Nat Cassidy is a master of tone and setting. I loved the majority of this book, but the narrative was frustrating at times.

ALC REVIEW: NESTLINGS

Pub date: October 31, 2023

“Ana and Reid needed a lucky break.

The horrifically complicated birth of their first child has left Ana paralyzed, bitter, and struggling: with mobility, with her relationship with Reid, with resentment for her baby. That's about to change with the words any New Yorker would love to hear―affordable housing lottery.

They've won an apartment in the Deptford, one of Manhattan's most revered buildings with beautiful vistas of Central Park and stunning architecture.

Reid dismisses disturbing events and Ana’s deep unease and paranoia as the price of living in New York―people are odd―but he can't explain the needle-like bite marks on the baby.”

You ever get really scared to read an author’s second book because you are so obsessed with their debut?! That it’s not gonna live up to the first?! Well I am ecstatic to report that is not the case with @catnassidy second book Nestlings!The characters in this book are top notch. You feel for Ana and Reid and are so happy that they are moving into a new place. The neighbors are “quirky” to say the least, but you can’t help but kinda fall in love with their oddities. You know the creepiness is gonna get ramped up when nobody wants to come in the building unless they live there 👀 And you know that whatever is going on with the baby has something to do with their new digs. The atmosphere in this book is just ✨chefs kiss✨ I loved that it was set in New York and was the perfect backdrop for this story. I seriously could NOT stop listening to this one because I NEEDED to know what happened next. This book will definitely be in my top reads of the year right next to Mary

Thank you to @netgalley @tornightfire and @macmillan.audio for this perfect, spooky audiobook

Nestlings was the perfect creepy horror pick for the fall. I loved the setting of a desirable apartment building with secrets set in NYC. Will be recommending this!

Firstly, I would like to extend my gratitude to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this work as an e-ARC. Having read the masterpiece that is Cassidy's Mary, I went into Nestlings with high expectations. The author delivered via tonality and ambiance. However, I felt the story fell flat in some aspects. I particularly didn't like how our main character Ana didn't have agency over her story, her decisions, until her world literally crumbled before her. I think it was all very convenient how she was able to get out of being a wife and a mother in one full swoop, and she was able to live her life how she wanted. Also, Georgia deserved better than what little acknowledgement she received after her "disappearance."
I will most likely read more of Cassidy's works in the future. However, this work wasn't for me. Thank you, again, for the opportunity to read this work in advance! 2.5/5 rounded up to 3.

DNF after the 'Neighbor' chapter. A woman clearly having a mental health crisis and nothing is done. A "detective" brushes the whole thing aside? Not realistic, too frustrating to continue.

I did not enjoy this book nearly as much as Mary. I think I went in with my expectations too high. The scary scenes in this book are well written and definitely lived up to the Rosemarys Baby and Salems lot comparison's. I’ve found myself quite bored with all of the in between, non-scary parts. I loved the Jewish and disability representation in this book and I am still a huge fan of Nick Cassidy’ writing, just bummed I didn’t love this book as much as I’d hoped.

Thanks to netgalley for a free copy of this ebook in exchange for a review.
The afterword definitely changed my perspective on this read. It was a very simple read with themes of postpartum, mental health, and a bit of religion. I enjoyed the alternating chapter perspectives, I think this really added much more suspense to the read.
The only thing for me is that I suspected more horror. The horror DID come in but only about 80% through the book. There were teasers here and there from the beginning, which were terrifying, and I really wanted more.
I will say, about 80% through, the horror really amped up and I was loving it!
Very enticing premise overall and I'd recommend to anyone looking for a simple horror story.
#netgalley #nestlings #natcassidy

I was very excited to get to read this book before it's release because it sounded perfect for my taste. It was pitched as Salem's Lot meets Rosemary's Baby, which sounded incredible. Thankfully, it lived up to all of my expectations and then some. I've never read Nat Cassidy before so the most surprising thing for me was how much I loved the writing, it was so easy and fun to read, I enjoyed the reading experience a lot. The story itself was also amazing, I loved the New York vibes, especially because I was actually there while reading some parts of the book. It did remind me of Salem's Lot and Rosemary's Baby in the best way possible. The horror elements were also great, it was actually really creepy at times. I can highly recommend this book to any horror fan!

I loved this one! At first I thought it was just a typical haunted house story but it’s not at all. It’s especially not typical. I can definitely say I haven’t read another book like it. It was a bit slow to start but once it picked up, it got crazy. Will be reading more by this author for sure!

I was disgusted yet intrigued from the very start. I loved this book. Do check trigger warnings.

Post partum is not often talked about it books and I love that it is in this one. I felt every bit of it. I also love the spooky vibes.

This was my first read by Nat and I cannot wait to read more!

