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Darkrooms
Two unforgettable women investigate the disappearance of a missing girl in a small Irish town brimming with secrets—in this haunting debut from a new crime writing talent, perfect for fans of Tana French and Flynn Berry.
What secrets lurk in the Hanging Woods?
On the night of the Summer Solstice in 1999, nine-year-old Roisin O’Halloran marched into the Hanging Woods, the mysterious copse that had inspired fear in decades of children in the small Irish town of Bannakilduf. She was never seen again.
Twenty years later, two women are drawn together to discover the truth of what happened to Roisin’s older sister Deedee, a rookie cop who’s barely hanging on to the appearance of keeping it all together, and Roisin’s childhood best friend Caitlin, a petty criminal who was the last person to see the young girl before she disappeared, now returned to her hometown after her mother’s death.
Reluctantly brought together after decades of mistrust, Caitlin and Deedee must reckon with their shadowy pasts, the monsters that still haunt them, and the role they each may have played in Roisin’s disappearance.
With old wounds made fresh, the unresolved events of that summer years ago rise to the surface, and the truth threatens to reshape the small town that would prefer the past remain buried.
The siren of the Hanging Woods rings out once more. After all, nothing can stay hidden forever.
What secrets lurk in the Hanging Woods?
On the night of the Summer Solstice in 1999, nine-year-old Roisin O’Halloran marched into the Hanging Woods, the mysterious copse that had inspired fear in decades of children in the small Irish town of Bannakilduf. She was never seen again.
Twenty years later, two women are drawn together to discover the truth of what happened to Roisin’s older sister Deedee, a rookie cop who’s barely hanging on to the appearance of keeping it all together, and Roisin’s childhood best friend Caitlin, a petty criminal who was the last person to see the young girl before she disappeared, now returned to her hometown after her mother’s death.
Reluctantly brought together after decades of mistrust, Caitlin and Deedee must reckon with their shadowy pasts, the monsters that still haunt them, and the role they each may have played in Roisin’s disappearance.
With old wounds made fresh, the unresolved events of that summer years ago rise to the surface, and the truth threatens to reshape the small town that would prefer the past remain buried.
The siren of the Hanging Woods rings out once more. After all, nothing can stay hidden forever.
11 pages, Audible Audio
First published January 15, 2026
111 people are currently reading
18175 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Hannigan
1 book48 followersRebecca Hannigan has an MA in Creative Writing Crime Fiction from UEA, graduating in 2023. She won the UEA/Little Brown Crime Prize for her dissertation. She has also been shortlisted for Virago/The Pool’s Best New Crime Writer.
Her first novel, Darkrooms, is available for pre-order now from your retailer of choice.
She is currently working on her second novel.
Born in England to Irish parents, she now resides in Essex with her husband, cat, and a variety of increasingly cat-battered houseplants.
Her first novel, Darkrooms, is available for pre-order now from your retailer of choice.
She is currently working on her second novel.
Born in England to Irish parents, she now resides in Essex with her husband, cat, and a variety of increasingly cat-battered houseplants.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 265 reviews
August 24, 2025
"She had come to understand the weight of secrets."
The plot of Darkrooms involves a crime mystery (a sister lost 20 years before in the evocatively named Hanging Woods), but it often has the feel of gritty literary fiction, a portrait of chaotic modern life, and in style reminded me a bit of Karen Campbell's recent novel 'This Bright Life'. I really liked the texture of the writing - the characters and places felt real. This is a strong debut and I look forward to reading more from Rebecca Hannigan (winner of the UEA/Little Brown Crime Prize).
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy.
The plot of Darkrooms involves a crime mystery (a sister lost 20 years before in the evocatively named Hanging Woods), but it often has the feel of gritty literary fiction, a portrait of chaotic modern life, and in style reminded me a bit of Karen Campbell's recent novel 'This Bright Life'. I really liked the texture of the writing - the characters and places felt real. This is a strong debut and I look forward to reading more from Rebecca Hannigan (winner of the UEA/Little Brown Crime Prize).
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy.
January 21, 2026
An atmospheric tale of long-buried dark secrets about a haunting disappearance, Darkrooms was a new take on missing person crime fiction. With emotional nuance and lyrical prose, there was a definite literary thriller feel to this dark, claustrophobic story of Irish noir. You see, not only was this an impressive character study of two deeply flawed women, but it explored several thought-provoking themes as the truth behind the mystery was slowly revealed. From sisterhood and identity to trauma and grief, there were some profoundly provocative topics within these bingeable pages. Alongside of that, though, was a slow-boiling plot that had me side-eyeing every single character. With two unlikeable narrators—one of whom was unreliable—and a supporting cast that made the plot simmer, I was truly impressed by this debut novel.
Despite the many winning attributes to this one, however, the first two-thirds of the book was a long, hard slog. More introspective than mystery-fueled, even the eerie setting wasn’t able to win me over in the beginning. That being said, once I hit the first plot-shifting twist, I was beyond glued to the pages. Eye-opening and shocking, it wasn’t something I saw coming at all. Of course, this was all in addition to the tense, onion-like feel to the whodunnit-ish storyline. Told via dual timelines and dual POVs, the past and the present merged into a life-shattering revelation for all those involved. So if you’re a fan of Tana French or Liz Nugent, I highly recommend giving this book a try. After all, this unraveling rookie cop and petty con artist delivered a heartbreakingly realistic tale that I surely won’t be forgetting anytime soon. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
On the night of the Summer Solstice in 1999, nine-year-old Roisin O’Halloran marched into the Hanging Woods, the mysterious copse that had inspired fear in decades of children in the small Irish town of Bannakilduf. She was never seen again.
Twenty years later, two women are drawn together to discover the truth of what happened to Roisin: Roisin’s older sister Deedee, a rookie cop who’s barely hanging on to the appearance of keeping it all together, and Roisin’s childhood best friend Caitlin, a petty criminal who was the last person to see the young girl before she disappeared, now returned to her hometown after her mother’s death.
Reluctantly brought together after decades of mistrust, Caitlin and Deedee must reckon with their shadowy pasts, the monsters that still haunt them, and the role they each may have played in Roisin’s disappearance.
With old wounds made fresh, the unresolved events of that summer years ago rise to the surface, and the truth threatens to reshape the small town that would prefer the past remain buried.
The siren of the Hanging Woods rings out once more. After all, nothing can stay hidden forever.
Thank you Rebecca Hannigan and William Morrow Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 13, 2026
Content warning: If you’d like the triggers, please DM me on Instagram at @suspenseisthrillingme (or message me here if it’s still working). There are some spoilers that I didn’t want to reveal.
