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Lilith: A Novel
From the New York Times and internationally bestselling author of I Am Not Who You Think I Am—a New York Times Thriller of the Year—comes Lilith, an incendiary powerhouse of a novel that strikes straight at the wounded heart of America.
After her son Lydan suffers traumatic injuries in a school shooting, single mom Elisabeth Ross grows enraged at men in power. If they won’t do anything to help end this epidemic of violence, she will. Believing it’s her destiny, she sets out to awaken the world to the cowards these men are and commits her own shocking act of violence.
Going by the name Lilith—the first wife of Adam who fled Eden rather than serve a man—she posts a video of her crime that reverberates throughout society.
Praised by some, demonized by others, and sought by the FBI and vigilantes alike, Elisabeth must keep her identity a secret as she tries to care for her son.
As events take startling twists, Elisabeth begins to question her act of violence and the very roots and mythology of violence itself. Was her act justified or has she become the monster that the original Lilith was accused of being?
When the FBI draws closer, and Lydan starts to display odd, terrifying behavior, Elisabeth plots to avoid capture and keep her son safe, fearing she’ll never escape what she’s done without losing her son forever.
Written with Rickstad’s singular command of language, human insight, and unnerving suspense, Lilith is a tale of our times. Tragic and profound, it echoes in the mind and lingers in the blood.
After her son Lydan suffers traumatic injuries in a school shooting, single mom Elisabeth Ross grows enraged at men in power. If they won’t do anything to help end this epidemic of violence, she will. Believing it’s her destiny, she sets out to awaken the world to the cowards these men are and commits her own shocking act of violence.
Going by the name Lilith—the first wife of Adam who fled Eden rather than serve a man—she posts a video of her crime that reverberates throughout society.
Praised by some, demonized by others, and sought by the FBI and vigilantes alike, Elisabeth must keep her identity a secret as she tries to care for her son.
As events take startling twists, Elisabeth begins to question her act of violence and the very roots and mythology of violence itself. Was her act justified or has she become the monster that the original Lilith was accused of being?
When the FBI draws closer, and Lydan starts to display odd, terrifying behavior, Elisabeth plots to avoid capture and keep her son safe, fearing she’ll never escape what she’s done without losing her son forever.
Written with Rickstad’s singular command of language, human insight, and unnerving suspense, Lilith is a tale of our times. Tragic and profound, it echoes in the mind and lingers in the blood.
1 pages, MP3 CD
First published March 19, 2024
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About the author
Eric Rickstad
14 books1,053 followersEric Rickstad is a New York Times and International bestselling novelist.
His latest novel, LILITH, will be published on March 19, 2024.
His previous novel, I AM NOT WHO YOU THINK I AM, was a New York Times Thriller of the Year.
He also wrote WHAT REMAINS OF HER, REAP, and The Canaan Crime Series — LIE IN WAIT, THE SILENT GIRLS, and THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS— which has sold more than a half million copies worldwide.
He lives in Vermont.
His latest novel, LILITH, will be published on March 19, 2024.
His previous novel, I AM NOT WHO YOU THINK I AM, was a New York Times Thriller of the Year.
He also wrote WHAT REMAINS OF HER, REAP, and The Canaan Crime Series — LIE IN WAIT, THE SILENT GIRLS, and THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS— which has sold more than a half million copies worldwide.
He lives in Vermont.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 388 reviews
July 28, 2024
Elizabeth’s son, Lydon, doesn’t want to go to school today. He says he has an ‘icky’ feeling and asks his mum if he can please stay at home? She’s sympathetic and would like nothing more than to stay at home with her beloved boy, but he’s not ill, and as a teacher at his school it’s not a request she can sanction. It proves to be a seminal moment. What transpires that day will change everything - on this day, a man with a gun will enter the school.
Elizabeth will survive the events that transpire, but it will change her. Later, she watches the strutting owner of a gun shop announce his intention to run for president, as he also declares that more guns, not less, is the answer to the ongoing succession of mass killings. She knows that someone needs to do something about this idea about this man. Could that somebody be her? Adopting the name Lilith – the moniker attributed to the woman theorised to be the first wife of Adam and supposedly the primordial she-devil – she decides she will concoct and execute a plan of her own.
I recently read Bloodbath Nation, Paul Auster’s reflection on America’s relationship with guns. In this memoir/essay, the esteemed writer says that the country has done nothing to address the problems that arise from this irrational love affair, one that is unique to the United States amongst developed nations. It’s a powerful and totally scary piece, as he talks readers through his own experience with guns and lists details of many mass murders across the country. In his conclusion, he concedes that the current impasse between the anti-gun and pro-gun proclaimers will not be resolved any time soon. This novel picks up a different angle to this phenomenon: that just about every mass killing is born from the actions of a man. So perhaps it’s about time women did something about it.
This is a thrilling told story. It's short but totally absorbing. I raced through it in a few sessions, never quite knowing how events would play out or what fate awaited our anti-hero. The suspense is maintained throughout, right up to a gripping finish. I liked the way it was set out, too, in an unusual way with sometimes only a few words on a page. It definitely worked for me. I’d enjoyed the author’s previous novel I Am Not Who You Think I Am and this story definitely picks Rickstad out as a writer I’ll be looking out for in the future.
