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Sweetest Darkness
A teenage psychic is drawn deep into the honeycomb of an abandoned hotel—and into the cat-and-mouse game of a predatory entity—in a riveting new supernatural horror novel soaked in dread.
Everyone in Gypsum, Texas knows the Hotel Alvarado changes at night—especially Quinn. A teenage clairvoyant descended from a line of witches, he’s been having dreams about it… dreams that call him to its dark, abandoned halls. The hotel is a monument to the town’s more prosperous past, when celebrities flocked to the mineral spas and films were shot in the desert. The Great Depression killed all of that, it killed the Alvarado, and frankly it killed Gypsum, too. Now, when the sun goes down, things no longer living stir deep within its creaking depths.
But the dreams are relentless. When Quinn braves the hotel’s darkness with his best friend June and unrequited love Selena, looking for answers, he gets only one: ghosts aren’t the scariest thing lurking inside the Alvarado (although they’re there, cold and restless and angry).
Everyone in Gypsum, Texas knows the Hotel Alvarado changes at night—especially Quinn. A teenage clairvoyant descended from a line of witches, he’s been having dreams about it… dreams that call him to its dark, abandoned halls. The hotel is a monument to the town’s more prosperous past, when celebrities flocked to the mineral spas and films were shot in the desert. The Great Depression killed all of that, it killed the Alvarado, and frankly it killed Gypsum, too. Now, when the sun goes down, things no longer living stir deep within its creaking depths.
But the dreams are relentless. When Quinn braves the hotel’s darkness with his best friend June and unrequited love Selena, looking for answers, he gets only one: ghosts aren’t the scariest thing lurking inside the Alvarado (although they’re there, cold and restless and angry).
304 pages, Hardcover
First published September 24, 2024
8 people are currently reading
3746 people want to read
About the author
Leslie Lutz
2 books109 followersLeslie Lutz is the author of FRACTURED TIDE (Harper Collins/Blink 2020), which was voted "Best of 2020" by Suspense Magazine in the YA category and was a Junior Library Guild pick. Her new young adult horror novel, SWEETEST DARKNESS (Holiday House) is available September 24, 2024. Her short fiction and poetry have appeared in various journals, Orca Literary Journal, Kaaterskill Basin Literary Journal, Typishly, The Lyric, and Raintown Review.
She lives in Fort Worth, Texas, and when she's not writing, you can find her watching B-horror movies, scuba diving, or taking care of chickens.
Contact Info:
Email: lesliewrites@lesliekarenlutz.com
For rights inquiries, please contact my agent, Amy Bishop, at abishop@dystel.com.
She lives in Fort Worth, Texas, and when she's not writing, you can find her watching B-horror movies, scuba diving, or taking care of chickens.
Contact Info:
Email: lesliewrites@lesliekarenlutz.com
For rights inquiries, please contact my agent, Amy Bishop, at abishop@dystel.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
June 16, 2024
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
Three friends, one dream. What will they find when they follow it? And what will follow them back?
Sweetest Darkness was an intriguing take on what I thought was more of a YA horror. The atmosphere was excellent and very creepy — a mysterious desert town, an abandoned hotel, a hint of magic and mysticism.
It did have more of a YA feel to it, much more subdued and “light” I guess than what I was expecting.
I really enjoyed the characters and Quinn, the hero of the story. Their backgrounds were interesting and rich, the whole town came alive in front of my eyes. The paranormal aspects were a bit disappointing, as in lacking a bit more screen time and more of those creepy spooky feels I was looking for with this read, but it still had a nice flow to it. More of a cozy horror, and if that’s not a thing well, it is now.
The Dark Place and some of the more horror elements reminded me of a mix between the Upside Down from Stranger Things and the Further from Insidious, and with the added mystery of Gypsum’s magical townsfolk and hidden secrets, I really felt sucked into this thrilling plot.
I’m not sure I quite liked the ending, but I still really enjoyed the rest of the ride.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
«From nowhere came the thought that the darkness on the other side wasn’t just creepy or endless. That the darkness was sweet. But not a normal, good kind of sweet. I could almost taste it on my tongue.»
Three friends, one dream. What will they find when they follow it? And what will follow them back?
Sweetest Darkness was an intriguing take on what I thought was more of a YA horror. The atmosphere was excellent and very creepy — a mysterious desert town, an abandoned hotel, a hint of magic and mysticism.
It did have more of a YA feel to it, much more subdued and “light” I guess than what I was expecting.
«But as I stared into the darkness, I really did feel it staring back, and I was tired of being the one to blink first.»
I really enjoyed the characters and Quinn, the hero of the story. Their backgrounds were interesting and rich, the whole town came alive in front of my eyes. The paranormal aspects were a bit disappointing, as in lacking a bit more screen time and more of those creepy spooky feels I was looking for with this read, but it still had a nice flow to it. More of a cozy horror, and if that’s not a thing well, it is now.
“There’s something in the dark with me.”
The Dark Place and some of the more horror elements reminded me of a mix between the Upside Down from Stranger Things and the Further from Insidious, and with the added mystery of Gypsum’s magical townsfolk and hidden secrets, I really felt sucked into this thrilling plot.
I’m not sure I quite liked the ending, but I still really enjoyed the rest of the ride.
This is the D̷a̷r̷k̷ ̷p̷l̷a̷c̷e̷.
I hum it in my little cave.
This is the D̷a̷r̷k̷ ̷p̷l̷a̷c̷e̷.
I sing it.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
October 4, 2024
3.5 🌟
----
Well done spooky tale!
To me this isn't horror... Paranormal suspense maybe? Think that fits 🤔.
It's not fast paced, aside from some bits... after a certain point, I couldn't put this one down. It had it's hooks in my fairly quickly but I took my time with it, drinking it in...