Despite the many winning attributes to this one, however, the first two-thirds of the book was a long, hard slog. More introspective than mystery-fueled, even the eerie setting wasn’t able to win me over in the beginning. That being said, once I hit the first plot-shifting twist, I was beyond glued to the pages. Eye-opening and shocking, it wasn’t something I saw coming at all. Of course, this was all in addition to the tense, onion-like feel to the whodunnit-ish storyline. Told via dual timelines and dual POVs, the past and the present merged into a life-shattering revelation for all those involved. So if you’re a fan of Tana French or Liz Nugent, I highly recommend giving this book a try. After all, this unraveling rookie cop and petty con artist delivered a heartbreakingly realistic tale that I surely won’t be forgetting anytime soon. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
On the night of the Summer Solstice in 1999, nine-year-old Roisin O’Halloran marched into the Hanging Woods, the mysterious copse that had inspired fear in decades of children in the small Irish town of Bannakilduf. She was never seen again.
Twenty years later, two women are drawn together to discover the truth of what happened to Roisin: Roisin’s older sister Deedee, a rookie cop who’s barely hanging on to the appearance of keeping it all together, and Roisin’s childhood best friend Caitlin, a petty criminal who was the last person to see the young girl before she disappeared, now returned to her hometown after her mother’s death.
Reluctantly brought together after decades of mistrust, Caitlin and Deedee must reckon with their shadowy pasts, the monsters that still haunt them, and the role they each may have played in Roisin’s disappearance.
With old wounds made fresh, the unresolved events of that summer years ago rise to the surface, and the truth threatens to reshape the small town that would prefer the past remain buried.
The siren of the Hanging Woods rings out once more. After all, nothing can stay hidden forever.
Thank you Rebecca Hannigan and William Morrow Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 13, 2026
Content warning: If you’d like the triggers, please DM me on Instagram at @suspenseisthrillingme (or message me here if it’s still working). There are some spoilers that I didn’t want to reveal.
February 8, 2026
We follow two women who are both tragically changed by events from their childhood. Meet DeeDee and Caitlin. They’re brought together after twenty years. Secrets still fester.
The trope initially involves a missing child, however, it’s full of grief, trauma, generational trauma, family ties and the things that break those bonds.
Darkrooms is not a fast paced thriller and the reader needs to know this going in. The book is a slow burn character study. You will hate these women, trust me ….then, gain understanding of why they were the way they were. How could I not empathize for the broken? Because I once was that damaged child many years ago as well. 😭
By the halfway mark, I needed to see this through. In my mind, the story is a perfect example of portraying generational trauma. By the end, I was emotionally wrecked.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trigger warnings here of missing children, addiction, emotional/ physical abuse, child death and suicide.
The trope initially involves a missing child, however, it’s full of grief, trauma, generational trauma, family ties and the things that break those bonds.
Darkrooms is not a fast paced thriller and the reader needs to know this going in. The book is a slow burn character study. You will hate these women, trust me ….then, gain understanding of why they were the way they were. How could I not empathize for the broken? Because I once was that damaged child many years ago as well. 😭
By the halfway mark, I needed to see this through. In my mind, the story is a perfect example of portraying generational trauma. By the end, I was emotionally wrecked.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trigger warnings here of missing children, addiction, emotional/ physical abuse, child death and suicide.
January 20, 2026
In 1999, Roisin goes missing in Hanging Woods without a trace. In 2019, we see the effects her disappearance has upon her childhood friend, Caitlin and her sister Deedee who has recently became a member of the Garda, hoping to use it to her advantage to find out what happened to her sister. Both women are deeply troubled and deeply flawed. They are extremely unlikable, but it makes them feel more realistic with the amount of trauma they have dealt with. It all culminates when Caitlin comes home after decades away when her mother dies. Deedee has always been convinced Caitlin has had something to do with her little sister’s disappearance and will stop at nothing to prove her guilt.
This was an extremely slow atmospheric burn. The pace finally picked up in the last quarter but the resolution was fairly predictable. There’s definitely nothing bad about this book, but there’s nothing that hasn’t already been done before. This is definitely a very dark mystery with extremely unlikable characters.
This was an extremely slow atmospheric burn. The pace finally picked up in the last quarter but the resolution was fairly predictable. There’s definitely nothing bad about this book, but there’s nothing that hasn’t already been done before. This is definitely a very dark mystery with extremely unlikable characters.
March 6, 2026
A haunting tale of grief, loss, and trauma, this atmospheric tale wrapped me in its bittersweet embrace. Twenty years ago Roisin and Caitlin entered the Hanging Woods—a nearby copse of trees—and only Caitlin came back out. Now, Rosin's older sister Deedee and Caitlin are on a collision course with each other to find the truth once and for all. What happened to Roisin?
Darkly thematic, the two women at the focus of this story are both deeply damaged and flawed—relying on unhealthy habits to survive. In some ways it's difficult to feel any empathy for them, and in others it's painful to watch their respective deconstructions. Deedee is an alcoholic and in denial about it, while Caitlin resorts to risky behaviors such as petty theft and random sexual encounters. In spite of their unlikability, I couldn't help but be invested in their outcome as the slow burn mystery revealed itself into something disturbing and heartbreaking. As layers are peeled back, there's greater understanding of the nuances of how each woman became the person she is—a loss of innocence at the forefront. With a distinctly gritty, noir feel, the conclusion offered redemption and hope; the final paragraph threatened to bring tears to my eyes.
Clare Harte narrates the audiobook—which I paired with my physical copy—and her lilting Irish accent and emotive performance further immersed me in the rich, moody atmosphere of the small town of Bannakilduf.
Rebecca Hannigan tackles tough themes with lush and vivid realism—a yearning to belong, effects of childhood trauma, and unresolved grief. If you're a fan of character driven mysteries, small-town secrets and lies, and thought-provoking topics, you won't want to miss DARKROOMS!
____
Thank you William Morrow & Harper Audio for my gifted copies. All opinions are my own.
Darkly thematic, the two women at the focus of this story are both deeply damaged and flawed—relying on unhealthy habits to survive. In some ways it's difficult to feel any empathy for them, and in others it's painful to watch their respective deconstructions. Deedee is an alcoholic and in denial about it, while Caitlin resorts to risky behaviors such as petty theft and random sexual encounters. In spite of their unlikability, I couldn't help but be invested in their outcome as the slow burn mystery revealed itself into something disturbing and heartbreaking. As layers are peeled back, there's greater understanding of the nuances of how each woman became the person she is—a loss of innocence at the forefront. With a distinctly gritty, noir feel, the conclusion offered redemption and hope; the final paragraph threatened to bring tears to my eyes.
Clare Harte narrates the audiobook—which I paired with my physical copy—and her lilting Irish accent and emotive performance further immersed me in the rich, moody atmosphere of the small town of Bannakilduf.
