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Invasive Species
Not yet published
Expected 14 Apr 26“Dark and delectable. I gobbled this book up and enjoyed every last bite.“
—Kirsten Miller, author of The Change and The Women of Wild Hill
The women in Cold Harbor all have something to prove, and they'll have to do it in a world full of monsters.
Something’s not right in Cold Harbor—more so than usual. While this sleepy small town has seen its fair share of monsters in cheating husbands and leering bosses, none are as hungry as Mrs. Smith. The mysterious resident has finally emerged from her crumbling mansion on the hill, mesmerizing the townspeople with her beauty. Her secret? Nine human sacrifices to feed her immortality.
Natalie Scott is more worried about Mrs. Smith blocking her first real estate sale—the one that will take her from stay-at-home mom to working woman extraordinaire. She's eager to prove herself in a world where the social mores of 1980s suburbia reign, where she's expected to keep a magazine-perfect home and raise beautiful children, all while sticking to her husband's budget. Natalie's two best friends are facing their own demons, and Mrs. Smith and her deep, dark woods are an easy scapegoat for everyone's problems.
But Natalie's twelve-year-old daughter, Jill, and her Icelandic housekeeper, Una, can sense something deeper at play. Armed with library books and a whole lot of grit, Jill and Una team up to save the town once and for all. But as the rest of Cold Harbor sinks into anger, fear, and jealousy, they’ll have to confront the What does it really mean to be a monster?
—Kirsten Miller, author of The Change and The Women of Wild Hill
The women in Cold Harbor all have something to prove, and they'll have to do it in a world full of monsters.
Something’s not right in Cold Harbor—more so than usual. While this sleepy small town has seen its fair share of monsters in cheating husbands and leering bosses, none are as hungry as Mrs. Smith. The mysterious resident has finally emerged from her crumbling mansion on the hill, mesmerizing the townspeople with her beauty. Her secret? Nine human sacrifices to feed her immortality.
Natalie Scott is more worried about Mrs. Smith blocking her first real estate sale—the one that will take her from stay-at-home mom to working woman extraordinaire. She's eager to prove herself in a world where the social mores of 1980s suburbia reign, where she's expected to keep a magazine-perfect home and raise beautiful children, all while sticking to her husband's budget. Natalie's two best friends are facing their own demons, and Mrs. Smith and her deep, dark woods are an easy scapegoat for everyone's problems.
But Natalie's twelve-year-old daughter, Jill, and her Icelandic housekeeper, Una, can sense something deeper at play. Armed with library books and a whole lot of grit, Jill and Una team up to save the town once and for all. But as the rest of Cold Harbor sinks into anger, fear, and jealousy, they’ll have to confront the What does it really mean to be a monster?
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 14, 2026
16 people are currently reading
3299 people want to read
About the author
Ellery Adams
61 books5,322 followersUSA Today and New York Times bestseller author Ellery Adams has written over forty novels and can’t imagine spending a day away from the keyboard. Ms. Adams, a Native New Yorker, has had a lifelong love affair with stories, food, and rescue animals. She likes to spend her free time rearranging the bookshelves in her home in central North Carolina.
Ellery's Series Include: Secret, Book, & Scone Society (Kensington) Book Retreat Mysteries (Kensington) Books By the Bay Mysteries (Berkley Prime Crime), Charmed Pie Shoppe Mysteries ((Berkley Prime Crime), Molly Appleby Antiques & Collectibles Mysteries (Beyond the Page), and Hope Street Mysteries (Beyond the Page).
Ellery also writes genre-blending fiction focusing on women and their inner monsters. Her first release in this exciting new direction is Invasive Species, which hits the shelves 4/14/206.
For book club guides, bibliotherapy lists, and recipes, please visit www.elleryadamsbooks.com
Ellery's Series Include: Secret, Book, & Scone Society (Kensington) Book Retreat Mysteries (Kensington) Books By the Bay Mysteries (Berkley Prime Crime), Charmed Pie Shoppe Mysteries ((Berkley Prime Crime), Molly Appleby Antiques & Collectibles Mysteries (Beyond the Page), and Hope Street Mysteries (Beyond the Page).
Ellery also writes genre-blending fiction focusing on women and their inner monsters. Her first release in this exciting new direction is Invasive Species, which hits the shelves 4/14/206.
