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A review by breadsalot
The Wicked Unseen by Gigi Griffis
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
*Advanced Read Copy*
If I’m being completely honest, I came into this book without any real expectations besides the fact that the cover looked neat and the description mentioned the possibility of a Satanic cult in a small town. The book definitely lived up to its cover.
Griffis’ (@gigi.griffis ) novel takes you on a whirlwind story of the mysterious disappearance of the town’s golden girl. When Elle, the pastor’s daughter, disappears, the small Pennsylvania town is quick to suspect the newest (and seemingly odd) family in town. For fans of Stephen Graham Jones’ My Heart is a Chainsaw, The Wicked Unseen gives off similar vibes and is a unique and thrilling experience for readers who enjoy spooky stories and nods to horror films.
The setting of a small closed-minded town adds critical depth to the story and a strong element of immersion, allowing the author to explore real-life historical themes and happenings like the satanic panic, hell houses, Dungeons & Dragons, and the power of religion. Griffis’ ability to weave together real-life events and themes with a thrilling plot and dynamic characters is truly impressive.
The characters are well-developed and believable, making them either really likable or really hateable. The plot twist is also solid and keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story builds up to an exciting climax, and readers will find themselves flying through the last quarter of the book.
Overall, The Wicked Unseen a must-read for fans of horror stories, thrillers, first loves, and towns with secrets.
Thank you, @netgalley for the ARC!
If I’m being completely honest, I came into this book without any real expectations besides the fact that the cover looked neat and the description mentioned the possibility of a Satanic cult in a small town. The book definitely lived up to its cover.
Griffis’ (@gigi.griffis ) novel takes you on a whirlwind story of the mysterious disappearance of the town’s golden girl. When Elle, the pastor’s daughter, disappears, the small Pennsylvania town is quick to suspect the newest (and seemingly odd) family in town. For fans of Stephen Graham Jones’ My Heart is a Chainsaw, The Wicked Unseen gives off similar vibes and is a unique and thrilling experience for readers who enjoy spooky stories and nods to horror films.
The setting of a small closed-minded town adds critical depth to the story and a strong element of immersion, allowing the author to explore real-life historical themes and happenings like the satanic panic, hell houses, Dungeons & Dragons, and the power of religion. Griffis’ ability to weave together real-life events and themes with a thrilling plot and dynamic characters is truly impressive.
The characters are well-developed and believable, making them either really likable or really hateable. The plot twist is also solid and keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story builds up to an exciting climax, and readers will find themselves flying through the last quarter of the book.
Overall, The Wicked Unseen a must-read for fans of horror stories, thrillers, first loves, and towns with secrets.
Thank you, @netgalley for the ARC!