Nat Cassidy, you’ve done it again. After reading his debut horror novel, Mary: An Awakening of Terror, I felt as though Cassidy gave us a piece of his soul. That particular novel included a very personal foreword and afterword in which he details the specifics of his inspiration for the story and how it is dedicated to his late mother who suffered from multiple sclerosis. I felt like I had been hit by a lightning bolt; not only was Mary a completely enthralling, haunting good time with a well-written female main character, but I too could relate with having a parent with MS. Enter the announcement of Nestlings, and I knew I had to see if lightning would strike twice. It certainly did.

Nestlings is a creature that buries deep beneath your skin only to sink its bloody fangs deep in your system around the last third or so of the novel. Things start out with an already rocky outlook; Reid and Ana have had a remarkable string of misfortune with the struggle to conceive, the loss of Reid’s mother, and the eventual birth of their daughter Charlie which left Ana paralyzed. On top of this, they live in an apartment with an abhorrent landlord only until they learn they have won an affordable housing lottery that grants them the chance to live in the luxurious, historic apartment building, the Deptford. This would seem to be a lucky break until you factor in the apartment’s location on one of the top floors while Ana utilizes a wheelchair. In an effort to turn their luck around themselves, Reid and Ana decide to move anyway, a choice that will irrevocably change the trajectory of not only their lives but their daughter Charlie’s as well.

On the surface, it’s very clear to see the numerous levels of trauma Reid and Ana are dealing with prior to their move to the Deptford. However, the gnarliest of traumas stem from what is unspoken: the city of New York is still reeling from the COVID pandemic, Ana is working through her own postpartum feelings which are compounded by her loss of mobility, Reid is attempting to be the main caretaker of both Ana and Charlie, and Reid and Ana continue to strive to create a better life for themselves amid so much loss. Above all else, Ana and Reid just want to establish some sense of normalcy, some sense of home. Cassidy toys with the saying “know your home” versus “know you’re home,” an idea which still haunts me in the days after reading this story. This most fundamental desire for a place to reside comfortably is the great equalizer in Nestlings, the aspect that every single person can relate to. In relation to this universal yearning, Cassidy’s writing shines as he creates characters who are undeniably authentic. While reading this book, the only word that would continually come to mind was dread. This is simply because I was placed so squarely in Reid and Ana’s (mostly Ana’s) shoes that I couldn’t help but take on the feelings and struggles they faced. Let me just say, I have never in my entire life been more upset about a Home Depot errand (if you read the book, you know).

The struggles that arise once Ana and Reid realize something is terribly wrong in their new abode are the most horrifying strain of terror. This all plays into the “be careful what you wish for” trope that is partially at play in Nestlings, but even more distressing are the conflicts arising between Ana and Reid. Since they are both so solidly written, I felt as though I was holding a front-row seat to watch Mom and Dad fight. This tension and unease that unfurls between the two becomes a monster of its own, an entity separate from the perceived evils that lurk in the halls of the Deptford.

Speaking of the entities that call the Deptford home, Cassidy’s take on “vampires” was so emphatically refreshing. No spoilers to be told here, but I absolutely loved the manner in which the residents of the Deptford were unveiled. The mystery behind their origins and what new fresh hell is plaguing Ana and Reid’s small family really propelled the plot forward at an accelerated pace. Here again, Cassidy injects more of himself by centering these revelations on Jewish roots. Around the last third of the book, a certain chain of events really allows the story to take flight (please pardon the bird pun). The construction of this narrative generates little to no room for the possibility of any semblance of a peaceful conclusion. Worry not, the ending of this story is everything.

Beyond plot devices and literary techniques used, Nestlings is another piece of personal horror fiction from Cassidy. In the afterword, he outlines the personal tragedies he’s endured in the last few years which have made their way into his novel. In my eyes, there’s something tremendous to be said for turning so much pain and suffering into some form of art and then making the conscious choice to share that art with others. The authenticity of Cassidy’s works is more than apparent because of this. It is the reason Ana and Reid feel so real; their problems are our own. If I’m being candid, it is why I love reading horror. Another human being sharing their fears, their vulnerabilities, with the world is in and of itself inherently frightening. But when the result is books like Mary and Nestlings, you can’t lose.

4.75/5

I was actually able to get a physical copy early of this one. The setting was unique for this type of horror story and the focus on real human psychology and real problems that couples face after the birth of a child were superb. Don't miss this one if you like horror thats spooky but also makes you think.

This was an interesting take on vampires! I definitely enjoyed it not being a typical vampire novel and was pleasantly surprised at being creeped out throughout the book!

This was a great blend of 'Rosemary's Baby' and 'Salem's Lot' with a touch of The Shining thrown in and I really enjoyed it. The setting of a high end Manhattan apartment building with a secretive past was very fun and definitely ominous in places, with a great sense of claustrophobia and being trapped. The creepiness builds slowly and the disintegration of the Greene couple is really well done, as is the fear Ana has that something is wrong with her baby. I thought the direction of the plot was interesting and the narrative was paced well throughout, although the ending did feel a little bit rushed. Overall, I thought this was a great second offering from Nat Cassidy and I will continue to pick up his books.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.

