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Anathema #2
Legacy
Derrick Stockton is in his mid-twenties, approaching three years sober, and working a stable job in Ohio. After surviving the seemingly random horrors of his childhood at the hands of a sinister neighbor, he believes he’s finally moved on.
All that changes when a brutal murder occurs in his home state of West Virginia. His name is written in blood at the crime scene, and the only evidence is a blurry surveillance video offering a glimpse of the killer, one he knows to be long dead.
As the people closest to him are targeted by a mysterious figure, he works with state police to stop the growing body count. With the help of his support group, Derrick must confront the demons of his past to save his life and his sanity.
All that changes when a brutal murder occurs in his home state of West Virginia. His name is written in blood at the crime scene, and the only evidence is a blurry surveillance video offering a glimpse of the killer, one he knows to be long dead.
As the people closest to him are targeted by a mysterious figure, he works with state police to stop the growing body count. With the help of his support group, Derrick must confront the demons of his past to save his life and his sanity.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 17, 2025
183 people are currently reading
816 people want to read
About the author
Nick Roberts
31 books2,339 followersNick Roberts is a native West Virginian and a doctoral graduate of Marshall University. He is an active member of the Horror Writers Association and the Horror Authors Guild. His works include Anathema, The Exorcist's House, It Haunts the Mind & Other Stories, and Mean Spirited. He currently resides in South Carolina with his family and is an advocate for people in recovery from substance use disorder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
November 28, 2025
Mr.Roberts has wowed me once again.
A full review will be up very soon.
A full review will be up very soon.
February 6, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2
A worthy, but unnecessary follow-up to one of my favorite modern horror novels.
The Good…
Many of the same things that made me fall in love with the first book were still present. The characters were believable and winsome. Maren (Daisy) was still terrifying and gruesome. The pace was great, and I flew through it in a couple of sittings.
The Less Good…
There was a lot of rehashing going on here. Set, again, against a backdrop of addiction, it felt like we covered a lot of the same ground, only through the eyes of different characters. I was really hoping for more backstory on Maren to give us additional insight into what shaped her, but we got none of that. While vacuous evil can often feel more terrifying, in this case it made her feel more inconsequential.
The Conclusion…
It’s worth your time. You should go read it. I would just rather see Nick Roberts use his considerable talent exploring new themes, stories and settings.
A worthy, but unnecessary follow-up to one of my favorite modern horror novels.
The Good…
Many of the same things that made me fall in love with the first book were still present. The characters were believable and winsome. Maren (Daisy) was still terrifying and gruesome. The pace was great, and I flew through it in a couple of sittings.
The Less Good…
There was a lot of rehashing going on here. Set, again, against a backdrop of addiction, it felt like we covered a lot of the same ground, only through the eyes of different characters. I was really hoping for more backstory on Maren to give us additional insight into what shaped her, but we got none of that. While vacuous evil can often feel more terrifying, in this case it made her feel more inconsequential.
The Conclusion…
It’s worth your time. You should go read it. I would just rather see Nick Roberts use his considerable talent exploring new themes, stories and settings.
November 20, 2024
I won’t say I’m obsessive, but I’m sure my fiancé wishes I’d stop talking about Nick’s work. I’m not gonna though.
If you have never read a Nick Robert’s book, you’re missing out. As a follow up to Anathema, this was amazing. I’ll actually say that I enjoyed it more. It was darker but somehow with more heart. I’ll also acknowledge that this was beautifully written and I may have (definitely) been shouting “no no no” last night during an extra tense moment when I creeped myself the hell out. Creepy, disgusting, shocking, and amazing.
You hit it out of the park AGAIN!!! Y’all aren’t ready for this, but maybe you should preorder it just in case. Coming January 2025.
If you have never read a Nick Robert’s book, you’re missing out. As a follow up to Anathema, this was amazing. I’ll actually say that I enjoyed it more. It was darker but somehow with more heart. I’ll also acknowledge that this was beautifully written and I may have (definitely) been shouting “no no no” last night during an extra tense moment when I creeped myself the hell out. Creepy, disgusting, shocking, and amazing.
You hit it out of the park AGAIN!!! Y’all aren’t ready for this, but maybe you should preorder it just in case. Coming January 2025.
April 29, 2025
okay so this basically felt like a repeat of anathema. derrick has to confront his childhood demon who’s followed him years later after manipulating and terrorizing him and his parents, just for her to now terrorize and kill off the people around him. same storyline as it was previously, but now there’s a new kid who apparently is also happy to trust a random stranger over their damn mom and family friend. i’m still so lost on how these kids are so eager to please “daisy”, yet immediately snap out of it once her makeup is wiped off and they can see her for who she is. this time around, she was wearing a mask, so you’d think her facade would be even more noticeable, but no. daisy’s wig had to be pulled off for
May to see the actual truth, which is insane to me. based on the descriptions, there’s no way these kids were that much in lalaland where they couldn’t see that something was wrong. also, did none of their parents teach them stranger danger?? like no way you’re down to kill your parent after some random lady in a dress tells you to. absolutely wild. 2.5 stars.
