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Infestation
Struggling to keep the doors of his church open, a young pastor sells his home and moves his family into an abandoned house across from Chicago's largest cemetery where darkness unfurls its tendrils through the splintered frame of the home. Amidst the decay, ancient whispers breed within the walls, and six year-old Emma’s innocent eyes see a world veiled to others. Her gift, a rare discernment of spirits, reveals a spectral horde as vast as the cemetery itself.
As the distinction between the living and the possessed fades, the family's hope to save their church becomes a desperate battle to save their souls from a home hell-bent on their destruction. Infestation by Mary Romasanta is a chilling tale where the cost of salvation could very well be the soul itself.
As the distinction between the living and the possessed fades, the family's hope to save their church becomes a desperate battle to save their souls from a home hell-bent on their destruction. Infestation by Mary Romasanta is a chilling tale where the cost of salvation could very well be the soul itself.
336 pages, Paperback
Published October 31, 2024
4 people are currently reading
5781 people want to read
About the author
Mary Romasanta
18 books51 followersMary Romasanta, a writer, technologist, and mother of three young boys, embarked on a transformative journey to turn her lifelong passion for storytelling into reality after two decades in the corporate world. Known for her fearless approach to genre, she blends psychological thrillers, science fiction, the paranormal, and the supernatural, crafting stories that push boundaries and captivate readers. Her writing delves deep into the darker corners of the human psyche, weaving suspense, mystery, and supernatural intrigue into compelling narratives that leave a lasting impact.
Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, just steps away from the city's largest cemetery, Romasanta grew up immersed in an environment rich with mystique and spiritual curiosity. As the daughter of a pastor and a florist, she found inspiration in both the ethereal and the everyday, fueling her fascination with the unknown. These early influences are reflected in the vivid backdrops and eerie atmospheres of her debut novel, Avīci Sagga, as well as her upcoming works, The Eternal Secret and Infestation.
With a unique blend of genres and an unwavering dedication to exploring cultural and spiritual dimensions, Romasanta invites readers to confront the thin veil between reality and the supernatural. Her stories challenge perceptions, provoke thought, and guide readers into the depths of both terror and transformation.
Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, just steps away from the city's largest cemetery, Romasanta grew up immersed in an environment rich with mystique and spiritual curiosity. As the daughter of a pastor and a florist, she found inspiration in both the ethereal and the everyday, fueling her fascination with the unknown. These early influences are reflected in the vivid backdrops and eerie atmospheres of her debut novel, Avīci Sagga, as well as her upcoming works, The Eternal Secret and Infestation.
With a unique blend of genres and an unwavering dedication to exploring cultural and spiritual dimensions, Romasanta invites readers to confront the thin veil between reality and the supernatural. Her stories challenge perceptions, provoke thought, and guide readers into the depths of both terror and transformation.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 24, 2025
Genre: Paranormal Horror Romance
Mood: Dark, seductive, and just a touch deranged
Pacing: Fast like a rabid bat outta hell
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️/5 (but mostly tension and bloodlust)
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Trigger Warnings: Gore, murder, trauma, blood (like… a lot of it), psychological manipulation, death, captivity.
Imagine True Blood got drunk with 28 Days Later, and their baby got raised by a vampire who just discovered kink. That’s Infestation. Our girl Vienna? She wakes up in a blood-soaked horror flick, suddenly allergic to daylight, thirstier than a single mom at a fireman calendar signing, and surrounded by men who are either trying to kill her, kiss her, or claim her.
The plot sinks its fangs into you and refuses to let go. Vienna is equal parts “what the heck is happening?” and “bite me harder.” And the men? They’re deliciously unhinged. You’ll fall for one, hate the next, and then Google “can fictional vampires file restraining orders?”
This book is a full-course meal of chaos, mystery, blood—and just enough slow-burn heat to make you question your moral compass. It’s not a love triangle. It’s a love minefield. And I, for one, want to be infected.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mood: Dark, seductive, and just a touch deranged
Pacing: Fast like a rabid bat outta hell
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️/5 (but mostly tension and bloodlust)
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Trigger Warnings: Gore, murder, trauma, blood (like… a lot of it), psychological manipulation, death, captivity.
Imagine True Blood got drunk with 28 Days Later, and their baby got raised by a vampire who just discovered kink. That’s Infestation. Our girl Vienna? She wakes up in a blood-soaked horror flick, suddenly allergic to daylight, thirstier than a single mom at a fireman calendar signing, and surrounded by men who are either trying to kill her, kiss her, or claim her.