My thanks to Blackstone Publishing for providing a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Elizabeth will survive the events that transpire, but it will change her. Later, she watches the strutting owner of a gun shop announce his intention to run for president, as he also declares that more guns, not less, is the answer to the ongoing succession of mass killings. She knows that someone needs to do something about this idea about this man. Could that somebody be her? Adopting the name Lilith – the moniker attributed to the woman theorised to be the first wife of Adam and supposedly the primordial she-devil – she decides she will concoct and execute a plan of her own.
I recently read Bloodbath Nation, Paul Auster’s reflection on America’s relationship with guns. In this memoir/essay, the esteemed writer says that the country has done nothing to address the problems that arise from this irrational love affair, one that is unique to the United States amongst developed nations. It’s a powerful and totally scary piece, as he talks readers through his own experience with guns and lists details of many mass murders across the country. In his conclusion, he concedes that the current impasse between the anti-gun and pro-gun proclaimers will not be resolved any time soon. This novel picks up a different angle to this phenomenon: that just about every mass killing is born from the actions of a man. So perhaps it’s about time women did something about it.
This is a thrilling told story. It's short but totally absorbing. I raced through it in a few sessions, never quite knowing how events would play out or what fate awaited our anti-hero. The suspense is maintained throughout, right up to a gripping finish. I liked the way it was set out, too, in an unusual way with sometimes only a few words on a page. It definitely worked for me. I’d enjoyed the author’s previous novel I Am Not Who You Think I Am and this story definitely picks Rickstad out as a writer I’ll be looking out for in the future.
My thanks to Blackstone Publishing for providing a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2024
4.5⭐️ Following a school shooting in which her son suffers traumatic injuries, single Mom Elisabeth commits an act of violence to show the world just how cowardice men in power are. But when her action leads to a chain reaction, Elisabeth must reckon with what she has done. Was it just? Or is she, herself, just another monster?
The cover of this book had me so intrigued, I wound up reading it in lieu of others I had prioritized (whoops). Incredibly thought-provoking from start to finish, this story felt both quiet and introspective while also feeling loud and action-packed. Seemingly not much happens in this book, and yet at the same time, so much happens. It’s a feat maybe only this author could pull off. The format and style, at times akin to stream of consciousness, combined with Rickstad’s lyrical writing, pack a very powerful punch.
As a mom myself, this book was utterly heartbreaking, and I did struggle at times to get through the more graphic scenes. I think as tough as it was, however, this is a really important read especially as it pertains to an epidemic that remains unaddressed even to this day. It is hard not to put yourself in Elisabeth’s shoes; what would you do in her situation? I found myself repeatedly asking this question with each decision she made; each consequence she faced. This would make a wonderful book club selection.
🎧 I read this book with my ears and cannot imagine a more perfect narrator for it than Brittany Pressley. This is a raw and emotional story and she voiced it to perfection.
Read if you like:
•political thrillers
•thought-provoking books
•emotionally tough reads
•books about the mother/child relationship
•first person, single POV
‼️This book has many big triggers including a school shooting on page. Please research before reading if you are sensitive to these topics.
Thank you Blackstone Publishing for the gifted copy.
The cover of this book had me so intrigued, I wound up reading it in lieu of others I had prioritized (whoops). Incredibly thought-provoking from start to finish, this story felt both quiet and introspective while also feeling loud and action-packed. Seemingly not much happens in this book, and yet at the same time, so much happens. It’s a feat maybe only this author could pull off. The format and style, at times akin to stream of consciousness, combined with Rickstad’s lyrical writing, pack a very powerful punch.
As a mom myself, this book was utterly heartbreaking, and I did struggle at times to get through the more graphic scenes. I think as tough as it was, however, this is a really important read especially as it pertains to an epidemic that remains unaddressed even to this day. It is hard not to put yourself in Elisabeth’s shoes; what would you do in her situation? I found myself repeatedly asking this question with each decision she made; each consequence she faced. This would make a wonderful book club selection.
🎧 I read this book with my ears and cannot imagine a more perfect narrator for it than Brittany Pressley. This is a raw and emotional story and she voiced it to perfection.
Read if you like:
•political thrillers
•thought-provoking books
•emotionally tough reads
•books about the mother/child relationship
•first person, single POV
‼️This book has many big triggers including a school shooting on page. Please research before reading if you are sensitive to these topics.
Thank you Blackstone Publishing for the gifted copy.
May 4, 2024
Lilith takes a deep dive into the lives of those who have been affected by an unthinkable tragedy. I could relate on so many levels with Elisabeth and I couldn’t imagine what I would do if I were in her situation.
The story is gripping, and suspenseful, that left me gasping for breath. But my favorite thing about this timely story is how it makes you think. Not only about how so many mass murders could be prevented but also how an act of violence can completely change our world forever.
I enjoyed reading Lilith but this book will not be for everyone. Lilith is very dark and the subject matter could be highly triggering to a lot of people.
Eric Rickstad is a captivating storyteller. Lilith is a powerful and intelligently written tale that I will not be forgetting anytime soon. I look forward to reading more of Eric Rickstad’s work in the future.