May to see the actual truth, which is insane to me. based on the descriptions, there’s no way these kids were that much in lalaland where they couldn’t see that something was wrong. also, did none of their parents teach them stranger danger?? like no way you’re down to kill your parent after some random lady in a dress tells you to. absolutely wild. 2.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2025
worth the wait
Outstanding!!! I waited patiently for this to be released since I finished the first one over a month ago. It was definitely worth the wait… I love Nick’s writing style and his storytelling keeps you hooked from start to finish.
🫀🫀🫀🫀🫀
Outstanding!!! I waited patiently for this to be released since I finished the first one over a month ago. It was definitely worth the wait… I love Nick’s writing style and his storytelling keeps you hooked from start to finish.
🫀🫀🫀🫀🫀
May 10, 2025
I’ve read several of Nick Robert’s books. I really liked The Exorcist’s House and its prequel this was no exception. Though there was a fair amount of gore and multiple characters killed its conclusion kept hope alive. Conquering one’s demons and fear and accepting one’s choices for the things that influenced those addictions and fears gives it substance. I recommend it. Happy reading.
March 11, 2025
This was slightly disappointing as a follow up to the first book. This just felt like listening to the first book again, honestly.
November 22, 2024
"𝑯𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒊𝒔𝒉 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒂 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌. 𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕'𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒄𝒚 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒇𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒅. 𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝑰 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝑮𝒐𝒅 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒍𝒚 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕; 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝑮𝒐𝒅 𝒆𝒙𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒔 𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒍. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒇 𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒅, 𝒘𝒉𝒚 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒕 𝒖𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝑯𝒆𝒍𝒍?"
ANATHEMA was the first book I ever read by Nick, and his talent was immediately apparent. You'll need to read that book before this one as it's about the unspeakable trauma Derrick Stockton suffered as a child at the hands of his demented neighbor.
Now in his mid-20s, Derrick has three years of sobriety under his belt, he's living in Ohio, and he's got a stable job. But his nightmarish past in West Virginia derails the comfortable life he's made for himself with news of the murder of someone from his past. Derrick's name was written over and over in the victim's blood at the crime scene--does this make him a suspect or a target? When video footage shows a fleeting image of someone he thought was long dead, he knows he has to go back home to face whatever is waiting for him there.
The opening chapter to this book genuinely unnerved me. My breathing was shallow, and I could feel the fear emanating off the pages. After immediately reading the book again as soon as I finished, the fear was still there, but I wanted to know where the visceral emotional response I felt was coming from. As someone who watched my oldest son struggle with addiction for more than a decade before beating it, it clicked. This is a horror story, yes, but it's also (for me, anyway) a metaphor for addiction. No matter how many years pass or how many states away you move from it, it's always tightly coiled, ready to spring. It may hide under the bed, bury itself in the depths of your closet, or creep through your walls at night while you're sleeping. You never slay the dragon once; you must slay it over and over again.
Thank you, Nick, for creating these stories, and thank you for sharing your personal demons and your losses. Thank you for the work you do to help others struggling with this awful disease. And thank you for allowing me early access to this stunning book. ANATHEMA: LEGACY is set to publish January 17, 2025.
ANATHEMA was the first book I ever read by Nick, and his talent was immediately apparent. You'll need to read that book before this one as it's about the unspeakable trauma Derrick Stockton suffered as a child at the hands of his demented neighbor.
Now in his mid-20s, Derrick has three years of sobriety under his belt, he's living in Ohio, and he's got a stable job. But his nightmarish past in West Virginia derails the comfortable life he's made for himself with news of the murder of someone from his past. Derrick's name was written over and over in the victim's blood at the crime scene--does this make him a suspect or a target? When video footage shows a fleeting image of someone he thought was long dead, he knows he has to go back home to face whatever is waiting for him there.
The opening chapter to this book genuinely unnerved me. My breathing was shallow, and I could feel the fear emanating off the pages. After immediately reading the book again as soon as I finished, the fear was still there, but I wanted to know where the visceral emotional response I felt was coming from. As someone who watched my oldest son struggle with addiction for more than a decade before beating it, it clicked. This is a horror story, yes, but it's also (for me, anyway) a metaphor for addiction. No matter how many years pass or how many states away you move from it, it's always tightly coiled, ready to spring. It may hide under the bed, bury itself in the depths of your closet, or creep through your walls at night while you're sleeping. You never slay the dragon once; you must slay it over and over again.
Thank you, Nick, for creating these stories, and thank you for sharing your personal demons and your losses. Thank you for the work you do to help others struggling with this awful disease. And thank you for allowing me early access to this stunning book. ANATHEMA: LEGACY is set to publish January 17, 2025.
November 26, 2024
Alright, I’ll just say it: Nick Roberts is a horror god, a true creative genius, and master at what he does. I've read a lot of books this year, and many of them were absolutely fantastic. None other than Nicks have had me closing my blinds while reading at night. I can honestly say that he has multiple spots in my top 10 reads this year. I recommend his books to everyone and rave about them to anyone who will listen. Now that I’ve got that off my chest, where do I even begin about this book?
