Would it be too on the nurse to call this a “mother“ of a book?

Probably more frightening if you’ve been through it, brings a fresh take to the mother/monster trope, and what truly does ours us women from within.

Heavier than expected, but I enjoyed it quite a bit

3.5⭐️ rounded up.

I’m still trying to figure out what to make of Delicate Condition. The author seemed to take an everything-but-the-kitchen-sink approach with this story. Stalkers, cheaters, suspicious healthcare workers and even imposters, gaslighting, every man treating all of a woman’s worries and concerns as “hysteria,” fertility witches, Satanic cults and ritual baby stuff- that last of which seemed almost like Qanon nonsense. Plus some grotesque animal related scenes. There was a lot going on. Too much, really- so many threads and issues mixed together reduced the potency and effect of each individual strand. The underlying commentary on how women aren’t taken seriously by men/ by our healthcare system would have been far more potent if some of the other bat**it crazy stuff had been left out or streamlined somehow.

All that said, I was definitely never bored listening to this story.

Hillary Huber did a fantastic job narrating the audiobook as well.

Thank you Danielle Valentine, Dreamscape Media, and NetGalley for providing this ALC for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.

I thoroughly enjoyed the audiobook version of "Delicate Condition," narrated brilliantly by Hilary Huber.

The story revolves around Anna Alcott, an actress in the public eye, as she embarks on a journey through IVF. Her desperate desire to become pregnant is overshadowed by an increasing sense of suspicion that someone is actively working against her.

Here are some key highlights of "Delicate Condition":

The book stands out with its unique storyline, venturing away from the usual tropes. Readers should be open to exploring something refreshingly different.

"Delicate Condition" delves into the sensitive topic of IVF, which may serve as a trigger for some readers. It handles the subject with depth and care.

The pacing of the story is deliberately slower, making the audiobook format a perfect match for those who prefer a more immersive and thoughtful experience.

The plot is innovative and keeps you engaged, delivering surprises and twists that add to the overall allure of the book.

In conclusion, "Delicate Condition" is an enthralling and distinctive read that embraces unconventional themes while delving into the complexities of IVF. Hilary Huber's excellent narration enhances the experience, making it a memorable audiobook choice. #DelicateCondition #NetGalley

🎧4-4.25⭐️

I’ve been picking up some great vibes on social media for this book, so was excited to check it out for myself. It’s listed as women’s fiction / mystery thriller.

I had the audiobook read by Hilary Huber who does a great job.

Anna Alcott is in the public eye as an actress, the story follows her journey through IVF. Anna is desperate to become pregnant but increasingly suspicious that someone is trying to ensure that never happens.

Bullet points for Delicate Condition
📕unique storyline that ventures away from the ‘norm’ so you need to be open for something a bit different.
📕features IVF and may contain triggers for some
📕slower paced so the audiobook particularly worked well for me.
📕innovative plot

The storyline is innovative. It has 2 time lines, one historical which provides context, and is minimal. It’s very difficult to talk about this book without spoilers. It has so many unexpected twists and turns that kept me engrossed, it took a direction I wasn’t expecting, but I didn’t find it went overboard with it.

Anna’s character has so many layers, throughout you’re left wondering if she’s very switched on with her paranoia, or mentally ill.

I don’t think this book is one for women undergoing IVF, your hormones will be giving you a hard enough time already.

It gets full marks for being innovative, and for the execution of the storyline which sounds totally positive, so I’m not sure why this one didn’t resonate with me more. I enjoyed it, and would recommend it especially if you enjoy something a bit different.

The story is complete Five star read for sure. Ryan Murphy's AHS vibe is all over the book and I can't stop raving about this book being made into AHS 12 season. I would say strap in for a ride because even if AHS gives up this book would not let you down.

When Anna Alcott becomes pregnant after an exhausting IVF journey she becomes increasingly concerned that her career as an actress is putting herself and her unborn child at risk. She and her husband take refuge at a friends house in the Hampton’s, a ghost town in the off season. Then the worst thing imaginable happens and Anna is told she lost her baby by miscarriage, but why can she still feel her baby moving inside of her, why is she losing her hair and having unnatural cravings? And won’t won’t anybody believe her when she tries to tell explain what’s going on. Anna starts to become frightened. Is she still pregnant? Is it just her mind playing tricks on her? Or is there something even more ominous going on?

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Wow! I have to say I went into this book blind and it was a pretty wild ride! It was fast paced, never a dull moment. It kept me on the edge of my seat. It was definitely unsettling at times, but I could not stop listening! I also enjoyed the narrator very much!

Thank you to @netgalley, @daniellevalentinebooks and @dreamscape_media for allowing me to listen to this creepy thriller!

