Bad Things Happened in This Room is a slick, sinister psychological thriller that dives deep into the darker sides of fame, friendship, and female rivalry. Marie Still crafts a fast-paced, addictive story that hooks you early and keeps the tension simmering with sharp twists and a chilling sense of unease.

The protagonist is complex—equal parts confident and unraveling—as her seemingly perfect world begins to collapse. The narrative plays skillfully with the unreliable narrator trope, creating a story where you’re constantly questioning what’s real, who’s trustworthy, and what secrets are still hiding behind closed doors.

Where this book really shines is in its portrayal of toxic female dynamics and the curated lies of social media. It’s clever, biting, and often unsettling. Still doesn’t flinch away from the darker emotional currents running underneath: betrayal, manipulation, and emotional abuse all play major roles.

Trigger warning: The story touches on themes including emotional manipulation, mental health struggles, gaslighting, and trauma. While not graphically violent, the psychological intensity and toxicity in some relationships could be unsettling for sensitive readers. If you're affected by themes of abuse—especially psychological or emotional—this may hit close to home.

Overall, Bad Things Happened in This Room is a compelling, razor-sharp thriller that explores the shadows behind polished exteriors. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy twisty plots with psychological depth—and don’t mind getting a little uncomfortable along the way.

Bad Things Happen in This Room by Marie Still is a compelling read that combines psychological depth with an intriguing storyline. The narrative kept me hooked from the beginning, as the characters’ secrets slowly unraveled, revealing dark truths beneath a seemingly normal facade. The author does a fantastic job creating an intense atmosphere, making you feel immersed in the characters’ struggles and dilemmas. While some parts felt a bit slow-paced, overall, the story was well-paced and delivered a satisfying mix of suspense and emotional complexity. This book challenges your perceptions and leaves you thinking long after you've finished reading. A solid choice for anyone who enjoys psychological dramas with a hint of mystery.

A chilling horror that immerses the reader in the fragmented mind of a woman who’s hiding her past from everyone (including herself)! Throw in a mysterious secret garden and walls that talk to the MC. With vivid imagery and lyrical prose, BTHITR is disorienting, visceral and lingers long after the final page.

A twisty fever dream that will have you trying to figure out the real from the impossible. Still’s mesmerizing prose never fails to hook readers.

Twisty, unsettling, and impossible to put down! I loved this book and all its Yellow Wallpaper vibes! I'm a huge Marie Still fan now! You should be too!