Anathema: Legacy is a brilliant example of suspenseful horror. The atmosphere is thick with tension, the plot is meticulously crafted, and the characters are complex and believable with vulnerabilities and strengths that add depth to the narrative. It touches on trauma, addiction, personal growth, and questioning belief in a higher power. With vivid imagery and immersive storytelling, Nick generates an intense ambiance of dread that keeps you captivated and anxious. You’re on the edge of your seat right from the beginning, waiting to witness the horrors that happen next. What's not to love?
Nick dropped the ARC for Anathema: Legacy on us while I was juggling a super busy week, and honestly, it took all of my willpower to set it down when I needed to. I guess I could have waited for a calmer week to devour it in one go like I usually do with his books, but I just couldn't resist diving into this one as soon as possible. I stayed awake until almost 3am when I had to be awake at 6am just to finish it. I was definitely NOT disappointed.
A lot of his stories, including this one, are connected in a way that makes them fun and exciting, but this book is also written so that you can enjoy it without having read his earlier works. That said, you really should check out his other books before this one releases in January of 2025 because you’re missing out on some top-notch storytelling if you skip them.
I want to emphasize that while I read Anathema: Legacy as part of Nicks ARC group, all opinions are my own, and all praise is definitely deserved. This is honestly my top read of the year. Another absolutely incredible book from Nick Roberts! I'd give it 6 stars if I could, but 5 will have to do. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Can't wait to receive the signed copy I pre-ordered for my bookshelf! 🖤
Anathema: Legacy is a brilliant example of suspenseful horror. The atmosphere is thick with tension, the plot is meticulously crafted, and the characters are complex and believable with vulnerabilities and strengths that add depth to the narrative. It touches on trauma, addiction, personal growth, and questioning belief in a higher power. With vivid imagery and immersive storytelling, Nick generates an intense ambiance of dread that keeps you captivated and anxious. You’re on the edge of your seat right from the beginning, waiting to witness the horrors that happen next. What's not to love?
Nick dropped the ARC for Anathema: Legacy on us while I was juggling a super busy week, and honestly, it took all of my willpower to set it down when I needed to. I guess I could have waited for a calmer week to devour it in one go like I usually do with his books, but I just couldn't resist diving into this one as soon as possible. I stayed awake until almost 3am when I had to be awake at 6am just to finish it. I was definitely NOT disappointed.
A lot of his stories, including this one, are connected in a way that makes them fun and exciting, but this book is also written so that you can enjoy it without having read his earlier works. That said, you really should check out his other books before this one releases in January of 2025 because you’re missing out on some top-notch storytelling if you skip them.
I want to emphasize that while I read Anathema: Legacy as part of Nicks ARC group, all opinions are my own, and all praise is definitely deserved. This is honestly my top read of the year. Another absolutely incredible book from Nick Roberts! I'd give it 6 stars if I could, but 5 will have to do. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Can't wait to receive the signed copy I pre-ordered for my bookshelf! 🖤
September 8, 2025
Omg, that "party" at the end was so creepy.
I liked this, just not a big fan of how it all ended..
I liked this, just not a big fan of how it all ended..
December 9, 2024
Just finished Anathema Legacy. Can confirm it was everything I wanted from a follow up.
Anathema has been my favourite by Nick Roberts, and I was concerned that a sequel wouldn't do the original justice. I feared a rehash of the same story or some kind of cliche following to capitalise on the universe he's created. I had nothing to fear because Legacy blew me away.
The story, while retaining some familiarity, hoes its own row. The tension is increased, so too the pace. The stakes are higher, and the scares are dialled all the way up to ten! There was some imagery in this one that really got under my skin. Nobody is safe and Roberts ensures the reader understands this from the outset. There is blood and gore, there's the type of sh1t that's synonymous with Maren - quite literally!
But the best part is the clear improvement in the writing.
I've read almost everything of Nick's and it absolutely thrills me to see a concerted improvement every single time. He's probably one of the best known indie horror authors of the moment and yet, he's not resting on his laurels. Much as it may not seem like it at times, he left his ego at the front door where his craft is concerned. He is striving for excellence each time and it's a testament to how important both his stories and his readers are to him.
📖 Anathema Legacy releases Jan 2025. Preorder it now. You're not gonna want to miss this one.
Anathema has been my favourite by Nick Roberts, and I was concerned that a sequel wouldn't do the original justice. I feared a rehash of the same story or some kind of cliche following to capitalise on the universe he's created. I had nothing to fear because Legacy blew me away.
The story, while retaining some familiarity, hoes its own row. The tension is increased, so too the pace. The stakes are higher, and the scares are dialled all the way up to ten! There was some imagery in this one that really got under my skin. Nobody is safe and Roberts ensures the reader understands this from the outset. There is blood and gore, there's the type of sh1t that's synonymous with Maren - quite literally!
But the best part is the clear improvement in the writing.
I've read almost everything of Nick's and it absolutely thrills me to see a concerted improvement every single time. He's probably one of the best known indie horror authors of the moment and yet, he's not resting on his laurels. Much as it may not seem like it at times, he left his ego at the front door where his craft is concerned. He is striving for excellence each time and it's a testament to how important both his stories and his readers are to him.
📖 Anathema Legacy releases Jan 2025. Preorder it now. You're not gonna want to miss this one.
