I enjoyed this book but some of the pacing felt off! It started off really slow and I struggle with that. I want a book that hooks me right away.

It was very creepy and suspenseful, which we love! It will definitely keep you turning the pages while also
being terrified!!!

If you’re an horror fan and into eerie imagery and creepy paranormal stories then this is definitely for you!

Mina is a child psychologist who meets this mysterious man at a grief support group. The man, Sam, asks her to meet with Alice, a young girl who is haunted by a ghost. Mina learns that the small town where Alice lives is known for its history of witchcraft and things start to spiral.

This book was for sure spooky and bordering a thriller. The start was exceedingly slow which I personally do not enjoy especially when I am ready for a thriller. I was overall. not super engaged with the story because while I enjoy thrillers I do not like ghosts. I thought the writing was high quality though.

Daisy Pearce's writing was lyrical and vivid. Her characters, fully realized and layered. Her story, haunting. Something In The Walls is a book that gets under your skin, and though the ending went in an unexpected direction, the story is bookended by unsettling events that leave a mark on the reader. I'd love to read more from this author.

There’s something about a small town that I always find a little unsettling. What’s more unsettling? A small town with witch lore. Something in the Walls brings a creepy and claustrophobic atmosphere with Midsommar vibes.

Mina, a new psychologist, takes on a case brought to her by a journalist. The case is a young girl in a small town who believes she is being haunted by a witch. Mina believes she can help Alice, but the girl’s actions become more and more inexplicable. The town has their own beliefs on witchcraft, and their own ways of dealing with it.

I enjoyed Something in the Walls! There are scenes that gave me the chills (I’m glad I don’t have a chimney). I found myself invested in Mina’s story and her desire to help Alice. I could definitely see this on as a movie! The pace slows down a bit in the middle, but keep going, the end will blow you away.

Daisy Pearce's "Something in the Walls" delivers spine-tingling horror with a cinematic flair that begs for a big-screen adaptation. Through richly detailed scenes and masterful atmosphere building, Pearce creates a haunting experience that lingers long after the final page.

The novel's greatest strength lies in its vivid, unsettling imagery, particularly in its portrayal of its witch antagonist. Pearce demonstrates exceptional skill in horror writing, crafting descriptions so detailed and visceral that readers might find themselves checking over their shoulders while reading. The author's ability to create genuine creepiness without relying on cheap scares elevates this work above standard genre fare.

The pacing follows a distinctly slow-burn pattern, which proves both a blessing and a curse. While the deliberate tempo allows for deep atmosphere building, some sections in the early and middle portions of the book may test reader patience. However, those who persist through these slower moments are rewarded with an intensifying narrative that builds to a dark, compelling conclusion.

One of the plotlines involving a particular character travels down an especially dark path that, while potentially predictable for genre-savvy readers, still packs an emotional punch. The way Pearce handles this aspect of the story adds layers of psychological horror to the more overt supernatural elements.

With its strong visual elements and atmospheric tension, "Something in the Walls" reads like a horror film waiting to happen. The vivid scene-setting and creeping dread would translate beautifully to screen, though the book stands firmly on its own as a solid addition to the contemporary horror genre.

This is a must-read for fans of atmospheric horror who appreciate detailed world-building and don't mind a slow-burn approach to their scares.

There’s something in the walls! No really…there is! …or is there?

This book was a wild ride. The atmosphere was claustrophobic and the story was haunting. It will have you questioning your own sanity while you uncover the truth that lies in this mysterious and creepy small town.

I read this after everyone else in my house had gone to bed and I may have left a light or two on while I read this. You know that scene in Friends with the freezer (IYKYK) the was me during one particular scene that involved a chimney and an unknown entity that had me screaming and contemplating whether I should keep reading. Spoiler alert: I did

This was my first book by Daisy Pearce and typically I applaud authors who can make me ugly cry but I have to applaud Daisy for making my heart race and being genuinely terrified at times. *applause*

Overall, I enjoyed this book and I like that some looming questions were left up to us readers to decide for ourselves what we thought happened.

Something In The Walls releases February 25th.

Thank you St. Martins Press and NetGalley for an arc of this book. All opinions are my own.

This was such a creepy, eerie book! Oh my, the detail the author put in when writing those creepy chapters was written sooo good because the detail of the witch alone gave me the creeps. It felt like it started slow down in the beginning and kind of towards the middle but then picked up again. I kinda knew where it was going with one of the characters, that’s was pretty dark. I really like how it ended 👌🏼 I wouldn’t mind seeing this as a movie one day! 🎥

Thank you to NetGalley for this arc

4 stars!

