thing’s for sure—women will continue to be at the heart of it, making horror richer, deeper, and far more compelling.
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“Sometimes, justice isn’t quiet or clean; it’s feral and bloody and unapologetic.”
PLOT SUMMARY:
Lonely, broke and depressed with a serious case of OCD, Gia finds herself at a crossroads when financial troubles lead her to Nathan, a mysterious and affluent man she encounters on a sugar dating website. Desperate for a solution, Gia is intrigued by Nathan’s unconventional offer: in exchange for living as his devoted pet, all of her debts will be erased. But the longer Gia is in captivity, the more animalistic she becomes.
For fans of Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder and Lisa Taddeo’s Animal, Shy Girl is a harrowing tale of girlhood, survival, autonomy, and revenge.
Grade: A+
REVIEW:
I read this book in two days, it was so compelling and also very unhinged and disturbing that it was like assisting a car crash you couldn’t look away from. Gia is laid off from her job and is increasingly becoming more and more worried about how she’s going to keep her apartment with her dwindling savings and no work prospects in site. This leads her to take a more unconventional approach and downloads a dating app that is specifically designed for those men who are seeking to be a sugar daddy to a young woman, and Gia feels like this may solve all of her economic hardships.
But when she meets Nathan, she feels like everything will change for her, bringing her a life of economic freedom. But there’s only one caveat, Nathan has a kink that’s not typical, he wishes Gia to portray his pet dog for several hours a day. Gia thinks that she can manage this, but she will soon find out that being Nathan’s pet is far more difficult than she had anticipated.
Ballard’s writing is sharp and insightful, creating a nuanced narrative that is both relatable and inspiring. The protagonist’s internal struggles feel genuine and familiar, and her journey toward finding her voice is empowering. If you loved Nightbitch but felt like it didn’t quite go there, then let me tell you, Ballard goes there and beyond in this twisted tale of self-discovery and empowerment.
I recommend this book if you love unhinged plots with a dose of female rage.
*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Galaxy Press for the digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
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“That’s a thing people don’t talk about enough – that there are people who will judge even the way you mourn your loved ones.”
PLOT SUMMARY:
“If you’re reading this, you’ve likely thought that the world would be a better place without you.”
A single line of text, glowing in the darkness of the internet. Written by Ashley Lutin, who has often thought the same—and worse—in the years since his wife died and his young son disappeared. But the peace of the grave is not for him—it’s for those he can help. Ashley has constructed a peculiar ritual for those whose desire to die is at war with their yearning to live a better life.
Struggling to overcome his own endless grief, one night Ashley finds connection with Jinx—a potential candidate for Ashley’s next ritual—who spins a tale both revolting and fascinating. Thus begins a relationship that traps the two men in an ever-tightening spiral of painful revelations, where long-hidden secrets are dragged, kicking and screaming, into the light.
Only through pain can we find healing. Only through death can we find new life.
GRADE: A
REVIEW:
This book is a haunting exploration of the grotesque wrapped in lush, almost lyrical prose. LaRocca’s writing is elegant and poetic, with a grace that contrasts sharply against the dark and often disturbing imagery that unfolds throughout the story. The beauty of his language, full of intricate descriptions and poignant reflections, creates a stark juxtaposition to the horrors the characters experience. The audiobook’s narrator, Andrew Eiden does an excellent job at emoting Ashley Lutin’s turmoil throughout the book. I don’t usually like audiobooks but he truly made LaRocca’s twisted world come alive.
The novel’s chilling events—ranging from psychological torment to physical grotesqueries—are presented with a sense of eerie calmness, making the brutality all the more unsettling. LaRocca’s careful attention to detail in crafting these disturbing scenes only enhances their impact, as the reader is drawn into a world where beauty and terror coexist in an almost surreal harmony. The seamless blending of the poetic with the horrific turns each disturbing moment into something both grotesque and mesmerizing.
This juxtaposition is not just a stylistic choice but also deepens the emotional weight of the narrative. As Ashley grapples with his own loathing and despair, the elegance of the prose makes his suffering even more tragic. At Night, I Become Loathsome is a masterclass in how beauty can amplify horror, creating a truly unsettling and unforgettable reading experience. I highly recommend purchasing this as an audiobook for the ultimate reading experience.
*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Blackstone Publishing for the audiobook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
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“One of the biggest mistakes stable people make is believing they can predict and account for the thought patterns of narcissists.”