For book club guides, bibliotherapy lists, and recipes, please visit www.elleryadamsbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
September 27, 2025
Wonderfully weird; I could not put this book down!!
Humorous at times, super creepy and unnerving at others, Invasive Species is a clash of 1980s-flavored domestic drama and mythological horror, with demons of both the supernatural and everyday sort.
I usually don't like it when a book offers the antagonist's POV, but this was definitely an exception, and I thought it was really well done. The whole thing felt super cinematic, and I could 100% see it being adapted into a movie or TV series.
I've been in a reading slump for over a month now, struggling to finish any book, but this one I devoured without pause. Highly recommend!
(Also, Ellery Adams, if you see this, I need an Una x Kristof prequel because I adored them and Una's backstory was incredible!)
Humorous at times, super creepy and unnerving at others, Invasive Species is a clash of 1980s-flavored domestic drama and mythological horror, with demons of both the supernatural and everyday sort.
I usually don't like it when a book offers the antagonist's POV, but this was definitely an exception, and I thought it was really well done. The whole thing felt super cinematic, and I could 100% see it being adapted into a movie or TV series.
I've been in a reading slump for over a month now, struggling to finish any book, but this one I devoured without pause. Highly recommend!
(Also, Ellery Adams, if you see this, I need an Una x Kristof prequel because I adored them and Una's backstory was incredible!)
October 18, 2025
Wow! I loved this one I took my time to savor this read as I got wrapped up with all the characters and the different points of view. I had my favorites Jill, Una and Charlie as they all and together to try and figure out the truth behind Mrs. Smith their odd neighbor. It was also very unique to the get the view from the monster. Every person had their own set of issues to deal and I liked all the flawed characters. Some parts made me laugh, some made me cringe, other times made me angry and some sad but that’s what makes the story so good as it draws you in and plays with your emotions.
March 19, 2026
*audiobook
“They would wait for the Mother of Eels to call to them. They would wait until it was time for the next hunt.“
Thanks to Ellery and Harlequin Audio for my #gifted copy of this one in exchange for my honest thoughts.
This is a fun read about a creepy neighbor-lady who just so happens to be a monster, a Mother of Eels to be exact.
It has a folksy / fairytale vibe to it which I enjoyed.
Mrs. Smith has a secret…a very old secret. She’s been around for centuries, just doing her thing and feeding. Life was good until it wasn’t. She lived on sacrifices for many centuries but eventually the sacrifices were no more. Eventually she had to find another way to find sustenance. Now, more than ever she has to keep her wicked feeding ways on the DL.
Very descriptive & atmospheric…you can almost smell the Briney Sea air and feel the itch from the weeds in Mrs. Smith’s yard.
This would make a cool Netflix series like 4-6 episodes. Would be a fun watch. I’d love to see what Mrs. Smith’s monster form would look like IRL.
“They would wait for the Mother of Eels to call to them. They would wait until it was time for the next hunt.“
Thanks to Ellery and Harlequin Audio for my #gifted copy of this one in exchange for my honest thoughts.
This is a fun read about a creepy neighbor-lady who just so happens to be a monster, a Mother of Eels to be exact.
It has a folksy / fairytale vibe to it which I enjoyed.
Mrs. Smith has a secret…a very old secret. She’s been around for centuries, just doing her thing and feeding. Life was good until it wasn’t. She lived on sacrifices for many centuries but eventually the sacrifices were no more. Eventually she had to find another way to find sustenance. Now, more than ever she has to keep her wicked feeding ways on the DL.
Very descriptive & atmospheric…you can almost smell the Briney Sea air and feel the itch from the weeds in Mrs. Smith’s yard.
This would make a cool Netflix series like 4-6 episodes. Would be a fun watch. I’d love to see what Mrs. Smith’s monster form would look like IRL.
February 17, 2026
Invasive Species by Ellery Adams
A 1980's cape town gets rocked to its core when two children disappear during a youth regatta. Ultimately, this leaves two participants with a chilling realization that there are monsters among them and no one to protect them from the horrors seeping into their town. The parents in the town are too focused on the small town politics and suburban drama that consumes their life. The only adult that listens to the children's worries is the neighborhood nanny who lost her sister in a similar tragedy years prior to the regatta incident. In a classic 80's style adventure film, its up to the kids and one heroic adult to figure out what's going on and defeat the evil that shadows their town.
