I cannot say enough about what a RIDE Spider to the Fly was. I have only read one of J.H. Markert’s other works (Sleep Tight), but Spider to the Fly was absolutely next-level, and I devoured it in a single day.

Ellie Isles has some issues. She’s a single mom to a teenage daughter, Amber, and found herself obsessed with the I-64 murders once she realized one of the victims looked hauntingly similar to her. Ellie wrote a book about the murders, Bloody Highway, and founded a website centered around true crime and amateur sleuthing, which also maintains a database of information on homeless and unhoused to help with identifying John and Jane Does. The website is called the Spider Web. She has been going to therapy for a year to work through some past trauma, and her therapist, Dr. Ian Brock, seems to be making headway.

The Brocks are near royalty in the small town of Ransom - Ian is the adopted son of Bart and Karina Brock, and their philanthropic pursuits bled over into their home life, as the adopted parents of Ian, Stephanie, Royal and Kevin. Ian is the father of twin boys - Jon and Jeremy, and his wife, Annie, has always silently stood behind him though she always had a feeling that something wasn’t right.

When the Brock family home is burned to the ground and Dr. Ian Brock has to leave an appointment with Ellie suddenly, the story that follows is equal parts unbelievable and unputdownable as the story weaves itself into a web that nobody could possibly see coming.

A serial killer novel on its’ surface, Spider to the Fly will leave readers awestruck and thinking “what did I actually just read” in the best way possible.

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this novel prior to publication!

This was a tense, unsettling, and very dark book that was simply incredibly well written. I also couldn't have asked for a better ending!

A terrifying new tale of twisted horror by the new Master of Horror: J.H. MARKERT.

If you love a good scare and stories with twists and turns you’ll never see coming, then Spider To The Fly has to be at the top of your 2025 #tbrlist (to be read list.)

You need to know that this book stays with you. Every time you leave your house, and even when you are by yourself & home alone, you will think about Spider To The Fly and Serial Killers.

Driving in your car … Spider To The Fly.

SERIAL KILLERS

Grocery Shopping … Spider To The Fly.

SERIAL KILLERS

Walking in the woods … Spider To The Fly.

SERIAL KILLERS

It is impossible not to think about this book and wonder if it is based on a true story.

It definitely could be.

I would love to know what other people think. Do you think something similar to the plot in this book actually happened in real life?

I do.

I couldn’t put this book down. It didn’t matter that it was 4am and I had to get up in a couple hours, I HAD TO keep reading.

I devoured this book.

SPIDER TO THE FLY is meticulously plotted and cleverly believable – so horrifically plausible.

Peter Farris calls J.H. MARKERT the “clear heir to Stephen King.” I say that he has pushed Stephen King off the top of the horror shelf and J.H. MARKERT is now not only the king, he is the Emperor of All Things Horrific.

Although this book does not come out until September, you can pre-order it now so that it arrives on your doorstep on release day.

I rate SPIDER TO THE FLY as 5 out of 5 Stars and give it a 10 out of 10 Star rating for scaring readers half to death.
Thank you to #NetGalley #JHMarkert and #CrookedLaneBooks for giving me a free advance review copy of this ebook.

I loved this book so much that I am trying to find out how to get my hands on a hardcover copy for my collection and to have an autographed hardcover copy would make my year.

BUY THIS BOOK – IF YOU LOVE HORROR, IT DESERVES A SPECIAL PLACE ON YOUR BOOKSHELF!!!

Markert is aan of many talents. I absolutely love his older books that were more " magical realism". A lot of people don't even know it's the same author. I actually didn't till I looked it up because of similarities in writing. He has books under James Markert as well.
He has since started writing more scary, thriller, horror types. They are just as well written. I personally like the magical realism more, but will definitely read them all..
This was my favorite thriller by him, so far.

While reading this I very much felt the tension a fly is feeling as a spider is approaching. This book is dark and unsettling. It had me looking over my shoulders as I was reading it at night.

The plot is very original and while I guessed some twists I did not guess them all. Ellie is a strong main character and I feel she could easily lead a series if the author decides. I have a feeling this book would make a great TV series or movie. I am giving it 4.5 stars rounded up.

Thank you to Crooked Lane Books, J.H. Market, and Netgalley for allowing me to read this ARC.

This story definitely lived up to the title!! What a crazy web of how everyone is connected and all the lives affected in the process. Ellie is so resilient and strong as well as her daughter! The plot build up was perfectly written! I was never bored or not intrigued by every page. I will continue to read this authors work and definitely be recommending this to everyone!!! So grateful I got the opportunity do read this!

This was a good read. The ending was really well written and I really enjoyed how it was set up. The twist was very good and the fact that the baddie was who he was, was nuts! I recommend this book for anyone who loves true crime and following a detective storyline.

Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

J.H. Markert’s “Spider to the Fly” is a chilling psychological thriller that blends true crime obsession, deep-seated trauma, and a relentless serial killer into an intricate web of mystery. Following Ellie Isles—a woman whose fascination with the elusive "Spider" killer stems from a victim who eerily resembles her—Markert crafts a suspenseful, twist-filled story that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Ellie has dedicated years to tracking unidentified victims through her online community, a space where true crime enthusiasts work to give names to the nameless. This aspect of the story is particularly compelling, shedding light on the forgotten and overlooked victims of crime in a way that feels both tragic and noble. Through her work, Ellie has gained access to inside information from law enforcement, a premise that feels both plausible and fresh. But when a new break in the case sets off a series of shocking revelations, Ellie finds herself tangled in something far bigger than she ever imagined.

Markert’s prose is atmospheric and immersive, creating a sense of creeping dread that lingers on every page. His writing is undeniably engaging, and once the story picks up, it’s impossible to put down. Twists abound, and while some readers may see them coming, others will be left reeling. The killer, known as the Spider, is one of the book’s most unsettling elements—his grotesque signature and ritualistic nature add a disturbing layer to the mystery.

However, where “Spider to the Fly” excels in concept and tension, it occasionally falters in execution, mainly with the character writing. Ellie is an intriguing protagonist, but her obsession sometimes feels repetitive, leaving her character development feeling somewhat stagnant. The book juggles multiple narrative threads—Ellie’s past, the serial killer chase, law enforcement’s involvement, and unsettling family dynamics—but at times, it struggles to balance them, leading to an occasionally disjointed pacing.

That being said, Markert’s talent for crafting eerie, suspenseful storytelling is undeniable. “Spider to the Fly” is a gripping, layered thriller that delivers moments of true horror without relying on supernatural elements—proving that human monsters can be just as terrifying. Fans of dark thrillers and true crime-inspired fiction will find plenty to enjoy.

Ohhhh this is creeeeepy and dark! Just what i want from a good horror novel. This may honestly be my top J.H. Markert book!

First, let's clear up one thing before we proceed: vacuum your floors before you read this book so you don't think that a big piece of lint is a spider coming to attack you, okay? ((I've never swept more aggressively, but my floors look great now, so I suppose I can thank J.H. Markert for that one.))

Now that we've cleared THAT up, get Spider to the Fly added to your TBR RIGHT NOW. This thriller is deliciously bingeable and utterly twisted in all of the best ways. I really enjoyed the way the true crime angle was used in this book, and the "long lost twin" storyline felt fresh and not like the same recycled thing we see dished out ad nauseum. With the multiple angles and viewpoints, I was initially concerned that the pacing would feel off, but that was not the case here at all.

The characters in this book are also developed perfectly for what they need to be, which isn't a feat easily achieved. Even the characters who aren't likeable are fascinating, and the ones who are likeable are still presented with their own flaws.

Now, I don't include spoilers in my reviews, so I'll share this next part with vague detail: I have seen other reviews mentioning certain things as far-fetched. But, a) this is a work of fiction, and b) if you are familiar with the shady side of history, certain things are not as far-fetched as one may think. ((That will make perfect sense once you read the book, which we have already established you are doing, remember?))

This book is the perfect blend of crime thriller and suspense, so if that's your book vibe, then this is going to be a must-read for you. Markert is always an instant-buy author for me and Spider to the Fly goes to prove that he doesn't miss!

((While the viewpoints shared are my own, I want to thank NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and J.H. Markert for this complimentary copy.))

AHHHHHHH THIS BOOK WAS SO SCARY! Total vibes of an old-school horror movie like Freddy Krueger. I fell into this world like I was falling into quicksand. This had perfect levels of creepy, intriguing, and outright jumpscares. Completely caught off guard by the ending, reading this is a whirlwind. Now I am going to have to go back and read the author's back titles.

Ellie is a single mom and true crime author. She has been following the Spider serial killer who kills women along an interstate (in a gross but specific way) since his 17th victim looked exactly like her. She has a social media following of people who like true crime participating and trying to help catch the killer. Secrets are revealed throughout the entire book- big reveals at 30%, 45%, 60%- lots to keep the reader guessing.

I found it intensely readable, liked the characters and the pacing. There are a lot of characters to keep track of, so I did find myself doing a "Search" in my kindle for the characters name, but I found it very juicy and anxiety inducing.

spoiler: <spoiler>Was the father of Amber, Ellie's daughter, the guy with the tattoos, ever revealed? I read this quickly because I was stressed but this was an open end that I didn't see...? Anyone else?</spoiler>

Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC. Book to be published September 2, 2025.

This was such a good book. I loved the story and the writing so much. The characters were great and the story flowed smoothly. Will definitely read more books by this author in the future.

The suspense!! I loved this more than Sleep Tight, fun thriller that keeps you wanting to read! The pacing was great and the characters added to the suspense!

2.5 stars

The I 64 serial killer has been preying on young women between Lexington and Louisville, Kentucky for years (hmpf. There’s a lot more to I 64 than that small stretch. Odd name.). Ellie Isles became interested in the murders when she discovered she was basically identical to one of the victims. Now she runs the premier website about the murders and the police are looking for her help with the newest kill, especially after Ellie’s therapist is arrested for the killings and those of his parents and brother. (Ellie had a very traumatic childhood which saw her in and out of foster placements.).

Is Ellie’s therapist guilty? Is Ellie related in some way?

I remember liking Markert’s recent SLEEP TIGHT, but this was a whole lotta “of all the gin joints,” plus I don’t think hypnosis works like these people seem to think it does. All of these people. Including the people that I’m assuming are, you know, educated in how to do it. It like they sent away for one of those “Amaze Your Friends, send $2.99 and a SASE” pamphlets they use to advertise in the back of comic books. Those were good times.

Rounding this up to a 3 is generous, but it’s the first summerish day here, so I’m feeling a spirit of goodwill, dammit!

J.H. Markert has been called the heir to Stephen King, but after reading “Spider to the Fly,” I think that’s a bit of a stretch. While the novel has an intriguing premise—blending true crime and horror elements—it ultimately didn’t work for me.

The story follows journalist Ellie Isles as she returns to her hometown, where she is drawn into a chilling mystery involving a notorious serial killer. As she investigates, Ellie is forced to identify bodies connected to the case, only to make a shocking discovery—one of them appears to be her own. The concept is undeniably twisted and full of potential, but the execution feels uneven. The pacing drags, the horror elements don’t fully land, and the psychological tension that should make a story like this gripping just wasn’t there.

Although the idea of Ellie confronting her own supposed death is fascinating, it never quite reaches its full potential. The novel flirts with deep, unsettling horror but never fully commits, leaving it feeling more like a slow-burn mystery with horror elements rather than a truly terrifying read. If you enjoy atmospheric thrillers, Spider to the Fly might still be worth checking out, but for me, it fell short of its promise.

Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Spider to the Flyis gripping, addictive, dark, tense, twisted, and hard to put down page turner! There is a diabolical serial killer who leaves 'interesting' clues behind. This book was a great cat-and-mouse thriller that caught my attention and had me trying to solve the case!

Ellie was shocked when one of the I-64 Strangler victims looked exactly like her! What are the chances that she has a doppelganger out there? Ellie was adopted, could this woman be her twin or just an unlucky look alike??? Ellie goes on to become a true crime writer and runs a true crime network and database. When law enforcement can't make headway in the ongoing murders, they turn to Ellie for assistance.

I enjoyed how the author showed on how online true crime buffs can help solve crimes or at least give them a new way of looking at both the suspect and/or killers and the victims. Speaking of killers, the one in this book is a twisted and devious killer. Like a spider spins it's web, J.H. Markert spins this intricate tale with precision. I had no idea where things were going to go or what tangled path Markert was going to take me down, but I was there for the ride.

The tension, dread, suspense, and danger intensified as the book progressed. This book has many layers and readers slowly get to learn more about the characters and their pasts/younger days. While I did want a little more about the character's childhoods and had a few questions remaining, I closed this book a happy reader.

Creepy, dark, twisted, and compelling.

Ellie is obsessed with the Strangler. Killing a line of victims for years and many are still Jane/John Does.

Ellie writes a true crime book and becomes a best selling author, amassing an enormous database of at risk people. The police are getting nowhere and Ellie is their best shot.

What keeps her going is the face she saw on one of the victims. Her face. Is she a twin? She is going to find out.

Spiders, Flies, Foster Kids, and all the horror and suspense you can handle!

Absolutely loved it!


NetGalley/ Crooked Lane Books September 02, 2025

I was so excited to give this one a shot. True crime junkie, serial killer, some of my faves. I thought I would try and give horror another shot with themes I know and love. Unfortunately, it still didn't work for me. There is something in that genre that just doesn't appeal to me and I think I have to make due that it isn't for me. It didn't hold my attention and I had to DNF.

Wow okay I’m definitely re reading this one at some point! I was drawn in from the very first page, there were so many twist and turns i genuinely couldn’t figure anything out (in the best way) and usually I’m able to have an idea on what’s going to happen!!

Spider to the Fly is a gripping serial killer thriller that pulls you in and refuses to let go. Ellie Isles is a fascinating protagonist—flawed, obsessive, and utterly compelling—as she chases the truth behind the I-64 Strangler. The mix of true crime obsession, doppelgänger mystery, and a relentless hunt for justice creates a dark, chilling atmosphere.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing me with an eARC of Spider to the Fly prior to its publication.