PLOT SUMMARY:
Once there were four Lasco siblings banded together against a world that failed to protect them. But on a hellish night that marked the end of their childhood, eldest brother Shawn died violently after being dragged behind closed doors. Though the official finding was accidental death, Nathan Lasco knows better, and has never forgiven their mother, Stella.
Now two decades later, Stella promises to finally reveal the truth of what happened on The Day of the Door. Accompanied by a paranormal investigative team, the Lasco family comes together one final time, but no one is prepared for the revelations waiting for them on the third floor.
GRADE: A-
REVIEW:
The Day of the Door by Laurel Hightower delivers a chilling and atmospheric ride, blending psychological terror with a fresh twist on the haunted house genre. Set in a seemingly ordinary home, the novel slowly unravels a deeply unsettling presence that blurs the line between reality and nightmare. Hightower excels in crafting a sense of unease from the very first page, with a building tension that grows into an almost palpable dread. The Lasco siblings want to find out exactly what happened the day Sean died, and Stella promises to give answers, only that as the book progresses, the siblings end up having more questions than before.
What sets this book apart from traditional haunted house stories is its exploration of personal trauma and grief, which heightens the supernatural horror. The house itself becomes a mirror to the protagonist’s inner turmoil, amplifying the horror he faces. The eerie presence in the house isn’t just a force from beyond but an intricate part of the protagonist’s emotional landscape, making the haunting feel personal and psychologically layered.
The writing is tight, with Hightower’s pacing carefully controlled to keep the reader on edge. The creeping horror never feels forced, instead, it’s a slow burn that builds to a climax of truly unsettling revelations. Hightower’s novel offers a unique perspective on the haunted house trope, showcasing not just a place of terror but a reflection of the deepest, darkest fears within the characters. Highly recommended for fans of atmospheric horror with emotional depth.
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I fail to understand why men think violence will intimidate women.
PLOT SUMMARY:
Grim Wolds, England: Winifred Notty arrives at Ensor House prepared to play the perfect governess—she’ll dutifully tutor her charges, Drusilla and Andrew, tell them bedtime stories, and only joke about eating children. But long, listless days spent within the estate’s dreary confines come with an intimate knowledge of the perversions and pathetic preoccupations of the Pounds family—Mr. Pounds can’t keep his eyes off Winifred’s chest, and Mrs. Pounds takes a sickly pleasure in punishing Winifred for her husband’s wandering gaze. Compounded with her disdain for the entitled Pounds children, Winifred finds herself struggling at every turn to stifle the violent compulsions of her past. French tutoring and needlework are one way to pass the time, as is admiring the ugly portraits in the gallery . . . and creeping across the moonlit lawns. . . .
Patience. Winifred must have patience, for Christmas is coming, and she has very special gifts planned for the dear souls of Ensor House. Brimming with sardonic wit and culminating in a shocking conclusion, Victorian Psychoplunges readers into the chilling mind of an iconic new literary psychopath.
GRADE: A
REVIEW:
Victorian Psycho is exactly what it sounds like: a twisted carnival of blood, mayhem, and delightful madness that somehow manages to have a voice so captivating, you’ll feel like you’re sipping tea with a homicidal maniac in a top hat. And let’s be clear—this book is fun. Not just fun in the “let’s play a nice board game” way, but the kind of fun where you’re throwing dice and hoping they don’t land in a pool of blood. The plot is ridiculously thrilling, with a twisted blend of Victorian manners and shocking, gory violence. The characters? They’re more memorable than a morning in a butcher shop, and every chapter feels like you’re being whirled through a carnival of chaos. Blood splatters on the page with the same frequency as witty one-liners—both equally delicious.
But here’s where the book really shines: the voice. The writing is pure, unadulterated joy. Imagine an author who’s had too much tea laced with a dash of dark humor and a pinch of madness. That’s the voice. It’s snarky, witty, and always one step away from tipping over into total insanity. You’ll be chuckling at the absurdity of it all, even as you wipe the bloodstains off your clothes.
The narrative isn’t just a story—it’s like you’re chatting with a delightful, if slightly unhinged, guide through a maze of murder and mayhem. And the blood—did I mention the blood? It’s there in all its crimson glory, a reminder that this isn’t a cozy Victorian novel where characters sip brandy and read poetry. It’s a bloody, thrilling roller coaster, and you won’t be able to put it down. In conclusion, Victorian Psycho is a masterclass in balancing dark humor with chaos and gore. It’s a wild ride you won’t forget—entertaining, bloody, and a perfect escape if you enjoy your stories with a touch of the macabre and a whole lot of wit.
*Thank you so much to NetGalley & Liveright for the audio copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
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The Inkblotters 