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If you’ve ever heard something in the woods go bump (or howl) in the night, and it sent shivers up your spine, 𝙎𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙡 is sure to add to those shivers. ��
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The Dryer family has moved to Bensalem for a fresh start, for a slower more enjoyable life. What awaits them is something far more creepy and sinister than they had bargained for. Then, Caleb, their 4-year-old son goes missing, and the creep level is stepped up a few notches as the search for the missing boy ensues, and something nonhuman is definitely lurking, stalking in the forest. And by nonhuman, I specificially mean a huge lumbering beast that’s at least 20 feet tall with three yellow eyes and limbs that are straight out of nightmares. Is this what eviscirated the Dryer’s neighbor and kidnapped their son? ��
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The story itself doesn’t start off particularly scary as we settle into the town of Bensalem and get to know its residents. Starling’s writing draws you in and makes you feel right at home in this quaint town. There is this sense of anticipation, creeping dread, and general anxiety while waiting to see what is lurking within the pages (and the woods surrounding the town). The character development is done in such a way that you feel like you know the characters, and therefore you are rooting for them throughout their journey to find their disappeared son. The descriptions of gore, the natural enviornment, and the parent/child relationship dynamics are beautifully done. I felt the story was a medium-paced chilling read, and it definitely keeps your hungering for more. I want Caleb to be saved at all costs, and I want to know more about the mysterious society, “The Order of the Old Roses.�� There is certainly something sus going on here. ��
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🖤🖤🖤🖤💕/5- Literally the only complaint I can think of is that I have to wait to see how all of this turns out��.luckily, the next installment, NOTHUS, is set to be released in 2022 (and the cover of that one is GORGEOUSLY CREEPY!) I already need it in my library!