Lilith by Eric Rickstad was published on March 19, 2024, so it’s available now. Many thanks to Blackstone Publishing for the gifted copy!
The story is gripping, and suspenseful, that left me gasping for breath. But my favorite thing about this timely story is how it makes you think. Not only about how so many mass murders could be prevented but also how an act of violence can completely change our world forever.
I enjoyed reading Lilith but this book will not be for everyone. Lilith is very dark and the subject matter could be highly triggering to a lot of people.
Eric Rickstad is a captivating storyteller. Lilith is a powerful and intelligently written tale that I will not be forgetting anytime soon. I look forward to reading more of Eric Rickstad’s work in the future.
Lilith by Eric Rickstad was published on March 19, 2024, so it’s available now. Many thanks to Blackstone Publishing for the gifted copy!
March 7, 2025
Ask yourself this, what would you do if your child was a victim of a school shooting? How would you react if your child was severely injured and your lives would be forever changed?
THIS BOOK IS DEEP! Controversial. Thought-provoking. You will feel every single emotion imaginable.
One day, an elementary school is targeted by a shooter. Elisabeth is one of the school teachers who immediately reacts to get the children to safety. Her son, Lydan, is one of the victims who survive with traumatic injuries.
This story is EVERYTHING! Once I started I couldn’t stop. There are moments of tension so strong that I found myself forgetting to breathe.
This is one of the most intense, riveting and controversial books I’ve ever read. The message is so strong that I will be thinking about this for a very long time. I urge you to read this! Please. Bravo, Rickstad! This will be a favorite of 2025!
Out now
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trigger warnings of shootings and losing a child.
THIS BOOK IS DEEP! Controversial. Thought-provoking. You will feel every single emotion imaginable.
One day, an elementary school is targeted by a shooter. Elisabeth is one of the school teachers who immediately reacts to get the children to safety. Her son, Lydan, is one of the victims who survive with traumatic injuries.
This story is EVERYTHING! Once I started I couldn’t stop. There are moments of tension so strong that I found myself forgetting to breathe.
This is one of the most intense, riveting and controversial books I’ve ever read. The message is so strong that I will be thinking about this for a very long time. I urge you to read this! Please. Bravo, Rickstad! This will be a favorite of 2025!
Out now
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trigger warnings of shootings and losing a child.
May 8, 2025
I thought I was going to like this one better than I did. So I ended up a bit disappointed instead. That's too bad. I had previously read I am not Who You Think I am, and I really liked that one. Was hoping this would be of the same caliber.
Writing was weak for me, as was character development. Story had a lot of potential, but it didn't satisfy my inner rage at the patriarchy that is fueled by misogyny and men's ugly lust for control, power, greed, or inflation of ego (please note I'm not lumping all men in this group - just the ones the comment applies to). It felt like a hot summer day, drinking a lukewarm soda that was stale.
I would've preferred to see Elisabeth face off with the school administration in court while continuing with her vigilantism. I would've preferred to see her first act spark a movement for more women taking back control of their lives instead of just the ones selling T-shirts. The story would've been better if Lydan had taken his time recovering and if the FBI laid out a better case. All in all, too many dropped balls, and too many holes in the story.
Writing was weak for me, as was character development. Story had a lot of potential, but it didn't satisfy my inner rage at the patriarchy that is fueled by misogyny and men's ugly lust for control, power, greed, or inflation of ego (please note I'm not lumping all men in this group - just the ones the comment applies to). It felt like a hot summer day, drinking a lukewarm soda that was stale.
I would've preferred to see Elisabeth face off with the school administration in court while continuing with her vigilantism. I would've preferred to see her first act spark a movement for more women taking back control of their lives instead of just the ones selling T-shirts. The story would've been better if Lydan had taken his time recovering and if the FBI laid out a better case. All in all, too many dropped balls, and too many holes in the story.
February 18, 2024
Powerful, haunting, memorable, and timely!
Lilith is a gritty, moving, frightening tale that takes you into the life of elementary school teacher and single mother Elisabeth Ross who, after a school shooting leaves her son Lydan physically and emotionally changed, damaged and scarred forever, takes it upon herself to retaliate and enact her own style of vengeance on those who turn a blind eye to gun violence and prosper by the sale of these deadly weapons that steal too many innocent lives.
The prose is eloquent and expressive. The characters are vulnerable, troubled, and strong. And the plot is a raw, absorbing tale about life, loss, love, grief, strength, parenthood, hope, survival, violence, injustice, community, unconscionable politics, and fear.
Overall, Lilith makes you think, it makes you feel, and it ultimately resonates long after the final page. It’s a beautifully written, sobering, impactful tale by Rickstad that uses extraordinary character development to weave a combination of an impressive, sad mystery with a heartrending, realistic tale, all steeped in an abundance of preventable tragedies and unimaginable pain that highlights just how blurry the line between right and wrong can truly often be.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Lilith is a gritty, moving, frightening tale that takes you into the life of elementary school teacher and single mother Elisabeth Ross who, after a school shooting leaves her son Lydan physically and emotionally changed, damaged and scarred forever, takes it upon herself to retaliate and enact her own style of vengeance on those who turn a blind eye to gun violence and prosper by the sale of these deadly weapons that steal too many innocent lives.