Rebecca Hannigan tackles tough themes with lush and vivid realism—a yearning to belong, effects of childhood trauma, and unresolved grief. If you're a fan of character driven mysteries, small-town secrets and lies, and thought-provoking topics, you won't want to miss DARKROOMS!
____
Thank you William Morrow & Harper Audio for my gifted copies. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars rounded up
Some ghosts are tied not only to places, but to choices - and to the people we can't quite escape.
Twenty years after vowing never to return to her small Irish hometown, Caitlin drifts from one job to the next, carrying the weight of what happened in the Hanging Woods - and to another young girl, Roisin. But when her estranged mother dies suddenly, Caitlin is forced to go back, to a town steeped in secrets and bitterness. Roisin's sister Deedee, now a Garda, has never stopped searching for the truth about what happened to Roisin, and soon the two women circle each other warily, finally forced to confront the past that refuses to stay buried.
Rebecca Hannigan's "Darkrooms" begins as a slow, brooding study of grief, guilt, and trauma, more literary than thriller in its tone and pacing. The early chapters feel like a character portrait of people trapped by their own histories, and both Caitlin and Deedee are written with such unflinching and brutal honesty that they're often deeply unlikeable. A twist two-thirds of the way through shifts the story's momentum and its pacing, but be warned that it's one seasoned readers of psychological suspense will likely see coming.
While "Darkrooms" is atmospheric, introspective, and unafraid to confront difficult subjects (definitely check the trigger warnings), its impact stems more from its emotional aftermath than from shock or suspense. In that way, the book works best as a character-driven exploration of trauma and survival, and less as a conventional mystery. Consequently, the novel might not grip you as tightly if you're expecting more of a conventional psychological thriller. Nevertheless, "Darkrooms" is an impressive, bleak and moody debut, a piece of Irish noir that marks Rebecca Hannigan as a promising new voice in Irish literary fiction.
Many thanks to William Morrow for providing me with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
"Darkrooms" is slated to be published on January 13, 2026.
Some ghosts are tied not only to places, but to choices - and to the people we can't quite escape.
Twenty years after vowing never to return to her small Irish hometown, Caitlin drifts from one job to the next, carrying the weight of what happened in the Hanging Woods - and to another young girl, Roisin. But when her estranged mother dies suddenly, Caitlin is forced to go back, to a town steeped in secrets and bitterness. Roisin's sister Deedee, now a Garda, has never stopped searching for the truth about what happened to Roisin, and soon the two women circle each other warily, finally forced to confront the past that refuses to stay buried.
Rebecca Hannigan's "Darkrooms" begins as a slow, brooding study of grief, guilt, and trauma, more literary than thriller in its tone and pacing. The early chapters feel like a character portrait of people trapped by their own histories, and both Caitlin and Deedee are written with such unflinching and brutal honesty that they're often deeply unlikeable. A twist two-thirds of the way through shifts the story's momentum and its pacing, but be warned that it's one seasoned readers of psychological suspense will likely see coming.
While "Darkrooms" is atmospheric, introspective, and unafraid to confront difficult subjects (definitely check the trigger warnings), its impact stems more from its emotional aftermath than from shock or suspense. In that way, the book works best as a character-driven exploration of trauma and survival, and less as a conventional mystery. Consequently, the novel might not grip you as tightly if you're expecting more of a conventional psychological thriller. Nevertheless, "Darkrooms" is an impressive, bleak and moody debut, a piece of Irish noir that marks Rebecca Hannigan as a promising new voice in Irish literary fiction.
Many thanks to William Morrow for providing me with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
"Darkrooms" is slated to be published on January 13, 2026.
March 13, 2026
scenery was insane
March 11, 2026
I love a small town mystery that takes its time peeling back so many layers of a story before it can be solved...one that takes the reader into the depths of the investigators’ character and the core of their faults and struggles. I just found that this story did that plot peeling and character development a bit too slowly for a thriller. I did find the story a bit slow at points and/or hard to follow in the audiobook ALC version.
But apart from that, it was an enjoyable mystery novel! What I loved most about it is the journey into the inner core of the characters while they work to solve the mystery.
Thank you so much to Harper Audio and Netgalley for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
But apart from that, it was an enjoyable mystery novel! What I loved most about it is the journey into the inner core of the characters while they work to solve the mystery.
Thank you so much to Harper Audio and Netgalley for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
January 15, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of
Darkrooms.
This is not a thriller nor is it suspenseful.
The blurb is full out misleading.
** Minor non-misleading spoilers ahead **
Twenty years ago, nine-year-old Roisin O’Halloran headed into the Hanging Woods and was never seen again.
Now her older sister, Deedee, is a police officer, intent on solving her sister's missing person's case.
But when Caitlin, a friend of Roisin, returns to their small town after her mother's death, old traumas are revisited and dark truths will be revealed.
The narrative is slow and plodding, minus the suspenseful elements and investigative depth typical of the genre.
The story leans heavily on the emotional aftermath of trauma, focusing on the characters' struggles to cope with the unresolved pain of the past.
Nothing happens until the last 20 pages of the narrative.
The novel's main focus revolves around Deedee's professional and personal battles as she grapples with her role in the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, Caitlin’s journey delves into memories of her friend and how she was personally responsible for what happened that fateful day.
Both characters are depicted as profoundly affected by the trauma of loss, yet the story often opts for heavy exposition over dynamic storytelling.
Readers should note triggering themes include sexual abuse and violence of minors but this isn't revealed until nearly the end.
While these elements are critical to explain the characters' emotional states and help explain some of their motivations and bad decisions, it pulls away from the thriller aspect that audiences might expect.
Some of the 'twists' I figured out and I wasn't a fan of the author purposely leaving out the name of Caitlin's mother's boyfriend.
I know the reason is to make it seem like a twist but I always call these fake outs a trick.
When an author purposely misleads a reader, this is a trick to fool us, not to help us solve the crime alongside the main character(s).
I don't appreciate the deceit. Many authors choose to this literary device over the last decade and I really wish it would go away.
Deedee and Caitlin are intensely unlikable, but so is everyone else.
Maybe they're supposed to be.
The lack of suspense and a strong investigative subplot leaves this 'thriller' flat and boring.
I wasn't emotionally connected to Caitlin and Deedee, whose perspectives we're getting the story from, didn't make me care about what happens to either of them.
Not surprisingly, the most interesting character was Roisin.
The ending is too pat, though I'm glad justice was served but in many ways, that's not realistic either.
This is not a thriller nor is it suspenseful.
The blurb is full out misleading.
** Minor non-misleading spoilers ahead **
Twenty years ago, nine-year-old Roisin O’Halloran headed into the Hanging Woods and was never seen again.