This book was certifiably creepy! I think it's best to go into this completely blind and just let the novel take you because let me say we are on a JOURNEY, There were parts of this book that made me scared to go to bed because I didn't want to be alone in the dark. I don't think the pacing was perfect, but I was definitely invested in the whole story and very quickly turning pages. I liked how sinister the whole book felt, and the almost cult-like feeling of the book. Not a perfect five star because the end did kind of confuse me, but I would definitely read more from Daisy Pearce!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

4 stars!

This book was certifiably creepy! I think it's best to go into this completely blind and just let the novel take you because let me say we are on a JOURNEY, There were parts of this book that made me scared to go to bed because I didn't want to be alone in the dark. I don't think the pacing was perfect, but I was definitely invested in the whole story and very quickly turning pages. I liked how sinister the whole book felt, and the almost cult-like feeling of the book. Not a perfect five star because the end did kind of confuse me, but I would definitely read more from Daisy Pearce!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This book was great!
It was very creepy at times and suspenseful. It kept me guessing and kept me up late reading ... but not too late because it was scary! Ha! I highly recommend this one if you like stories that make you question what is real and what is paranormal, along with creepy imagery, and a mystery at its heart.

Child psychologist Mina, fresh out of college, is given an opportunity to analyze a teenage girl named Alice who has been accused of being a witch. After Mina and her new acquaintance Sam arrive at the home, strange things begin happening and more of Alice's story is revealed.

This novel focuses on a town's haunting history with witchcraft and the stories that are passed down surrounding it. Some aspects of this were very unsettling and very tense. the author did a great job creating an uncomfortable atmosphere. I really enjoyed the characters.

While I felt the first part of the book was a little slow, the middle was very engaging and sinister. The ending left me feeling unsatisfied and had potential for more. It is possible that this was done on purpose and the ending was all up for interpretation. This was a great read but I still have so many questions I wish were answered.

Many thanks to Author Daisy Pearce, Netgalley, and St Martin's Press for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This review is posted on Goodreads and Fable.

Daisy Pearce's 2025 horror novel immediately hooked me in with this gorgeous cover, but I also was super intrigued by the book's synopsis. SOMETHING IN THE WALLS is being called The Shining meets Midsommar, so I just knew that I needed to prioritize this one! I chose to read the book physically, but I also alternated via audiobook, and I think both options were a full five-star experience for me!

Mina, a newly established child psychologist with little experience, spends her days preparing for her marriage to researcher Oscar while attending a local bereavement group to mourn her late brother. Her routine shifts when she meets journalist Sam Hunter, who proposes she help investigate the case of Alice Webber, a thirteen-year-old girl in the remote village of Banathel claiming to be haunted by a witch. What starts as a promising opportunity turns darker as Alice’s behavior grows more disturbing, and the superstitious town reveals its unsettling beliefs about confronting evil.

SOMETHING IN THE WALLS is a witchy good time, with a town full of secrets! If you liked Camilla Sten's The Lost Village, Midsommar, or Silent Hill (video game or movie), then SOMETHING IN THE WALLS will be right up your alley. This book was incredibly spooky and creepy, which will entertain even the most stubborn thriller or horror reader. I really enjoyed my journey with this book and I think if you go into the book not expecting to be tricked, you'll have more fun with it. I noticed that I kept being sidetracked and having to continue reading this book because I just needed to know what happened! This book will be a staple in my favorite 2025 releases for sure!

This book had me hooked from page 1. It's one of those stories where you don't really know what's going on and you're just as confused as the main character, because skepticism and superstition are at odds.

There are some really disturbing scenes, some of which I still can't explain probably because I don't have the psychological/medical training to do so (because I don't want to believe it's a plothole).

I was pleasantly surprised by the level of suspense achieved and the development of the mystery, and although, as always happens to me in these types of "is the girl possessed or not?" stories, there are some things that don't add up, I enjoyed it a lot. Even the ending seemed to me, although short, appropriate for the story.

It touches on topics about bullying, mental health and abuse (physical and emotional). The relationship between Mina and Oscar made me sad and angry, but I would have been even more upset if the cliché of the nail pulling out another nail had been in the story, because it would have taken away emotional development from Mina's character, who already had little time to think and reflect on herself with everything that is happening with Alice.

This is a terrifying story in many ways, because the isolation and paranoia that is unleashed in Alice's town due to the legend of the witch is chilling, especially because when a person loses their sense of individuality and feels "part of the masses" and with impunity, they can do a lot of damage.

Good pace, good character development and story progression. I think the ending is a bit weak but it works.

I would love to see this story adapted to film.

4.5 stars!!!

Inexperienced child psychologist Mina struggles to make a name for herself in her field. Stuck in a heat wave in Britain, she spends her days contemplating her upcoming marriage to researcher Oscar and attending a bereavement group. When she meets journalist Sam Hunter, he proposes a job involving a thirteen-year-old girl named Alice who claims to be haunted by a witch. As Mina, Sam, and Alice delve into the mysterious occurrences in the remote village of Banathel, they uncover a history of superstition and witchcraft that puts them in danger.