The "monster" doesn't show up for awhile but you feel it's presence all the while... like when you feel someone Osman watching you but not one seems to be there.
How everything ends up being connected is fascinating. Seeing how the web of things was wound around so much of the people and place.... won't say anymore because I'd accidentally spoil some things.
I would say go into this one without knowing too much about it... you'll have more fun in my humble opinion.
Definitely a good one to kick off October with :).
Re-read material? I'd say so.
----
Well done spooky tale!
To me this isn't horror... Paranormal suspense maybe? Think that fits 🤔.
It's not fast paced, aside from some bits... after a certain point, I couldn't put this one down. It had it's hooks in my fairly quickly but I took my time with it, drinking it in...
The "monster" doesn't show up for awhile but you feel it's presence all the while... like when you feel someone Osman watching you but not one seems to be there.
How everything ends up being connected is fascinating. Seeing how the web of things was wound around so much of the people and place.... won't say anymore because I'd accidentally spoil some things.
I would say go into this one without knowing too much about it... you'll have more fun in my humble opinion.
Definitely a good one to kick off October with :).
Re-read material? I'd say so.
September 15, 2024
I truly, genuinely loved this. What a story! Stranger Things meets The Outsider. I read it in less than a day. It’s got wonderful commentary on found family and what it means to love someone. I highly recommend you give this one a shot.
Thank you to Holiday House and NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are mine alone.
Thank you to Holiday House and NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are mine alone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2024
I blurbed this book, so I'll let the author reveal when she's ready. However, I LOVED this book. A million thanks to Leslie Lutz for letting me read an early copy. I HIGHLY recommend this book!
May 24, 2024
Thank you to Holiday House and NetGalley for the digital ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
After having similar reoccurring dreams about a local hotel, three teenagers discover a dark past of their small Texan town and the thing that may just destroy it. The main one of the three being Quinn, who has psychic abilities and seemingly the strongest connection to supernatural incidents at the hotel.
This book is marketed as a horror novel, but I think that may be doing it a disservice. There was not as much horror as I suspected. In fact, the main entity does not show up on page that often, and takes a while to appear. The crux of this book really is the town and people of Gypsum, there’s just a supernatural element to the story. It’s unfortunate, because the monstrous part of the story was the most entertaining.
Speaking of supernatural, reading this gave the vibes of an old episode of the TV show Supernatural, particularly the local haunts in small towns. The mystery element was interesting enough to keep me engaged, the book was enjoyable enough, though there was ultimately something lacking for me.
After having similar reoccurring dreams about a local hotel, three teenagers discover a dark past of their small Texan town and the thing that may just destroy it. The main one of the three being Quinn, who has psychic abilities and seemingly the strongest connection to supernatural incidents at the hotel.
This book is marketed as a horror novel, but I think that may be doing it a disservice. There was not as much horror as I suspected. In fact, the main entity does not show up on page that often, and takes a while to appear. The crux of this book really is the town and people of Gypsum, there’s just a supernatural element to the story. It’s unfortunate, because the monstrous part of the story was the most entertaining.
Speaking of supernatural, reading this gave the vibes of an old episode of the TV show Supernatural, particularly the local haunts in small towns. The mystery element was interesting enough to keep me engaged, the book was enjoyable enough, though there was ultimately something lacking for me.
September 26, 2024
I shamelessly started reading this book because I loved the cover. I didn’t even know the synopsis when I started. This was actually a very good supernatural mystery. I love books set in small towns, and I could feel the claustrophobia while I was reading. Quinn is a likable MC and the end was extremely bittersweet. I was actually a little sad. Glad I got to read this one. One of the only things I didn’t like was how the major death just sort of happened. There was no buildup and it kind of just got swept away. The person was obviously very important to the story but then dying just seemed like a stepping stone for Quinn’s heroic ending. Also, I hate it when there’s an animal in a book everyone just forgets about half way. Quinn made it a point to say he loved Tater but when things got bad he left her in the house and didn’t really mention her again till the end. Also the romance between Quinn and Selena seemed awkward? Like they only liked each other cause they were supposed to. Although it is a little slow here and there, it was a super unique story and I enjoyed it.
November 13, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
This isn't as much of a horror story as I was expecting it to be; the horror is much more left to the imagination, but I didn't find it scary? I think my biggest issue with the book is that it's as if we start in the middle, and then go backwards? The three central characters, in the first chapter, end up at this abandoned hotel they are all having reoccurring dreams of; then they leave and go back to their lives and don't end up back at this hotel for ages and ages, and it just felt pretty disjointed?
I liked the characters, particularly our narrator, Quinn, and you really feel his love for the town they all live in and how much he wants to protect the people - I just never fully connected to the story. I think this definitely will appeal to some readers, it just didn't quite work for me.
This isn't as much of a horror story as I was expecting it to be; the horror is much more left to the imagination, but I didn't find it scary? I think my biggest issue with the book is that it's as if we start in the middle, and then go backwards? The three central characters, in the first chapter, end up at this abandoned hotel they are all having reoccurring dreams of; then they leave and go back to their lives and don't end up back at this hotel for ages and ages, and it just felt pretty disjointed?
I liked the characters, particularly our narrator, Quinn, and you really feel his love for the town they all live in and how much he wants to protect the people - I just never fully connected to the story. I think this definitely will appeal to some readers, it just didn't quite work for me.
September 19, 2024
4.5
Had a chance for being an ARC reader thanks to the publisher and Netgalley and oh boy, where do I start?
This novel is the epitome of “The horrors persist but so do I.” – Just that horrors isn’t a metaphor but a reality in this novel. That you get dragged back to that house in Alvarado over and over again. At some point you don’t even know if you ever escape this place.
The novel does really well with making your skin become goosebumps in seconds and wondering if the things you see are real or not.
