A review by roksyreads
Don't Be Scared by A.J. Merlin

dark tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Halloween and all the excitement it brings—parades, festivals, and parties—are a staple in Hallow Bridge. Although the town’s past is a bit darker than most, murder has never been on the table before, but after rumours about a killer in a Halloween mask surface, the first body soon follows. When Bailey finds herself pinned beneath a serial killer with a knife on her throat, she expects to be the next victim. Instead, he asks her a question: “Who should be the next to die, Bailey?” The masked killer may have let her go, but she knows she’ll never be safe. It’s not just a name he wants—it’s her.

For fans of dark romance, this is a great spooky season read for the lead up to Halloween. I thoroughly enjoyed the thriller aspect of Don’t Be Scared, which is enhanced by elements of suspense and revenge. As I’ve come to expect, AJ Merlin does mental health rep right, with an engaging, relatable FMC in Bailey, who I suspect is Autistic (as well as having ADHD like myself); her character and mannerisms made me feel so seen. I loved the cat and mouse dynamics between Bailey and MMCs Phoenix and Rory, two morally grey men I’d love to get to know better. Although the romance between Bailey and the MMCs was a bit insta-love, it worked well, with Bailey slotting into the already established relationship to form a hot AF throuple.