Now her older sister, Deedee, is a police officer, intent on solving her sister's missing person's case.
But when Caitlin, a friend of Roisin, returns to their small town after her mother's death, old traumas are revisited and dark truths will be revealed.
The narrative is slow and plodding, minus the suspenseful elements and investigative depth typical of the genre.
The story leans heavily on the emotional aftermath of trauma, focusing on the characters' struggles to cope with the unresolved pain of the past.
Nothing happens until the last 20 pages of the narrative.
The novel's main focus revolves around Deedee's professional and personal battles as she grapples with her role in the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, Caitlin’s journey delves into memories of her friend and how she was personally responsible for what happened that fateful day.
Both characters are depicted as profoundly affected by the trauma of loss, yet the story often opts for heavy exposition over dynamic storytelling.
Readers should note triggering themes include sexual abuse and violence of minors but this isn't revealed until nearly the end.
While these elements are critical to explain the characters' emotional states and help explain some of their motivations and bad decisions, it pulls away from the thriller aspect that audiences might expect.
Some of the 'twists' I figured out and I wasn't a fan of the author purposely leaving out the name of Caitlin's mother's boyfriend.
I know the reason is to make it seem like a twist but I always call these fake outs a trick.
When an author purposely misleads a reader, this is a trick to fool us, not to help us solve the crime alongside the main character(s).
I don't appreciate the deceit. Many authors choose to this literary device over the last decade and I really wish it would go away.
Deedee and Caitlin are intensely unlikable, but so is everyone else.
Maybe they're supposed to be.
The lack of suspense and a strong investigative subplot leaves this 'thriller' flat and boring.
I wasn't emotionally connected to Caitlin and Deedee, whose perspectives we're getting the story from, didn't make me care about what happens to either of them.
Not surprisingly, the most interesting character was Roisin.
The ending is too pat, though I'm glad justice was served but in many ways, that's not realistic either.
December 13, 2025
This was a moody, atmospheric novel that leans heavily into tension, grief, and the complicated angst of sister relationships. The emotional core of the story was based on that love and kept the plot moving.
The atmosphere is richly done and often unsettling, creating a sense of unease that lingers throughout. Hannigan does an excellent job capturing emotional darkness and internal conflict, which kept me invested even when the plot slowed.
That said, the pacing was quite slow, and there were stretches where it was hard to stay fully engaged. While the mood was consistently strong, the story sometimes lingered too long without enough forward momentum.
The audiobook narration by Clare Harte was very well done and helped elevate the material. She captured the emotional nuances and tension effectively, making the listening experience stronger overall. 3.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you to Harper Audio Adult and NetGalley for the ARC.
The atmosphere is richly done and often unsettling, creating a sense of unease that lingers throughout. Hannigan does an excellent job capturing emotional darkness and internal conflict, which kept me invested even when the plot slowed.
That said, the pacing was quite slow, and there were stretches where it was hard to stay fully engaged. While the mood was consistently strong, the story sometimes lingered too long without enough forward momentum.
The audiobook narration by Clare Harte was very well done and helped elevate the material. She captured the emotional nuances and tension effectively, making the listening experience stronger overall. 3.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you to Harper Audio Adult and NetGalley for the ARC.
January 13, 2026
4.5 stars
In Darkrooms, two deeply flawed women collide when one returns to her tiny Irish hometown after her mother dies and the other, now a Garda, still obsesses over the disappearance of her sister twenty years earlier, dragging up old wounds and secrets that refuse to stay buried.
The first 70–75% of this book moved slowly for me; I’m used to a fast-paced, tension-driven thriller. It’s atmospheric as hell, and paints an incredible, complete picture of this small town and its inhabitants, but I did find myself whispering “come ON” as the two main POVs and dual timelines trudged forward. Both Caitlin and Deedee are gloriously unlikeable and catastrophically flawed - which is maybe brilliant and utterly exhausting.
I legit almost DNFed around 50% because my patience was wearing thin and I wasn’t vibing with them… but thank EVERYTHING I stuck it out.
Because holy cow, the last 25–30% hits like a speeding train. Suddenly the mystery rockets, the pacing snaps to attention, and it becomes a full-on race to the finish line to piece together what actually the hell happened in the Hanging Woods. The tension skyrockets, the secrets spill, the twists land, and suddenly you’re totally in it.
On top of the gritty mystery and small-town Irish gloom, Darkrooms digs into trauma, guilt, self-destruction, addiction, and how ugly grief fucks up entire lives and communities. This isn’t just a who-done-it - it’s a whispered punch in the gut about generational damage and how desperate we can be to escape our pasts.
It’s dark, it’s heavy, it deals with some serious shit. So check your triggers before diving in.
Thank you to Hachette Australia for my copy of this incredible debut from Rebecca Hannigan. Slow burn? Hell yes. Worth it? Hell YES. If you want atmosphere, pain, and a climax that will make you go “oh, NOW I see you!”, pick this up.
In Darkrooms, two deeply flawed women collide when one returns to her tiny Irish hometown after her mother dies and the other, now a Garda, still obsesses over the disappearance of her sister twenty years earlier, dragging up old wounds and secrets that refuse to stay buried.
The first 70–75% of this book moved slowly for me; I’m used to a fast-paced, tension-driven thriller. It’s atmospheric as hell, and paints an incredible, complete picture of this small town and its inhabitants, but I did find myself whispering “come ON” as the two main POVs and dual timelines trudged forward. Both Caitlin and Deedee are gloriously unlikeable and catastrophically flawed - which is maybe brilliant and utterly exhausting.
I legit almost DNFed around 50% because my patience was wearing thin and I wasn’t vibing with them… but thank EVERYTHING I stuck it out.
Because holy cow, the last 25–30% hits like a speeding train. Suddenly the mystery rockets, the pacing snaps to attention, and it becomes a full-on race to the finish line to piece together what actually the hell happened in the Hanging Woods. The tension skyrockets, the secrets spill, the twists land, and suddenly you’re totally in it.
On top of the gritty mystery and small-town Irish gloom, Darkrooms digs into trauma, guilt, self-destruction, addiction, and how ugly grief fucks up entire lives and communities. This isn’t just a who-done-it - it’s a whispered punch in the gut about generational damage and how desperate we can be to escape our pasts.
It’s dark, it’s heavy, it deals with some serious shit. So check your triggers before diving in.
Thank you to Hachette Australia for my copy of this incredible debut from Rebecca Hannigan. Slow burn? Hell yes. Worth it? Hell YES. If you want atmosphere, pain, and a climax that will make you go “oh, NOW I see you!”, pick this up.
January 26, 2026
4 solid stars.
Essentially, two women untreated for childhood trauma, and each dealing with that in their very own way, come together for some head banging. The author got under the bed and did an excellent job of exposing it in a small town setting.