A super intricate book. Would pick it up again when I am back in a YA horror book phase because I love haunted places and this one just is top notch.
Had a chance for being an ARC reader thanks to the publisher and Netgalley and oh boy, where do I start?
This novel is the epitome of “The horrors persist but so do I.” – Just that horrors isn’t a metaphor but a reality in this novel. That you get dragged back to that house in Alvarado over and over again. At some point you don’t even know if you ever escape this place.
The novel does really well with making your skin become goosebumps in seconds and wondering if the things you see are real or not.
A super intricate book. Would pick it up again when I am back in a YA horror book phase because I love haunted places and this one just is top notch.
August 26, 2024
Sweetest Darkness is an absolute grab bag of spooky goodness! You like haunted hotels? Teen psychics? Spook lights, ghost hunters, things that go bump in the pitch black tunnels of an abandoned mine? Then you're going to love this. The action in this book popped off from the very start and did NOT let up. I'm trying to keep this vague to avoid spoiling any plot points, but the supernatural elements of the story wove together in interesting ways, making me want to know more even as I was yelling, "noooo don't go in there!" And the descriptions were really evocative, making me feel like I was there with Quinn and Selena and June, whether it was staring out at the West Texas desert or smelling the dust and decay as they picked their way through the abandoned Alvarado hotel. There were tons of horror/adventure elements I love, and they came together in fresh ways that made this book unlike anything else I've read. Definitely recommend!
June 11, 2025
3.5
I don't usually like more of the horror genre, but this was a really fun read. It felt a little bit rushed and I wish some parts at the end were more focused on. Over all though I liked the characters and their development.
I don't usually like more of the horror genre, but this was a really fun read. It felt a little bit rushed and I wish some parts at the end were more focused on. Over all though I liked the characters and their development.
June 9, 2024
Sweetest Darkness is set in a small town, and follows a teenager called Quinn. Quinn is a physic, he can read a persons future, and although his older brother forbids him from doing so, money is tight, so Quinn continues dwelling into peoples minds for quick money. But something is off, Quinn and his two best friends, June and Selena, start having the same dream about the abandoned hotel. Eventually the work up the nerve to go investigate, but what they find in the hotel has the power to destroy the town if they don't find a way to stop it.
I liked this book, the town had a nice vibe and I had no problem connecting with the characters, and though I really enjoyed the plot the ending left me unsatisfied, it didn't really feel like the problem had been fully dealt with, more that they'd found a temporary solution which felt a bit rushed.
I liked this book, the town had a nice vibe and I had no problem connecting with the characters, and though I really enjoyed the plot the ending left me unsatisfied, it didn't really feel like the problem had been fully dealt with, more that they'd found a temporary solution which felt a bit rushed.
February 23, 2025
There is something strange about The Hotel Alvarado in Gypsum, Texas. There are rumors of supernatural events taking place inside and it is to be avoided in the evenings at all costs. However, something seems to be luring Quinn and his friends June and Selena there as they’ve been having dreams about it. Unable to keep themselves from wanting to find answers, the trio wind up – unfortunately - unlocking something dark and sinister that had remained dormant for many years. Leslie Lutz’s intriguing sci-fi story Sweetest Darkness will have you turning pages until you find out what truly lies within the doors of this iconic location and how strong the bonds of friendship can be tested.
The Hotel Alvarado has been abandoned for many years and remains a memorial of sorts to the grander days of the past when celebrities came to town for the mineral spas and films being shot in the desert. Clairvoyant teenager Quinn and his pals June and Selena continue to find themselves drawn to the hotel as they have been having dreams that call them there. Quinn’s brother Ollie arrives with a mysterious safe that he’s found in The Alvardo and upon opening it a supernatural being is released on the town and his sole mission is to consume…anything and everything. To go further into the storyline would give away too much, but Quinn, Ollie and friends find themselves the only ones with the power to put this creature back where it belongs – hidden away forever.
Lutz just fascinates with this page turner. Readers will find themselves quickly invested in Quinn’s gift for reading tea leaves and the accuracy he possesses. Reading along also provides a voyeuristic feel as though you are a fourth friend along for this chilling adventure that becomes a life-or-death mission. Then, it’s the dark being that keeps pages being turned over and over. What is it that continues to push Quinn and his friends toward The Alvarado? When you find out, the tale only becomes more riveting.
Sweetest Darkness is a fascinating sci-fi story that mesmerizes. Readers genuinely become invested and concerned for Quinn, his friends and family and the town of Gypsum. The book starts with what may seem like teenagers just out for an evening adventure, only leading to these youngsters finding themselves in a much darker web from which they may not be able to escape. Fans of supernatural stories, this one is for you.
The Hotel Alvarado has been abandoned for many years and remains a memorial of sorts to the grander days of the past when celebrities came to town for the mineral spas and films being shot in the desert. Clairvoyant teenager Quinn and his pals June and Selena continue to find themselves drawn to the hotel as they have been having dreams that call them there. Quinn’s brother Ollie arrives with a mysterious safe that he’s found in The Alvardo and upon opening it a supernatural being is released on the town and his sole mission is to consume…anything and everything. To go further into the storyline would give away too much, but Quinn, Ollie and friends find themselves the only ones with the power to put this creature back where it belongs – hidden away forever.
Lutz just fascinates with this page turner. Readers will find themselves quickly invested in Quinn’s gift for reading tea leaves and the accuracy he possesses. Reading along also provides a voyeuristic feel as though you are a fourth friend along for this chilling adventure that becomes a life-or-death mission. Then, it’s the dark being that keeps pages being turned over and over. What is it that continues to push Quinn and his friends toward The Alvarado? When you find out, the tale only becomes more riveting.