The plot sinks its fangs into you and refuses to let go. Vienna is equal parts “what the heck is happening?” and “bite me harder.” And the men? They’re deliciously unhinged. You’ll fall for one, hate the next, and then Google “can fictional vampires file restraining orders?”
This book is a full-course meal of chaos, mystery, blood—and just enough slow-burn heat to make you question your moral compass. It’s not a love triangle. It’s a love minefield. And I, for one, want to be infected.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2024
Wow what a great book! It was a page turned and it would make a great movie. No spoilers...
I want to know if what happened to candy happened in real life?
After reading this book I felt like I needed to call a priest and cleanse my house lol. My only nit picking complaint is the over used word malevolent.
Even better that you are a local author and I know the San Fernando well.
I want to know if what happened to candy happened in real life?
After reading this book I felt like I needed to call a priest and cleanse my house lol. My only nit picking complaint is the over used word malevolent.
Even better that you are a local author and I know the San Fernando well.
November 7, 2024
**Book Review: *Infestation* by Mary Romasanta**
Mary Romasanta’s *Infestation* is a haunting blend of supernatural horror and psychological suspense that grips readers from the first page. Set against the eerie backdrop of an abandoned house beside Chicago’s largest cemetery, this story follows a young pastor struggling to keep his church alive, only to find himself and his family ensnared in a battle far darker than he ever imagined. With everything at stake, the family’s hope of reviving their church transforms into a desperate fight for their very souls.
At the story's center is six-year-old Emma, whose rare gift of spirit discernment gives her a harrowing view into the house’s sinister depths. Emma’s perspective and her chilling encounters with the spectral horde bring an intensity to the novel, as the lines between the living and the possessed blur in terrifying ways. Romasanta’s talent shines in her ability to conjure an atmosphere thick with dread, using detailed, eerie descriptions of the decayed house and its malicious history to paint a vivid picture of a home that is as much a predator as it is a place of residence.
*Infestation* is not only a chilling horror novel but also a story about faith, sacrifice, and the cost of salvation. The pastor’s inner conflict, as he struggles between his mission and his family’s safety, adds a profound emotional layer to the story. Romasanta skillfully builds suspense, keeping readers teetering on the edge between hope and despair, making it impossible to predict who—or what—will emerge victorious.
For fans of atmospheric horror that explores the darkness within and around us, *Infestation* is a spellbinding read that will linger long after the last page is turned. It’s a testament to Romasanta’s skill as a storyteller and her deep understanding of how fear and faith can intertwine, even in the most horrifying of settings.
Mary Romasanta’s *Infestation* is a haunting blend of supernatural horror and psychological suspense that grips readers from the first page. Set against the eerie backdrop of an abandoned house beside Chicago’s largest cemetery, this story follows a young pastor struggling to keep his church alive, only to find himself and his family ensnared in a battle far darker than he ever imagined. With everything at stake, the family’s hope of reviving their church transforms into a desperate fight for their very souls.
At the story's center is six-year-old Emma, whose rare gift of spirit discernment gives her a harrowing view into the house’s sinister depths. Emma’s perspective and her chilling encounters with the spectral horde bring an intensity to the novel, as the lines between the living and the possessed blur in terrifying ways. Romasanta’s talent shines in her ability to conjure an atmosphere thick with dread, using detailed, eerie descriptions of the decayed house and its malicious history to paint a vivid picture of a home that is as much a predator as it is a place of residence.
*Infestation* is not only a chilling horror novel but also a story about faith, sacrifice, and the cost of salvation. The pastor’s inner conflict, as he struggles between his mission and his family’s safety, adds a profound emotional layer to the story. Romasanta skillfully builds suspense, keeping readers teetering on the edge between hope and despair, making it impossible to predict who—or what—will emerge victorious.
For fans of atmospheric horror that explores the darkness within and around us, *Infestation* is a spellbinding read that will linger long after the last page is turned. It’s a testament to Romasanta’s skill as a storyteller and her deep understanding of how fear and faith can intertwine, even in the most horrifying of settings.
December 18, 2024
4 stars
I won this book in the Goodreads giveaway and I must say I really enjoyed it! Kept me on the edge of my seat
I won this book in the Goodreads giveaway and I must say I really enjoyed it! Kept me on the edge of my seat
February 8, 2025
Wow, Infestation was such a thrilling ride from start to finish! I was completely captivated by the way Mary Romasanta told this story. The mix of horror, suspense, and deeply spiritual themes made it impossible to put down. What really stood out to me was how Romasanta masterfully wove the concept of the Holy Spirit’s gifts into the narrative. It added such a rich layer of depth to the story and gave the characters, particularly Pastor Emmanuel, a true sense of purpose as they faced the supernatural forces.