The days of film photography played a good part in the story too.
It was however one of those stories caught between the mystery and thriller genre. Since it was a first book for the author, I say it was solidly done and she will likely continue to hone her craft.
I am decidedly a mystery reader and maybe a thriller or two a year. Thrillers just don’t tend to satisfy. So the elements that became just a little unbelievable were present here and I rolled on by them.
Wait! I now need to put a disclaimer on this. Even if Bosch, Haller, Allon, or a few others are written into thriller stories they are deeply excluded from the empty-calorie feelings I have for thrillers.
Essentially, two women untreated for childhood trauma, and each dealing with that in their very own way, come together for some head banging. The author got under the bed and did an excellent job of exposing it in a small town setting.
The days of film photography played a good part in the story too.
It was however one of those stories caught between the mystery and thriller genre. Since it was a first book for the author, I say it was solidly done and she will likely continue to hone her craft.
I am decidedly a mystery reader and maybe a thriller or two a year. Thrillers just don’t tend to satisfy. So the elements that became just a little unbelievable were present here and I rolled on by them.
Wait! I now need to put a disclaimer on this. Even if Bosch, Haller, Allon, or a few others are written into thriller stories they are deeply excluded from the empty-calorie feelings I have for thrillers.
July 31, 2025
This is the story of two troubled young women spiralling round each other, bound by a small Irish town and the child who disappeared there twenty years ago. There’s the one who left, running wild and addicted to chaos, and the one who remained, turned inward and curdled. Neither of them are especially likeable, but by the end of the book we are at least approaching understanding. There’s a song I was reminded of when reading, with a lyric that goes “once you’ve touched the poison, you poison everything you touch”, which isn’t so far from the character work here. DeeDee and Caitlin are vividly drawn, and their interior lives are convincing. This characterisation is one of the key strengths of the novel. Part of me wishes we’d seen more of this with other character’s points of view bought in (there’s one character who maybe gets unfairly short shrift), but that would risk undermining the other pillar here, which is the intensity of the story. I tore through this, reading the whole thing in a day and a half, and that laser focus on the two leads is a big part of the reason. A very accomplished debut that deserves to do well.
January 18, 2026
Rating: 3.5⭐️
I struggled to get through this one, it felt slow and repetitive for the first 70% whilst beautifully written and atmospheric. The last 30% saved it for me and I enjoyed how everything unraveled, I think I would have liked it more if I liked the main characters but I found them annoying so it made it hard for me to relate or care, which is disappointing because I usually love an unlikeable MC. Still a well written dark atmospheric thriller where the dark past comes back to haunt the present.
I struggled to get through this one, it felt slow and repetitive for the first 70% whilst beautifully written and atmospheric. The last 30% saved it for me and I enjoyed how everything unraveled, I think I would have liked it more if I liked the main characters but I found them annoying so it made it hard for me to relate or care, which is disappointing because I usually love an unlikeable MC. Still a well written dark atmospheric thriller where the dark past comes back to haunt the present.
February 22, 2026
Darkrooms is definitely suited to fans of Tana French, but if mystery-thrillers aren’t usually your thing, I’ll warn you straight up: it’s kind of a bummer. I liked the recurring photography motif, and the way that both protagonists chased their tails working off incomplete information... but I must say, I found the plot a bit predictable, and the “shock reveal” of the culprit(s) didn’t shock me in the least.
My full review of Darkrooms is up now on Keeping Up With The Penguins.
My full review of Darkrooms is up now on Keeping Up With The Penguins.
February 5, 2026
Don’t be fooled by the Karin Slaughter blurb. It’s books like these that make me sorely tempted to create a “bored beyond belief” shelf.
DNF at 6 hours and 56% into the audiobook. I just can’t force myself any longer.
ETA: I’ll come back and link to Elaine’s review later, but it reinforces my annoyance with this book. I feel pretty good about not finishing it.
DNF at 6 hours and 56% into the audiobook. I just can’t force myself any longer.
ETA: I’ll come back and link to Elaine’s review later, but it reinforces my annoyance with this book. I feel pretty good about not finishing it.
January 22, 2026
3.5⭐️ A 20 year old unsolved case of a missing girl in a small, Irish town. Two women- one a new member of the police force, the other the missing girl’s best friend, cross paths in an effort to find out what happened all those years ago.
First off, kudos to whoever designed the UK and American covers. They perfectly capture the vibe! Darkrooms is dark, gritty, and atmospheric, perfect for readers who enjoy a slowly unfolding mystery, set in a small town where it seems that everyone has secrets. Hannigan manages to capture that claustrophobic feeling of a town where everyone knows everyone so well. I felt fully immersed in the story and what the two main characters were dealing with, both the reluctant return home and the never having left.
Overall, this is a solid mystery/suspense debut. I am interested to see what the author writes next.
You might enjoy this book if:
💜 You enjoy a small Irish town setting
💜 You enjoy a more literary style of writing and slower pace
‼️Check trigger warnings if necessary
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperAudio Adult for an ALC in exchange for my honest review. This book is available now!
First off, kudos to whoever designed the UK and American covers. They perfectly capture the vibe! Darkrooms is dark, gritty, and atmospheric, perfect for readers who enjoy a slowly unfolding mystery, set in a small town where it seems that everyone has secrets. Hannigan manages to capture that claustrophobic feeling of a town where everyone knows everyone so well. I felt fully immersed in the story and what the two main characters were dealing with, both the reluctant return home and the never having left.
Overall, this is a solid mystery/suspense debut. I am interested to see what the author writes next.
You might enjoy this book if:
💜 You enjoy a small Irish town setting
💜 You enjoy a more literary style of writing and slower pace
‼️Check trigger warnings if necessary
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperAudio Adult for an ALC in exchange for my honest review. This book is available now!
January 5, 2026
This was a great Irish noir read! 🙌
Told across dual timelines and dual POVs, this story centers around the disappearance of a young girl. There are some very dark themes in this story; I would give trigger warnings but it would spoil the shocking twist. Definitely recommend checking this one out! 👏
Thank you to William Morrow Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read the eARC in exchange for my honest review! ❤️
Told across dual timelines and dual POVs, this story centers around the disappearance of a young girl. There are some very dark themes in this story; I would give trigger warnings but it would spoil the shocking twist. Definitely recommend checking this one out! 👏
Thank you to William Morrow Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read the eARC in exchange for my honest review! ❤️
January 6, 2026
Honestly this is one of the best books I’ve ever read. At the start I hated the 2 main protagonists they were both terrible people and at the end they are still both terrible but you understand them so much that for me anyway I fucking loved them please buy this book it’s unbelievable
Received early as part of ARC not paid for review etc
Received early as part of ARC not paid for review etc
February 10, 2026
3 stars. This was not just a letdown, it didn’t do what it was supposed to do. I was led to believe this would be about two women who would work together to solve a crime. Instead it’s about two truly useless characters working against each other until the last few pages. I’ve never been more frustrated by two investigators who are in turns pathetic or self destructive.
