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The Darling Killer
A quiet little town. A twisted mind lurking. Three souls tied together in a brutal killing spree.
Twelve-year-old Eli Wright's vivid imagination is his escape... until his strange neighbor demands he help bury a young couple she killed, or she'll slaughter his family. As a sinister wind whispers secrets and shadows hide terrifying truths, Eli is drawn into a nightmare he may not escape.
Meanwhile, librarian Julie Baker fled to Darling to start over after her mother's notorious death years ago. But the past returns with a vengeance when Julie's aunt dies under mysterious circumstances. Grasping for survival, Julie starts losing her grip on reality as she senses something supernatural and haunting at play in her small town.
Eli and Julie's lives converge, dangerously bound to the unraveling killer and the dark forces that threaten to consume them all. As the trio draw closer to their destiny, will evil seal their bond in blood?
The Darling Killer is a shiver-inducing standalone psychological thriller. If you like haunted protagonists, deadly stakes, and elements of the supernatural, then you'll love E. M. Jones's journey into darkness.
Start reading this psychological thriller today!
Twelve-year-old Eli Wright's vivid imagination is his escape... until his strange neighbor demands he help bury a young couple she killed, or she'll slaughter his family. As a sinister wind whispers secrets and shadows hide terrifying truths, Eli is drawn into a nightmare he may not escape.
Meanwhile, librarian Julie Baker fled to Darling to start over after her mother's notorious death years ago. But the past returns with a vengeance when Julie's aunt dies under mysterious circumstances. Grasping for survival, Julie starts losing her grip on reality as she senses something supernatural and haunting at play in her small town.
Eli and Julie's lives converge, dangerously bound to the unraveling killer and the dark forces that threaten to consume them all. As the trio draw closer to their destiny, will evil seal their bond in blood?
The Darling Killer is a shiver-inducing standalone psychological thriller. If you like haunted protagonists, deadly stakes, and elements of the supernatural, then you'll love E. M. Jones's journey into darkness.
Start reading this psychological thriller today!
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2024
About the author
E. M. Jones
3 books72 followersE. M. Jones writes supernatural thrillers set in the Midwest. His stories explore themes of death, redemption, and trauma. When he's not thinking about ghosts, he's playing football with his sons or wandering bookstores with his wife.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
May 4, 2026
So I’m not sure how I feel about this. The premise and beginning were intriguing, but the more I read, I became bored.
I found the relationship between Greta and Eli entertaining yet creepy. I knew there would be more to their story and I was correct. Especially at the end where Eli is sympathetic towards Greta and is trying to rewrite her past. I also found the backstory between Julie and Greta to be full circle and intriguing.
However, where the book lost my interest was the mysterious wind and shadows. They felt rather out of place for the rest of the story. The whole time it felt like this strange entity or force was being pushed upon the narrative rather than it being an old crazy lady and her murderous tendencies.
I didn’t hate the book but I didn’t like it either. I am rather neutral on the matter honestly.
I found the relationship between Greta and Eli entertaining yet creepy. I knew there would be more to their story and I was correct. Especially at the end where Eli is sympathetic towards Greta and is trying to rewrite her past. I also found the backstory between Julie and Greta to be full circle and intriguing.
However, where the book lost my interest was the mysterious wind and shadows. They felt rather out of place for the rest of the story. The whole time it felt like this strange entity or force was being pushed upon the narrative rather than it being an old crazy lady and her murderous tendencies.
I didn’t hate the book but I didn’t like it either. I am rather neutral on the matter honestly.
June 22, 2026
Crazzyyyy
August 11, 2024
I'm honestly not sure I can manage to write a review worthy of this wonderful book. I was hooked from the very start. The characters and locations are written so beautifully, I felt like I knew them. I felt as though I had been to this town. And everything about the story kept me hooked. I had to know what was about to happen and thought about it when I wasn't reading it. And the twist? Oh my goodness. I truly can't say enough good things about this story. Just know you should read it right away.
July 10, 2025
Almost DNF'D
It started strong, thought it was gonna be a good story about a killer, but then it devolved into this odd supernatural fever dream for no good reason. It was all I could do to get through to the end, but I didn't want to have to count the time I already spent on it as wasted. The end was kinda cool though, I suppose.
It started strong, thought it was gonna be a good story about a killer, but then it devolved into this odd supernatural fever dream for no good reason. It was all I could do to get through to the end, but I didn't want to have to count the time I already spent on it as wasted. The end was kinda cool though, I suppose.
August 22, 2024
WOW. This book was way more than just a serial killer story—it completely hooked me and left me chilled to the bone. The tension never let up, and I couldn’t stop reading, even when I should’ve been asleep, it was always one more chapter, and one more chapter led to one more, and then I FINALLY FINISHED IT!!!