The way Romasanta explored Emmanuel’s faith and his connection to the Holy Spirit felt incredibly authentic. You could really feel the internal struggle he went through, balancing his beliefs with the terrifying events that surrounded him. The gifts of the Holy Spirit played such a powerful role, not only in shaping the characters' actions but also in driving the plot forward. It was like a spiritual battle was unfolding in parallel with the physical one.
I also loved how Romasanta didn't just focus on the traditional horror elements—there was this beautiful, underlying message about sacrifice, protection, and the strength of faith. The emotional depth of the story, especially in how Emmanuel and his family faced their fears, made this book more than just a supernatural thriller—it was deeply thought-provoking.
The pacing was perfect, with moments of intense suspense and others that gave me time to reflect on the spiritual themes at play. The atmosphere was tense and eerie, making it a page-turner that kept me hooked until the very end.
Overall, Infestation is not just for fans of horror, but for anyone who appreciates a story that digs into the power of faith, resilience, and the mysterious workings of the Holy Spirit. I can’t recommend it enough!
The way Romasanta explored Emmanuel’s faith and his connection to the Holy Spirit felt incredibly authentic. You could really feel the internal struggle he went through, balancing his beliefs with the terrifying events that surrounded him. The gifts of the Holy Spirit played such a powerful role, not only in shaping the characters' actions but also in driving the plot forward. It was like a spiritual battle was unfolding in parallel with the physical one.
I also loved how Romasanta didn't just focus on the traditional horror elements—there was this beautiful, underlying message about sacrifice, protection, and the strength of faith. The emotional depth of the story, especially in how Emmanuel and his family faced their fears, made this book more than just a supernatural thriller—it was deeply thought-provoking.
The pacing was perfect, with moments of intense suspense and others that gave me time to reflect on the spiritual themes at play. The atmosphere was tense and eerie, making it a page-turner that kept me hooked until the very end.
Overall, Infestation is not just for fans of horror, but for anyone who appreciates a story that digs into the power of faith, resilience, and the mysterious workings of the Holy Spirit. I can’t recommend it enough!
April 10, 2025
A great horror novel!
Infestation is everything a horror novel should be—eerie, emotionally gripping, and disturbingly memorable. Mary Romasanta masterfully weaves a tale of faith, fear, and the unseen forces that lurk just beyond the veil. The story follows a young pastor who, in a last-ditch effort to keep his church alive, unknowingly invites a demonic presence into his family’s life by moving into a decaying house near Chicago’s largest cemetery.
What begins as a noble sacrifice spirals into a chilling descent as six-year-old Emma—innocent, sensitive, and terrifyingly attuned to the spiritual realm—becomes the eyes through which we see the true scope of the infestation. Romasanta doesn’t rely on cheap jump scares; instead, she builds an atmosphere so thick with dread it practically drips off the page. The horror here is psychological, spiritual, and deeply human.
Emma’s gift of discernment is both a blessing and a curse, and the way her visions are described is downright haunting. The line between the living and the damned becomes terrifyingly thin, and the battle for survival feels urgent and raw.
This book explores the price of faith and the fragile boundaries of reality. It’s terrifying not just because of what lurks in the shadows, but because it forces readers to question what we believe—and what we’re willing to sacrifice for it.
Highly recommended for fans of The Exorcist, The Haunting of Hill House, and anyone who enjoys a story where spiritual warfare meets emotional depth. Infestation is an unforgettable descent into darkness—and I couldn’t put it down.
Infestation is everything a horror novel should be—eerie, emotionally gripping, and disturbingly memorable. Mary Romasanta masterfully weaves a tale of faith, fear, and the unseen forces that lurk just beyond the veil. The story follows a young pastor who, in a last-ditch effort to keep his church alive, unknowingly invites a demonic presence into his family’s life by moving into a decaying house near Chicago’s largest cemetery.
What begins as a noble sacrifice spirals into a chilling descent as six-year-old Emma—innocent, sensitive, and terrifyingly attuned to the spiritual realm—becomes the eyes through which we see the true scope of the infestation. Romasanta doesn’t rely on cheap jump scares; instead, she builds an atmosphere so thick with dread it practically drips off the page. The horror here is psychological, spiritual, and deeply human.
Emma’s gift of discernment is both a blessing and a curse, and the way her visions are described is downright haunting. The line between the living and the damned becomes terrifyingly thin, and the battle for survival feels urgent and raw.
This book explores the price of faith and the fragile boundaries of reality. It’s terrifying not just because of what lurks in the shadows, but because it forces readers to question what we believe—and what we’re willing to sacrifice for it.
