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Pushing Daisy
"O’Halloran debuts with an intimate horror story that masterfully combines psychological and supernatural terror."
Publishers Weekly Starred Review
Daisy did not get the life she deserved. Despite her compassion, nothing she did made a difference in the world. With her through it all was her selfish, bitter husband, working a job he hated while they lived off her income as a nurse. The peace Daisy has carried in life does not follow her to the grave. A dead, bloodshot eye glowers from a dark bathroom. Below it, her deranged smile. Daisy, a mad corpse, haunts their townhouse.
She’s back and intent on punishing Roger Darling for his mistreatment. Her death shook him enough to brave his faults, but this improved man does her no good now. He can try to escape into the arms of others, but at the end of the day, we all return home. To keep his new friends and maintain his sanity, Roger must help Daisy move on before her violence touches everything he’s built. She won’t leave on her own. Not for a second time.
Publishers Weekly Starred Review
Daisy did not get the life she deserved. Despite her compassion, nothing she did made a difference in the world. With her through it all was her selfish, bitter husband, working a job he hated while they lived off her income as a nurse. The peace Daisy has carried in life does not follow her to the grave. A dead, bloodshot eye glowers from a dark bathroom. Below it, her deranged smile. Daisy, a mad corpse, haunts their townhouse.
She’s back and intent on punishing Roger Darling for his mistreatment. Her death shook him enough to brave his faults, but this improved man does her no good now. He can try to escape into the arms of others, but at the end of the day, we all return home. To keep his new friends and maintain his sanity, Roger must help Daisy move on before her violence touches everything he’s built. She won’t leave on her own. Not for a second time.
- GenresHorror
312 pages, Paperback
Published May 15, 2025
2 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
About the author
Christopher O'Halloran
23 books57 followersCHRISTOPHER O’HALLORAN (he/him) is a Canadian actor-turned-author toiling away in the milk mines of beautiful British Columbia, Canada. He is the author of the novel Pushing Daisy, as well as short stories and novelettes published in numerous anthologies and magazines. His story, “Charon Swims,” earned him a Pushcart Prize Nomination in 2024. Though he's stepped away from the camera for the time being, his acting education wasn't a complete waste; he uses it to narrate the odd story as well as perform eye roll-worthy shenanigans for his wife and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
April 15, 2025
One thing that instantly became apparent with Pushing Daisy is that the author likes to put empathise on the character’s bodily functions in response to the horror-filled situations (e.g. - poop and puke lol) - so if you have emetophobia then I would highly recommend you avoid this one!
It seems as though I have the unpopular opinion here, as I am one of the first people to rate this lower than a 5 star read 😅 it is a solidly decent horror story, but not one of my favourites.
It follows the main character, Roger’s, grief for his dead wife - Daisy. When she was alive, he was selfish, living off her income as a nurse. So this story’s horror revolves around his guilt towards Daisy, as well as the grief.
As much as Roger tries to move on with his life, onto other women, the presence of Daisy lingers. Will she allow him to move on?
The way human emotions are handled and written within this story are very good, in terms of it being a horror story, I was hoping for more. When it eventually got to the horror-filled final moments, it was very good, but the journey to there felt longer.
Considering this is the author’s debut novel, I’d be intrigued to read more by them in the future, as there is certainly potential there.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to BookSirens.
3 Stars
It seems as though I have the unpopular opinion here, as I am one of the first people to rate this lower than a 5 star read 😅 it is a solidly decent horror story, but not one of my favourites.
It follows the main character, Roger’s, grief for his dead wife - Daisy. When she was alive, he was selfish, living off her income as a nurse. So this story’s horror revolves around his guilt towards Daisy, as well as the grief.
As much as Roger tries to move on with his life, onto other women, the presence of Daisy lingers. Will she allow him to move on?
The way human emotions are handled and written within this story are very good, in terms of it being a horror story, I was hoping for more. When it eventually got to the horror-filled final moments, it was very good, but the journey to there felt longer.
Considering this is the author’s debut novel, I’d be intrigued to read more by them in the future, as there is certainly potential there.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to BookSirens.
3 Stars
April 17, 2025
This was a conflicting read for me. I think this book would be more like 3.25 or 3.5/5 stars for me.
This story starts off following Roger, a pessimistic, rude, misogynist man. We meet him in the wake of his wife Daisy's death. As we learn more about Roger, the type of person he is, and the kind of marriage he had, we see Daisy intent on punishing him from beyond the grave. And honestly, good for her because her man is awful!
The blurb calls Roger a "selfish, bitter husband" but that was an incredible understatement. And honestly, all of the men in this book were absolutely horrid. From misogyny, to slurs, to just simply boiling it all down to being hateful men. It was hard for me to read at times because I wanted to throttle them all. I wish there were more likable characters within this story to balance out the hate but it is skillful to be able to elicit such strong emotions within your characters. Also, be prepared for some cat slander as well. I felt like I was in between a battle between cats vs dogs.
Within the same vein, the author did a fantastic job at writing these characters because I truly hated the men in this story. The women were a bit better but they also had little to be desired. And I kept wishing that the women would step up and stop letting these men treat them like absolute garbage. The characters definitely provoked a lot of feeling within me, and even though it was mostly negative, it was strong writing. It also felt very close to real life which I can't fault the author for. I found myself rooting for Daisy. I so deeply wanted her to get her revenge on Roger from start to finish. The more I read about their relationship, the more I found myself understanding what drove Daisy to the brink. Her actions very quickly became justified.
The pacing within this story was fantastic. I didn't find there to be any lulls within the writing where it felt like filler. And I thought the writing itself was good. Everything flowed and was written nicely. But I will say that if you don't like mentions of bodily functions, this book will bother you. There are many mentions of excreta and vomit.
I wish this book was a bit more horror forward and less about the character's hatred. Ultimately, this is what pulled my rating down. My dislike of the characters was slightly outweighing my intrigue for the horror story. It felt as though it took a little while to get to the meat of the horror.