The story is told from four very different perspectives: a housewife, daughter, nanny, and evil neighborhood recluse. They guide the reader along in dynamic ways highlighting toxic traits that invade the human race as a whole, such as misogyny, body-shaming criticism from a parent, over consumption and ecological overshoot. Each point-of-view left me wondering who really is the
"invasive species."
On a personal note, I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone wanting to dip their toes into the horror genre. The writing is easily digestible. At times, I felt the story dragged with over explanation of character descriptions and internal monologue. However, it did not take away from the story. This book was like jumping into a classic 80's movie like The Goonies. It was a little scary, a little gruesome and packed full of adventure.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
A 1980's cape town gets rocked to its core when two children disappear during a youth regatta. Ultimately, this leaves two participants with a chilling realization that there are monsters among them and no one to protect them from the horrors seeping into their town. The parents in the town are too focused on the small town politics and suburban drama that consumes their life. The only adult that listens to the children's worries is the neighborhood nanny who lost her sister in a similar tragedy years prior to the regatta incident. In a classic 80's style adventure film, its up to the kids and one heroic adult to figure out what's going on and defeat the evil that shadows their town.
The story is told from four very different perspectives: a housewife, daughter, nanny, and evil neighborhood recluse. They guide the reader along in dynamic ways highlighting toxic traits that invade the human race as a whole, such as misogyny, body-shaming criticism from a parent, over consumption and ecological overshoot. Each point-of-view left me wondering who really is the
"invasive species."
On a personal note, I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone wanting to dip their toes into the horror genre. The writing is easily digestible. At times, I felt the story dragged with over explanation of character descriptions and internal monologue. However, it did not take away from the story. This book was like jumping into a classic 80's movie like The Goonies. It was a little scary, a little gruesome and packed full of adventure.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
August 9, 2025
What a weird and good book.
January 28, 2026
This was the weirdest but best book! I loved the realness of all the characters. There are multiple POVs and it works so well. The different POVs give so much more depth to all the characters. It allows you to see all their flaws as well as the other character’s flaws. Mrs. Smith was the perfect villain. Nothing redeemable about her. You’ll hate her and it makes the story that much better. I had no idea how the story was going to play out but I ate it up! I was hooked and finished this in less than a day.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hanover Square Press for the ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley and Hanover Square Press for the ARC!
October 5, 2025
The Mother of Eels needs to consume nine Pure Ones—children between 10 and 14—every hundred years to renew. For centuries, humans upheld a bargain: sacrifice a few to save the many. As the oceans grew crowded with oil and ships, people forgot the pact and forced her ashore. Still herself, still hungry, she takes human form as Mrs. Smith.
Invasive Species opens with Mrs. Smith on land (well, in a hot tub) reading fashion magazines from her estate high in Cold Harbor. She’s the neighborhood “witch”: kids dare each other to trespass; adults gossip. As the end of her century nears, she must emerge to feed.
Cold Harbor is an upper-class White suburb where children join swim teams and take sailing lessons. Natalie wants her first big success as a realtor—her very first listing backs up to Mrs. Smith’s property, and she sees Mrs. Smith as the obstacle to sealing the deal. Beth wants, more than anything, to be a mother; she’s known for her marriage’s heat (until Mrs. Smith starts an affair with her husband) and her Polish cookies. Elaine is determined to throw the bar mitzvah that finally wins friends for her odd child, Charles, and she needs Mrs. Smith’s approval for the fireworks she’s set on.
At the story’s center are Jill (Natalie’s daughter, all big crush and bigger sweet tooth), Charles (Elaine’s offbeat son), and Una (the Polish nanny/cleaner who works for all three women and once watched the Mother of Eels devour her sister). The board is set: Mrs. Smith must procreate and consume nine children; the women chase their own versions of success, with Mrs. Smith in the way; the children don’t intend to be eaten; Una wants protection…and revenge.
At times charming, tragic, and unsettling, Invasive Species asks the question that lingers: Who is the real monster? The creature following her nature, or the humans who claim dominion over land and sea while abandoning the old pacts? The pacing drags in places, but the moral depth and folkloric unease make this one stick.
Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing, for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Invasive Species opens with Mrs. Smith on land (well, in a hot tub) reading fashion magazines from her estate high in Cold Harbor. She’s the neighborhood “witch”: kids dare each other to trespass; adults gossip. As the end of her century nears, she must emerge to feed.
Cold Harbor is an upper-class White suburb where children join swim teams and take sailing lessons. Natalie wants her first big success as a realtor—her very first listing backs up to Mrs. Smith’s property, and she sees Mrs. Smith as the obstacle to sealing the deal. Beth wants, more than anything, to be a mother; she’s known for her marriage’s heat (until Mrs. Smith starts an affair with her husband) and her Polish cookies. Elaine is determined to throw the bar mitzvah that finally wins friends for her odd child, Charles, and she needs Mrs. Smith’s approval for the fireworks she’s set on.
At the story’s center are Jill (Natalie’s daughter, all big crush and bigger sweet tooth), Charles (Elaine’s offbeat son), and Una (the Polish nanny/cleaner who works for all three women and once watched the Mother of Eels devour her sister). The board is set: Mrs. Smith must procreate and consume nine children; the women chase their own versions of success, with Mrs. Smith in the way; the children don’t intend to be eaten; Una wants protection…and revenge.
At times charming, tragic, and unsettling, Invasive Species asks the question that lingers: Who is the real monster? The creature following her nature, or the humans who claim dominion over land and sea while abandoning the old pacts? The pacing drags in places, but the moral depth and folkloric unease make this one stick.
Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing, for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 16, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Audio for this advanced listener copy of Invasive Species by Ellery Adams. This is my personal review.
5 STARS
Invasive Species offers a glimpse into the life four women, one child, and a centuries old monster who live on the same block in a Long Island town. What starts as a paranormal story morphs into something more cerebral and worthy of literary analysis. Rarely does a book capture my attention so well and make me think so much, but Invasive Species did just that.
I’m going to try really hard to summarize my feelings without giving away any spoilers…here we go. Wow. Set in the 1980’s, this story is chalk full of commentary on what it means to be a woman and what it means to be a monster. Throughout the characters we see the various roles and expectations that women are asked to fulfill in our society– mother, wife, friend, neighbor, professional. We also see how much of a woman’s life (and happiness and success) is determined by men. Within this group of women, there are also characters who defy the social norms and aren’t beholden to the men in their lives. Overall, the book does an amazing job of addressing feminism, social class, and even disability into a short book that still reads like an engaging paranormal fiction.
I cannot say enough about this story and how much I loved it. There is a loose plot leading up to a big event in the story, but the story itself is incredibly character driven. It took me a little while to get all of the characters straight, but the audio helped with that a lot. The narrator incorporated so many different voices and accents to the point where I often forgot that it was only one person reading the story. So good.
Absolutely pick this up if your a paranormal literary fiction fan who likes to read with a critical eye. But maybe you’re like me and rarely read literary fiction…you might love it too.
5 STARS
Invasive Species offers a glimpse into the life four women, one child, and a centuries old monster who live on the same block in a Long Island town. What starts as a paranormal story morphs into something more cerebral and worthy of literary analysis. Rarely does a book capture my attention so well and make me think so much, but Invasive Species did just that.
I’m going to try really hard to summarize my feelings without giving away any spoilers…here we go. Wow. Set in the 1980’s, this story is chalk full of commentary on what it means to be a woman and what it means to be a monster. Throughout the characters we see the various roles and expectations that women are asked to fulfill in our society– mother, wife, friend, neighbor, professional. We also see how much of a woman’s life (and happiness and success) is determined by men. Within this group of women, there are also characters who defy the social norms and aren’t beholden to the men in their lives. Overall, the book does an amazing job of addressing feminism, social class, and even disability into a short book that still reads like an engaging paranormal fiction.
I cannot say enough about this story and how much I loved it. There is a loose plot leading up to a big event in the story, but the story itself is incredibly character driven. It took me a little while to get all of the characters straight, but the audio helped with that a lot. The narrator incorporated so many different voices and accents to the point where I often forgot that it was only one person reading the story. So good.