The prose is eloquent and expressive. The characters are vulnerable, troubled, and strong. And the plot is a raw, absorbing tale about life, loss, love, grief, strength, parenthood, hope, survival, violence, injustice, community, unconscionable politics, and fear.
Overall, Lilith makes you think, it makes you feel, and it ultimately resonates long after the final page. It’s a beautifully written, sobering, impactful tale by Rickstad that uses extraordinary character development to weave a combination of an impressive, sad mystery with a heartrending, realistic tale, all steeped in an abundance of preventable tragedies and unimaginable pain that highlights just how blurry the line between right and wrong can truly often be.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2024
[The sound of children screaming has been removed.]
Beginning to end, this book had me breathless and on the edge of my seat. What an incredible story of rage through the lens of the post-pandemic, fear-mongering world of the 24 hour news cycle. I have been a teacher of elementary school students-done the drills, done the trainings, followed the protocols, and most days went to work wondering if today would be our turn on the news. This book is surreal in how factual it is and the first half is incredibly anxiety provoking, taking me right back to my teaching days. The author did an amazing job of capturing the feeling of not only being the victim of a school shooting but the simultaneous rage at the systems responsible for allowing it to happen.
I read in true, genuine horror as the story unfolded and found it hard to put down even after the climax. I felt anger, fear, panic, and most of all- rage. This is one you don't want to miss, and if it doesn't make you angry you're not paying attention.
Thank you to the Blackstone publishing team and Edelweiss for the advanced copy!
Beginning to end, this book had me breathless and on the edge of my seat. What an incredible story of rage through the lens of the post-pandemic, fear-mongering world of the 24 hour news cycle. I have been a teacher of elementary school students-done the drills, done the trainings, followed the protocols, and most days went to work wondering if today would be our turn on the news. This book is surreal in how factual it is and the first half is incredibly anxiety provoking, taking me right back to my teaching days. The author did an amazing job of capturing the feeling of not only being the victim of a school shooting but the simultaneous rage at the systems responsible for allowing it to happen.
I read in true, genuine horror as the story unfolded and found it hard to put down even after the climax. I felt anger, fear, panic, and most of all- rage. This is one you don't want to miss, and if it doesn't make you angry you're not paying attention.
Thank you to the Blackstone publishing team and Edelweiss for the advanced copy!
March 16, 2024
I finished reading Lilith at 1am. I could not put this book down until I turned the last page.
This book. The emotions I experienced while reading were heavy. It packs an extreme gut punch. The writing, entralling. The story, absorbing. If you're searching for a story that evokes deep emotions, this is the one. Be prepared to feel angry and uncomfortable, and you should. It is relevant.
Without a doubt, this will be one of my favourite books of 2024.
My thanks to Blackstone Publishing for this gifted copy!
This book. The emotions I experienced while reading were heavy. It packs an extreme gut punch. The writing, entralling. The story, absorbing. If you're searching for a story that evokes deep emotions, this is the one. Be prepared to feel angry and uncomfortable, and you should. It is relevant.
Without a doubt, this will be one of my favourite books of 2024.
My thanks to Blackstone Publishing for this gifted copy!
March 21, 2024
After seeing so many positive reviews about this one, I was excited to get to it. It's a very relevant book for our times. It's about a single mom and school teacher, Elisabeth , who's son, Lydan is severely injured In a school shooting. She is enraged at men in power! Going by the name Lilith, she sets out to commit an act of violence as revenge against them…and posts a video which goes viral. She's now being sought after by the FBI and must keep her identity hidden if she wants to not lose her son.
This is not a long read, but very gripping to read. Very thought provoking read about how violence can be triggered by rage. This one hits you right in the heart. Definitely a must read!!
Out NOW!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
This is not a long read, but very gripping to read. Very thought provoking read about how violence can be triggered by rage. This one hits you right in the heart. Definitely a must read!!
Out NOW!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
May 4, 2025
this was a book that wanted to tear your entire heart out. i didn’t cry while reading, but i was so so upset reading some of this book. it is very well written, i don’t even care it was a bit unrealistic, i felt such an emotional impact while reading this. check the triggers!! there was a certain plot point that had my jaw dropped tbh
November 4, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ stars
Thought-provoking, fast-paced, and unfortunately timely given the unending rash of school shootings, and the strongly held mixed views on how to address them.
We all know the current cycle: a school shooting is followed by an outcry of pleas for stronger gun control, or a thoughts and prayers response with a push to train and arm teachers. And not much changes. But what if extreme action was taken by a teacher/mother whose son was a victim in the school where she taught? Would it have the desired effect, or escalate things even worse?
I read it all in one day, so it’s definitely a quick read that held my attention. My quibble would be that the female rage came off a bit masculine, like how a man *thinks* a woman would feel/react rather than ringing true.
The audiobook narrator, Brittany Pressley, is one of my favorites. She has a “Julia Whelan” quality to her voice, and gives just as good of a delivery.
Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Thought-provoking, fast-paced, and unfortunately timely given the unending rash of school shootings, and the strongly held mixed views on how to address them.