I felt a lot of conflicting emotions while reading this but I still found myself entertained by it. I enjoyed the writing enough that I would read another book by this author in the future. Fingers crossed for more likable characters though! But a reminder that if every book had likable characters, not only would it be boring, but unrealistic.
Thank you to BookSirens, Lethe Press, and the author Christopher O'Halloran for the ARC. All opinions are my own!
TW: Alcoholism, Animal cruelty, Animal death, Cursing, Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Gore, Infidelity, Mental illness, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Self harm, Sexism, Sexual content, Suicide, Toxic relationship, Violence, Blood, Excrement, Vomit, Grief, Suicide attempt, Alcohol, Injury/Injury detail, Abortion, Pregnancy, Ableism
StoryGraph Review
Fable Review
This story starts off following Roger, a pessimistic, rude, misogynist man. We meet him in the wake of his wife Daisy's death. As we learn more about Roger, the type of person he is, and the kind of marriage he had, we see Daisy intent on punishing him from beyond the grave. And honestly, good for her because her man is awful!
The blurb calls Roger a "selfish, bitter husband" but that was an incredible understatement. And honestly, all of the men in this book were absolutely horrid. From misogyny, to slurs, to just simply boiling it all down to being hateful men. It was hard for me to read at times because I wanted to throttle them all. I wish there were more likable characters within this story to balance out the hate but it is skillful to be able to elicit such strong emotions within your characters. Also, be prepared for some cat slander as well. I felt like I was in between a battle between cats vs dogs.
Within the same vein, the author did a fantastic job at writing these characters because I truly hated the men in this story. The women were a bit better but they also had little to be desired. And I kept wishing that the women would step up and stop letting these men treat them like absolute garbage. The characters definitely provoked a lot of feeling within me, and even though it was mostly negative, it was strong writing. It also felt very close to real life which I can't fault the author for. I found myself rooting for Daisy. I so deeply wanted her to get her revenge on Roger from start to finish. The more I read about their relationship, the more I found myself understanding what drove Daisy to the brink. Her actions very quickly became justified.
The pacing within this story was fantastic. I didn't find there to be any lulls within the writing where it felt like filler. And I thought the writing itself was good. Everything flowed and was written nicely. But I will say that if you don't like mentions of bodily functions, this book will bother you. There are many mentions of excreta and vomit.
I wish this book was a bit more horror forward and less about the character's hatred. Ultimately, this is what pulled my rating down. My dislike of the characters was slightly outweighing my intrigue for the horror story. It felt as though it took a little while to get to the meat of the horror.
I felt a lot of conflicting emotions while reading this but I still found myself entertained by it. I enjoyed the writing enough that I would read another book by this author in the future. Fingers crossed for more likable characters though! But a reminder that if every book had likable characters, not only would it be boring, but unrealistic.
Thank you to BookSirens, Lethe Press, and the author Christopher O'Halloran for the ARC. All opinions are my own!
TW: Alcoholism, Animal cruelty, Animal death, Cursing, Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Gore, Infidelity, Mental illness, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Self harm, Sexism, Sexual content, Suicide, Toxic relationship, Violence, Blood, Excrement, Vomit, Grief, Suicide attempt, Alcohol, Injury/Injury detail, Abortion, Pregnancy, Ableism
StoryGraph Review
Fable Review
July 7, 2025
I had the honour of receiving an eARC in exchange for an honest review. Pushing Daisy is one of the scariest horror books I’ve ever read and exactly the type of horror I like (ie hauntings). The character work is really well-done as well. Highly, highly recommend.
May 12, 2025
I picked up this book with a fair bit of hope.
The pun in the title gave me confidence. I’ve always loved that blend of horror and comedy, and Pushing Daisy walks that line with a skill you wouldn’t expect from a first-time author.
It’s never fair to make comparisons,
and this one might be a stretch, but the book reminded me a lot of Joe Abercrombie’s style (a favorite among horror fans, from what I’ve seen). What struck me was the way the characters seem to fit the roles they’re supposed to play—on the outside, at least—while their inner thoughts completely undercut that image. That contrast is often hilarious.
Roger has lost his wife.
His sweet, perfect wife.
Right away, your mind jumps to a few familiar tropes—and the author plays on that. See, Roger’s no saint. He’s an artist with a very unstable income (and that’s being generous), and he wasn’t much of a husband either. That “perfect” relationship had its cracks, something made clear by the way Daisy died.
Roger’s a broken man, caught up in the hollow theater of funerals and the awkward mechanics of grief. The first half of the book is excellent, especially the way the horror elements are dropped in like breadcrumbs leading you somewhere dark.
There comes a point in the story where O’Halloran faces a choice.
One path leans toward a more grounded, subtle take on the supernatural. The other dives headfirst into what the book has been hinting at all along—embracing the strange, getting muddy, and pushing things to the limit.
I’m glad Christopher chose… the route that’s most fun, in my opinion.
You’ll have to read the book to find out which one it is.
The novel constantly shifts between humor and horror, and it knows exactly when to tip the scales one way or the other. What’s really great, though, is that if you read between the lines, you realize O’Halloran is talking about much more than just ghosts or laughs. Marriage, family, expectations, reality… and that, I think, is what makes this such a strong debut.
Stephen Graham Jones once compared his books to a cake. The icing is what draws you in, sure—but it’s what’s inside that really matters.
O’Halloran gives us some very tasty icing—and the cake underneath is just as satisfying.
A very, very strong debut.
Keep writing, Mr. O’Halloran. I’ll be eagerly waiting to see what comes next.
The pun in the title gave me confidence. I’ve always loved that blend of horror and comedy, and Pushing Daisy walks that line with a skill you wouldn’t expect from a first-time author.
It’s never fair to make comparisons,
and this one might be a stretch, but the book reminded me a lot of Joe Abercrombie’s style (a favorite among horror fans, from what I’ve seen). What struck me was the way the characters seem to fit the roles they’re supposed to play—on the outside, at least—while their inner thoughts completely undercut that image. That contrast is often hilarious.
Roger has lost his wife.
His sweet, perfect wife.