Absolutely pick this up if your a paranormal literary fiction fan who likes to read with a critical eye. But maybe you’re like me and rarely read literary fiction…you might love it too.
March 4, 2026
Invasive Species brings together 1980s suburbia and mythological horror in a story that will have you turning the pages to see what is going to happen next.
I can say with confidence that I will never again swim in the ocean after reading this one …. Just nope.
I’m still new to the world of horror books and when I heard my favorite cozy mystery author was writing a horror story I knew I’d have to read it!
Overall I really enjoyed this one! It had the perfect amounts of suburban creepy neighbor vibes mixed with some truly gruesome scenes (TW for some gore/dismemberment). Mrs. Smith’s character was really interesting! I haven’t read anything that was creature horror yet and the mythology behind her character was interesting. Jill and Una were also wonderful characters and I enjoyed reading from their perspectives!
All in all a solid horror story with mythology aspects woven into the daily life of the 1980s suburbia! I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try!
I can say with confidence that I will never again swim in the ocean after reading this one …. Just nope.
I’m still new to the world of horror books and when I heard my favorite cozy mystery author was writing a horror story I knew I’d have to read it!
Overall I really enjoyed this one! It had the perfect amounts of suburban creepy neighbor vibes mixed with some truly gruesome scenes (TW for some gore/dismemberment). Mrs. Smith’s character was really interesting! I haven’t read anything that was creature horror yet and the mythology behind her character was interesting. Jill and Una were also wonderful characters and I enjoyed reading from their perspectives!
All in all a solid horror story with mythology aspects woven into the daily life of the 1980s suburbia! I’d definitely recommend giving this one a try!
March 14, 2026
4 Stars
This was a really fun (and unsettling) blend of fantasy with thriller/horror. Thriller/horror is still a newer genre for me, so I didn’t fully know what to expect but I ended up loving it!
One of my favorite things about this book was getting Mrs. Smith’s POV. Being inside the “monster’s” head and seeing her motivations and thought process made the story so much more interesting (and creepier).
Una was the only adult who seemed to have intuition. The other adults felt distracted and checked out in a way that made the danger feel even more inevitable. Like the kids were being left unprotected, not because no one cared, but because no one was truly paying attention.
This story surprised me, pulled me through quickly, and left me thinking about autonomy, parental blind spots, and how easily evil can hide. For someone still getting into thriller/horror, it was a strong reminder of why I wanted to read more books in this genre!
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing, Hanover Square Press, and Net Galley for the digital arc.
This was a really fun (and unsettling) blend of fantasy with thriller/horror. Thriller/horror is still a newer genre for me, so I didn’t fully know what to expect but I ended up loving it!
One of my favorite things about this book was getting Mrs. Smith’s POV. Being inside the “monster’s” head and seeing her motivations and thought process made the story so much more interesting (and creepier).
Una was the only adult who seemed to have intuition. The other adults felt distracted and checked out in a way that made the danger feel even more inevitable. Like the kids were being left unprotected, not because no one cared, but because no one was truly paying attention.
This story surprised me, pulled me through quickly, and left me thinking about autonomy, parental blind spots, and how easily evil can hide. For someone still getting into thriller/horror, it was a strong reminder of why I wanted to read more books in this genre!
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing, Hanover Square Press, and Net Galley for the digital arc.
October 6, 2025
thank you netgalley for the ARC!
This is such an entertaining read! Right away Mrs Smith, drew me into this strange and wonderful book. The multiple POVs made this book feel so well rounded, bringing us right into this neighbourhood. Also the difference in the writing between the others and Mrs. Smith was shocking, making her feel so other worldly. I did find myself wanting to skip over to a chapter with Jill or Una because they were my favourites by far.
****4 stars ****
This is such an entertaining read! Right away Mrs Smith, drew me into this strange and wonderful book. The multiple POVs made this book feel so well rounded, bringing us right into this neighbourhood. Also the difference in the writing between the others and Mrs. Smith was shocking, making her feel so other worldly. I did find myself wanting to skip over to a chapter with Jill or Una because they were my favourites by far.