We all know the current cycle: a school shooting is followed by an outcry of pleas for stronger gun control, or a thoughts and prayers response with a push to train and arm teachers. And not much changes. But what if extreme action was taken by a teacher/mother whose son was a victim in the school where she taught? Would it have the desired effect, or escalate things even worse?
I read it all in one day, so it’s definitely a quick read that held my attention. My quibble would be that the female rage came off a bit masculine, like how a man *thinks* a woman would feel/react rather than ringing true.
The audiobook narrator, Brittany Pressley, is one of my favorites. She has a “Julia Whelan” quality to her voice, and gives just as good of a delivery.
Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
January 15, 2024
Lilith is a compulsively readable novel about a mother who has been pushed to the edge because of a mass shooting at the school she teaches in. The narrator, Elisabeth, is a thirty something single mother of Lydan, a seven year old boy. Early on in the novel, a shooter targets their elementary school, leaving many children dead, injured, and/or traumatized. Lydan is grievously injured, but survives due to his mother's bravery.
Understandably, Elisabeth, becomes enraged by what happened at her school and continues to happen every week in the United States. She keeps seeing a gun enthusiast, Clay Akers, on the news, proudly proclaiming that the answer to gun violence is more guns. The writing style was a bit clunky and old fashioned for my tastes, but I was so enthralled in what might happen. Elisabeth is determined to quiet the voices of narcissistic, violent, foolish men like Akers.
This book is very thought-provoking and Elisabeth ponders what we're doing and why things have become so bad in the US. We express our opinions online, but to what end? Does anything actually change? How can we protect our children when mass shootings are so prevalent? Are school administrators helping or hurting when it comes to violence? Children are traumatized by drills and safety protocols may put children in the crossfire. Overall, a fascinating read about violence and how hard we can be pushed by it.
Thank you Blacstone Publishing and NetGalley for providing this ARC. All thoughts are my own.
Understandably, Elisabeth, becomes enraged by what happened at her school and continues to happen every week in the United States. She keeps seeing a gun enthusiast, Clay Akers, on the news, proudly proclaiming that the answer to gun violence is more guns. The writing style was a bit clunky and old fashioned for my tastes, but I was so enthralled in what might happen. Elisabeth is determined to quiet the voices of narcissistic, violent, foolish men like Akers.
This book is very thought-provoking and Elisabeth ponders what we're doing and why things have become so bad in the US. We express our opinions online, but to what end? Does anything actually change? How can we protect our children when mass shootings are so prevalent? Are school administrators helping or hurting when it comes to violence? Children are traumatized by drills and safety protocols may put children in the crossfire. Overall, a fascinating read about violence and how hard we can be pushed by it.
Thank you Blacstone Publishing and NetGalley for providing this ARC. All thoughts are my own.
May 1, 2024
Wow, this book is intense. There were times while I listened that I was holding my breath. This book made me so angry, made me cry and made me think . The narration from Brittany Presley was superb as always. She really has a way of drawing you in and bringing the characters to life through her storytelling. I will listen to anything that she reads. This was my first book by this author but will not be my last.
I am sure that you have seen this one around Bookstagram quite a bit. For a short book it certainly packs a punch. This is the 3rd book that I have read in recent months that deal with school shootings. They are always so shocking. It does make me feel lucky to live in a country that has really strict gun laws. After a mass shooting at a tourist attraction in Tasmania, we have not had another gun related incident in over 2 decades, maybe 3.
I could relate to Elisabeth, the mother in this story. She would do anything to protect her child and what mother wouldn’t. The way she was treated after her heroic actions was just disgusting. So much anger at the way people talked about the incident, and the way that these men view their right to bear arms.
Highly recommend this book, but as you can appreciate, there will be many trigger warnings for people.
Thanks so much Blackstone Publishing Audio for my copy of this audiobook to listen to.
I am sure that you have seen this one around Bookstagram quite a bit. For a short book it certainly packs a punch. This is the 3rd book that I have read in recent months that deal with school shootings. They are always so shocking. It does make me feel lucky to live in a country that has really strict gun laws. After a mass shooting at a tourist attraction in Tasmania, we have not had another gun related incident in over 2 decades, maybe 3.
I could relate to Elisabeth, the mother in this story. She would do anything to protect her child and what mother wouldn’t. The way she was treated after her heroic actions was just disgusting. So much anger at the way people talked about the incident, and the way that these men view their right to bear arms.
Highly recommend this book, but as you can appreciate, there will be many trigger warnings for people.
Thanks so much Blackstone Publishing Audio for my copy of this audiobook to listen to.
June 9, 2024
Frankly, this book is a nihilist mess and I wouldn't recommend it - to women or men - and "the point" is completely lost to me. I cannot rant about this without heavy spoilers, so be forewarned.
As I woman, I don't know what this author wants me to feel - hopeless? Violent? If I were a man, I certainly wouldn't know what the author wants me to feel, which is made even weirder by the fact the author is male himself. All in all, Lilith tries its best to masquerade itself as the next Handmaid's Tale or Gone Girl, but instead comes off as an edge-lord disaster about the state of gun laws in America. I'm no fan of guns, but this book isn't the answer this country is looking for.