Right away, your mind jumps to a few familiar tropes—and the author plays on that. See, Roger’s no saint. He’s an artist with a very unstable income (and that’s being generous), and he wasn’t much of a husband either. That “perfect” relationship had its cracks, something made clear by the way Daisy died.
Roger’s a broken man, caught up in the hollow theater of funerals and the awkward mechanics of grief. The first half of the book is excellent, especially the way the horror elements are dropped in like breadcrumbs leading you somewhere dark.
There comes a point in the story where O’Halloran faces a choice.
One path leans toward a more grounded, subtle take on the supernatural. The other dives headfirst into what the book has been hinting at all along—embracing the strange, getting muddy, and pushing things to the limit.
I’m glad Christopher chose… the route that’s most fun, in my opinion.
You’ll have to read the book to find out which one it is.
The novel constantly shifts between humor and horror, and it knows exactly when to tip the scales one way or the other. What’s really great, though, is that if you read between the lines, you realize O’Halloran is talking about much more than just ghosts or laughs. Marriage, family, expectations, reality… and that, I think, is what makes this such a strong debut.
Stephen Graham Jones once compared his books to a cake. The icing is what draws you in, sure—but it’s what’s inside that really matters.
O’Halloran gives us some very tasty icing—and the cake underneath is just as satisfying.
A very, very strong debut.
Keep writing, Mr. O’Halloran. I’ll be eagerly waiting to see what comes next.
Read
March 31, 2025A big thank you to the author for an ARC for a blurb!
PUSHING DAISY is a haunting lullaby playing on a skipping record in reverse. O’Halloran has crafted a slow burn lesson in death given among a wake of bodies, exploring the ways in which our grief and guilt feed the hungry dead.
PUSHING DAISY is a haunting lullaby playing on a skipping record in reverse. O’Halloran has crafted a slow burn lesson in death given among a wake of bodies, exploring the ways in which our grief and guilt feed the hungry dead.
May 15, 2025
There are a lot of things I liked about this book, but I didn't love it. I expected more horror, but the story thrives on characterization and dialogue more than plot or atmosphere, and I soon got tired watching a rather unlikeable character take over the tale. It's a supernatural revenge story worthy of attention, especially if you like horror thrillers, but the premise is too simple to hold a reader's interest for the whole book, unless you enjoy someone who deserves it getting persecuted for it again and again. I think I'd liked it more if it were just a novella.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 22, 2025
~ 3.5 Stars ~
As far as debuts go, Christopher O’Halloran writes as though his was long overdue. I wouldn’t have guessed this was a first effort based on the quality of his writing and the ambition of this story. Pushing Daisy follows Roger Darling, a recent widower and monumental asshole who is dealing with the passing of his wife, Daisy. If you’re the sort who likes to not like an unlikable character, then you’re going to like not liking Mr. Darling very much. Daisy doesn’t seem to like him much either. She has resentments from their marriage that need to be settled even after her untimely death.
This book reminded me of a Stephen King novel: it’s a slow burn but it’s also compulsively readable, and the cast of characters feel real and well fleshed out, regardless of how minor. There are the aspects of King that I personally don’t fancy in this story as well: there might have been a bit too much focus on certain minor characters, the story could have been shorter, and there were elements of the ending I didn’t enjoy. That being said, Pushing Daisy is an entertaining and easily digestible tale. And I look forward to reading more of O’Halloran’s work
As far as debuts go, Christopher O’Halloran writes as though his was long overdue. I wouldn’t have guessed this was a first effort based on the quality of his writing and the ambition of this story. Pushing Daisy follows Roger Darling, a recent widower and monumental asshole who is dealing with the passing of his wife, Daisy. If you’re the sort who likes to not like an unlikable character, then you’re going to like not liking Mr. Darling very much. Daisy doesn’t seem to like him much either. She has resentments from their marriage that need to be settled even after her untimely death.
This book reminded me of a Stephen King novel: it’s a slow burn but it’s also compulsively readable, and the cast of characters feel real and well fleshed out, regardless of how minor. There are the aspects of King that I personally don’t fancy in this story as well: there might have been a bit too much focus on certain minor characters, the story could have been shorter, and there were elements of the ending I didn’t enjoy. That being said, Pushing Daisy is an entertaining and easily digestible tale. And I look forward to reading more of O’Halloran’s work
May 10, 2025
My initial thoughts about this book are centred around the overwhelmingly toxic portrayal of male characters, particularly Rodger. He embodies such vile qualities that it was nearly impossible for me to muster any empathy for his circumstances. The pervasive misogyny woven throughout the narrative created a significant hurdle, making it a challenging read at times.
The story itself is fast-paced and engaging, with a clever plot centred around Daisy that kept my interest. However, my deep-seated aversion to Rodger significantly affected my reading experience. I found it increasingly difficult to pick up the book simply because I despised him so much. It struck me that the narrative could have been enhanced if more characters possessed redeeming qualities—characters I could root for and feel invested in.
Rodger truly got what he deserved, and frankly, I believe his fate was somewhat lenient. Throughout the story, it was hard not to think that he should have faced a harsher reckoning for his actions.
Despite my strong hatred for the protagonist, I did find value in the overall reading experience. O'Halloran is a talented author whose work I will certainly seek out in the future. However, my disdain for Rodger overshadowed my ability to empathise with him, leaving me indifferent to his ultimate fate. It was Mei, without a doubt, who saved this book for me.
I want to extend my gratitude to BookSirens, the author, and the publishers for providing me with an ARC of this book. Please note that my review reflects my own opinions and experiences.
The story itself is fast-paced and engaging, with a clever plot centred around Daisy that kept my interest. However, my deep-seated aversion to Rodger significantly affected my reading experience. I found it increasingly difficult to pick up the book simply because I despised him so much. It struck me that the narrative could have been enhanced if more characters possessed redeeming qualities—characters I could root for and feel invested in.
Rodger truly got what he deserved, and frankly, I believe his fate was somewhat lenient. Throughout the story, it was hard not to think that he should have faced a harsher reckoning for his actions.