****4 stars ****
October 14, 2025
Ellery Adams delivers a spellbinding tale of womanhood, ambition, and cozy horror in Invasive Species. Set in the 1980s town of Cold Harbor, this story explores what happens when everyday monsters meet something truly supernatural. Adams weaves subtle horror through the familiar rhythms of suburban life, creating a world where PTA meetings, real estate dreams, and whispered gossip hide something far more sinister. This was such a fun departure into a new genre for Ellery!
February 26, 2026
Ellery brings us into 1980’s suburbia, where women strive for perfection, status, and a body that screams “put together”. Women like one of our FMC’s, Natalie, are also determined to prove they can do it all-family, job, perfect house, etc. She’ll do whatever it takes to make it happen, including putting immense pressure on her daughter, Jill, to eat healthy so she won’t be fat. For her part, Jill just wants to be an average girl, and be able to eat, or even do, something without fear of criticism from her mother.
While the adults are busy running their picture perfect lives, the kids, specifically Jill, and her friend, Charlie, are growing suspicious of who is in the crumbling mansion. They know something is wrong-they can feel it-and the author creates a growing tension between those who refuse to ignore the danger bubbling under the surface, and those who are more concerned with making a societal splash. But the kids do have an ally, Una, who knows she has seen the enemy before-when she was a child. She always knew the stories were real, and she’s determined to help the children defeat the monster.
This is my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. She gave us real life nightmares-misogyny, unrealistic expectations, keeping up appearances, jealousy, etc-and blended it with supernatural horror, and nightmares from the deep. It was a gripping ride from start to finish, and one that I recommend. 4.5 stars
Thank you NetGalley, and Hanover Square Press, for my arc. My opinion is my own.
While the adults are busy running their picture perfect lives, the kids, specifically Jill, and her friend, Charlie, are growing suspicious of who is in the crumbling mansion. They know something is wrong-they can feel it-and the author creates a growing tension between those who refuse to ignore the danger bubbling under the surface, and those who are more concerned with making a societal splash. But the kids do have an ally, Una, who knows she has seen the enemy before-when she was a child. She always knew the stories were real, and she’s determined to help the children defeat the monster.
This is my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. She gave us real life nightmares-misogyny, unrealistic expectations, keeping up appearances, jealousy, etc-and blended it with supernatural horror, and nightmares from the deep. It was a gripping ride from start to finish, and one that I recommend. 4.5 stars
Thank you NetGalley, and Hanover Square Press, for my arc. My opinion is my own.
November 30, 2025
I got this ARC as a new Hive influencer and boy this was a doozy.
This wild and wonderfully weird story was just the right amount of creepy, funny, and anxiety inducing. A mix of 80’s suburban drama and mythological horror, Invasive Species definitely gave off Stranger Things vibes and I was here for it.
A perfect match for Grandy Hendrix fans, Ellery Adams delivers such a vivid world in such a small coastal town. I could 100% see this being a TV mini series in the future!
Lastly, I absolutely adored Una’s POV and her relationship with her husband Kristoffer was beyond precious. While it’s sometimes jarring to get the point of view of the monster in the story, aka Mrs. Smith, I actually really enjoyed it. She’s a sea monster baddie.
Comes out April 14, 2026!
This wild and wonderfully weird story was just the right amount of creepy, funny, and anxiety inducing. A mix of 80’s suburban drama and mythological horror, Invasive Species definitely gave off Stranger Things vibes and I was here for it.
A perfect match for Grandy Hendrix fans, Ellery Adams delivers such a vivid world in such a small coastal town. I could 100% see this being a TV mini series in the future!
Lastly, I absolutely adored Una’s POV and her relationship with her husband Kristoffer was beyond precious. While it’s sometimes jarring to get the point of view of the monster in the story, aka Mrs. Smith, I actually really enjoyed it. She’s a sea monster baddie.
Comes out April 14, 2026!
March 2, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for access to this free eARC in exchange for an honest review. This was such a wild ride. It took me a little bit to get into the story, but once I got into it I was hooked. It takes place in the 1980s and has a pretty campy feel. Multiple POVs, including the monsters POV which was a fun touch. Overall would recommend to anyone wanting a mystery/horror novel without too much gore and just enough 80s nostalgia.
November 23, 2025
The villain concept here is pretty unique but overall I did nooooot enjoy this. I couldn’t tell if the audience was meant to be children, teens or adults (obviously adults but some of the storytelling was quite juvenile), I couldn’t tell why it was seemingly arbitrarily set in the 80s, and in general just did not think it was very well written.