Read if you like:
😨Unsettling
💨Fast paced
📖Binge reading
🔎Mystery
🧠Psychological thriller

Thanks to Dreamscape for the ALC.
Pregnancy horror - want to start with that because you’ll know right away if it’s for you or not. I found this book to have the perfect amount of pacing and creepiness to keep me wondering what exactly was going on with Anna’s pregnancy. On top of this, there’s a solid mystery aspect of a potential stalker that keeps all the characters on edge. The writing kept me engaged and dying to know what came next. I really liked the ending and conclusion.
Hillary Huber is the best narrator for any books with darker themes. I knew as soon as I saw she was narrating, I had to listen to this book. Her performance, as always, was perfection!

4 stars

Paging Dr. Saperstein...

CW: Readers who are sensitive to works about infertility, lost pregnancies, and any related struggles should stay away from this one. As a person who has not had these experiences but is surrounded by people who have (and are), I kept thinking about how this one might reach particular folks in a different way.

Now, if you can manage this content, you'll find this to be one creepy ride!

Anna's a rising star who is also going through IVF with a partner who seems totally sus from the jump. While Anna is aware that strange things are happening in reference to her pregnancy and attempts to get there, she is also surrounded by hardcore gas lighters and especially general misogynists who are quick to say that women never really understand what's happening with their bodies because, you know, hysteria. They word this a little differently, but the messaging is still there.

At one point, Anna is told she has a miscarriage, but she is certain that this isn't true and that something super creepy IS. Readers get to join Anna as she has all kinds of experiences (or hallucinations?) and begins to wonder what is really going on in her body. None of the possibilities are good, so this makes for a pretty compelling/horrifying read.

I'm the kind of person who views pregnancy as terrifying under the best of circumstances, and if you share this and _Rosemary's Baby_ scared the heck out of you, too, you may also really enjoy this one. This takes a turn near the end that I particularly liked and feel makes this book distinct - in plot and theme - from many of its related predecessors.

Be careful about the content, but if that's a box you can check, hit play on this creepy audiobook.

I was lucky enough to be allowed to access these in both audiobook and ebook. This is the audiobook version so I will be reviewing it was an audiobook first.
It starts out relatable and creepy and then it gets more and more terrifying. I believe this will be one of those books that becomes part of our culture, like Rosemary's baby.
My last pregnancy felt like this for sure. So I definately felt it entirely.

The narration was absolute perfection, which I expected because I love the narrator but she really did an amazing job here.

The end! OMG.
I love it all so much.

This is one of those books I do not know how to review because I do not know how to process what I just finished. As an audio arc, Delicate Condition kept me listening - so well done. As a novel - there was a ton going on, including crossing lines between so many genres and tropes, it was hard to pinpoint exactly where the journey would lead.

And, as a woman who respects the idea each of us goes into a book not knowing too much because expectations spoil surprises, I cannot expound on my thoughts without giving away the plot. The only thing I can say is overall, good read. Great ending. A couple mehs in the middle.

And, this to the others among you who grew up like me with some classic novels - did you get the Easter egg with the naming of Dr. Hill?????

We are drawn into the compelling world of Anna, a renowned actress who longs for nothing more than to have a baby. However, her fame proves to be a double-edged sword, as it attracts the unwanted attention of a relentless stalker determined to shatter Anna's dreams.

From the very first chapter, this book ensnared me, captivating me with its brilliance. The plot is nothing short of mindblowing, taking unexpected twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the journey. It is a masterful portrayal of ambition and adversity intertwining in a roller-coaster of emotions. The plot really worked with twists that made my head spin.

The characters in are exquisitely crafted, each one meticulously thought out to bring depth and authenticity to the story. We get an intimate glimpse into the inner world of a woman grappling with the trials and tribulations of her pursuit, making it a relatable and emotional experience.

The narration for this audiobook was brilliant. Danielle showcases her exceptional talent in bringing emotions to life on the page or in this case to audio.

Thank you Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen and review this audiobook.

Delicate Condition by Danielle Valentine was spellbinding! I'm a HUGE horror fan and have been for decades and this book had me nervous and looking over my shoulder. I finished this book in less than 24 hours; yes, it was that good! It will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish with its mysterious elements and intriguing storyline and plot points. The sequencing was brilliantly done and the audiobook narrator was great which added to the experience!

Holy cow this book was a ride! I can't wait to watch the television show that will use it as source material next month.

I received a review copy of this book from the author/publisher through NetGalley for my honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

*Please check the trigger warning if you think you may need them after reading the synopsis.

Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark, Netgalley, and Dreamscape Media for the gifted ARC and ALC!

I loved this author’s YA book How to Survive Your Murder so I jumped at the chance to read her first adult novel. Take me seriously when I say this one is dark. Absolutely do not read this if you’re pregnant or are planning on being pregnant in the near future because this story will haunt you. If you’ve had any pregnancy losses, I’d avoid this too. My worst loss was 7 years ago, but this book still stirred up a lot of tough emotions for me.

Overall, it was well-written and creative. I bounced back and forth between the physical book and the audio. I liked Anna’s character and found the story to be disturbing in an unsettling way. If you like the idea of a feminist Rosemary’s Baby, check this one out!