Despite my strong hatred for the protagonist, I did find value in the overall reading experience. O'Halloran is a talented author whose work I will certainly seek out in the future. However, my disdain for Rodger overshadowed my ability to empathise with him, leaving me indifferent to his ultimate fate. It was Mei, without a doubt, who saved this book for me.
I want to extend my gratitude to BookSirens, the author, and the publishers for providing me with an ARC of this book. Please note that my review reflects my own opinions and experiences.
May 23, 2025
Roger is dealing with his wife’s suicide but is not ready to discuss the ‘why’ Daisy chose this method of death. In callous form, Roger moves on to a new woman barely days after his wife”s funeral. The relationship is built on lies and not dealt with problems Roger refuses to acknowledge. When Roger begins to see remnants of Daisy in certain places in their home, he seems to not understand nor want to accept why she may be haunting him. What proceeds to happen can only happen in nightmares. The author begins to describe the unraveling of Rogers’s psyche. He is seeing things, an animal is attacked and Roger’s life begins to spiral out of control. When the reader gets to the part of the book where Roger goes incognito, what the author writes is horrifying. I have never read such an awful experience. Had Roger’s brother not come to check on him the story would have ended in a whole different way.
August 15, 2025
Pushing Daisy is a competent debut novel from one of my all-time favorite writers of—until now—short fiction, Christopher O’Halloran. He tackles the long form well, producing what is for the most part a gripping pageturner that urged me along with its cinematic scenes, strong storytelling, and entertaining dialogue. The only major downside is that all of this time (300+ pages) is spent in the mind of a rather unlikable and terribly misogynist main character, Roger Darling. Nonetheless, the slow-burn approach works well, as O’Halloran dials the horror up to 11 just before the finish line, and Roger undergoes a positive transformation—though some may find he gets off a little too easy. Either way, I enjoyed this novel and fully look forward to the sophomore release from O’Halloran, which I’m sure will show off the new writing talents I’ve noticed in his latest short fiction.
March 31, 2025
This book was very exciting and went in many different directions, which kept the book exciting. The plot was nicely thought out. Definitely recommended
May 7, 2025
Omg i freaking loved this!!!
Roger is a dick and treats his wife like shes invisible until she dies and then all the toxic in him starts to eat at him until Daisy decides to claim her revenge. Honestly this was such a fun read those last chapters sealed the 5 star for me it’s definitely one way to learn your lesson to be a better husband and person. Best ARC Ive read in a while thank you!
If you are looking for for something gruesome and fun definitely read this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Roger is a dick and treats his wife like shes invisible until she dies and then all the toxic in him starts to eat at him until Daisy decides to claim her revenge. Honestly this was such a fun read those last chapters sealed the 5 star for me it’s definitely one way to learn your lesson to be a better husband and person. Best ARC Ive read in a while thank you!
If you are looking for for something gruesome and fun definitely read this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 12, 2025
This book was incredibly difficult to get through. I can usually speed through a book, but this felt like a chore to finish. The story is well written, but I didn't care too much for the execution. I generally don't like male protagonists, and this book really shows why. He's not very likable and borders on being an awful person. I believe the story was about 50 pages longer than it needed to be. In concept, it's fantastic. In practice, it leaves something left to be desired.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 12, 2025
"Pushing Daisy" is a twisty thriller horror novel that'll make you question reality and remind you not to take people for granted.
Even though it's labelled as horror, I didn't find myself scared while reading; instead, I felt a mix of anger and absolute empathy for the two pitiful characters, Daisy and Roger. Let's be real—Roger is portrayed as a right piece of work, a total "Dhead" who completely disregards his wife's emotions. He's a selfish bloke who takes Daisy for granted! But to be fair, it's not all on him. Daisy seems to forget she has a husband, constantly prioritising others over him, even when they're supposed to be enjoying their vacation together. They're not a good match. Their relationship is toxic, leading to a tragic end. She deserved someone who would truly understand her passions and love her without conditions, while Roger could've benefited from being with someone like Mei—someone a bit more free-spirited and less weighed down by responsibilities. Why didn't they just let each other go before it all went south? I suppose I can relate; I once found myself in a similar situation and decided to stick around.
I gave it a three-star because the first half didn't meet my expectations. I was expecting more thrills and a solid paranormal experience, but instead, it leaned heavily towards Roger's grief and guilt, putting it in the psychological drama. Initially, I thought it would dig more into mental issues and coping mechanisms related to grief and depression. I figured Roger was just in denial about Daisy's death, and the guilt was consuming him; that alone could've made for an interesting read, too. However, the horror elements seemed to only emerge close to the end. It would also have been far better if the narrative in the first half had been more straightforward and focused on the thrills and chills. Perhaps changing the perspectives between Daisy, Roger, and Mei could have added profoundness, allowing readers to grasp their story's different sides. They did get their points of view, but only in the final chapters, which felt a bit lacking. Another thing is a POV indication of the characters we were following would have been helpful, too, to avoid any confusion. I feel like it dragged in parts due to the pacing and narrative choices. Despite these, I genuinely enjoyed the book overall.
In the end, the read left me with a lot to weigh. It really hit home about how we choose the people we allow into our lives. Often, we don't realise until it's far too late that some of them aren't there to help us grow but rather to poison our spirits! The story seems to tell us that abuse isn't just about physical violence; it can be emotional, too. More importantly, it highlights a harsh truth: no matter how much you invest in someone or dedicate your life to them, if they don't see or appreciate you, they'll take you for granted. It's a powerful reminder to be mindful of who we let affect our lives and our happiness.
Big thanks to Booksirens and Lethe Press for the free e-ARC!
Even though it's labelled as horror, I didn't find myself scared while reading; instead, I felt a mix of anger and absolute empathy for the two pitiful characters, Daisy and Roger. Let's be real—Roger is portrayed as a right piece of work, a total "Dhead" who completely disregards his wife's emotions. He's a selfish bloke who takes Daisy for granted! But to be fair, it's not all on him. Daisy seems to forget she has a husband, constantly prioritising others over him, even when they're supposed to be enjoying their vacation together. They're not a good match. Their relationship is toxic, leading to a tragic end. She deserved someone who would truly understand her passions and love her without conditions, while Roger could've benefited from being with someone like Mei—someone a bit more free-spirited and less weighed down by responsibilities. Why didn't they just let each other go before it all went south? I suppose I can relate; I once found myself in a similar situation and decided to stick around.