Sweetest Darkness is a fascinating sci-fi story that mesmerizes. Readers genuinely become invested and concerned for Quinn, his friends and family and the town of Gypsum. The book starts with what may seem like teenagers just out for an evening adventure, only leading to these youngsters finding themselves in a much darker web from which they may not be able to escape. Fans of supernatural stories, this one is for you.
July 29, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Holiday House for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“Sweetest Darkness” by Leslie Lutz follows three friends—Quinn, Selena, and June—who are drawn to an abandoned hotel in their small Texan town, Gypsum, through reoccurring dreams. As they delve into the town's dark past, Quinn's psychic abilities reveal a connection to supernatural incidents at the hotel, leading them to confront a lurking menace that threatens their town. Like with many horror stories, I recommend looking into content warnings before reading, though this book is more of a suspense than a horror. It’s pretty light on the horror elements, creating a "cozy horror" feel, which I actually really enjoyed.
The atmosphere is brilliantly creepy, with a mysterious desert town and an eerie, abandoned hotel. There is definitely more of a focus on the supernatural and suspense, and the setting really allowed for those moments of suspense and dread to have an effect on the reader. The setting of Gypsum feels almost like a character itself. Lutz makes the town come alive, immersing you in its mysticism and hidden secrets. I think the setting was my favorite part of the book.
The characters are richly developed, with Quinn standing out as the hero with psychic abilities. His connection to the supernatural adds depth to the story while Selena and June are equally engaging, and Ollie’s complexity adds another layer of intrigue. I really liked Kit as a character and wished Kit was more prominent throughout the book. The book really captures the essence of teenage angst and wonder, making it relatable for YA readers. I would actually recommend this book to younger YA readers as the horror elements weren’t that prominent. The main supernatural entity takes a while to appear and doesn't dominate the narrative as expected. This might disappoint readers seeking a more traditional horror experience. Nonetheless, the mystery and suspense keep the plot engaging and enjoyable. The story’s resolution, however, feels a bit temporary, and I wanted it to be fleshed out more.
Overall, “Sweetest Darkness” is an excellent introduction to YA horror, offering a perfect balance of suspense and supernatural elements. While it may not fully satisfy hardcore horror fans, its intriguing plot, well-developed characters, and immersive setting make it a thrilling read.
“Sweetest Darkness” by Leslie Lutz follows three friends—Quinn, Selena, and June—who are drawn to an abandoned hotel in their small Texan town, Gypsum, through reoccurring dreams. As they delve into the town's dark past, Quinn's psychic abilities reveal a connection to supernatural incidents at the hotel, leading them to confront a lurking menace that threatens their town. Like with many horror stories, I recommend looking into content warnings before reading, though this book is more of a suspense than a horror. It’s pretty light on the horror elements, creating a "cozy horror" feel, which I actually really enjoyed.
The atmosphere is brilliantly creepy, with a mysterious desert town and an eerie, abandoned hotel. There is definitely more of a focus on the supernatural and suspense, and the setting really allowed for those moments of suspense and dread to have an effect on the reader. The setting of Gypsum feels almost like a character itself. Lutz makes the town come alive, immersing you in its mysticism and hidden secrets. I think the setting was my favorite part of the book.
The characters are richly developed, with Quinn standing out as the hero with psychic abilities. His connection to the supernatural adds depth to the story while Selena and June are equally engaging, and Ollie’s complexity adds another layer of intrigue. I really liked Kit as a character and wished Kit was more prominent throughout the book. The book really captures the essence of teenage angst and wonder, making it relatable for YA readers. I would actually recommend this book to younger YA readers as the horror elements weren’t that prominent. The main supernatural entity takes a while to appear and doesn't dominate the narrative as expected. This might disappoint readers seeking a more traditional horror experience. Nonetheless, the mystery and suspense keep the plot engaging and enjoyable. The story’s resolution, however, feels a bit temporary, and I wanted it to be fleshed out more.
Overall, “Sweetest Darkness” is an excellent introduction to YA horror, offering a perfect balance of suspense and supernatural elements. While it may not fully satisfy hardcore horror fans, its intriguing plot, well-developed characters, and immersive setting make it a thrilling read.
September 19, 2024
Dreams lead to an abandoned hotel as town secrets draw in to create a creepily, delicious tale.
Quinn knows he has clairvoyant tendencies and makes a few extra bucks reading tea leaves next to classes, but the odd and consistent dreams, which call to an abandoned hotel on the edge of town where a famous director died many years before, are not part of his normal. Add that two of his classmates have the same dreams every night, and he has no doubt that something's not right. When the three visit the hotel to figure out what's going on, Quinn discovers more than he bargained for.
This is a slower, more psychological horror than I expected, and it digs its claws deep. The first chapter begins with the three friends as they visit the hotel to figure out why they're plagued by the same dreams. The reasons leading up to this moment as well as their relationships with each other are filled in as short thoughts from Quinn and their conversations. But it's no problem to get enough grip on, at least, Quinn to be drawn in right away. But then, the creepy atmosphere formed from the desert town, an abandoned hotel, and the already whispers of magic are movie worthy. While there are three of them sharing the dreams, this tale concentrates on Quinn. While the hotel and whatever is living inside builds the framework, the plot circles around Quinn, town secrets, his relationships, and hidden truths.
I was expecting a bit more of a traditional, haunted house horror with a huge portion of paranormal...and that's not what this is. Instead, it places the paranormal and other threats of the hotel into the position of a looming darkness, which haunts with tendrils of creepy promises while Quinn deals with relationships, town secrets, and his own ancestorial past. The depth weaves layers to build tension and complexity, little by little. It's not fast-paced action or quick-paced, but takes the time to let the horrible truth behind the secrets grow.
This is a read to sink into and enjoy as the horror aspect seeps in, while characters and emotions fall prey to whatever terror waits at the end. I received an ARC and enjoyed the woven creepiness.