The character development was the best part out of the whole reading experience and I absolutely loved how Jones worked so well in interwining their stories and lives together, bringing together all their deep dark secrets right at the end.
I also loved reading about Darling. Although Jones makes it seem like a town where there isnt much going on, i loved reading about the park, and the LIBRARY, and just knowing about these horrible things that occurred it was a horror story that really delivered all the horror, the thrills, and eerie atmosphere I craved.
A MASSIVE thanks to EM Jones for the ARC—this is a story I'll still be thinking about long after I've read it, and I'll definitely be lining up for my order on Pub Day! 💀
The character development was the best part out of the whole reading experience and I absolutely loved how Jones worked so well in interwining their stories and lives together, bringing together all their deep dark secrets right at the end.
I also loved reading about Darling. Although Jones makes it seem like a town where there isnt much going on, i loved reading about the park, and the LIBRARY, and just knowing about these horrible things that occurred it was a horror story that really delivered all the horror, the thrills, and eerie atmosphere I craved.
A MASSIVE thanks to EM Jones for the ARC—this is a story I'll still be thinking about long after I've read it, and I'll definitely be lining up for my order on Pub Day! 💀
June 18, 2026
Audiobook. 2.5 stars...I had high hopes for this. Glad the narrative between Greta and Julie came full circle. But I was bored
July 2, 2026
I need to file a formal complaint… because The Darling Killer destroyed my sanity 😱 What I thought the book was about was nowhere near what it’s actually about and I’m shook!!!
What always starts as “I’ll read one chapter before bed” usually turns into multiple chapters, but this!! This turned into me sitting at work on lunch at my desk loudly saying …
”…there is absolutely NO F*ing way.” 🤣 For all my coworkers to hear.. yep totally forgot where I was!!
Just when I think I have it all figured out…
Wrong.
Every. Single. Time.
This book is the definition of psychological whiplash. Every chapter cranks the tension higher until you’re convinced your heart is going to beat right out of your chest. The atmosphere is so heavy and unsettling that it feels like something is watching you from the shadows, and just when you think you’ve found solid ground… E.M. Jones yanks it away without mercy!!!
I spent this entire book suspicious of EVERYONE. I trusted no one. I questioned EVERYTHING, and somehow… I was still completely blindsided.
The twists aren’t just surprising they’re the kind that make you stop reading, stare at the wall in my case my computer screen, and replay the last fifty pages in your head because your brain refuses to accept what just happened.
The emotional damage? Immeasurable. The anxiety? Through the roof. My blood pressure? Yepp concerning.
This story doesn’t rely on cheap jump scares. It crawls under your skin, buries itself in your thoughts, and refuses to leave. I’ll probably have nightmares about one character😫 The dread builds so slowly and so perfectly that by the final chapters, I was practically holding my book.
And that ending…EXQUEEZE ME?!
I actually sat there after the final page my boss asking if I’m OK🤣🤣, staring into the void, trying to process the absolute chaos I had just experienced. The kind of ending that leaves you speechless, emotionally wrecked, and immediately searching for someone else who’s read it because THERE IS NO WAY YOU CAN KEEP THOSE FEELINGS TO YOURSELF!!!!
If you’re looking for a thriller that plays mind games, keeps your pulse racing, makes you question every clue, and leaves your jaw somewhere on the floor…
The Darling Killer understood the assignment.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read it.
Cancel your plans.
Buy the book!
Charge your Kindle!
And don’t expect to sleep until you’ve finished… because once this story gets its claws into you, it does. Not. Let. Go.
What always starts as “I’ll read one chapter before bed” usually turns into multiple chapters, but this!! This turned into me sitting at work on lunch at my desk loudly saying …
”…there is absolutely NO F*ing way.” 🤣 For all my coworkers to hear.. yep totally forgot where I was!!
Just when I think I have it all figured out…
Wrong.
Every. Single. Time.
This book is the definition of psychological whiplash. Every chapter cranks the tension higher until you’re convinced your heart is going to beat right out of your chest. The atmosphere is so heavy and unsettling that it feels like something is watching you from the shadows, and just when you think you’ve found solid ground… E.M. Jones yanks it away without mercy!!!
I spent this entire book suspicious of EVERYONE. I trusted no one. I questioned EVERYTHING, and somehow… I was still completely blindsided.
The twists aren’t just surprising they’re the kind that make you stop reading, stare at the wall in my case my computer screen, and replay the last fifty pages in your head because your brain refuses to accept what just happened.