As I woman, I don't know what this author wants me to feel - hopeless? Violent? If I were a man, I certainly wouldn't know what the author wants me to feel, which is made even weirder by the fact the author is male himself. All in all, Lilith tries its best to masquerade itself as the next Handmaid's Tale or Gone Girl, but instead comes off as an edge-lord disaster about the state of gun laws in America. I'm no fan of guns, but this book isn't the answer this country is looking for.
July 11, 2024
Lilith was a #BookstagramMadeMeDoIt and now I am seriously questioning my life choices. Eric Rickstad's Canaan Crime series has been on my TBR for ages and yet I am just now reading this man! The storyline is a really tough one and this definitely isn't going to be for everyone, but I was completely blown away by the lengths Elisabeth would go in more ways than one. She is such a strong, STRONG, female lead and I found her incredibly likable personally. She stood up for herself in the world of men and protocols, and I couldn’t help but admire her. This is a very political and violent read, and yet I couldn’t get enough of it.
The audiobook is narrated by my beloved Brittany Pressley who was so perfect as Elisabeth/Lilith that if this character were real, I would think she was her. Pressley always fully embodies the character(s) she voices, and this was no exception. I was also thrilled with how much suspense was packed into Lilith and the pacing is literally nonstop without any dull moments. This is such a hard hitter for being a whole 275 pages, and I was incredibly happy with how it ended. This is preaching something that most people feel a certain way about, and I am honestly surprised it isn’t more controversial. I was definitely in the target audience, and I loved every minute of this bone-chilling read.
PSA: Shoutout to @bookswithjams (IG) who made me move it up!!
The audiobook is narrated by my beloved Brittany Pressley who was so perfect as Elisabeth/Lilith that if this character were real, I would think she was her. Pressley always fully embodies the character(s) she voices, and this was no exception. I was also thrilled with how much suspense was packed into Lilith and the pacing is literally nonstop without any dull moments. This is such a hard hitter for being a whole 275 pages, and I was incredibly happy with how it ended. This is preaching something that most people feel a certain way about, and I am honestly surprised it isn’t more controversial. I was definitely in the target audience, and I loved every minute of this bone-chilling read.
PSA: Shoutout to @bookswithjams (IG) who made me move it up!!
December 27, 2024
Wow, this book is intense. There were times while I listened that I was holding my breath. This book made me so angry, made me cry and made me think . The narration from Brittany Presley was superb as always. She really has a way of drawing you in and bringing the characters to life through her storytelling. I will listen to anything that she reads. This was my first book by this author but will not be my last.
I am sure that you have seen this one around Bookstagram quite a bit. For a short book it certainly packs a punch. This is the 3rd book that I have read in recent months that deal with school shootings. They are always so shocking. It does make me feel lucky to live in a country that has really strict gun laws. After a mass shooting at a tourist attraction in Tasmania, we have not had another gun related incident in over 2 decades, maybe 3.
I could relate to Elisabeth, the mother in this story. She would do anything to protect her child and what mother wouldn’t. The way she was treated after her heroic actions was just disgusting. So much anger at the way people talked about the incident, and the way that these men view their right to bear arms.
Highly recommend this book, but as you can appreciate, there will be many trigger warnings for people.
Thanks so much Blackstone Publishing Audio for my copy of this audiobook to listen to.
I am sure that you have seen this one around Bookstagram quite a bit. For a short book it certainly packs a punch. This is the 3rd book that I have read in recent months that deal with school shootings. They are always so shocking. It does make me feel lucky to live in a country that has really strict gun laws. After a mass shooting at a tourist attraction in Tasmania, we have not had another gun related incident in over 2 decades, maybe 3.
I could relate to Elisabeth, the mother in this story. She would do anything to protect her child and what mother wouldn’t. The way she was treated after her heroic actions was just disgusting. So much anger at the way people talked about the incident, and the way that these men view their right to bear arms.
Highly recommend this book, but as you can appreciate, there will be many trigger warnings for people.
Thanks so much Blackstone Publishing Audio for my copy of this audiobook to listen to.
January 11, 2025
“Lilith”, by Eric Rickstad
2.5 stars ⭐️⭐️✨
This was my first book by this author.
This one is thought provoking as it relates to owing guns.
I was eager to read this book, which started very well, but the story became very unbelievable.
I don’t think that the development was well planned. It felt incomplete and rushed (and having pages with a single word or a single paragraph of 3 or 4 lines increased that feeling - although I understood the reason for using such tactic).
For a thriller, this one didn’t deliver. It was quite boring.
It would have worked if at end the protagonist had wake up from a coma. Yes. It is that unrealistic. And, I almost forgot, preachy.
Hardcover (Blackstone Publishing): 245 pages
e-book (Kobo): 245 pages (default), 68k words
2.5 stars ⭐️⭐️✨
This was my first book by this author.
This one is thought provoking as it relates to owing guns.
I was eager to read this book, which started very well, but the story became very unbelievable.
I don’t think that the development was well planned. It felt incomplete and rushed (and having pages with a single word or a single paragraph of 3 or 4 lines increased that feeling - although I understood the reason for using such tactic).