Roisin disappeared 20 years ago when she was 7 years old. Her older sister, Deedee, is now a police officer obsessed with finding the answer to the crime even though she���s slowly self destructing with alcohol. Caitlin, the last person to see Roisin alive, is a petty thief on the run from her demons but when her mother dies she comes back to town. When another girl goes missing, all the secrets come back to haunt them.
Every single character was irritating. This deals with pedophilia and child pornography and the victims but even knowing all that, I couldn’t ever properly root for anyone here. Reading this felt like a chore and the answer was so blatant that the reveal didn’t save this one.
Roisin disappeared 20 years ago when she was 7 years old. Her older sister, Deedee, is now a police officer obsessed with finding the answer to the crime even though she���s slowly self destructing with alcohol. Caitlin, the last person to see Roisin alive, is a petty thief on the run from her demons but when her mother dies she comes back to town. When another girl goes missing, all the secrets come back to haunt them.
Every single character was irritating. This deals with pedophilia and child pornography and the victims but even knowing all that, I couldn’t ever properly root for anyone here. Reading this felt like a chore and the answer was so blatant that the reveal didn’t save this one.
October 19, 2025
In Darkrooms, Rebecca Hannigan weaves a haunting tale of secrets, loss and the weight of unresolved trauma. The story centers around Caitlin, a woman who, twenty years after a devastating event in her small Irish hometown, has spent her life trying to outrun the shadows of the past. Her return, prompted by the sudden death of her estranged mother, forces her to confront the memories she’s tried to bury, memories tied to the chilling mystery of Roisin's disappearance in the Hanging Woods.
Hannigan’s writing excels in capturing the tension between Caitlin’s desire to escape and the pull of the past that continues to haunt her. The town itself is a character, steeped in old grudges and tight-knit relationships where everyone knows each other’s business, yet no one speaks of the past. The sense of claustrophobia and impending revelation builds steadily as Caitlin and Deedee, Roisin’s sister, find their fates intertwined once more.
The psychological depth of the characters, especially Caitlin, whose self-destructive behavior masks a profound grief, adds layers to the narrative. Caitlin’s return sets off a chain of events that not only threaten to uncover long buried truths but also force her to confront the very personal and very human costs of moving forward.
The mysterious Hanging Woods, with their eerie presence, serve as a metaphor for Caitlin's tangled memories and the dark truths that still lie hidden. As the suspense mounts, the novel grips you with its atmospheric tension and emotional resonance, while also exploring deeper themes of loss, guilt and the way people’s lives are defined by things they cannot change.
Ultimately, Darkrooms is a slow-burn psychological thriller that rewards patience with a chilling, heart-wrenching resolution. It’s a book that lingers long after the final page is turned, challenging readers to ask themselves how much they are willing to bury in the darkness, and whether the truth is ever really worth uncovering.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group UK for an advanced copy in exchange for my review.
Hannigan’s writing excels in capturing the tension between Caitlin’s desire to escape and the pull of the past that continues to haunt her. The town itself is a character, steeped in old grudges and tight-knit relationships where everyone knows each other’s business, yet no one speaks of the past. The sense of claustrophobia and impending revelation builds steadily as Caitlin and Deedee, Roisin’s sister, find their fates intertwined once more.
The psychological depth of the characters, especially Caitlin, whose self-destructive behavior masks a profound grief, adds layers to the narrative. Caitlin’s return sets off a chain of events that not only threaten to uncover long buried truths but also force her to confront the very personal and very human costs of moving forward.
The mysterious Hanging Woods, with their eerie presence, serve as a metaphor for Caitlin's tangled memories and the dark truths that still lie hidden. As the suspense mounts, the novel grips you with its atmospheric tension and emotional resonance, while also exploring deeper themes of loss, guilt and the way people’s lives are defined by things they cannot change.
Ultimately, Darkrooms is a slow-burn psychological thriller that rewards patience with a chilling, heart-wrenching resolution. It’s a book that lingers long after the final page is turned, challenging readers to ask themselves how much they are willing to bury in the darkness, and whether the truth is ever really worth uncovering.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group UK for an advanced copy in exchange for my review.
January 23, 2026
⭐️3.5 Stars
Two children went into the woods and only one returned.
Darkrooms by Rebecca Hannigan is a slow burn crime mystery and strong debut, this tale is darkly atmospheric and haunting.
Our main characters are two unlikable and complex women who are deeply flawed and living through their trauma and grief. The women are chained to the past and they’re drawn together as a shocking mystery is slowly revealed.
Caitlin is a wild one, she’s also a thief who returns to her home town after her mother’s death. Deedee is now a rookie cop whose sister, nine year old Roisin went missing in the woods twenty years prior.
The story is centred around a location known as the Hanging Woods by the locals in the Irish town of Bannakilduf, the place where Roisin disappeared. I felt like most of the characters in this town were unlikeable.
The Hanging Woods is an atmospheric setting and almost a third character itself. We journey through past and present to a shocking reveal.
This is more of a literary thriller, it examines the raw and emotional aftermath of an event and is very character driven. A dark, well written and unsettling story.
Publication Date 13 January 2026
Publisher Imprint Sphere
Thank you so much Hachette Australia for a copy of the book.
Two children went into the woods and only one returned.
Darkrooms by Rebecca Hannigan is a slow burn crime mystery and strong debut, this tale is darkly atmospheric and haunting.
Our main characters are two unlikable and complex women who are deeply flawed and living through their trauma and grief. The women are chained to the past and they’re drawn together as a shocking mystery is slowly revealed.
Caitlin is a wild one, she’s also a thief who returns to her home town after her mother’s death. Deedee is now a rookie cop whose sister, nine year old Roisin went missing in the woods twenty years prior.
The story is centred around a location known as the Hanging Woods by the locals in the Irish town of Bannakilduf, the place where Roisin disappeared. I felt like most of the characters in this town were unlikeable.
The Hanging Woods is an atmospheric setting and almost a third character itself. We journey through past and present to a shocking reveal.
This is more of a literary thriller, it examines the raw and emotional aftermath of an event and is very character driven. A dark, well written and unsettling story.
Publication Date 13 January 2026
Publisher Imprint Sphere
Thank you so much Hachette Australia for a copy of the book.
December 28, 2025
Darkrooms publishes 15 January 2026, and it’s absolutely one to keep an eye out for!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stars for Darkrooms by Rebecca Hannigan, physical copy of this ARC sent to me courtesy of Hachette Australia
Rebecca Hannigan’s debut crime thriller Darkrooms is the kind of novel that sinks its hooks in from page one and refuses to let go. I genuinely could not put this down - if I’d had a free weekend, I would’ve devoured it in a day and a half easily!
Told through dual perspectives and dual timelines, the story moves between Caitlin and Deedee’s voices, weaving the past and present together with such precision that every chapter feels like another piece clicking into place. Even though none of the characters are conventionally likeable, I still found myself rooting for both FMCs—Caitlin and Deedee are flawed, complex, and impossible to look away from.
Hannigan tackles generational trauma, dissociation as a means of survival, small‑town secrets, class divides, and even Stockholm syndrome with a deft, unflinching hand. The atmosphere is dark, moody, and sophisticated, and the tension never lets up. Every page, every paragraph felt intentional and razor‑sharp.
This is a gripping, masterfully written debut, and I’m already excited to see what Rebecca Hannigan writes next. If you like dark twisty mystery thrillers you have to keep an eye out for this one when it hits the stores!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stars for Darkrooms by Rebecca Hannigan, physical copy of this ARC sent to me courtesy of Hachette Australia
Rebecca Hannigan’s debut crime thriller Darkrooms is the kind of novel that sinks its hooks in from page one and refuses to let go. I genuinely could not put this down - if I’d had a free weekend, I would’ve devoured it in a day and a half easily!
Told through dual perspectives and dual timelines, the story moves between Caitlin and Deedee’s voices, weaving the past and present together with such precision that every chapter feels like another piece clicking into place. Even though none of the characters are conventionally likeable, I still found myself rooting for both FMCs—Caitlin and Deedee are flawed, complex, and impossible to look away from.
Hannigan tackles generational trauma, dissociation as a means of survival, small‑town secrets, class divides, and even Stockholm syndrome with a deft, unflinching hand. The atmosphere is dark, moody, and sophisticated, and the tension never lets up. Every page, every paragraph felt intentional and razor‑sharp.
This is a gripping, masterfully written debut, and I’m already excited to see what Rebecca Hannigan writes next. If you like dark twisty mystery thrillers you have to keep an eye out for this one when it hits the stores!
December 10, 2025
Slow-burn suspense as characters develop and red herrings converge in this captivating thriller set in a small town in Ireland. I listened to the book (thank you NetGalley and Harper Audio) with a narrator who spoke with a beautiful Irish lilt adding so much authenticity to the story.
Caitlin Doherty, a petty criminal returns to Banakilduf twenty years after the death of Roisin, Deedee O’Halloran, a rookie policewoman with a drinking problem, sister. They two are a collision course. Roisin walked into the Hanging Woods and didn’t come out alive. Now when another girl disappears, the two want to find out what really happened to Roisin. Told from alternating POV of Caitlin and DeeDee, guilt and justice haunt them and are their triggers to facing a past that reveal a person neither wants to ge. .
All the characters in the novel have secrets and in this darkly atmospheric novel, these start building up as Caitlin and DeeDee start unraveling clues pointing to the truth. It’s a rather surprise too and the reveal asks an eternal question - what is more important: family or justice?
The novel is well written and plotted. The suspense is taut and measured. This is a perfect novel for readers who like complicated characters. Enjoyed the read.
Caitlin Doherty, a petty criminal returns to Banakilduf twenty years after the death of Roisin, Deedee O’Halloran, a rookie policewoman with a drinking problem, sister. They two are a collision course. Roisin walked into the Hanging Woods and didn’t come out alive. Now when another girl disappears, the two want to find out what really happened to Roisin. Told from alternating POV of Caitlin and DeeDee, guilt and justice haunt them and are their triggers to facing a past that reveal a person neither wants to ge. .
All the characters in the novel have secrets and in this darkly atmospheric novel, these start building up as Caitlin and DeeDee start unraveling clues pointing to the truth. It’s a rather surprise too and the reveal asks an eternal question - what is more important: family or justice?
The novel is well written and plotted. The suspense is taut and measured. This is a perfect novel for readers who like complicated characters. Enjoyed the read.
October 23, 2025
OMG! This was so good. No matter what theories I formed, I was still no where close to figuring out the final twists myself. The main characters are amazing complex, it’s so easy to hate them and love them all at once. If you want an engaging thriller that will keep you guessing all the way through, this is a must read!
February 4, 2026
Book Title: Darkrooms
Author: Rebecca Hannigan
Publisher: William Morrow
Pub Date: January 13, 2026
Dates Read/Listened: January 31, 2026 – February 2, 2026
🗣️ 𝚀𝚞𝚒𝚌𝚔 𝚃𝚊𝚔𝚎: This is one of those debuts that leaves me feeling torn. On one hand, I definitely appreciate the effort, and on the other, I can also tell this is Hannigan’s first book. I liked the idea of the story with the child who disappeared and buried secrets coming to light, but it was a slow, winding road to get to the big finale, and I spent the majority of the book confused about who Deedee and Caitlin were and what they were to each other (if anything). I loved the last, say, 15% of the book, but the rest of it was mostly a confusing and (too) slow journey for me. If you love to hate characters, this is a perfect one for that though! I didn’t really like anyone, and I do love my morally gray characters so that worked for me. All this being said, I will definitely pick up this author’s next book, and a lot of readers will certainly enjoy this one more than I did. The atmosphere was on point, and I loved how dark the storyline was.
🎧 𝘈𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘕𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯: I think the audio may have gotten me into a bit of trouble for this one and while I liked Clare Harte’s narration, we really needed two narrators for the two viewpoints. I will say, she tried to switch things up and differentiate Deedee and Caitlin, but it just wasn’t enough and only added to my confusion. I would highly recommend an eyeball read for this book and I may honestly do it myself at some point to see how things go a second time through in another format.
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 📸🎞️👮🏼♀️🦴🌳
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐
𝙰𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Author: Rebecca Hannigan
Publisher: William Morrow
Pub Date: January 13, 2026
Dates Read/Listened: January 31, 2026 – February 2, 2026
🗣️ 𝚀𝚞𝚒𝚌𝚔 𝚃𝚊𝚔𝚎: This is one of those debuts that leaves me feeling torn. On one hand, I definitely appreciate the effort, and on the other, I can also tell this is Hannigan’s first book. I liked the idea of the story with the child who disappeared and buried secrets coming to light, but it was a slow, winding road to get to the big finale, and I spent the majority of the book confused about who Deedee and Caitlin were and what they were to each other (if anything). I loved the last, say, 15% of the book, but the rest of it was mostly a confusing and (too) slow journey for me. If you love to hate characters, this is a perfect one for that though! I didn’t really like anyone, and I do love my morally gray characters so that worked for me. All this being said, I will definitely pick up this author’s next book, and a lot of readers will certainly enjoy this one more than I did. The atmosphere was on point, and I loved how dark the storyline was.