Highly recommended for fans of The Exorcist, The Haunting of Hill House, and anyone who enjoys a story where spiritual warfare meets emotional depth. Infestation is an unforgettable descent into darkness—and I couldn’t put it down.
March 10, 2025
I don’t usually read horror because, let’s be honest, I like getting out of bed at night without fearing something lurking in the shadows. Strange, considering I’m working on a horror story of my own—now I’m afraid even to go to bed! But Infestation by Mary Romasanta pulled me in, refused to let go, and now I’m questioning every creak and whisper in my house.
This is horror at its finest—slow-burning, psychological, and deeply unsettling. The story follows a pastor, his wife, and their daughter Emma as they move into a long-abandoned house near Chicago’s biggest cemetery (because that’s always a good idea, right?). Emma’s eerie connection to the spirits within makes for a gripping, chilling experience. Still, when the family invites their niece and nephew to stay, the real nightmare begins. The tension builds masterfully, with the haunting feeling of impending doom creeping in like a shadow you can’t quite shake.
What sets Infestation apart is its emotional depth. This isn’t just a haunted house story—it’s about faith, sacrifice, and the horrifying cost of both. Romasanta’s writing is immersive, making you feel every creak in the floorboards and whisper in the dark. By the time I reached the climax, my heart was pounding, and I was practically holding my breath.
If you love atmospheric, intelligent, and absolutely relentless horror, Infestation is a must-read. But be warned: you may never sleep peacefully again. Five stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is horror at its finest—slow-burning, psychological, and deeply unsettling. The story follows a pastor, his wife, and their daughter Emma as they move into a long-abandoned house near Chicago’s biggest cemetery (because that’s always a good idea, right?). Emma’s eerie connection to the spirits within makes for a gripping, chilling experience. Still, when the family invites their niece and nephew to stay, the real nightmare begins. The tension builds masterfully, with the haunting feeling of impending doom creeping in like a shadow you can’t quite shake.
What sets Infestation apart is its emotional depth. This isn’t just a haunted house story—it’s about faith, sacrifice, and the horrifying cost of both. Romasanta’s writing is immersive, making you feel every creak in the floorboards and whisper in the dark. By the time I reached the climax, my heart was pounding, and I was practically holding my breath.
If you love atmospheric, intelligent, and absolutely relentless horror, Infestation is a must-read. But be warned: you may never sleep peacefully again. Five stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
September 20, 2024
Romasanta weaves a chilling narrative that intertwines the supernatural with the deeply personal in her compelling novel. The story follows Pastor Emmanuel Perales and his family as they confront dark forces in their new home—a seemingly innocuous church with a sinister past.
From the outset, Romasanta creates an atmosphere charged with unease. The pacing is expert, starting with a gradual build that immerses readers in the Perales family's world before plunging them into a whirlwind of terror. Her evocative prose captures decay and despair, crafting a setting that feels both haunting and familiar. As supernatural events escalate, the narrative quickens, driving readers toward a heart-pounding climax.
At the story's core is Emmanuel, whose faith is both a strength and a vulnerability. Romasanta skillfully explores his role as a pastor, forcing him to confront not only malevolent spirits but also his own doubts. Emma’s innocence, set against the horrors she witnesses, adds emotional depth. The novel further delves into the cost of salvation, posing profound questions about the nature of sacrifice. A gripping read that keeps the pages turning.
From the outset, Romasanta creates an atmosphere charged with unease. The pacing is expert, starting with a gradual build that immerses readers in the Perales family's world before plunging them into a whirlwind of terror. Her evocative prose captures decay and despair, crafting a setting that feels both haunting and familiar. As supernatural events escalate, the narrative quickens, driving readers toward a heart-pounding climax.
At the story's core is Emmanuel, whose faith is both a strength and a vulnerability. Romasanta skillfully explores his role as a pastor, forcing him to confront not only malevolent spirits but also his own doubts. Emma’s innocence, set against the horrors she witnesses, adds emotional depth. The novel further delves into the cost of salvation, posing profound questions about the nature of sacrifice. A gripping read that keeps the pages turning.
October 23, 2025
This book started out so good. It was incredibly creepy and I had my hopes up that I would really like it based on that. However, it didn't take it long for the creepiness to just completely stop. For the majority of the book nothing happens. I also felt like the author tried to throw too many horror tropes together and none of them were really fleshed out well enough. They all fell flat. The characters are also really inconsistent. They start out seeming to have zero knowledge of what's happening and then toward the end they are suddenly seasoned professionals...I was rather disappointed.