April 22, 2025
Anathema Legacy dives even deeper into the chaos and fear from the first book, unraveling the dark legacies—both human and supernatural—that leave you gasping for air. It’s darker, deeper, and way more emotional. Trust me, you won’t see the dread coming until it’s too late.
November 21, 2024
Anathema was the first book that I read by Nick Roberts, and I was immediately hooked. As someone who has been in recovery for nine years and is the child of two addicts who never got better, the juxtaposition between the real world horror of addiction and the loss of childhood innocence with the supernatural really drew me in. This book was a beautiful continuation of that theme. I know with all my heart that if a pretty princess had shown up in my closet to take me away, I would have done anything she said.
It wasn’t until reading the acknowledgements of Anathema: Legacy that I learned why this author is so talented at writing that perspective. A lot of authors who have not lived through addiction try to grasp the concept, and it rings false; these books are not that. The character growth in the last chapter alone was incredible.
The believable and well-written characters, wonderful story, and all of the subtleties that tie this universe together made this a ten-star read for me, but Goodreads only lets you do five in this economy. I’ll be seeing Maren in all of the dark shadows I encounter for quite a while. Thank you so much for letting me be a part of the ARC group, and thank you for all of the books you’ve written that have made life a little less dull and a little more terrifying 🖤
Until next time, I’m going to go board up my son’s closet—I've decided we don’t need it anymore.
It wasn’t until reading the acknowledgements of Anathema: Legacy that I learned why this author is so talented at writing that perspective. A lot of authors who have not lived through addiction try to grasp the concept, and it rings false; these books are not that. The character growth in the last chapter alone was incredible.
The believable and well-written characters, wonderful story, and all of the subtleties that tie this universe together made this a ten-star read for me, but Goodreads only lets you do five in this economy. I’ll be seeing Maren in all of the dark shadows I encounter for quite a while. Thank you so much for letting me be a part of the ARC group, and thank you for all of the books you’ve written that have made life a little less dull and a little more terrifying 🖤
Until next time, I’m going to go board up my son’s closet—I've decided we don’t need it anymore.
April 3, 2025
This was so full of dread. You’d think I’d have learned my lesson by now to not get attached or hopeful when reading Nick’s work but nope! This broke my heart in the most vile way possible.
Fantastic read. The author has an art for making you really feel and I am always impressed with how genuinely scary these books are. I didn’t love this one as much because it felt a bit repetitive but I appreciated the epilogue. & the author’s note was amazing.
Fantastic read. The author has an art for making you really feel and I am always impressed with how genuinely scary these books are. I didn’t love this one as much because it felt a bit repetitive but I appreciated the epilogue. & the author’s note was amazing.
January 25, 2025
Derrick Stockton is nearly three years sober and finally stable—until a brutal murder in his home state of West Virginia changes everything. His name is written at the scene, and the killer? Someone he knows to be long dead. As a sinister spree unfolds, Derrick must confront his haunted past to save those he loves—and himself.
You've done it again, Nick. You've one upped your first novel anathema and followed it up with Anathema legacy - a book that had me grinning like a maniac on crack and giving my neighbours the side eye at the same time.
This book was ingenious, dark, and at the same time very human. There was an equal mix of grief, survival, and redemption, and it was an absolute page turner, which i never wanted to end.
I really felt for Poor Derrick Stockton. This guy survived a childhood of nightmares, cleaned up his act, and moved on with his life, only to get dragged right back into the thick of it. Honestly, i felt nothing but stress for him throughout this book, and my anxiety levels went through the roof.
There was that perfect mix of psychological tension, murder-mystery madness, and definitely a few hair-raising encounters, which was exactly what I signed up for, and you bring it EVERYTIME without fail.
Time and time again, you've proven why you're my favourite indie author OF ALL TIME. The characters you write about aren't just fighting monsters. They're also fighting themselves and their inner demons once again, making them so real and very relatable.
So, thank you for these sleepless nights and a book I’ll never stop recommending. This was another ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. You’ve really created something truly special, and I’m ready for whatever you throw at us next.
This is a very late book review, and I wanted to do this before i do a review for his next book coming out late March 2025...I, for one, will be pre-ordering that hard cover for my collection 🤌🏻🤌🏻🙌🙌😍😍
You've done it again, Nick. You've one upped your first novel anathema and followed it up with Anathema legacy - a book that had me grinning like a maniac on crack and giving my neighbours the side eye at the same time.
This book was ingenious, dark, and at the same time very human. There was an equal mix of grief, survival, and redemption, and it was an absolute page turner, which i never wanted to end.
I really felt for Poor Derrick Stockton. This guy survived a childhood of nightmares, cleaned up his act, and moved on with his life, only to get dragged right back into the thick of it. Honestly, i felt nothing but stress for him throughout this book, and my anxiety levels went through the roof.
There was that perfect mix of psychological tension, murder-mystery madness, and definitely a few hair-raising encounters, which was exactly what I signed up for, and you bring it EVERYTIME without fail.
Time and time again, you've proven why you're my favourite indie author OF ALL TIME. The characters you write about aren't just fighting monsters. They're also fighting themselves and their inner demons once again, making them so real and very relatable.