🎧 𝘈𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘕𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯: I think the audio may have gotten me into a bit of trouble for this one and while I liked Clare Harte’s narration, we really needed two narrators for the two viewpoints. I will say, she tried to switch things up and differentiate Deedee and Caitlin, but it just wasn’t enough and only added to my confusion. I would highly recommend an eyeball read for this book and I may honestly do it myself at some point to see how things go a second time through in another format.
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 📸🎞️👮🏼♀️🦴🌳
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐
𝙰𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 22, 2025
The pacing of this book was a bit slow for me, but it’s an impressive debut overall! Even though it started at a leisurely pace, I was hooked until the very end. The last 25% of the story picked up dramatically, filled with suspense and providing a strong conclusion. Well done!
Caitlin, who left her small Irish hometown twenty years ago, is drawn back after her estranged mother’s sudden death. She has been avoiding painful memories, particularly those involving Roisin and the Hanging Woods. Deedee, Roisin's sister and a local Garda, is still seeking answers about the past. Caitlin's return reignites old tensions and threatens to uncover long-buried secrets as the mysterious woods call to both women once again.
The narrative weaves through multiple points of view, including Caitlin, Deedee, and Roisin. The intricate layers of mystery combined with deep emotional narratives create an engaging experience that keeps you invested. Each character has a well-developed backstory that makes them feel incredibly real, and it’s hard not to become emotionally connected to their journeys. You can’t help but put yourself in their shoes.
The setting evokes a gothic atmosphere, tinged with a sense of claustrophobia typical of small towns. The vivid descriptions made me feel like I was right there with Deedee, unearthing the dark secrets of the past. I still get chills thinking about it.
I was lucky enough to listen to the audiobook, and the narrator did an outstanding job with the accents and character voices, allowing me to easily differentiate between each one. I must admit, the accent was challenging, but I appreciated the authenticity of the Irish tone; it enriched the entire experience. I genuinely felt transported to a small town in Ireland. If the book doesn’t resonate with you, I highly recommend the audiobook. It’s a fantastic listening experience!
This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys unraveling unsolved mysteries, exploring small-town dynamics, and uncovering the many dark secrets that come to light. The ending left me speechless; I never saw how everything would come together. It’s a thought-provoking read that will linger with you long after finishing. We definitely need to discuss the theme and plot!
Thank you, Harper Audio Adult and NetGalley, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Caitlin, who left her small Irish hometown twenty years ago, is drawn back after her estranged mother’s sudden death. She has been avoiding painful memories, particularly those involving Roisin and the Hanging Woods. Deedee, Roisin's sister and a local Garda, is still seeking answers about the past. Caitlin's return reignites old tensions and threatens to uncover long-buried secrets as the mysterious woods call to both women once again.
The narrative weaves through multiple points of view, including Caitlin, Deedee, and Roisin. The intricate layers of mystery combined with deep emotional narratives create an engaging experience that keeps you invested. Each character has a well-developed backstory that makes them feel incredibly real, and it’s hard not to become emotionally connected to their journeys. You can’t help but put yourself in their shoes.
The setting evokes a gothic atmosphere, tinged with a sense of claustrophobia typical of small towns. The vivid descriptions made me feel like I was right there with Deedee, unearthing the dark secrets of the past. I still get chills thinking about it.
I was lucky enough to listen to the audiobook, and the narrator did an outstanding job with the accents and character voices, allowing me to easily differentiate between each one. I must admit, the accent was challenging, but I appreciated the authenticity of the Irish tone; it enriched the entire experience. I genuinely felt transported to a small town in Ireland. If the book doesn’t resonate with you, I highly recommend the audiobook. It’s a fantastic listening experience!
This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys unraveling unsolved mysteries, exploring small-town dynamics, and uncovering the many dark secrets that come to light. The ending left me speechless; I never saw how everything would come together. It’s a thought-provoking read that will linger with you long after finishing. We definitely need to discuss the theme and plot!
Thank you, Harper Audio Adult and NetGalley, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 31, 2026
Dark and atmospheric, it's a crime novel, it's a cold case mystery, it's a character study, Darkrooms delivers on so many levels and I'm excited to see what the future holds for Rebecca Hannigan.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Twenty years ago, at The Hanging Woods, two nine-year-old girls went in, but only one came out.
After her estranged mother's sudden death, Caitlin is now back in her Irish hometown. Caitlin left her hometown twenty years ago, after the mysterious disappearance of her friend, Roisin.
Roisin's sister, Garda Deedee, has not given up on finding the truth of what happened to her sister. Caitlin's return seems to awaken her willingness to dig more into whatever secrets have been buried for two decades.
What happened at The Hanging Woods?
It's a slow-burn crime mystery, and I don't want to reveal too much of the story, as I hope you'll enjoy the intensity of the plot once it hits about 70% of the book. The story isn't about who did it, but more about why.
If you love crime mysteries, I want you to give a chance to this debut, so you won't miss out on the ending that left me speechless..😲
After her estranged mother's sudden death, Caitlin is now back in her Irish hometown. Caitlin left her hometown twenty years ago, after the mysterious disappearance of her friend, Roisin.
Roisin's sister, Garda Deedee, has not given up on finding the truth of what happened to her sister. Caitlin's return seems to awaken her willingness to dig more into whatever secrets have been buried for two decades.
What happened at The Hanging Woods?
It's a slow-burn crime mystery, and I don't want to reveal too much of the story, as I hope you'll enjoy the intensity of the plot once it hits about 70% of the book. The story isn't about who did it, but more about why.
If you love crime mysteries, I want you to give a chance to this debut, so you won't miss out on the ending that left me speechless..😲
December 14, 2025
This was a surprise read for me. I didn’t expect to be so taken by this story.
I love a good debut, and Hannigan is one is will be watching from now on.
20 years ago Deedee’s sister, Roisin, went missing in the woods. Since then she has been trying to solve her impossible disappearance.
20 years ago Caitlin vowed never to return to her hometown but when her mother passes, she is forced to come back to the place Roisin vanished from.
This mystery is woven between these women and this town. Kept me eagerly reading the entire time. So good!
Thank you netgalley for the arc!
I love a good debut, and Hannigan is one is will be watching from now on.
20 years ago Deedee’s sister, Roisin, went missing in the woods. Since then she has been trying to solve her impossible disappearance.
20 years ago Caitlin vowed never to return to her hometown but when her mother passes, she is forced to come back to the place Roisin vanished from.
This mystery is woven between these women and this town. Kept me eagerly reading the entire time. So good!
Thank you netgalley for the arc!
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