For a thriller, this one didn’t deliver. It was quite boring.
It would have worked if at end the protagonist had wake up from a coma. Yes. It is that unrealistic. And, I almost forgot, preachy.
Hardcover (Blackstone Publishing): 245 pages
e-book (Kobo): 245 pages (default), 68k words
March 24, 2024
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing for the advanced copy to review.
I had seen excellent reviews for this one and when the publisher reached out, I immediately said yes I wanted a copy. I also listened via audio and Brittany Pressley narrates which is an experience. I did this all without knowing really what the book was about. There are traumatic events that take place in the very beginning so be aware. I think though you should go in blind to this book, and be prepared to be changed, be prepared to be angry and be prepared to feel things with this book. This is a powerful and phenomenal book that is classified as a thriller, but it is so much more than that. It is an important and timely read.
I will leave it there, as there is nothing more I can say. Lilith will be a top read and it will definitely stay with me for a long time. Please add this if you have not already.
I had seen excellent reviews for this one and when the publisher reached out, I immediately said yes I wanted a copy. I also listened via audio and Brittany Pressley narrates which is an experience. I did this all without knowing really what the book was about. There are traumatic events that take place in the very beginning so be aware. I think though you should go in blind to this book, and be prepared to be changed, be prepared to be angry and be prepared to feel things with this book. This is a powerful and phenomenal book that is classified as a thriller, but it is so much more than that. It is an important and timely read.
I will leave it there, as there is nothing more I can say. Lilith will be a top read and it will definitely stay with me for a long time. Please add this if you have not already.
March 25, 2024
truly a harrowing read, but equally just as important! absolutely beautiful writing as well, i found myself annotating extensively, especially all the very much needed commentary
December 15, 2024
A gut punch of a novel. Elisabeth Ross, an ordinary single mom and elementary school teacher, leads a normal life. Until a school shooting rips it apart. It also leaves her son, Lydan, physically and emotionally broken. While Elisabeth saves her students, she soon finds herself into the crosshairs of a system more interested in protecting “protocol” and gun rights than actual people.
She doesn’t stay a victim for long. Fueled by grief and fury, she takes justice in her hands. Elisabeth makes a choice so shocking it sparks a ripple effect across the nation. Other women join the cause. Acts of rebellion ensue. Meanwhile, Elisabeth has to deal with the consequences of her actions while caring for her wounded son and staying ahead of the authorities.
Rickstad pulls no punches here. It’s an emotionally bleak story that deals with America’s twisted love affair with guns. As a European who grew up in a society with strictly regulated gun rights, I’m probably biased. The last thing I want to see is for unstable/aggressive people to have access to firearms. My bias aside, let’s be real, stats don’t lie. America is a country where children are regularly slaughtered in schools, while politicians shrug and gun companies see dollar signs. Lilith puts that ugly truth under a spotlight, and you can do with that you will (depending on your worldview, I guess).
Elisabeth is a flawed, desperate mother pushed to the brink. Her rage is palpable, her grief gut-wrenching, and her moral conflict makes this story unforgettable. You might not agree with her methods, but you understand (which doesn’t equal support) choices she makes.
Lilith is not an easy read, nor is it meant to be. It also doesn’t offer neat solutions or comforting answers because in a world drowning in guns and bloodshed, there aren’t any. Is it worth the read? Yes, absolutely.
Audiobook narration: good.
She doesn’t stay a victim for long. Fueled by grief and fury, she takes justice in her hands. Elisabeth makes a choice so shocking it sparks a ripple effect across the nation. Other women join the cause. Acts of rebellion ensue. Meanwhile, Elisabeth has to deal with the consequences of her actions while caring for her wounded son and staying ahead of the authorities.
Rickstad pulls no punches here. It’s an emotionally bleak story that deals with America’s twisted love affair with guns. As a European who grew up in a society with strictly regulated gun rights, I’m probably biased. The last thing I want to see is for unstable/aggressive people to have access to firearms. My bias aside, let’s be real, stats don’t lie. America is a country where children are regularly slaughtered in schools, while politicians shrug and gun companies see dollar signs. Lilith puts that ugly truth under a spotlight, and you can do with that you will (depending on your worldview, I guess).
Elisabeth is a flawed, desperate mother pushed to the brink. Her rage is palpable, her grief gut-wrenching, and her moral conflict makes this story unforgettable. You might not agree with her methods, but you understand (which doesn’t equal support) choices she makes.
Lilith is not an easy read, nor is it meant to be. It also doesn’t offer neat solutions or comforting answers because in a world drowning in guns and bloodshed, there aren’t any. Is it worth the read? Yes, absolutely.
Audiobook narration: good.
November 15, 2024
3.75/5
What I liked
- the first half
- female rage
- works great on audiobook (a little claustrophobic & intense and lots of triggers about school shootings)
- discussions about gun violence, vigilante justice, the patriarchy. I think it’s a book that’s perfect for the current political climate in the US (post 2024 election) when lots of people are enraged and feel betrayed by politicians
- this is a great book to read with trusted friends that will certainly stimulate lots of discussions
What didn’t work for me
- the idea behind the book is better than the execution itself imo
- the first half has a lot of unbelievable moments and I def thought the book was going to a different direction. But the author tries to make the ending wrap up too neatly and that really threw me off. The story ended being in an awkward middle where I wanted either the first half to make more sense or the second half to really push the readers into uncomfortable territory
- and maybe I’m just being a narcissist but I had a theory about how the book would end and that didn’t happen and I think my version is better 🤣
What I liked
- the first half
- female rage
- works great on audiobook (a little claustrophobic & intense and lots of triggers about school shootings)
- discussions about gun violence, vigilante justice, the patriarchy. I think it’s a book that’s perfect for the current political climate in the US (post 2024 election) when lots of people are enraged and feel betrayed by politicians
- this is a great book to read with trusted friends that will certainly stimulate lots of discussions
What didn’t work for me
- the idea behind the book is better than the execution itself imo
- the first half has a lot of unbelievable moments and I def thought the book was going to a different direction. But the author tries to make the ending wrap up too neatly and that really threw me off. The story ended being in an awkward middle where I wanted either the first half to make more sense or the second half to really push the readers into uncomfortable territory
- and maybe I’m just being a narcissist but I had a theory about how the book would end and that didn’t happen and I think my version is better 🤣
April 4, 2024
How far will a mother go to get justice for her child? This book is such a page turner. You will get sucked into what a parent must feel after a tragedy and how far they will go to seek revenge. Vigilante justice at its finest. Loved this book. Fast paced and easily consumed in a day.
March 24, 2025
Now THIS is female rage. I support this woman’s wrongs.
May 3, 2024
This is a gutsy examination of one of the most difficult problems of our modern age. It's really thoughtful and well-done.
March 22, 2024
This book shouldn't have been this boring...
January 12, 2025
“Akers and his ilks fight, their war, is not about their right to bear arms. It's about their perceived right to violence. They do nothing about these killers, because they are them, in spirit; they just haven't pulled the trigger yet, or don't dare to themselves. They live vicariously. Let someone else pull it while they sit back and defend them, using their right as a straw man as they cash in. And we, we women, and our children, must sit by and be quiet, must stand back and suffer it, must grin and bear it, over and over and over again and again and again, down through the ages, while these same men do nothing, because they like how things are. They like this world they've created,” (p. 126).
Oof what a story this one was. A must read! It’s tragic, of the times, and a little relatable. Men and their violence - I’m shocked this was written by a man. Though I shouldn’t be. Maybe I’m sexist in that thinking.
A story that digs deep. Explores questions that maybe you’ve thought about too. I had no idea about this Lilith person. But it makes sense to me. Pages 126 through 129 were some of the most deepest shit I’ve ever read.
This is a book I could write an essay for the review. This book demands it. So I’ve decided to keep it short and only have this to say: READ THIS BOOK.
It’ll live in your soul and is a book you’ll think back on many times.
Since reading On the Savage Side I’ve been in a slumpish reading state. I’ve gone through at least 20 books in the past 2 weeks. Thanks for pulling me out of that with this book. Although I’m not sure it’s going to help in the long run. Another book you will never forget.
Oof what a story this one was. A must read! It’s tragic, of the times, and a little relatable. Men and their violence - I’m shocked this was written by a man. Though I shouldn’t be. Maybe I’m sexist in that thinking.
A story that digs deep. Explores questions that maybe you’ve thought about too. I had no idea about this Lilith person. But it makes sense to me. Pages 126 through 129 were some of the most deepest shit I’ve ever read.
This is a book I could write an essay for the review. This book demands it. So I’ve decided to keep it short and only have this to say: READ THIS BOOK.
It’ll live in your soul and is a book you’ll think back on many times.
Since reading On the Savage Side I’ve been in a slumpish reading state. I’ve gone through at least 20 books in the past 2 weeks. Thanks for pulling me out of that with this book. Although I’m not sure it’s going to help in the long run. Another book you will never forget.
October 1, 2024
A pretty gut-wrenching thriller, although it is better than most other thrillers I've read. (I don't read many thrillers, unless they border on horror or involve something post-apocalyptic). It centers around a school shooting and a teacher who survived it, and who decides to do something about it, extrajudicially. But it's much more than that. If you're squeamish about such things, you might want to pass this up. In my case, there was a shooting at my university, and this definitely brought back some memories of being locked down and going to memorial services. The novel is not too graphic, but it's written in a way that makes it seem graphic in your mind -- rather like We Need to Talk About Kevin, although the stories are totally different. It also takes a very definite political position regarding the Second Amendment, so gun nuts lovers beware.
February 13, 2024
A poetic and existentialist piece of writing that resonates with the current crisis that is ongoing in the United States.This is truly a novel you need to read more than once and sit with to absorb for full depth and intricacies of Rickstad’s writing. Lilith is visceral, violent and thought-provoking.
April 4, 2024
2 1/2 stars rounded up. I honestly did not like reading this one. Its a difficult subject matter and I was surprised to be somewhat bored reading it. I almost DNF'd but since it has such good reviews I pushed through. You may love it - me not so much.
May 25, 2024
Political thriller, school shooter takes retribution for what happens to her and her son. Check check. I typically don’t do politically motivated books but this was great.
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