The emotional damage? Immeasurable. The anxiety? Through the roof. My blood pressure? Yepp concerning.
This story doesn’t rely on cheap jump scares. It crawls under your skin, buries itself in your thoughts, and refuses to leave. I’ll probably have nightmares about one character😫 The dread builds so slowly and so perfectly that by the final chapters, I was practically holding my book.
And that ending…EXQUEEZE ME?!
I actually sat there after the final page my boss asking if I’m OK🤣🤣, staring into the void, trying to process the absolute chaos I had just experienced. The kind of ending that leaves you speechless, emotionally wrecked, and immediately searching for someone else who’s read it because THERE IS NO WAY YOU CAN KEEP THOSE FEELINGS TO YOURSELF!!!!
If you’re looking for a thriller that plays mind games, keeps your pulse racing, makes you question every clue, and leaves your jaw somewhere on the floor…
The Darling Killer understood the assignment.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read it.
Cancel your plans.
Buy the book!
Charge your Kindle!
And don’t expect to sleep until you’ve finished… because once this story gets its claws into you, it does. Not. Let. Go.
September 29, 2024
It would be pretty nice outside… if it wasn’t for the wind.
This book is phenomenal. The writing is nothing short of brilliant. E.M jones draws you in from the very first page with a style that’s sharp, evocative, and immersive. The atmospheric tension makes Darling itself feel alive—and hostile. The way the author weaves in subtle details about the environment makes you feel like you’re walking the streets yourself, wind biting at your skin, the shadows growing a little too long.
I was emotionally invested in the characters by page 3. They’re not just pawns in a thriller plot—they feel like real people, with flaws, desires, and fears that make you root for them while you dread what’s coming. Every decision they make feels meaningful, every threat they face is palpable, and you can't help but care about their fate.
The book expertly balances its moments of terror with moments of beauty, and the contrast makes the scary parts hit even harder. It doesn’t rely on cheap tricks or jump scares. Instead, the fear builds gradually, through atmosphere, through character, and through a world that feels increasingly menacing, like something dark and ancient is lurking just out of sight.
For fans of atmospheric horror/thriller, this is a must-read. It will leave you breathless, exhilarated, and maybe a little afraid to turn the lights off at night. Highly recommend!
This book is phenomenal. The writing is nothing short of brilliant. E.M jones draws you in from the very first page with a style that’s sharp, evocative, and immersive. The atmospheric tension makes Darling itself feel alive—and hostile. The way the author weaves in subtle details about the environment makes you feel like you’re walking the streets yourself, wind biting at your skin, the shadows growing a little too long.
I was emotionally invested in the characters by page 3. They’re not just pawns in a thriller plot—they feel like real people, with flaws, desires, and fears that make you root for them while you dread what’s coming. Every decision they make feels meaningful, every threat they face is palpable, and you can't help but care about their fate.
The book expertly balances its moments of terror with moments of beauty, and the contrast makes the scary parts hit even harder. It doesn’t rely on cheap tricks or jump scares. Instead, the fear builds gradually, through atmosphere, through character, and through a world that feels increasingly menacing, like something dark and ancient is lurking just out of sight.
For fans of atmospheric horror/thriller, this is a must-read. It will leave you breathless, exhilarated, and maybe a little afraid to turn the lights off at night. Highly recommend!
May 31, 2026
Wow ! What a ride !
This book was such a crazy experience! I had literally no idea where this book was going until all of the story lines started merging together and even then I was still just along for the wild ride. I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat through this whole book and was deeply engaged and connected to the characters. Julie, Greta, and Eli were all so complex where one minute you think you have them figured out and then BAM we are headed in a different direction. There were times where I had a hard time reading this book at night because it was honestly that spooky ! E.M. Jones is for sure a new upcoming physiological thriller author that you should keep an eye out for. His writing gives Riley Sager mixed with Karen Slaughter vibes in the best possible way. If you are looking for an intense supernatural/ thriller/ murder mystery, this book is for sure for you !
This book was such a crazy experience! I had literally no idea where this book was going until all of the story lines started merging together and even then I was still just along for the wild ride. I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat through this whole book and was deeply engaged and connected to the characters. Julie, Greta, and Eli were all so complex where one minute you think you have them figured out and then BAM we are headed in a different direction. There were times where I had a hard time reading this book at night because it was honestly that spooky ! E.M. Jones is for sure a new upcoming physiological thriller author that you should keep an eye out for. His writing gives Riley Sager mixed with Karen Slaughter vibes in the best possible way. If you are looking for an intense supernatural/ thriller/ murder mystery, this book is for sure for you !