So, thank you for these sleepless nights and a book I’ll never stop recommending. This was another ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. You’ve really created something truly special, and I’m ready for whatever you throw at us next.
This is a very late book review, and I wanted to do this before i do a review for his next book coming out late March 2025...I, for one, will be pre-ordering that hard cover for my collection 🤌🏻🤌🏻🙌🙌😍😍
November 27, 2024
Anathema Legacy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ easily a 5 star book.!
In legacy we follow Derrick Stockton after the terrible events that took place during his childhood. We see how his life has since unfolded, who he has become as a man, and how he handles the demon from his past.
I have always thoroughly enjoyed Nick Roberts character and world building talent in his writings. I felt like I was genuinely seeing everything going on through Derricks eyes. It was so easy for me to fall in love with (and HATE) characters throughout the story. Derrick’s character development here is genuinely *chefs kiss*. Who he was at the start is not the same man he is at the end. The atmosphere is, of course, incredibly creepy. I have been checking my backseat and curtains religiously since reading this book, iykyk 😂 but there are some really genuine lessons to take away from this book that one could apply to their own lives. One in particular that is my personal favorite is..
“I forgive you for everything …. I forgive you because I recognize you for what you are.”
This part really hit me because I can relate and I feel like it made me have an epiphany of my own, relating to my life. I cannot truly put into words how much I enjoyed this wild ride. The manipulation tactics are CRAZY. Thank you so much for the opportunity to be one of your ARC readers, Mr. Roberts. Thank you for giving me yet another reason to never stop talking about your work.!
In conclusion, if you call yourself a fan of horror, I strongly suggest you get into the Anathema story line (any and all of his books honestly). He knows how to give you the creeps and all the feels.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ easily a 5 star book.!
In legacy we follow Derrick Stockton after the terrible events that took place during his childhood. We see how his life has since unfolded, who he has become as a man, and how he handles the demon from his past.
I have always thoroughly enjoyed Nick Roberts character and world building talent in his writings. I felt like I was genuinely seeing everything going on through Derricks eyes. It was so easy for me to fall in love with (and HATE) characters throughout the story. Derrick’s character development here is genuinely *chefs kiss*. Who he was at the start is not the same man he is at the end. The atmosphere is, of course, incredibly creepy. I have been checking my backseat and curtains religiously since reading this book, iykyk 😂 but there are some really genuine lessons to take away from this book that one could apply to their own lives. One in particular that is my personal favorite is..
“I forgive you for everything …. I forgive you because I recognize you for what you are.”
This part really hit me because I can relate and I feel like it made me have an epiphany of my own, relating to my life. I cannot truly put into words how much I enjoyed this wild ride. The manipulation tactics are CRAZY. Thank you so much for the opportunity to be one of your ARC readers, Mr. Roberts. Thank you for giving me yet another reason to never stop talking about your work.!
In conclusion, if you call yourself a fan of horror, I strongly suggest you get into the Anathema story line (any and all of his books honestly). He knows how to give you the creeps and all the feels.
November 24, 2024
5 stars just isn't enough!
I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to be an ARC reader of a Nick Roberts book for the second time this year. This book is the most perfect sequel to my introduction to this author, Anathema.
Anathema Legacy grips you from the first chapter, keeps you nearly suffocating from dread through every page, and leaves your heart and mind racing towards a stunning conclusion. I am so satisfied with this sequel, but truly hope there are more stories to come from this incredible universe he has created.
IMHO, Nick Roberts is now the undisputed master of the macabre. His ability to paint horrifying scenarios that haunt your mind and create relatable characters that leave an impression is second to none. The way he weaves his web of terrifying tales and connects the storylines is truly captivating. His ability to edit each story is remarkable. He is able to create complex characters and fast-paced, fully-fleshed plot lines without excessive wording, which makes his books so compelling and hard to put down.
In my 3 decades of reading the horror genre, I have only had one previous auto-buy author that stopped writing 15 years ago. I'm so happy to have found a new favourite, and I can't wait to read everything he writes in the future.
I am so grateful to Nick Roberts for allowing me the opportunity to read and rate this ARC. If you've already experienced Anathema and the Exorcist's House series, make sure to pre-order this must-read, which releases January 17th, 2025. If you haven't yet read his books, what are you waiting for?
I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to be an ARC reader of a Nick Roberts book for the second time this year. This book is the most perfect sequel to my introduction to this author, Anathema.
Anathema Legacy grips you from the first chapter, keeps you nearly suffocating from dread through every page, and leaves your heart and mind racing towards a stunning conclusion. I am so satisfied with this sequel, but truly hope there are more stories to come from this incredible universe he has created.
IMHO, Nick Roberts is now the undisputed master of the macabre. His ability to paint horrifying scenarios that haunt your mind and create relatable characters that leave an impression is second to none. The way he weaves his web of terrifying tales and connects the storylines is truly captivating. His ability to edit each story is remarkable. He is able to create complex characters and fast-paced, fully-fleshed plot lines without excessive wording, which makes his books so compelling and hard to put down.