I gave it a three-star because the first half didn't meet my expectations. I was expecting more thrills and a solid paranormal experience, but instead, it leaned heavily towards Roger's grief and guilt, putting it in the psychological drama. Initially, I thought it would dig more into mental issues and coping mechanisms related to grief and depression. I figured Roger was just in denial about Daisy's death, and the guilt was consuming him; that alone could've made for an interesting read, too. However, the horror elements seemed to only emerge close to the end. It would also have been far better if the narrative in the first half had been more straightforward and focused on the thrills and chills. Perhaps changing the perspectives between Daisy, Roger, and Mei could have added profoundness, allowing readers to grasp their story's different sides. They did get their points of view, but only in the final chapters, which felt a bit lacking. Another thing is a POV indication of the characters we were following would have been helpful, too, to avoid any confusion. I feel like it dragged in parts due to the pacing and narrative choices. Despite these, I genuinely enjoyed the book overall.
In the end, the read left me with a lot to weigh. It really hit home about how we choose the people we allow into our lives. Often, we don't realise until it's far too late that some of them aren't there to help us grow but rather to poison our spirits! The story seems to tell us that abuse isn't just about physical violence; it can be emotional, too. More importantly, it highlights a harsh truth: no matter how much you invest in someone or dedicate your life to them, if they don't see or appreciate you, they'll take you for granted. It's a powerful reminder to be mindful of who we let affect our lives and our happiness.
Big thanks to Booksirens and Lethe Press for the free e-ARC!
May 7, 2025
I must say that "Pushing Daisy" by Christopher O'Halloran is a novel that will leave you gasping and challenging the very existence of life. The novel is a masterclass in storytelling, blending elements of psychological thriller, horror, and mystery to create a narrative that is both thrilling and unsettling.
From the beginning, O'Halloran's writing transports you into a land of gorgeous detail and lovely people. We learn about the heroine, Daisy, and her ride through a land that is familiar and yet totally distorted. And as the story goes on, the lines get blurred between fact and fiction and you can't help but guess what's reality and what is just a reflection of Daisy's deranged psyche.
One of the greatest aspects of "Pushing Daisy" is how it can construct tension and evoke unease. O'Halloran's writing is measured and calculated, constructing an oppressive and haunting environment. The pacing is expertly controlled, and each chapter concludes on a cliffhanger that keeps the reader moving forward, eager to discover what is occurring in Daisy's dark and terrifying world.
The "Pushing Daisy" characters are well-developed and multi-dimensional, and Daisy herself is a compelling and flawed heroine. Her personal struggle and efforts to bring harmony to the world around her are deeply personal, and it's easy to become immersed in her world. The supporting cast is also well-developed, with each actor contributing his own personal perspective to the narrative.
If I have any complaints, it's that the book is a tough read at times. The topic of mental illness, trauma, and distortion of reality is intense and uncomfortable, so you have to go into the novel with a sensitive and open mind. Some readers may also find the ending to be a bit vague, leaving more questions than answers.
All in all, "Pushing Daisy" is an intense, and insightful book that will be devoured by fans of psychological thrillers, horror, and mystery. O'Halloran's writing ability is phenomenal, and his ability to create a feeling of tension and fear is unmatched. It's a difficult read in places, but it's worth it. If you desire a novel that will have you out of your comfort zone and questioning the very essence of reality, then "Pushing Daisy" is an absolute must-read.
Recommendation: If you enjoy authors like Stephen King, Gillian Flynn, or Paula Hawkins, you will be devouring "Pushing Daisy". Just be warned that it is a tough and intellectual read that will make you confront some of the more unpleasant aspects of human nature.
From the beginning, O'Halloran's writing transports you into a land of gorgeous detail and lovely people. We learn about the heroine, Daisy, and her ride through a land that is familiar and yet totally distorted. And as the story goes on, the lines get blurred between fact and fiction and you can't help but guess what's reality and what is just a reflection of Daisy's deranged psyche.
One of the greatest aspects of "Pushing Daisy" is how it can construct tension and evoke unease. O'Halloran's writing is measured and calculated, constructing an oppressive and haunting environment. The pacing is expertly controlled, and each chapter concludes on a cliffhanger that keeps the reader moving forward, eager to discover what is occurring in Daisy's dark and terrifying world.
The "Pushing Daisy" characters are well-developed and multi-dimensional, and Daisy herself is a compelling and flawed heroine. Her personal struggle and efforts to bring harmony to the world around her are deeply personal, and it's easy to become immersed in her world. The supporting cast is also well-developed, with each actor contributing his own personal perspective to the narrative.
If I have any complaints, it's that the book is a tough read at times. The topic of mental illness, trauma, and distortion of reality is intense and uncomfortable, so you have to go into the novel with a sensitive and open mind. Some readers may also find the ending to be a bit vague, leaving more questions than answers.
All in all, "Pushing Daisy" is an intense, and insightful book that will be devoured by fans of psychological thrillers, horror, and mystery. O'Halloran's writing ability is phenomenal, and his ability to create a feeling of tension and fear is unmatched. It's a difficult read in places, but it's worth it. If you desire a novel that will have you out of your comfort zone and questioning the very essence of reality, then "Pushing Daisy" is an absolute must-read.
Recommendation: If you enjoy authors like Stephen King, Gillian Flynn, or Paula Hawkins, you will be devouring "Pushing Daisy". Just be warned that it is a tough and intellectual read that will make you confront some of the more unpleasant aspects of human nature.
May 14, 2025
If there's such a thing as a "slow-burn psychological horror," this is the textbook example. I enjoyed the plot of "Pushing Daisy" and the horror aspects of the story. It was definitely twisty, sometimes too much so that I was confused about what I was reading. I didn't see the main "surprise" coming at all. It's very much like a gory horror movie (which I must say I do enjoy).