June 27, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
*The Darling's Killer* turned out to be an engaging psychological thriller that kept me invested from beginning to end.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is its characters. They feel believable, each with their own personality and motivations, making it easy to stay connected to the story. The writing is sharp, fast-paced, and doesn't waste much time getting to the point, which I really appreciated.
While the plot twist wasn't completely shocking—I had a feeling about where things were heading—it was still satisfying to see how everything unfolded. The suspense was maintained well throughout, and the author does a good job of keeping the reader curious.
Overall, *The Darling's Killer* is a gripping psychological thriller with well-written characters, a compelling mystery, and a smooth writing style. If you enjoy thrillers that keep you guessing without dragging the story out, this one is definitely worth picking up.
*The Darling's Killer* turned out to be an engaging psychological thriller that kept me invested from beginning to end.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is its characters. They feel believable, each with their own personality and motivations, making it easy to stay connected to the story. The writing is sharp, fast-paced, and doesn't waste much time getting to the point, which I really appreciated.
While the plot twist wasn't completely shocking—I had a feeling about where things were heading—it was still satisfying to see how everything unfolded. The suspense was maintained well throughout, and the author does a good job of keeping the reader curious.
Overall, *The Darling's Killer* is a gripping psychological thriller with well-written characters, a compelling mystery, and a smooth writing style. If you enjoy thrillers that keep you guessing without dragging the story out, this one is definitely worth picking up.
May 11, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. I read a lot of thrillers and murder mysteries, so it takes a lot for a story to feel genuinely different to me, but this one absolutely did. The paranormal elements added an eerie layer to the story without overpowering it or making it feel unrealistic or over the top. It was just enough to enhance the atmosphere while still keeping the mystery and suspense front and center. The mystery itself kept me invested, but it was the overall mood and originality that really made this book memorable for me.
The writing style also felt very unique compared to most thrillers I’ve read. The story unfolded in a way that kept me curious the entire time, and I found myself wanting to keep reading to understand how everything connected.
If you enjoy thrillers but want something that feels fresh and a little outside the typical formula, I’d definitely recommend this one.
The writing style also felt very unique compared to most thrillers I’ve read. The story unfolded in a way that kept me curious the entire time, and I found myself wanting to keep reading to understand how everything connected.
If you enjoy thrillers but want something that feels fresh and a little outside the typical formula, I’d definitely recommend this one.
May 16, 2026
"Sure, there was nothing wrong with the wind, but maybe something hiding in the wind, pretending to be it."
I'm an older horror reader and one that is hard to entertain in this genre because I don't want this new horror stuff! I'm also a voracious reader, my entire life, and can't always find books that hold my attention or really engage me. This book hooked me from Chapter One! It is going to be one of my top reads of the year.
The characters are ones that you have never been introduced to before. They are unique, and they will get into your head and stay there. The story will long stay with you after you turn that last page. With each chapter, you will think there isn't that last twist ... that last turn, but the wind is going to change.
"Never trust the wind!" E.M. Jones
I'm an older horror reader and one that is hard to entertain in this genre because I don't want this new horror stuff! I'm also a voracious reader, my entire life, and can't always find books that hold my attention or really engage me. This book hooked me from Chapter One! It is going to be one of my top reads of the year.
The characters are ones that you have never been introduced to before. They are unique, and they will get into your head and stay there. The story will long stay with you after you turn that last page. With each chapter, you will think there isn't that last twist ... that last turn, but the wind is going to change.
"Never trust the wind!" E.M. Jones
December 5, 2025
This book is a weird yet invigorating read, I must say. I was impressed with Jones’ ability to capture so many storylines together without losing me. It was a bit confusing at first, but once I nailed the characters down I settled in nicely. Something about his writing style pulled me out of a reading slump I’d been in for (literally) months. I’m not usually one for a paranormal thriller, but this one wasn’t so strong on the paranormal that it turned me away. It did get a bit stronger as it went on, which I wasn’t fully expecting, but overall it was a great read! If for nothing else, getting me out of the reading slump warrants the four stars. Well done, E. M.
September 29, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! E.M. Jones did a great job of making me feel torn by caring about a serial killer when morality says I shouldn't. The twists were great, and the storytelling was well done.
I did struggle to get through the first few chapters, but once the story got going, WOW did it get going, and then I couldnt put it down!
I didn't feel like the supernatural elements were overdone or out of place, and the final chapters did a really good job of subtly revealing their purpose and effect on the characters.
I did struggle to get through the first few chapters, but once the story got going, WOW did it get going, and then I couldnt put it down!
I didn't feel like the supernatural elements were overdone or out of place, and the final chapters did a really good job of subtly revealing their purpose and effect on the characters.