In my 3 decades of reading the horror genre, I have only had one previous auto-buy author that stopped writing 15 years ago. I'm so happy to have found a new favourite, and I can't wait to read everything he writes in the future.
I am so grateful to Nick Roberts for allowing me the opportunity to read and rate this ARC. If you've already experienced Anathema and the Exorcist's House series, make sure to pre-order this must-read, which releases January 17th, 2025. If you haven't yet read his books, what are you waiting for?
January 17, 2025
Thank you Nick for the ARC to review!
I know I’m going to be an outlier here with the first 3⭐️ but don’t let that deter you.
The story picks up 20 years following the events of the first novel. Without giving too much away.. Maren aka Daisy survives and seeks vengeance on Derrick as he copes with his sobriety.
Once again, Nick pulls no punches with his graphic, visceral imagery. However, may I say a little tamer than previous novels. Either that or I was expecting bigger, bolder moves.
Legacy felt a little like a rehash of the first Anathema set with new characters. I was expecting a deeper dive into Maren’s main objective. A lot of the novel is heavy on dialogue, which I’m not sure if that was intended or not.
I definitely recommend this one, simply to find out what Maren aka Daisy is up to.
Thank you again Nick 🙏
I know I’m going to be an outlier here with the first 3⭐️ but don’t let that deter you.
The story picks up 20 years following the events of the first novel. Without giving too much away.. Maren aka Daisy survives and seeks vengeance on Derrick as he copes with his sobriety.
Once again, Nick pulls no punches with his graphic, visceral imagery. However, may I say a little tamer than previous novels. Either that or I was expecting bigger, bolder moves.
Legacy felt a little like a rehash of the first Anathema set with new characters. I was expecting a deeper dive into Maren’s main objective. A lot of the novel is heavy on dialogue, which I’m not sure if that was intended or not.
I definitely recommend this one, simply to find out what Maren aka Daisy is up to.
Thank you again Nick 🙏
November 23, 2024
This was hands down Nick Roberts' best book yet! If you haven't read the other books in this universe, read those first to get the full experience, but it also works as a stand alone. I've read a lot of really good books this year but I think this is my favorite read of the year. I'm not sure what I can read next that will even come close.
I was an ARC reader for Anathema: Legacy but my review is my own.
I was an ARC reader for Anathema: Legacy but my review is my own.
November 24, 2024
Another great book by Nick Roberts. I was lucky enough to get to be part of the ARC group.
This was a creepy, gory, fast paced, and ultimately moving follow up to Anathema. As a horror fan, sometimes I wonder if we've run out of new ideas in the genre, and then I read books like Nick Roberts. He writes an engrossing, unique story that's still easy to follow and will make you leave the lights on at night.
This was a creepy, gory, fast paced, and ultimately moving follow up to Anathema. As a horror fan, sometimes I wonder if we've run out of new ideas in the genre, and then I read books like Nick Roberts. He writes an engrossing, unique story that's still easy to follow and will make you leave the lights on at night.
January 12, 2025
Another atmospheric and spine chilling story from Roberts. Characterization and writing are off the charts in this one. I swear I could smell Maren every time she was on the page. Now I have a fear of dogs and closets, thanks a lot😂
February 25, 2025
Yet another 5 star Nick Roberts book for me. My only complaint is that I was expecting more back story for Maren.
I loved the chaotic nature of Maren’s plans of torture for Derrick, the gore and overall death toll.
The ‘unicorn’ scene is really… stuck in my head
I loved the chaotic nature of Maren’s plans of torture for Derrick, the gore and overall death toll.
The ‘unicorn’ scene is really… stuck in my head
November 21, 2024
Holy s***!! For starters, all of Nick Roberts books eventually tie together, and this one does not disappoint. Read in 2 days non-stop and loved every minute of it. If you’ve read his work before, then don’t hesitate. Blood, gore and f’d up situations aplenty.
January 17, 2025
Man, Nick Roberts does it again 👏 He is an amazing storyteller, and if you haven't read any of his books yet, you really need to check them out. Anathema is my favorite book by Nick, and this sequel is amazing. This was terrifying and absolutely hard to put down. The deaths are violent and bloody. Maren is one of my favorite characters. She is insane and absolutely terrifying 😱
If you want to read something really scary, go and pre-order this. You definitely won't regret it, and if you read Anathema, you will love this too. You'll be hooked from the prologue 😉
This awesome book releases on January 17th
If you want to read something really scary, go and pre-order this. You definitely won't regret it, and if you read Anathema, you will love this too. You'll be hooked from the prologue 😉
This awesome book releases on January 17th
December 20, 2024
When I finished this story, this quote about sequels from Randy Meeks in Scream 2 came to mind immediately:
"Number one: the body count is always bigger. Number two: the death scenes are always much more elaborate. More blood, more gore. Carnage Candy. Your core audience just expects it. And number three: ...never, ever, under any circumstances, assume the killer is dead."
I was so excited to be included in the ARC reader team for Anathema: Legacy, after having read Anathema, The Exorcist's House, and The Exorcist's House: Genesis.
Nick Roberts turns it up to eleven in this Anathema sequel, dragging us, kicking, screaming, crying, throwing up, through one gut punch after another, never letting us harbor hope for anyone that Derrick Stockton comes in contact with.