This is a solid middle-of-the-road ratings wise for me. I wish we would have gotten to know Daisy a little bit more through some flashbacks. I found myself longing for a little bit more of her story... why she killed herself... why she was so angry. I also have to say, if the goal of the author was for us to absolutely HATE the male main character, Roger, he succeeded. I couldn't read more than 20 pages without thinking "this guy is a jerk." Character development there was very strong.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Daisy Darling is an amazing nurse. She's caring, considerate, and everyone looks up to her. Everyone except her husband, Roger. Roger is a musician working as a session artist for up-and-coming talents, mostly country music (which he hates). Despite Daisy's salary footing the bills for their life, Roger sees her as selfish, inconsiderate, and a bad wife. When Roger finds Daisy dead (a suicide), part of his is relieved to be out of a miserable marriage. But strange things start happening and he soon realizes that Daisy may be dead and buried, but she's certainly not gone from their home. Roger navigates grief, guilt, and disbelief as he struggles to get Daisy's spirit to move on and leave him be. Will he succeed? Or will Daisy finally make him pay?
Overall, I enjoyed the story but felt it could use just a few more details. If you like scary stories, add this one to your TBR.
This is a solid middle-of-the-road ratings wise for me. I wish we would have gotten to know Daisy a little bit more through some flashbacks. I found myself longing for a little bit more of her story... why she killed herself... why she was so angry. I also have to say, if the goal of the author was for us to absolutely HATE the male main character, Roger, he succeeded. I couldn't read more than 20 pages without thinking "this guy is a jerk." Character development there was very strong.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Daisy Darling is an amazing nurse. She's caring, considerate, and everyone looks up to her. Everyone except her husband, Roger. Roger is a musician working as a session artist for up-and-coming talents, mostly country music (which he hates). Despite Daisy's salary footing the bills for their life, Roger sees her as selfish, inconsiderate, and a bad wife. When Roger finds Daisy dead (a suicide), part of his is relieved to be out of a miserable marriage. But strange things start happening and he soon realizes that Daisy may be dead and buried, but she's certainly not gone from their home. Roger navigates grief, guilt, and disbelief as he struggles to get Daisy's spirit to move on and leave him be. Will he succeed? Or will Daisy finally make him pay?
Overall, I enjoyed the story but felt it could use just a few more details. If you like scary stories, add this one to your TBR.
May 13, 2025
This is a haunting story of vengeance beyond the grave as a man full of anger confronts his own demons as his life slowly starts to fall apart.
Roger's wife, Daisy, commits suicide after being mentally and emotionally beat down by his anger and lack of caring. He's not a good man in general.
Daisy, in life, was a giver. She worked as a nurse, was always willing to help anyone in need, and brought happiness and joy to people's lives. But,bin death, she comes back as a terrifying wrathful spirit, demanding her revenge on the man who drove her to do what she did.
I loved this aspect of the book. Daisy's change from ray of sunshine to horrific bloodthirsty ghost is a very effective way to tell a ghost story. There's a lot of sympathy towards her and you could even say her spirit is justified based on what Roger put her through in life.
Roger, on the other hand, is the main character but not really the protagonist. He's hard to like. He's a petulant man child with anger issues who treats everyone like dirt even when they're trying to help him. Even when he acknowledges his issues he makes excuses for it. And since we spend the whole book with this character, he did become annoying at certain points. I was even hoping Daisy's spirit would kill him and get it over with.
However, the last few chapters when she's finally able to get ahold of him for her retribution is terrifying, disturbing, and you'll finally be able to spark some sympathy for Roger because what she does to him is torturous and extremely unsettling!
This is a frightening and often unnerving novel that will give you the willies at times. I recommend it. I received an ARC of this book through Booksirens. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
Roger's wife, Daisy, commits suicide after being mentally and emotionally beat down by his anger and lack of caring. He's not a good man in general.
Daisy, in life, was a giver. She worked as a nurse, was always willing to help anyone in need, and brought happiness and joy to people's lives. But,bin death, she comes back as a terrifying wrathful spirit, demanding her revenge on the man who drove her to do what she did.
I loved this aspect of the book. Daisy's change from ray of sunshine to horrific bloodthirsty ghost is a very effective way to tell a ghost story. There's a lot of sympathy towards her and you could even say her spirit is justified based on what Roger put her through in life.
Roger, on the other hand, is the main character but not really the protagonist. He's hard to like. He's a petulant man child with anger issues who treats everyone like dirt even when they're trying to help him. Even when he acknowledges his issues he makes excuses for it. And since we spend the whole book with this character, he did become annoying at certain points. I was even hoping Daisy's spirit would kill him and get it over with.
However, the last few chapters when she's finally able to get ahold of him for her retribution is terrifying, disturbing, and you'll finally be able to spark some sympathy for Roger because what she does to him is torturous and extremely unsettling!
This is a frightening and often unnerving novel that will give you the willies at times. I recommend it. I received an ARC of this book through Booksirens. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
May 2, 2025
It looks like I am only one of a few that have rated this book below five stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoy a good horror book once in a while but I just didn’t seem to resonate with this book. The book for some reason kind of made me think back to one a read a while ago with a MMC and maybe I’m just realizing that books with the main character being male isn’t my kind of thing.
Daisy, a nurse, was compassionate maybe to a fault. Always wanting to please everyone around her but mainly her selfish musician husband who hated his job and who never saw the good in Daisy. As far as he was concerned she constantly nagged, slowed him down, and put others before him. The book starts with her death and quickly introduces us to Mei, a neighbour who brings beer rather than the dreaded casserole. Mei, seemed to be one of the few characters I liked along with Mrs. Watson.
Daisy is intent on not allowing her terrible husband to live in peace and grieve her in the wake of her death. Why should she? He was miserable and bitter, resenting everything about her and her family. Why should he move on and be happy?
What follows is a story revolved around Daisy making Roger pay for her unhappiness in life and marriage. Blood, guts, gore, lots of mention of bodily fluids and vomit. I found the storyline wasn’t too bad but I waited so long for the horror part of the book that by the time it finally got to that point I was bored with the book and just sort of skimmed over the last few chapters.
I hope that if you choose to read this book that you enjoy it more than I did.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoy a good horror book once in a while but I just didn’t seem to resonate with this book. The book for some reason kind of made me think back to one a read a while ago with a MMC and maybe I’m just realizing that books with the main character being male isn’t my kind of thing.
Daisy, a nurse, was compassionate maybe to a fault. Always wanting to please everyone around her but mainly her selfish musician husband who hated his job and who never saw the good in Daisy. As far as he was concerned she constantly nagged, slowed him down, and put others before him. The book starts with her death and quickly introduces us to Mei, a neighbour who brings beer rather than the dreaded casserole. Mei, seemed to be one of the few characters I liked along with Mrs. Watson.
Daisy is intent on not allowing her terrible husband to live in peace and grieve her in the wake of her death. Why should she? He was miserable and bitter, resenting everything about her and her family. Why should he move on and be happy?
What follows is a story revolved around Daisy making Roger pay for her unhappiness in life and marriage. Blood, guts, gore, lots of mention of bodily fluids and vomit. I found the storyline wasn’t too bad but I waited so long for the horror part of the book that by the time it finally got to that point I was bored with the book and just sort of skimmed over the last few chapters.
I hope that if you choose to read this book that you enjoy it more than I did.
May 14, 2025
Pushing Daisy is the debut full-length novel from Christopher O'Halloran (Bloodlines, HOWLS From the Wreckage [ed.]). It's a psychological, supernatural thriller concerning Roger Darling, a widower whose wife, Daisy, has recently taken her own life. Roger isn't a nice guy; in fact, he's a downright jerk. But his character development, his slow realization—which he tries and tries to resist—that he played a key role in his wife's death (and perhaps even learn to take some responsibility), is one of the great aspects of this novel.
This a smorgasbord, a slow-cooked hell-stew. It plays out through: Roger's bodily functions, his guilt and psychological torture, the supernatural shenanigans you'd expect from a ghost story (surprisingly low-key and not the focus of the story), and the various hellscape scenarios Roger stumbles into. You'll be conflicted. You'll revel in Roger's cosmic punishment, while feeling sympathetic for his circumstances.
O'Halloran's prose is nimble and entertaining. He moves from gross-out horror to dark comedy to pathos-invoking drama with remarkable ease. Pushing Daisy is much more of a character study, psychologically-driven horror than I'd expected going in. It's going to be unique on shelves full of traditional ghost stories. But a book that's this gross, frightening, and entertaining shouldn't be missed.
This a smorgasbord, a slow-cooked hell-stew. It plays out through: Roger's bodily functions, his guilt and psychological torture, the supernatural shenanigans you'd expect from a ghost story (surprisingly low-key and not the focus of the story), and the various hellscape scenarios Roger stumbles into. You'll be conflicted. You'll revel in Roger's cosmic punishment, while feeling sympathetic for his circumstances.
O'Halloran's prose is nimble and entertaining. He moves from gross-out horror to dark comedy to pathos-invoking drama with remarkable ease. Pushing Daisy is much more of a character study, psychologically-driven horror than I'd expected going in. It's going to be unique on shelves full of traditional ghost stories. But a book that's this gross, frightening, and entertaining shouldn't be missed.
May 9, 2025
Roger is attempting to grieve after his wife’s suicide. He’s angry, unappreciative and pushes away all those closest to him. Plus, it seems like the ghost of his dead wife is haunting him and she’s not a happy ghost.
Pushing Daisy, what to say? I detested the main character, Roger, but I think we’re supposed too. He was so well written that I wanted to jump through my Kindle and strangle him. Awesome (and disgusting) body horror. I’m giving this an extra star for the amount of hatred I was able to feel for a fictional character.
I did really like the side characters and their interactions with Roger, the MC. I loved the next door neighbor, Mei and her willingness to be a friend to him. I also liked his older brother Alan, who despite knowing his brother is not a nice guy, still tries to get him out of the glorious funk he’s gotten himself into.
Lots of trigger warnings; animal death, mental and emotional abuse and suicide.
Pushing Daisy, what to say? I detested the main character, Roger, but I think we’re supposed too. He was so well written that I wanted to jump through my Kindle and strangle him. Awesome (and disgusting) body horror. I’m giving this an extra star for the amount of hatred I was able to feel for a fictional character.
I did really like the side characters and their interactions with Roger, the MC. I loved the next door neighbor, Mei and her willingness to be a friend to him. I also liked his older brother Alan, who despite knowing his brother is not a nice guy, still tries to get him out of the glorious funk he’s gotten himself into.
Lots of trigger warnings; animal death, mental and emotional abuse and suicide.
May 13, 2025
“Pushing Daisy” is more than just an incredible story—it’s a layered, emotionally grounded read with realistic characters and a believable outcome. Even the unlikable husband, Roger, is written so authentically that I could easily picture someone like him in real life. Every character felt vivid and fully developed. The pacing was spot on—nothing felt rushed or juvenile, and it never tried to force emotions. Instead, it guided me naturally through the highs and lows. By the end, I was verbally reacting to what was happening. I found myself emotionally attached to a character I didn’t expect to care for, and that speaks volumes. This is definitely a story I’ll be thinking and talking about for the next few days. I also loved how the title, “Pushing Daisy,” holds different meanings depending on where you are in the story—or even after you’ve finished it. At least, that’s how it resonated with me. 💛
April 30, 2025
This is a great debut novel by an author whose short fiction I've enjoyed for a while now. It starts off as a slow burn, but the character work is so well done that it keeps the pages turning. Roger, the protagonist, conjures a lot of complicated feelings. He's kind of a terrible person. Selfish, vindictive, and mean-spirited at times. But O'Halloran presents him with just the right amount of compassion to make you care without wondering if he's supposed to be coming off as heroic.
The book's finale raised this from four stars to five for me. While the scares are spread intermittently throughout the novel, the last 20% or so are an absolute onslaught of disturbing imagery and gruesome violence. It honestly went way harder than I was expecting it too.
There's a lot of heart in this book, and I recommend it to anyone who wants big feelings served with a side of rotting flesh.
The book's finale raised this from four stars to five for me. While the scares are spread intermittently throughout the novel, the last 20% or so are an absolute onslaught of disturbing imagery and gruesome violence. It honestly went way harder than I was expecting it too.
There's a lot of heart in this book, and I recommend it to anyone who wants big feelings served with a side of rotting flesh.
April 15, 2025
Confession time: I picked up Christopher O'Halloran's 'Pushing Daisy' purely because its cover whispered dark promises. Turns out, my shallow literary flirtation paid off handsomely. I entered its pages blissfully ignorant, and emerged…haunted, in the best possible way. O'Halloran isn't just writing; he's conjuring shadows, a modern-day Stephen King wielding prose sharp enough to sever your nerves. This tale isn't just haunting; it's a deliciously unsettling descent that had me clawing for the next page like a desperate soul. Consider me thoroughly unnerved and impressed. My compliments to the author, and yes, I'll be waiting in the gloom for his next descent into darkness.
⤜♡→ I received an advance review copy for free (thankyouuu BookSirens!), and I'm sharing this review voluntarily.
⤜♡→ I received an advance review copy for free (thankyouuu BookSirens!), and I'm sharing this review voluntarily.
April 20, 2025
Pushing Daisy is a very well written, slow burn psychological horror focused on grief and self reflection.
Our main character lost his wife to suicide, and as we spend time inside his brain, it’s easy to see why. What a loathsome piece of work he is. He deserves to be haunted by the way he treated her in life, and in death she makes sure to deliver.
Christopher O’Halloran does a phenomenal job of immersing us into the lives of these characters. His writing is packed with wit and emotion. He conjures some fantastically horrific imagery, especially during the big climax. I felt conflicted at some points, unsure of who I was really rooting for and I love that.
I’ll be looking forward to reading more from this author! Thank you to booksirens for providing an advanced copy of this book.
Our main character lost his wife to suicide, and as we spend time inside his brain, it’s easy to see why. What a loathsome piece of work he is. He deserves to be haunted by the way he treated her in life, and in death she makes sure to deliver.
Christopher O’Halloran does a phenomenal job of immersing us into the lives of these characters. His writing is packed with wit and emotion. He conjures some fantastically horrific imagery, especially during the big climax. I felt conflicted at some points, unsure of who I was really rooting for and I love that.
I’ll be looking forward to reading more from this author! Thank you to booksirens for providing an advanced copy of this book.
May 6, 2025
This is more of a character written book, than a horror. Centralising around Roger a not so delightful male who has recently lost his wife, his refusal to acknowledge his relationship with his recently dead wife along with members of his family and whilst trying to move on with his life.
Whereas Daisy his long suffering devoted wife had other ideas and wishes to finally get what she wants even from beyond the grave.
Great descriptive writing but I did find it a bit of a slow burn for my liking.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you BookSirens.
Whereas Daisy his long suffering devoted wife had other ideas and wishes to finally get what she wants even from beyond the grave.
Great descriptive writing but I did find it a bit of a slow burn for my liking.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you BookSirens.
June 2, 2025
I feel like this was a good start for a horror story, but it dragged in places that I skimmed over. We see the dynamic between Daisy and Roger. He makes it seem like it's her fault for his rude behavior and narcissism. After Daisy's funeral, Roger moves on and it seems like he's not a terrible person the way he treats Mei and Barbara Watson, but that also goes south.
The characters are well-written, and the gory descriptions are on point. The story had some slow parts but overall wasn't bad. I'll try reading another novel by Christopher O'Halloran.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters are well-written, and the gory descriptions are on point. The story had some slow parts but overall wasn't bad. I'll try reading another novel by Christopher O'Halloran.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 21, 2025
After almost two months, I have finally finished this book. I’m conflicted with how I want to review this. It was good, but not great. The main character, Roger, was interesting but I didn’t feel attached to the story at all. The writing style was great, and the author had a way of descriptive imagery. On the flip side, some parts were drawn out as if they were important, but really weren’t going anywhere. This book was a bit too long and drawn out for me.
Overall, if you like ghost/haunting stories, you’ll probably like this!
Thank you Book Sirens for a chance to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, if you like ghost/haunting stories, you’ll probably like this!
Thank you Book Sirens for a chance to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2025
I admit I struggle with books where the main character isn't likeable, especially when they're downright unsympathetic, so this book wasn't exactly built for my tastes, but it is a fun, fast horror read that serves up a fantastically unique story. O'Halloran is a great storyteller--all the more obvious since I'm sure this same MC would have led me to DNF the book in some other writer's hands, given that sympathy element--and a talented writer, so I'll look forward to what comes next from him.
I will give one caveat; there really should be a CW on the book for animal death/mutilation, so read with caution if that's something which tends to bother you.
Recommended for horror lovers.
I will give one caveat; there really should be a CW on the book for animal death/mutilation, so read with caution if that's something which tends to bother you.
Recommended for horror lovers.
April 13, 2025
Really good book, very atmospheric with a good build upon tension and horror. One star shy of five stars as I thought the book would go in a different direction at the end, for me the ending, while not a bad ending, missed the mark for where I thought it should go.
I like the way the book explores loss and grief, and how nothing makes sense after a life changing event. Also like the way it deals with are people who we think they are, what are they hiding beneath the surface.
I got a copy of this from BookSirens and this is my honest review
I like the way the book explores loss and grief, and how nothing makes sense after a life changing event. Also like the way it deals with are people who we think they are, what are they hiding beneath the surface.
I got a copy of this from BookSirens and this is my honest review
April 24, 2025
It was hard to read this story. Yes the male character was awful. No, this story wasn't really horror, but because it was just get painful to get through. Never had I encountered a character with so many detailed bodily functions... Aside from that, I was bored. I kept waiting for something to happen and each time something small was dropped I had to wait forever for something else to happen. I would be more interested in reading this another once the craft is developed... The execution was rough with this one.
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