April 8, 2025
This was a strong start to the Infestation series, it had that horror element that I was looking for and was engaged with what was happening. I enjoyed this as a opening chapter and am excited to read more in this universe. The characters had that overall feel that I was wanting and enjoyed the concept. Mary Romasanta wrote this well and was engaged from the first page.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2025
I devoured this book! I couldn't put it down! Infestation is seriously creepy—do not read this at night, y'all. I made that mistake and no joke had to use my cellphone light just to go to the bathroom. Mary Romasanta crushed it with this one. I loved it and I’ll definitely be reading all her books!
May 22, 2025
Haunted house
Emmanuel is a minister. He and his family have just moved into a house that might be haunted. How can he keep them safe? Interesting to see an exorcism from a Protestant point of view instead of Catholic.
Emmanuel is a minister. He and his family have just moved into a house that might be haunted. How can he keep them safe? Interesting to see an exorcism from a Protestant point of view instead of Catholic.
June 21, 2025
The imagery
Please check CW and TW before reading this one. The way Mary Romasanta writes these novels you feel like you are in these scenes with her characters. Three ever edge of your seat sensation of what’s going to happen next had me drawn in.
Please check CW and TW before reading this one. The way Mary Romasanta writes these novels you feel like you are in these scenes with her characters. Three ever edge of your seat sensation of what’s going to happen next had me drawn in.
December 3, 2024
A little too demonic for me.
Thanks to the author for my copy.
Thanks to the author for my copy.
January 22, 2025
Good not great. I don’t know, it just felt like nothing was happening for so long, and then when things did finally happen it felt flat.
April 8, 2025
It was good. Felt like a throw back to horror movies of the 1980s. I really liked the characters and how you got to know them. Can't say I loved the book, but I certainly liked it.
April 9, 2025
Not my usual read
Slow start, but compelling narrative with vivid details of the final battle against darkness once the core story emerged.Would check out more from the author.
Slow start, but compelling narrative with vivid details of the final battle against darkness once the core story emerged.Would check out more from the author.
February 7, 2025
A Goodreads giveaway
Where is this going?
Poltergeist "they're here" or The Sixth Sense "I see dead people?"
Both?
Poltergeist and The Sixth Sense slowly built the tension.
We got to know the characters with hints of BOO!
This book needed a whole lotta that.
This read like an authors first book. We didn't get enough time to get to know the characters. Spin the wheel of anxiety slowly slowly.
The story jumped around too much. Characters jumped in and out of the story. A Ouija board? Original. A bizarre death and an unsatisfying ending.
The power of Christ compels you not to read this.
Where is this going?
Poltergeist "they're here" or The Sixth Sense "I see dead people?"
Both?
Poltergeist and The Sixth Sense slowly built the tension.
We got to know the characters with hints of BOO!
This book needed a whole lotta that.
This read like an authors first book. We didn't get enough time to get to know the characters. Spin the wheel of anxiety slowly slowly.
The story jumped around too much. Characters jumped in and out of the story. A Ouija board? Original. A bizarre death and an unsatisfying ending.
The power of Christ compels you not to read this.
September 10, 2025
Solid 3 in that reading it was fine but not something I’d read again or say I thoroughly enjoyed. Just fine
November 25, 2024
I won this Title in a Goodreads Giveaway. This is a Horror-Thriller that is an excellent read. It's very well written and makes you think about the supernatural realm in detail. It's full of action, it's a mystery of the other realm and how it effects the living. The plot shows how dangerous a haunting can actually be. How it can hurt the living, literally. A pastor and his wife have accepted to live in his wife's sisters property in exchange for handy man work and to remodel the dilapidated house that has stood abandon for at least 40 years or more. The kicker is it is across the street from Chicago's biggest cemetery. Their daughter Emma can see and talk to the spirits in the house. But when the pastor let's his Nephew and Niece come to stay with him, all hell breaks loose, literally. All of their lives are in severe danger and one of them doesn't make it. They find their in a battle with one of the largest demons from Hell!!!
This is not a boring cliche Horror book. This one is different. A murder mystery of a different level. It captures attention from the first page and doesn't let go. This one is a must read. I highly recommend this book.
On a personal note, the supernatural things I've experienced in my life. Now gives me pause and a lot of after thought. The things I've been through are child's play compared to the activity in this book. Kudos to the author an an excellent read. I will be reading her other books in the near future.
This is not a boring cliche Horror book. This one is different. A murder mystery of a different level. It captures attention from the first page and doesn't let go. This one is a must read. I highly recommend this book.
On a personal note, the supernatural things I've experienced in my life. Now gives me pause and a lot of after thought. The things I've been through are child's play compared to the activity in this book. Kudos to the author an an excellent read. I will be reading her other books in the near future.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews