The Way We Used to Walk

by Megan Engelhardt, Mark Beall

Fifteen years ago, six college housemates accidentally opened a dimensional threshold, unleashing monsters into their world. Charlie was the only one who dared to touch the portal, gaining the secret language to close it - at a terrible cost.

Now Charlie and his estranged friends are worn down by adulthood, battling burnout, divorce, and deep personal demons. When the monsters return, Charlie tries to walk away - until his conscience drags him back. Together, they must confront their past, their losses, and the monsters threatening reality itself.

What happens when the saviors of the world are falling apart at the seams?

Genres: Horror

270 pages, Paperback

Published March 25, 2025

About the author

Megan Engelhardt is a stay at home mom and cryptid enthusiast who lives an hour north of the Sasquatch Triangle of Ohio. Her work has appeared in Asimov's, Daily Science Fiction, Kaleidotrope, The Drabblecast, and others. You can follow her on Bluesky @MadMerryMeg or visit her website at www.madmerrymeg.com.

Reviews

[Fizxwestcott · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly weird tale that masquerades as a nostalgic romp through all the best parts of college life - a romp only slightly marred by the intrusion of unspeakable monsters. These two accomplished authors will chill your bones and warm your heart in turn, and have you laughing, weeping, gasping, and ultimately holding your breath through a breakneck conclusion that satisfies emotionally before you even have a chance to examine the themes and undercurrents of what you just experienced, and what you learned about how to handle all the mundane challenges of life *after* the magic of college friendship!

[Chuck Engelhardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story reflects some things I know about the authors, their time in college together, and the crowd they ran with, so that gave the book a familiar feel for me. What it does not reflect is the fact that this is the authors’ first novel. The writing does not read like an author’s first book and is also so seamless I would not have guessed it was written by two collaborating authors.

I enjoy a good fantasy/sci-fi/horror and found The Way We Used to Walk to be an enjoyable and easy read.

[Ryan Luis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not shocked this story was written by two friends, the friendship aspect of this book was so powerful and wonderful. Overall, the story was strong without getting dragged out, you could actually follow the action, and I fell in love with all of the characters. Loved it!

[Thomas Kerchusky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this heartfelt horror mystery. Pacing was good and it was easy to connect with the characters.

[Lindsey Albright-Amspacher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strong character development meets monsters, energy work, life lessons, and a found family. Quick and easy read that leaves you intrigued and ready for more.