You know when you first move into a new place and every creak and groan of the house "settling" makes your nerves rattle? How everything is unfamiliar despite being your home? When all the shadows and light don't feel right? This novel encapsulates that unease from page one. Nat Cassidy has captured such horror realism in Ana and I will need to see a chiropractor for all the tension that built while reading this!

I can see where others might think the pacing is slow, but with a story as delicate as this, I think it is necessary and expected. Ana's voice is so strong and I really loved getting to know her - faults and all. In a genre where fully fleshed-out characters usually don't get the time of day, I was happy to settle into Ana's life and watch the story play out through her eyes (but as a big fan of Mary - Nat's first novel, I'm biased.)

So structurally sound and eloquently written, Nestlings is a true horror novel and one of the best I've read this year.

Any fan of Stephen King or slow-burn horror will enjoy this spectacular, perfectly spooky read!

P.S. Don't skip the afterword from Cassidy! It is worth it!

Lastly, Reid can choke. :)

A simple story that gets more complicated after every chapter read. I kept reading past my bedtime to find out how the story ends. It’s a funny, scary, well written and action packed story. The last few chapters are mind blowing. I loved the author’s note/acknowledgements/afterword. “Grief is the space between two states of being: who you were and who you are.” Thanks to Tor Nightfire and NetGalley for the ARC. Thanks Nat Cassidy for another great book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. #NetGalley #tornightfire #nestlings #natcassidy #horror

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 another win for me by Nat Cassidy. This book was all things spooky while hitting home and making me think about life. Highly recommend and love the authors note. Such a special touch.

First let me preface by saying I loved that there’s content warnings at the beginning of the book, I think it’s something all authors should do! Now onto the review.

The book is told through switching POVs between Ana and Reid mostly, but occasionally we get POVs from some minor characters. I was immediately pulled in and didn’t want to put this one down! The writing is atmospheric with Very tense, eerie vibes. I had goosebumps, felt like I was being watched and general creepy crawlies while reading (do not recommend reading at night right before bed)

It slowed a bit in the middle but overall the pacing was well done! The character development was also fantastic, I really liked Ana and watching her grow throughout the novel. Although both MCs were well written, Ana was so complex and had great depth to her!

This novel is incredibly written in its exploration of grief and motherhood. The topics of postpartum, disability, and infertility were well written/handled with care! I loved the acknowledgements as well! I’ve never been so moved by an authors note!

Nestlings is a unique horror novel in terms of the plot and adding to some horror lore with a new twist. If you like horror novels or movies/shows, I’d highly recommend! Nestlings is marketed as Salem’s Lot meets Rosemary’s Baby, but it also gave me Midnight Mass vibes. I’ll definitely be checking out more of Cassidy’s horror novels!

Rating: 4.5 rounded to 4

I will also say that if you read this PLEASE read and/or listen to the notes and acknowledgements at the end from the author. While the book scared me, the additional notes made me cry and got me in my feels. So I highly recommend it.

NESTLINGS follows new-ish parents, Ana and Reid, when their names are pulled in the residence lottery and they’re moving into their new, better apartment in the renown Deptford building in New York. Ana suffered a traumatic injury during childbirth that left her paralyzed and in a wheelchair. After an extremely tough postpartum period, during which time Ana and Reid had to deal with their anti-semetic and overall problematic landlord hounding them constantly.

Getting this new apartment was supposed to be a relief, but quickly Ana starts to notice some strange behavior with their daughter, Charlie, and otherwise odd happenings around the building. All the while, Reid is becoming more and more obsessed with the Deptford building and its history.

The plot is unique, surprising, and definitely scary. It’s really interesting how Cassidy weaved this story together and I thoroughly enjoyed the whole ride. There were a couple times toward the end where I thought I knew how it would end but was continually surprised and intrigued by the character’s choices. Without giving anything away, the ending is unexpected and will leave you wanting but in a good way, I promise. It ends exactly how it should even though it’s not what I would call a happy ending. But when is it ever in a horror novel?

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced audio copy in exchange for an honest review!

I'm fascinated with concepts of home, so this one hit me hard in the best way. As a mother who went through postpartum depression, this was a double-whammy.

Cassidy really nails home how grief feels. The entire book is drenched in it, positively dripping with grief. The suspense and eeriness in the beginning is built perfectly. There was so much tension at the end of some chapters that I just had to keep going, I couldn't put it down. I was disgustingly enthralled with all the monsters, and especially how monstrous the actual human characters in this book could be. A fantastic addition to any horror bookshelf.