I am new to this author, but the writing style is unique and captivating from the very beginning. Despite the mixed reviews, I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to review both the eBook and audiobook versions of this book. I consistently recommend trying the audiobook if the written version didn't resonate with you, as it can truly change your entire reading experience.

I found myself engrossed in both the written and spoken words of this book. It exudes a subtle supernatural vibe with a touch of witchcraft woven throughout. If these elements don't appeal to you, you may not connect with this particular read. The choice of narrator was excellent! I was completely captivated and engaged throughout the entire listen.

One aspect I appreciated was the characters' hidden secrets slowly being revealed. The author masterfully keeps everything open to interpretation until the truth is unveiled. The mystery surrounding each character kept me eagerly turning the pages, craving more information. While I was constantly questioning what was truly happening, the author provided subtle hints along the way. The final reveal was impactful, leaving room for personal interpretation while still providing clarity.

Although not a fast-paced read, the steady pace created a suspenseful atmosphere that lingered long after I finished the book. If you enjoy a chilling, thought-provoking, and slightly disturbing read that stays with you, this book is a perfect fit. I look forward to revisiting it during Halloween, as it would be incredibly fitting for the season. I eagerly anticipate reading more from this author and experiencing that heart-pounding thrill once again. Well, done!

Thank you, St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio, for the digital ARC copies. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

While I enjoyed reading Something in the Walls, it started out really slow for me. Nothing seemed to be happening for a while.. and although I was still interested, I wish it had picked up the intensity sooner that it did. Sam and Mina were great characters, Alice was mysterious and I couldn't quite figure her out, in a good way. I liked the 2nd half of the book much better when more things were being revealed. Overall a good read, especially if you like slow burns.

This was an odd one for me, there were parts I really liked and others that just didn’t work for me at all. Initially I was intrigued, it was a unique premise with fantastic creepy and unsettling vibes and I wasn’t sure what would happen next. I couldn’t figure out if it was supposed to be horror or not, and I’m still not quite sure honestly. Where it lost me is there were so so many unanswered questions in the end leaving giant plot holes that were never explained. There were just too many things that either didn’t make sense or were entirely implausible for me to overlook so unfortunately this was a total miss for me.

Spooky and atmospheric. A riveting read! Mina is a child psychologist who is asked to visit a troubled girl who turns out to be more than troubled. This book has Exorcist/The VVitch vibes. If you are a fan of horror, and moviemakers like Robert Eggers, you will like this. My favorite part was the ending, which had me squirming! I listened to this alternately on audio as well as reading this ARC, and the audiobook is great too. The narrator did a great job conveying both the atmosphere and the crazy stuff that eventually happened in a properly fearsome tone, especially the ending. I will definitely read more by Daisy Pearce! She's not afraid to "go there" with her stories, and I was legitimately scared by this one.

I'm going to be completely honest in saying that I did not finish this book. However, I want to explain the reasons I didn't, because although this wasn't the book for me, I'm not going to yuck someone else's yum.

I'm not a slow burn lover. I want action and suspense and to be kept on the edge of my seat. I want horror that's very clearly horror and thriller that's very clearly thriller. This book is not that. I read 29% of Something in the Walls, which is ten entire chapters. In those ten chapters, all I really learned was how hot and humid the town was, that the house smells, and that the main character may or may not hate her fiancé. I was not horrified or thrilled for ten whole chapters. I didn't find myself invested in any of the characters or the plot. I didn't care to find out whether Alice was possessed or haunted or just a weird teenage girl. I didn't care at all about what was going to happen and found myself stopping multiple times mid-chapter to scroll on my phone or do something else because I was just so BORED.

All this to say, if you like a slow burn and not being able to guess what's going to happen and you prefer character development over plot development, you may very well love this book. Just because it didn't do it for me doesn't mean it won't do it for you!

Creepy. Suspenseful. And all around addicting. I couldn’t stop reading. Every time I thought I knew what would happened things got all switched around. I highly enjoyed the folky and witchy aspect of the book. And how you became invested in the characters. With Mina, the child physiologist, trying to find the logical explanation of things. Sam, the reporter, looking for the angle to his story and a personal connection of his own to it. Then the family and all their weird tendencies. Making it to where you didn’t know who or what to believe. Absolutely great read for those of you that like a good creepy, thriller, mystery book.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC of this great book by Daisy Pearce!
Will definitely be checking out more books by her!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early release audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars

Mina is a child psychologist with no experience. She meets a reporter at a grief support group who gets her to come stay with a family whose teenage daughter claims to be haunted by a witch.