February 18, 2026
This one was such a good read! I was hooked from the start. The mystery had me fully invested, and I loved the little supernatural twist woven in. It added just the right amount of edge without taking away from the suspense.
I totally did not expect the ending, which I loved!
I also loved that the setting was in Ohio! I grew up there, and when United Dairy Farmers (UDF) was mentioned, it brought back so many memories. I used to go there all the time, so I loved that little detail!
Definitely excited to read more from this author. Adding the next one to my tbr for sure!
I totally did not expect the ending, which I loved!
I also loved that the setting was in Ohio! I grew up there, and when United Dairy Farmers (UDF) was mentioned, it brought back so many memories. I used to go there all the time, so I loved that little detail!
Definitely excited to read more from this author. Adding the next one to my tbr for sure!
April 1, 2025
Certainly did not feel like a debut novel- I liked the writing style of this author, he explained details in a nice way and I felt like I could really picture what was going on in the story. There was a supernatural aspect to it and I was nervous when it first was introduced because I don’t typically enjoy stories with that in it but I thought this was tastefully done and not overpowering or cheesy.
To make it even better- I know the author! Can’t wait to read his other books coming out.
To make it even better- I know the author! Can’t wait to read his other books coming out.
July 1, 2026
I enjoyed this. It was a very unique storyline. There were a lot of characters so I had to really pay attention. This was actually my second attempt at reading it. I tried a while back and had to abandon it because I just couldn't pay enough attention and found myself confused by what was going on. I enjoyed the full circle moment between Julie and Greta. I am very concerned about Eli and his future however. Hahaha. I would read more by this author.
May 2, 2026
meh, it was okay!
The wind part was kinda odd, couldn’t get into that specific portion of the book. But apart from that it was an okay read!! Didn’t hate it, but wasn’t super into it either. Greta is quite the character and trauma bonding is real. Overall it was okay but didn’t captivate me at any point
The wind part was kinda odd, couldn’t get into that specific portion of the book. But apart from that it was an okay read!! Didn’t hate it, but wasn’t super into it either. Greta is quite the character and trauma bonding is real. Overall it was okay but didn’t captivate me at any point
September 12, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this first release by E.M. Jones. It is so well written, it’s evident he’s a master of his craft. The plot and character development kept me drawn in and wanting to continue reading. I loved the mystery and thrilling details. Very well done. I’ll be reading his next book!
December 16, 2024
I was recommended to read this book by a friend of the author, I will now be waiting on the edge of my seat for every other book to come out. WONDERFULLY written, GRIPPING storyline and characters. New age King energy, and I’m here for it.
May 23, 2025
Very entertaining read and a very imaginative story line. Definitely kept me wanting to read more. The ending wasn’t at all what I was expecting and I’m not sure how I feel about it but in a good way.
July 30, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This book was pretty good. I just didn’t remember that it said in the description it had supernatural elements. Honestly, I think the book could have done without those elements, especially when they didn’t come into play right away.
This book was pretty good. I just didn’t remember that it said in the description it had supernatural elements. Honestly, I think the book could have done without those elements, especially when they didn’t come into play right away.
January 7, 2026
Thriller and horror combined in a well written novel
E.M. Jones has written a masterful thriller with a side of horror. Characters were fleshed out wonderfully, especially Eli. I highly recommend
E.M. Jones has written a masterful thriller with a side of horror. Characters were fleshed out wonderfully, especially Eli. I highly recommend
February 3, 2026
I finished this mostly because I listened to the audiobook, but it didn’t really leave an impression. While the premise had potential, the story didn’t stick with me, and I honestly couldn’t tell you much about it now. It just wasn’t for me.
March 28, 2026
Despite all of the good reviews, I just couldn’t get into this one. It started off strong, but it died down pretty quickly. It just felt badly written with too many POVs. Not enough details, and honestly just.. weird.
May 16, 2026
The start was promising. Once it went all supernatural and whatever was happening with the wind, if I wasn't halfway through I would have DNF'd it. I was ready for it to be over. Read the first half and then listened to the last half just to get through it.
May 26, 2026
This book definitely held my attention! I was constantly wondering what was going to happen next, and there were some surprises along the way. I appreciated the author’s storytelling and creative imagination.
February 24, 2025
Wow!
A page turner. What an imagination! I’ve never read anything like it. A psychological thriller. Not for the faint of heart.
A page turner. What an imagination! I’ve never read anything like it. A psychological thriller. Not for the faint of heart.
March 6, 2025
Great story and great characters! Loved the murder mystery of it all, but also loved the touch of supernatural. Well done! Can’t wait to read more from EM Jones
July 15, 2025
3.75⭐️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews