This is a very atmospheric and tense trauma=based psychological thriller that was very hard to put down! I was creeped out for most of the book and was satisfied with the ending.

J.C. Cooper’s The Dark Gift is a chilling psychological thriller that grips you from the first page and refuses to let go. At its heart is Michael Clairborne, a successful advertising executive haunted by a childhood trauma so severe it buried his supernatural abilities—and his memories—deep within. But when his terminally ill wife begins an experimental treatment, eerie sightings and a creeping dread begin to unravel the fragile peace of his family life.

🔍 What Makes It Stand Out

Atmospheric tension: Cooper masterfully builds suspense through shadowy figures, cryptic memories, and a slow-burning sense of dread that escalates with each chapter.

Emotional depth: Michael’s fear of the dark isn’t just symbolic—it’s a visceral thread that ties together his past and present, making his journey feel deeply personal.

Supernatural intrigue: The “gift” hinted at in the title adds a layer of mystery that blends psychological horror with paranormal elements, keeping readers guessing about what’s real and what’s imagined.

Family stakes: The emotional core of the story—Michael’s desperate attempt to protect his wife and daughter—adds urgency and heart to the thriller’s twists.

📖 Final ThoughtsIf you enjoy thrillers that explore the intersection of trauma, memory, and the supernatural, The Dark Gift delivers a compelling ride. It’s a story about confronting buried truths and rediscovering lost power, all while racing against a force that may be unstoppable. Cooper’s writing is immersive, and the plot is layered with just enough ambiguity to keep you turning pages late into the night.