My rating: 3.5/5

**Listened to the audiobook as well as following along with the electronic copy**

Firstly, I have to state that this book is missing some severe and dramatic trigger warnings! Trigger warnings for miscarriage, abortion, traumatic birth and other themes along these lines.

This book had me gripped, and I had no idea where this book was going. The audio book's narrator was so good at keeping me on the edge of my seat. This book spans genres, and because of this there was a real feeling of unease, and not knowing what was going to happen next.

I felt a little let down by the ending, but the journey towards the ending was so worth it!

This book is described as a “feminist update to Rosemary’s Baby,” and I can definitely feel those vibes. Delicate Condition submerges the reader into the dark corners of motherhood, where the dangers lurk…Where your body is not your own, and your mind is not trusted by those around you and you begin to question all you know.

This book plays on the fears of pregnancy and motherhood like no other. 🫣

Any fear you could possibly have while being pregnant or trying to get pregnant…it’s there. So, I do not think this a read for everyone. That being said, it’s good and I liked it. I would recommend it to those who are ok with the subject matter.

There are some genuinely creepy aspects and some really intense moments and I thought the narrator was great! I was fully immersed in her storytelling from start to finish and she portrayed the characters well.

I liked the ending even though it kinda came out of nowhere. I think some readers will feel bamboozled while others will find it cool. I’m in the cool camp.

🚨 Trigger Warning: IVF complications, miscarriage, pregnancy trauma

Cults, witches, monsters, demonic children? I was not sure what I was getting into with this, the narrator was very good, and the story was intriguing. I am glad there are trigger warnings because this would not be for everyone as there are many tropes. American horror story vibes, plus pounding and graphic parts. It will not be for the faint of heart. Fast paced, a little repetitive in parts is why I knocked a star off. I will sure want to check out this author's other works and thoroughly enjoyed the narrator. Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for a copy of this ALC. 4 stars

American Horror Story: Delicate is based on this book, Delicate Condition by Danielle Valentine, and that stoked my initial interest in the story. Anna Alcott is desperate to have a baby. Odd things start happening to her as her schedule is tampered with, the times of important IVF appointments are changed, refrigerated medications are left out. After several cycles of IVF, following the specific guidelines, the blood tests, hormones, the procedures, she is finally pregnant. Her acting career is thriving, she’s nominated for awards for her last role and she’s on billboards in NYC subways. It seems like all of her dreams are coming true. With the good, comes the bad. There’s a break in-at her house, her ultrasound picture of the baby is stolen and she notices someone following her. Temporarily her and her husband move out of the city and 24/7 security is added. Odd things continue to happen and then she suffers a miscarriage. Or does she? “I had no idea what was real and what wasn’t.” Same. This is a book best suited for not reading any SPOILERS. Trust me. The story is compelling and it kept pulling me forward. The narrator, Hillary Huber, does excellent work. I listened to this audiobook in 2 days because I was that invested in the story. At 80%, I got chills. . . but I was standing under the AC vent on a 105° day. Thanks to Danielle Valentine, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the advanced listening copy.

Read this if your looking for the pregnancy horror trope with witch and possible monster aspects added in. It's a fresh take for me since I've never read one like this, but I've watched a bunch of movies with the premise. I feel like it was more enjoyable in the book form. It even has the unreliable husband that treats our fmc like she's losing her mind. Is she really though?

First I appreciate the fact that there were trigger warnings the beginning of the book because holy cow were there some major things to handle with this. You need to be mentally prepared for this one. And idk if you really can be. It is a mix of horror, domestic drama, cult, and then of course all the physical and physiological effects surrounding pregnancy. There’s a lot to take in. And I do mean a lot. It’s worth it. But be prepared going in for the creep factor to reach 100.
Anna is an actress who’s been working for a long time and has finally had her big break. However, she’s now approaching 40 and realizes that she needs to work on having a family now if she is going to have one before it’s too late, so she and her husband start ivf. Anna’s fame has attracted a stalker, so they move out to the country and hire security so no one should be able to get to them, or so they think. But things seem ti be going “bump” in the night despite the move.
In the stress of everything, Anna has a miscarriage but several weeks later, Anna feels something moving in her stomach, but how can that be? Her stomach is still growing despite the fact that she felt her body release the baby. So what can be happening inside her now? And whatever is inside of her doesn’t feel right. She has cravings for bizarre things and it feels like it’s trying to claw its way out of her. You don’t find that in What to Expect When You’re Expecting.
I can’t go into much more without giving anything else away but there is so many layers to this that you don’t want to miss. I had so many theories and I was right about some and way off about others.
The narration is well done and I found myself finding things to do so I could keep listening.
Thanks to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for this audiobook arc in exchange for my review.

Anna is enduring endless hours of painful, expensive IVF treatments, but strange occurrences, switched appointments, and missing medication, make her wonder if someone is sabotaging her attempts to become pregnant. Her husband thinks she’s imagining things and then the doctor tells her she’s had a miscarriage. But Anna is sure she’s still pregnant and as she winters in the deserted Hamptons, she’s sure she’s being stalked. An intense thriller about a woman being gaslighted during her pregnancy