*That said, I found the narrative surrounding recovering addicts, their community and programs, to be eye opening, engaging, even heartwarming. I felt like the group members and staff were all very real and thoroughly fleshed out characters and their stories and struggles handled with grace and dignity.*
Thanks again to Nick for allowing me and a handful/small army of his fans to be a part of the process in the release of his newest novel; I look forward to reading every thing else you come up with!
"Number one: the body count is always bigger. Number two: the death scenes are always much more elaborate. More blood, more gore. Carnage Candy. Your core audience just expects it. And number three: ...never, ever, under any circumstances, assume the killer is dead."
I was so excited to be included in the ARC reader team for Anathema: Legacy, after having read Anathema, The Exorcist's House, and The Exorcist's House: Genesis.
Nick Roberts turns it up to eleven in this Anathema sequel, dragging us, kicking, screaming, crying, throwing up, through one gut punch after another, never letting us harbor hope for anyone that Derrick Stockton comes in contact with.
*That said, I found the narrative surrounding recovering addicts, their community and programs, to be eye opening, engaging, even heartwarming. I felt like the group members and staff were all very real and thoroughly fleshed out characters and their stories and struggles handled with grace and dignity.*
Thanks again to Nick for allowing me and a handful/small army of his fans to be a part of the process in the release of his newest novel; I look forward to reading every thing else you come up with!
January 17, 2025
Similar to others, Anathema was the first Nick Roberts book I read and I was instantly hooked on his creepy, vivid, under-your-skin writing style. To date Roberts is the only author to give me legitimate nightmares and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Maren continues to be top 5 creepiest fictional characters and will go down in my personal collection as a character not to be forgotten. “Absolute evil has no motive” perfectly sums up her involvement in the Anathema series and she is truly a character bred from wicked. There are no redeeming qualities.
Derrick is a delightfully flawed character struggling with his horrific, traumatizing childhood (see: Anathema) and as an adult working his way through recovery and his trauma. As someone with 5 years under my belt, recovery and substance use is a sticky character trait that I find is often not done well, and villianizes those in active recovery or those still struggling with substance abuse. Roberts is one of the only authors that I’ve read so far that does this well. So major kudos to you for this.
The book overall is in line with Roberts work - it’s scary, gruesome, and leaves you hoping for a happy ending even though you know most of the characters won’t see one. It’s a wonderful follow up to its namesake and left me feeling satisfactorily wrapped up.
Kudos to Roberts and team for this work and looking forward to the official drop January 17th
Maren continues to be top 5 creepiest fictional characters and will go down in my personal collection as a character not to be forgotten. “Absolute evil has no motive” perfectly sums up her involvement in the Anathema series and she is truly a character bred from wicked. There are no redeeming qualities.
Derrick is a delightfully flawed character struggling with his horrific, traumatizing childhood (see: Anathema) and as an adult working his way through recovery and his trauma. As someone with 5 years under my belt, recovery and substance use is a sticky character trait that I find is often not done well, and villianizes those in active recovery or those still struggling with substance abuse. Roberts is one of the only authors that I’ve read so far that does this well. So major kudos to you for this.
The book overall is in line with Roberts work - it’s scary, gruesome, and leaves you hoping for a happy ending even though you know most of the characters won’t see one. It’s a wonderful follow up to its namesake and left me feeling satisfactorily wrapped up.
Kudos to Roberts and team for this work and looking forward to the official drop January 17th
January 17, 2025
How many times have you been disappointed in book 2 of a series feeling like the book didn’t live up to book 1 ?? That is absolutely NOT the case with this book ! Dare I say I loved this one even more !
Finding out more about the main character, Derrick, his PTSD, addiction, nightmares and all the trauma that he has suffered since childhood because of “Princess Daisy” was incredible. Derrick feels like a long lost friend you haven’t seen in 20 years but you’re catching up with getting a glimpse into the evil that happened to him as a child.
The vivid descriptions of this hideous demon, Maren, her coercion to get May, her absolutely vile appearance, and the way she will stop at nothing to find her way back to Derrick is chefs kiss ! But this book isn’t just a scary, gory horror book. It is a book about relationships, recovery, finding peace and moving forward in life. It has so much heart and takes you through every emotion possible - fear, anger, hope, terror, palpable dread and all the things.
Nick has outdone himself with this one and it did not disappoint. So glad I got to be an ARC reader for this one !
Finding out more about the main character, Derrick, his PTSD, addiction, nightmares and all the trauma that he has suffered since childhood because of “Princess Daisy” was incredible. Derrick feels like a long lost friend you haven’t seen in 20 years but you’re catching up with getting a glimpse into the evil that happened to him as a child.
The vivid descriptions of this hideous demon, Maren, her coercion to get May, her absolutely vile appearance, and the way she will stop at nothing to find her way back to Derrick is chefs kiss ! But this book isn’t just a scary, gory horror book. It is a book about relationships, recovery, finding peace and moving forward in life. It has so much heart and takes you through every emotion possible - fear, anger, hope, terror, palpable dread and all the things.
Nick has outdone himself with this one and it did not disappoint. So glad I got to be an ARC reader for this one !
November 22, 2024
First and foremost, this book is phenomenal and absolutely a must-read for any horror bibliophile. Specifically for Nick Roberts fans, this is the cherry on top of an already deliciously devious series.
The pacing throughout the book is top tier. It starts lethal and stays that way until the very end. I devoured the entire thing in less than 24 hours, and that’s really saying somethin’. In my opinion, this is the perfect next step for the Anathema storyline. It just feels right. There’s satisfaction in every chapter in the sense that you couldn’t imagine it any better. Any different, really.
I think Maren has quickly become a favourite nightmare haunter in the horror community, and she only cements herself even more so in this novel. It’s terrifying, and it’s full of spooky, creepy-crawly, shivers-up-the-spine goodness and gore. Seriously do not hesitate to jump into this one, it will stick with you for a long time.
For anyone new to this author, you could absolutely read this without going to the beginning of the series first because I think there’s a good bit of explanation of the backstory throughout. However, I will say that the overall impact and emotional investment will be much higher if you do go back through and read in chronological publishing order. That is; Anathema, Exorcist’s House, Exorcist’s House: Genesis and then Anathema: Legacy. All fucking fantastic, and this one is no different.
Come on, baby
Don’t fear the reaper
The pacing throughout the book is top tier. It starts lethal and stays that way until the very end. I devoured the entire thing in less than 24 hours, and that’s really saying somethin’. In my opinion, this is the perfect next step for the Anathema storyline. It just feels right. There’s satisfaction in every chapter in the sense that you couldn’t imagine it any better. Any different, really.
I think Maren has quickly become a favourite nightmare haunter in the horror community, and she only cements herself even more so in this novel. It’s terrifying, and it’s full of spooky, creepy-crawly, shivers-up-the-spine goodness and gore. Seriously do not hesitate to jump into this one, it will stick with you for a long time.
For anyone new to this author, you could absolutely read this without going to the beginning of the series first because I think there’s a good bit of explanation of the backstory throughout. However, I will say that the overall impact and emotional investment will be much higher if you do go back through and read in chronological publishing order. That is; Anathema, Exorcist’s House, Exorcist’s House: Genesis and then Anathema: Legacy. All fucking fantastic, and this one is no different.
Come on, baby
Don’t fear the reaper
November 24, 2024
Anathema: Legacy takes everything great about the first installment and pushes it to an entirely new level. Somehow, Nick Roberts manages to deliver a sequel that’s darker, more intense, and packed with even more surprises.
From the visceral gore to the shocking twists, this book had me gasping out loud as I devoured each page. But it’s not all terror—Legacy has heart, too. The depth of the main characters and those around them is palpable, making their journey of self-reflection, courage, and perseverance deeply moving.
This story is as much about battling inner demons as it is about facing external horrors, and Roberts doesn’t shy away from making readers squirm—in the best way possible. Terrifying, shocking, and at times physically uncomfortable, this is everything a great horror novel should be.
Anathema: Legacy may just be Nick Roberts’ best work yet, and I can’t recommend it enough. Don’t miss it when it hits shelves on January 17, 2025!
Also, a HUGE thank you to Nick Roberts for the opportunity to read and review the ARC!
From the visceral gore to the shocking twists, this book had me gasping out loud as I devoured each page. But it’s not all terror—Legacy has heart, too. The depth of the main characters and those around them is palpable, making their journey of self-reflection, courage, and perseverance deeply moving.
This story is as much about battling inner demons as it is about facing external horrors, and Roberts doesn’t shy away from making readers squirm—in the best way possible. Terrifying, shocking, and at times physically uncomfortable, this is everything a great horror novel should be.
Anathema: Legacy may just be Nick Roberts’ best work yet, and I can’t recommend it enough. Don’t miss it when it hits shelves on January 17, 2025!
Also, a HUGE thank you to Nick Roberts for the opportunity to read and review the ARC!
January 1, 2025
I was thrilled to be chosen for the ARC team again for Anathema: Legacy—a long-anticipated read for me since Anathema remains my favorite Nick Roberts novel. This sequel does not disappoint and never lets up!
Maren, one of the creepiest villains to ever grace the pages of any book, is absolutely terrifying. In this second visit with her, we catch up with Derrick Stockton years later, discovering where life has taken him and the new "family" he's found with friends and a sponsor in his recovery meetings. But Maren, as chilling as ever, has some new targets in mind.
The way Roberts uses the new characters to tie the story full circle is masterful, and the climactic ending is unforgettable. This is an easy five-star read and firmly in my top three books of 2024. I can’t recommend it enough to fans of horror!
Maren, one of the creepiest villains to ever grace the pages of any book, is absolutely terrifying. In this second visit with her, we catch up with Derrick Stockton years later, discovering where life has taken him and the new "family" he's found with friends and a sponsor in his recovery meetings. But Maren, as chilling as ever, has some new targets in mind.
The way Roberts uses the new characters to tie the story full circle is masterful, and the climactic ending is unforgettable. This is an easy five-star read and firmly in my top three books of 2024. I can’t recommend it enough to fans of horror!
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