Quinn knows he has clairvoyant tendencies and makes a few extra bucks reading tea leaves next to classes, but the odd and consistent dreams, which call to an abandoned hotel on the edge of town where a famous director died many years before, are not part of his normal. Add that two of his classmates have the same dreams every night, and he has no doubt that something's not right. When the three visit the hotel to figure out what's going on, Quinn discovers more than he bargained for.
This is a slower, more psychological horror than I expected, and it digs its claws deep. The first chapter begins with the three friends as they visit the hotel to figure out why they're plagued by the same dreams. The reasons leading up to this moment as well as their relationships with each other are filled in as short thoughts from Quinn and their conversations. But it's no problem to get enough grip on, at least, Quinn to be drawn in right away. But then, the creepy atmosphere formed from the desert town, an abandoned hotel, and the already whispers of magic are movie worthy. While there are three of them sharing the dreams, this tale concentrates on Quinn. While the hotel and whatever is living inside builds the framework, the plot circles around Quinn, town secrets, his relationships, and hidden truths.
I was expecting a bit more of a traditional, haunted house horror with a huge portion of paranormal...and that's not what this is. Instead, it places the paranormal and other threats of the hotel into the position of a looming darkness, which haunts with tendrils of creepy promises while Quinn deals with relationships, town secrets, and his own ancestorial past. The depth weaves layers to build tension and complexity, little by little. It's not fast-paced action or quick-paced, but takes the time to let the horrible truth behind the secrets grow.
This is a read to sink into and enjoy as the horror aspect seeps in, while characters and emotions fall prey to whatever terror waits at the end. I received an ARC and enjoyed the woven creepiness.
September 29, 2024
On a dark night in Gypsum, Texas a shared recurring dream has drawn teenagers Quinn, Selena, and June to the abandoned Hotel Alvarado in search of answers. Once a stop for the rich and famous, it now draws thrill seekers and ghost hunters and pulses with disturbing energy. While the teens don’t have a clear idea of what they will find, what unfolds is a mystery that has spun generations and links Gypsum to an ancient force that brings destruction to everything it touches. Quinn has been called by something worse—a predatory, inhuman entity that threatens to wipe Gypsum off the map, along with everyone in it. And wrongly—accidentally—he's let it out. It takes the shape of a handsome young man. It walks. It talks. It laughs. It can even make you laugh. But its appetite for death can never be sated. Quinn has always had the power to see the future. Can he find the power to change it?
The author has written a maze of excitement and horror, which speeds up to a breakneck pace then winds down. . The historical plot and journal entries throughout the story are illuminating. The teens try to piece together what is happening and to save the day. The author captures both the magic and angst of life as a teenager, with Quinn being forced to try and solve problems way beyond his ability while at the same time, struggling to hold on to some of his innocence. With his world spiraling out of control, one kiss with Selena can make it all disappear, at least for a while.
The story weaves in a number of supernatural elements that should appeal to fans of the genre. Many characters have psychic or perceptive abilities that initially defy explanation, and the spookiness of the Hotel Alvarado is an immediate draw as a location. The supernatural being that Quinn and his friends encounter effectively builds tension. I was compelled to read the book as I wanted to understand the Hotel Alvarado and the supernatural being.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
The author has written a maze of excitement and horror, which speeds up to a breakneck pace then winds down. . The historical plot and journal entries throughout the story are illuminating. The teens try to piece together what is happening and to save the day. The author captures both the magic and angst of life as a teenager, with Quinn being forced to try and solve problems way beyond his ability while at the same time, struggling to hold on to some of his innocence. With his world spiraling out of control, one kiss with Selena can make it all disappear, at least for a while.
The story weaves in a number of supernatural elements that should appeal to fans of the genre. Many characters have psychic or perceptive abilities that initially defy explanation, and the spookiness of the Hotel Alvarado is an immediate draw as a location. The supernatural being that Quinn and his friends encounter effectively builds tension. I was compelled to read the book as I wanted to understand the Hotel Alvarado and the supernatural being.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
December 16, 2024
I read another book by this author that was an easy five stars for me, so I was thrilled to see her new release on NetGalley and immediately requested it.
There's so much to like about this novel - mysterious desert town, a creepy, abandoned hotel, ghost hunters, colorful town residents, and a teenage psychic. Quinn and his older brother are on their own after their grandmother passed away. Due to financial constraints, they're on the verge of losing the home they inherited. Jobs are scarce in the small town of Gypsum, so Quinn gives rock-climbing lessons to the occasional tourist and tells their futures by reading tea leaves in the cup his grandmother used to predict the future. "Magic" runs in their family, but can also be dangerous. Quinn is a very likeable MC who shoulders more responsibilities and worries than anyone his age should have to deal with. He and his brother have their squabbles, but it's clear they care about each other.
This story oozes atmosphere with its small desert town, memorable residents, and abandoned hotel with an ominous history - it put me in the mind of Stephen King novels. Even the "villain" gave me those vibes. The opening scene with Quinn, Selena, and June nosing around the hotel at night is filled with tension, and the paranormal happenings had me grinning in excitement. The author does a fantastic job at setting the stage, and my eyes happily widened in horror over some of the descriptions - shared creepy dreams, a safe that moves on its own and contains shocking contents, trips to the other side. A lot of unexplained things are happening in the town of Gypsum, and Quinn, June, and Selena discover they're more involved than they ever imagined.
This is categorized as horror/paranormal, but I'd say it's more of a thriller with horror elements - that's just me. Recommended for readers who enjoy a menacing atmosphere, generational secrets, and spine-tingling scenes.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
There's so much to like about this novel - mysterious desert town, a creepy, abandoned hotel, ghost hunters, colorful town residents, and a teenage psychic. Quinn and his older brother are on their own after their grandmother passed away. Due to financial constraints, they're on the verge of losing the home they inherited. Jobs are scarce in the small town of Gypsum, so Quinn gives rock-climbing lessons to the occasional tourist and tells their futures by reading tea leaves in the cup his grandmother used to predict the future. "Magic" runs in their family, but can also be dangerous. Quinn is a very likeable MC who shoulders more responsibilities and worries than anyone his age should have to deal with. He and his brother have their squabbles, but it's clear they care about each other.
This story oozes atmosphere with its small desert town, memorable residents, and abandoned hotel with an ominous history - it put me in the mind of Stephen King novels. Even the "villain" gave me those vibes. The opening scene with Quinn, Selena, and June nosing around the hotel at night is filled with tension, and the paranormal happenings had me grinning in excitement. The author does a fantastic job at setting the stage, and my eyes happily widened in horror over some of the descriptions - shared creepy dreams, a safe that moves on its own and contains shocking contents, trips to the other side. A lot of unexplained things are happening in the town of Gypsum, and Quinn, June, and Selena discover they're more involved than they ever imagined.
This is categorized as horror/paranormal, but I'd say it's more of a thriller with horror elements - that's just me. Recommended for readers who enjoy a menacing atmosphere, generational secrets, and spine-tingling scenes.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 21, 2024
Teenage psychic Quinn O'Brien comes from a long line of folks in desert-town Gypsum, Texas, with similar abilities. With their property headed for auction since they've been unable to pay the bills, Quinn seeks some ways to earn money using his gift even though his brother, Ollie, disapproves. But a trip to the abandoned Alvarado Hotel sets an almost unstoppable force in motion. Quinn keeps hearing voices, seeing visions and being plagued with sets of numbers. A large safe hauled from the hotel holds a secret that has been hidden for decades, and Quinn and his friends June and Selena are destined to play out a scenario that occurred back then. There is lovely description of the desert and a mysterious entity that eats away at the town and the constellations, but parts of this suspenseful horror novel are hard to follow and downright unbelievable. The idea of loving and caring for something more than oneself is woven into the plot and the resolution, making it clear that sometimes people stay because they have no choice. My enjoyment of this one was uneven. Parts of the plot and writing had me hanging on excitedly to see what was going to happen or where this one was going, but others such as Kit's ability to reach across time and distance to set events in motion seemed hard to buy.
September 23, 2024
Sweetest Darkness is a thrilling blend of supernatural suspense! If you enjoy haunted hotels, teen psychics, ghost hunters, and spooky mysteries, this is a must-read. The story kicks off with a slow burn, shifting to a lot of intense action and doesn't let up. Without revealing too much, the supernatural elements are woven together in captivating ways, leaving you both curious and anxious for the characters.
The eerie West Texas desert and the abandoned Alvarado hotel make for a vivid setting, almost like characters themselves. The author brings the town of Gypsum to life, and the atmosphere is steeped in mystery and suspense.
The plot follows three teens—Quinn, Selena, and June—drawn to a crumbling hotel through shared dreams. Quinn's psychic powers and the town’s dark secrets create a tension that builds throughout the novel. While it's not full of traditional horror elements, the book’s focus on suspense gives it a “cozy horror” vibe that’s perfect for younger YA readers.
The characters are well-developed, with Quinn’s psychic abilities taking center stage. His relationship with his friends, his brother Ollie, town mysteries, and hidden truths create an engaging narrative. Though the supernatural threat isn't as prominent as expected, the depth and slow-burn tension keep the story gripping.
The eerie West Texas desert and the abandoned Alvarado hotel make for a vivid setting, almost like characters themselves. The author brings the town of Gypsum to life, and the atmosphere is steeped in mystery and suspense.
The plot follows three teens—Quinn, Selena, and June—drawn to a crumbling hotel through shared dreams. Quinn's psychic powers and the town’s dark secrets create a tension that builds throughout the novel. While it's not full of traditional horror elements, the book’s focus on suspense gives it a “cozy horror” vibe that’s perfect for younger YA readers.
The characters are well-developed, with Quinn’s psychic abilities taking center stage. His relationship with his friends, his brother Ollie, town mysteries, and hidden truths create an engaging narrative. Though the supernatural threat isn't as prominent as expected, the depth and slow-burn tension keep the story gripping.
April 4, 2025
Sweetest Darkness is the kind of book that makes you remember why you love to read. It features an unusual locale, interesting characters and a terrific twisty story, all set in motion by Leslie Lutz's wonderfully crafted writing. Protagonist Quinn O’Brien and his compatriots come off the page as real people with actual fears, real-world problems and concerns that seem to give them even more weight when the story takes its spooky turns. There are enough supernatural activities going on to keep even the most die-hard Stephen King fan enthused, and yet it feels grounded in the rocks and soil of the fictional setting of Gypsum, Texas (population around 1000, depending on who has been eaten recently.)
Yes, there’s a monster lurking in the dark of the gypsum mines beneath the old hotel, and it’s a wonderfully inventive monster with a paranormal connection to Quinn. The tug of war on that tie pulls the reader from cliffhanger to cliffhanger (literally) and a very satisfying climax. Lutz does a magnificent job of building suspense without feeling that she’s manipulating the reader – the peril seems genuine, and the danger is palatable. So when not everyone makes it, and the hero suffers for his part of the bargain, the reader feels the loss, but by the time that happens, you’ll hope that Lutz has a few more stories about the intriguing inhabitants of Gypsum.
Yes, there’s a monster lurking in the dark of the gypsum mines beneath the old hotel, and it’s a wonderfully inventive monster with a paranormal connection to Quinn. The tug of war on that tie pulls the reader from cliffhanger to cliffhanger (literally) and a very satisfying climax. Lutz does a magnificent job of building suspense without feeling that she’s manipulating the reader – the peril seems genuine, and the danger is palatable. So when not everyone makes it, and the hero suffers for his part of the bargain, the reader feels the loss, but by the time that happens, you’ll hope that Lutz has a few more stories about the intriguing inhabitants of Gypsum.
October 14, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc<3
3.5⭐️
I really enjoyed being thrown into the action immediately with our MC Quinn and his friends/ cousin June and Selena entering the haunted Alvarado Hotel after all having the same dream about it. This story was immediately interesting and continued to build intrigue for most of the book. I enjoyed Quinn’s psychic abilities and seeing how they were expanded upon throughout.
I think where this started to fall a little bit short for me was when we were introduced to a certain character and given a bit of history into the lore of the town. I think the “big bad” in this book was very ambitious and just didn’t seem completely realized to me. The situation becomes all encompassing and I felt like I was missing some important explanation or background of the antagonist which made the final stretch kind of confusing and hard to connect to. Overall I think the author did an amazing job at keeping me interested in figuring out this mystery, but I think the actual mystery could have used a little added details. A fun time nonetheless!
3.5⭐️
I really enjoyed being thrown into the action immediately with our MC Quinn and his friends/ cousin June and Selena entering the haunted Alvarado Hotel after all having the same dream about it. This story was immediately interesting and continued to build intrigue for most of the book. I enjoyed Quinn’s psychic abilities and seeing how they were expanded upon throughout.
I think where this started to fall a little bit short for me was when we were introduced to a certain character and given a bit of history into the lore of the town. I think the “big bad” in this book was very ambitious and just didn’t seem completely realized to me. The situation becomes all encompassing and I felt like I was missing some important explanation or background of the antagonist which made the final stretch kind of confusing and hard to connect to. Overall I think the author did an amazing job at keeping me interested in figuring out this mystery, but I think the actual mystery could have used a little added details. A fun time nonetheless!
December 4, 2024
"Sweetest Darkness" is an exciting, scary read filled with cliffhangers, tension and action. The alternative reality Leslie Lutz creates in the imaginary town of Gypsum, Texas, with her paranormal hero Quinn, brother Ollie and trusted friends Serena and June, reminded me of Phillip Pullman's "Dark Materials" trilogy. This is vastly superior Young Adult fare - engrossing and, at times, terrifying. I read it at a single sitting.
Other things I enjoyed included: the rock-climbing (including on the "Horse Crippler" cliff); the steadily-accelerating pacing, with a leisurely start building and building to an extraordinary climax; and some of the shocking details, such as when the stars start disappearing from the sky, or a sympathetic character is unexpectedly killed (I was reminded of Fuschia's tragic death in "Gormenghast"). The writing is often lyrical - take Quinn's description of the night sky: "It was my first baby blanket, deep black and studded with pinpricks of fire." This is magnificent stuff.
Other things I enjoyed included: the rock-climbing (including on the "Horse Crippler" cliff); the steadily-accelerating pacing, with a leisurely start building and building to an extraordinary climax; and some of the shocking details, such as when the stars start disappearing from the sky, or a sympathetic character is unexpectedly killed (I was reminded of Fuschia's tragic death in "Gormenghast"). The writing is often lyrical - take Quinn's description of the night sky: "It was my first baby blanket, deep black and studded with pinpricks of fire." This is magnificent stuff.
August 7, 2024
Was lucky enough to get my hands on an advanced readers copy of Sweetest Darkness, a thrilling YA horror novel by Leslie Lutz. What a great read. It was literally one I couldn’t put down.
Pushed into action in by reoccurring dreams, Quinn, Selena and June are about to find out why, in the middle of the night, they are all standing outside of an abandoned hotel, an unknown force pulling them toward the doors. What they find, and unleash, has potential to bring everything to an end, unless Quinn can harness his gift of sight into a dark and unknown world. It’s a big ask of a 17 year old high school kid who’s trying to make ends meet while dealing with losing his grandma, all the while adjusting to his brother’s new role as surrogate parent.
The Sweetest Darkness is masterfully written – the plot is great, the characters are unforgettable, and Lutz’s writing, as usual, is simply beautiful.
Pushed into action in by reoccurring dreams, Quinn, Selena and June are about to find out why, in the middle of the night, they are all standing outside of an abandoned hotel, an unknown force pulling them toward the doors. What they find, and unleash, has potential to bring everything to an end, unless Quinn can harness his gift of sight into a dark and unknown world. It’s a big ask of a 17 year old high school kid who’s trying to make ends meet while dealing with losing his grandma, all the while adjusting to his brother’s new role as surrogate parent.
The Sweetest Darkness is masterfully written – the plot is great, the characters are unforgettable, and Lutz’s writing, as usual, is simply beautiful.
April 27, 2025
Thank you so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc of this one in exchange for an honest review!
This book follows a psychic teen and his friends. They live in the desert in a small town that is notorious for its haunted hotel. When all of the friends start having weird dreams about the hotel, they all go there and they find something that will change them and their town forever.
I really enjoyed this book! I think the characters were great and had a lot of depth. All of the different relationships felt real to me.
I enjoyed the horror and creepiness throughout. It reminded me a bit of Stranger Things. It wasn’t super scary but it had some creepy moments. The stakes were also very high so it gives the reader some anxiety throughout.
I think the desert and the setting were described well and I really enjoyed the creepy hotel.
I do wish the ending was wrapped up a bit better. I was left wanting a bit more.
I would still definitely recommend!
This book follows a psychic teen and his friends. They live in the desert in a small town that is notorious for its haunted hotel. When all of the friends start having weird dreams about the hotel, they all go there and they find something that will change them and their town forever.
I really enjoyed this book! I think the characters were great and had a lot of depth. All of the different relationships felt real to me.
I enjoyed the horror and creepiness throughout. It reminded me a bit of Stranger Things. It wasn’t super scary but it had some creepy moments. The stakes were also very high so it gives the reader some anxiety throughout.
I think the desert and the setting were described well and I really enjoyed the creepy hotel.
I do wish the ending was wrapped up a bit better. I was left wanting a bit more.
I would still definitely recommend!
July 18, 2024
Sweetest Darkness is the perfect introduction to YA horror! It’s the perfect amount of suspense with a creepy creature. While I would consider this more suspense than horror, it was still an interesting and enjoyable read!
These characters were easy to feel for, especially Quinn. Selena and June were also incredible. I loved the complexity of Ollie, his character really stood out to me. The plot was intriguing and kept me interested all the way until the last page! I do wish Kit was featured a little more, especially considering he’s very relevant to the plot.
Overall, this was still a chilling and fun read! Thank you NetGalley and Holiday House for the arc! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
These characters were easy to feel for, especially Quinn. Selena and June were also incredible. I loved the complexity of Ollie, his character really stood out to me. The plot was intriguing and kept me interested all the way until the last page! I do wish Kit was featured a little more, especially considering he’s very relevant to the plot.
Overall, this was still a chilling and fun read! Thank you NetGalley and Holiday House for the arc! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 7, 2024
Leslie Lutz is one of my new favorite authors after reading this! This story gave me goosebumps, shivers, laughs, and tired fingers from turning page after page long after I should have set it down. Lutz's pacing is electric. As a Texan, this story taking place in far West Texas filled me with a wonder and awe for my state I've never had; I felt like I was sleeping under the desert stars alongside the characters, thanks to the author's brilliant description. It made me want to go climbing, go exploring, and stay at a historic hotel (but not without ghost gear, of course.) This story felt so original and immersive, I can't recommend it highly enough!
October 20, 2024
This book was a wonderfully exciting read. Readers will think this is just a tale about a haunted hotel in a middle-of-nowhere Texas town, but it's oh so much more than that.
While Quinn is dealing with the grief of losing his Gram, an overbearing older brother adjusting to his new role as guardian, a will-they-won't-they between his childhood best friend, and a pile of bills threatening to take his home, he unknowingly unleashes a terrible entity on his beloved town.
This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers and cosmic horrors. And if you love those things AND rock climbing it's perfect for you.
While Quinn is dealing with the grief of losing his Gram, an overbearing older brother adjusting to his new role as guardian, a will-they-won't-they between his childhood best friend, and a pile of bills threatening to take his home, he unknowingly unleashes a terrible entity on his beloved town.
This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers and cosmic horrors. And if you love those things AND rock climbing it's perfect for you.
October 28, 2024
Beautiful and haunting YA thriller!
Quinn only ever wanted to get out of town and see the world. But when paranormal events threaten to blot out his home of Gypsum, Texas, clairvoyant teen Quinn has no choice but to team up with friends June and Selena to solve the mystery of the abandoned Alvarado hotel…and the locked safe that follows him home.
Leslie’s gorgeous prose and rich imagery will grip you from page one, and the twists and turns will keep you from putting the book down. I loved this spooky read leading up to Halloween and would definitely recommend it for older teenage readers and above.
Quinn only ever wanted to get out of town and see the world. But when paranormal events threaten to blot out his home of Gypsum, Texas, clairvoyant teen Quinn has no choice but to team up with friends June and Selena to solve the mystery of the abandoned Alvarado hotel…and the locked safe that follows him home.
Leslie’s gorgeous prose and rich imagery will grip you from page one, and the twists and turns will keep you from putting the book down. I loved this spooky read leading up to Halloween and would definitely recommend it for older teenage readers and above.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2025
I handed this to an eighth grader before I read it, and she DEVOURED it. She couldn't say enough about how much she enjoyed it.
I liked Lutz's characters and her twisty plot. I loved the backstory. This wasn't as scary as it was creepy, and I felt sadness several times while reading. I loved how the town became a character the further I read. The supernatural elements left me feeling appropriately skeptical, but I allowed myself to get swept up into the mystery. Lutz didn't leave any stones unturned. (I was going to say she didn't leave us hanging, but it was too punny.)
Overall, it's a compelling story that adults can recommend to any kiddo who wants to read it.
I liked Lutz's characters and her twisty plot. I loved the backstory. This wasn't as scary as it was creepy, and I felt sadness several times while reading. I loved how the town became a character the further I read. The supernatural elements left me feeling appropriately skeptical, but I allowed myself to get swept up into the mystery. Lutz didn't leave any stones unturned. (I was going to say she didn't leave us hanging, but it was too punny.)
Overall, it's a compelling story that adults can recommend to any kiddo who wants to read it.
September 8, 2025
The plot was super gripping in a Stranger Things meets The Outsiders way (another review said this, so I’m running with it!) The desert setting and thriller/horror elements were done well.
The ending was a little rushed, and certain aspects of character relationships felt underdeveloped. Also, there were diary entries from characters in the 1930s that used modern slang, taking away part of the immersion 😅 I don’t think men in the 30s would write about “sussing out” an individual. Overall, still a great read!
The ending was a little rushed, and certain aspects of character relationships felt underdeveloped. Also, there were diary entries from characters in the 1930s that used modern slang, taking away part of the immersion 😅 I don’t think men in the 30s would write about “sussing out” an individual. Overall, still a great read!
June 9, 2024
I loved how this book made strong connections to the characters and the town itself. It felt like you were one of the 1021 residents of Gypsum and were able to see the story happening and play out in real time. This is a YA read and would be a great introduction for YA readers who would like to venture into the paranormal/horror genre. The problem I had with this book is that the solution seems very temporary and left me with more questions than answers.
#NetGalley ARC for review
#NetGalley ARC for review
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