I will start this review by thanking NetGalley for the ARC. Unfortunately, I did not like this book and ended up skimming most of it. I think the premise had potential but the writing didn’t work for me. I found the characters one dimensional and the writing in dire need of an editor. I am so sorry to leave a less than a stellar review because I certainly could not write a book and I admire anyone with the tenacity to do so.

I requested this ARC because I found the premise interesting but the execution just wasn’t for me. I gave it 55 pages to pique my interest, but the graphic necrophilia at about 30-40 pages in was the nail in the DNF coffin. I can handle graphic violence and death in books, but I’m not going to make myself read rape scenes, let alone necrophilia. That said, as this was an ARC, here’s what neutral feedback I can give on those 55 pages: this book has a lot of grammatical issues that could be resolved with an editor and a run through a word processor’s grammar check. Most notable, though, is the dialogue of multiple characters being put on the same line and in the same paragraph.

A chilling horror novel that goes deep into the mind of serial killer Edward Jackson. Set in the eerie backdrop of rural Virginia, the book follows Edward's gruesome murders and the relentless pursuit of justice by Emerald Police Detectives Lugo and Bradley. What struck me most about this book was its intense portrayal of Edward's inner turmoil as he battles his own demons and struggles to resist his murderous urges. The author's vivid descriptions and suspenseful storytelling kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end. If you're a fan of gripping psychological thrillers with a dark twist, A Certain Kind of Monster is a great read.

I have read a lot of horror and even extreme horror in the last year. However, this novel just kept me so invested. The writing is phenomenal regardless of the gruesome portions of it. As someone who loves psychology and the brain's inner workings, specifically with serial killers, I found this novel to be a very good read. I loved this and the real-time back-and-forth between Edward and the detectives - a similar format to a Criminal Minds episode. This is not a book for everyone, but those who enjoy reading horror should find some enjoyment from this. I can't wait to see what this author writes next!!

Hey there, horror junkies! Are you ready to jump into the twisted mind of a serial killer in A Certain Kind of Monster? This book is like a rollercoaster ride through the darkest corners of the human psyche, where every page is packed with suspense and spine-tingling thrills. From the creepy setting of rural Virginia to the relentless pursuit of justice by Emerald Police Detectives Lugo and Bradley, you'll be on the edge of your seat from start to finish. But it's not just about the scares—this book also dives deep into the psychology of its characters, giving you a glimpse into the mind of a killer like never before. So if you're looking for a horror story that will keep you up at night, grab a copy of A Certain Kind of Monster and prepare for a wild ride! 🖤🔪

A Certain Kind of Monster follows serial killer, Edward Jackson. Located in a rural Virginia town, Emerald is haunted by the brutal killings of young women throughout the area. Follow the mind of Edward and his twisted fantasies as he battles his own mind to fight his urges to bring those fantasies to reality. In his sadistic outlook on his killings and life, and haunted by a series of ongoing night terrors, follow in suspense as Edward taunts Emerald Police Detectives Lugo and Bradley with his seemingly meaningless clue-filled notes. As the nightmare unfolds, Edward also begins to reveal the truth of the death of his mother that occurred as a child.

I requested this book based on the premise, but knowing nothing else about it. I love the fact that a good portion of the book is told through the POV of the serial killer. This has been done before, but it is quite rare. It was done well enough here to be unique and interesting all the way through. This was my first taste of JE Street the third, and I'll definitely be checking out any other works put out by them!