Thanks to Netgalley and Hanover Square Press for the eARC.
Thanks to Netgalley and Hanover Square Press for the eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The kids are disappearing but where and why make this a uniquely interesting story. Ever have a fear there is something in that dark murky water you cant see? This may or may not be the book for you....this was an enjoyable cooky read!!!
Thank you to netgalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to review this story.
Thank you to netgalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to review this story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book was...weird. But also, wildly compelling. We've got a bit of desperate housewives in the 1980's, but also a legit sea monster.
It was funny and interesting, but also a pretty surface level read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an early copy for review.
It was funny and interesting, but also a pretty surface level read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an early copy for review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a really weird book but in the best possible way! It was like watching an '80s sci-fi movie. As you read it you really do get a full cinematic experience in your head. I would not be surprised if down the road we see this being adapted into a movie or a TV show.
It did take me a little while to get into this book just because there are so many different perspectives you read from but once you really get into the flow of the book it's all laid out and very organized so it doesn't really get confusing.
It was interesting to read from the perspective of the monster. I absolutely love how when you get to a chapter from Mrs Smith's perspective it is written in almost a different style so you can very clearly see the difference between her and everyone else.
The juxtaposition you get from this being a horror supernatural book with the everyday elements of regular suburban life was very cool. I am a big fan of Ellery Adams writing I love her cozy mystery books so it was really fun to read something vastly different. She is such an incredibly talented writer I'm excited to see what's going to come next.
It did take me a little while to get into this book just because there are so many different perspectives you read from but once you really get into the flow of the book it's all laid out and very organized so it doesn't really get confusing.
It was interesting to read from the perspective of the monster. I absolutely love how when you get to a chapter from Mrs Smith's perspective it is written in almost a different style so you can very clearly see the difference between her and everyone else.
The juxtaposition you get from this being a horror supernatural book with the everyday elements of regular suburban life was very cool. I am a big fan of Ellery Adams writing I love her cozy mystery books so it was really fun to read something vastly different. She is such an incredibly talented writer I'm excited to see what's going to come next.
January 7, 2026
The neighbor everyone ignored is done being ignored.
Invasive Species by Ellery Adams is an off-beat, often funny horror novel with serious suburban creep factor. Set in the 1980s, it follows a quiet neighborhood shaken when reclusive Mrs. Smith, who’s been unseen for years, decides it’s time to re-enter society and wreak havoc. And reclaim her monstrous power.
Told through multiple POVs (including the monster’s), this fast-paced story shines thanks to Jill, a sharp and kind 12-year-old who senses something is very wrong, and Una, the family’s Icelandic housekeeper who still believes in the old ways. Their bond and their determination to protect the town’s children gives this horror story real heart.
I loved the suburban horror, 1980s vibes, and a monster who gets her own POV. If you like fast-paced, slightly unhinged horror with dark humor and heart, put this on your radar. This is a layered, darkly funny, and wildly entertaining story. I loved every minute of it.
Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
Invasive Species by Ellery Adams is an off-beat, often funny horror novel with serious suburban creep factor. Set in the 1980s, it follows a quiet neighborhood shaken when reclusive Mrs. Smith, who’s been unseen for years, decides it’s time to re-enter society and wreak havoc. And reclaim her monstrous power.
Told through multiple POVs (including the monster’s), this fast-paced story shines thanks to Jill, a sharp and kind 12-year-old who senses something is very wrong, and Una, the family’s Icelandic housekeeper who still believes in the old ways. Their bond and their determination to protect the town’s children gives this horror story real heart.
I loved the suburban horror, 1980s vibes, and a monster who gets her own POV. If you like fast-paced, slightly unhinged horror with dark humor and heart, put this on your radar. This is a layered, darkly funny, and wildly entertaining story. I loved every minute of it.
Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The cover reeled me in and I’m glad it did! What a fun trip back to Cold Harbor.
Premise - The gorgeous Mrs. Smith of Cold Harbor’s creepy, crumbling mansion feeds her eternal beauty with human sacrifice. But that’s not what worries Natalie Scott.
No, she’s more bothered about Mrs. Smith blocking a career-making real estate deal, the kind that’ll finally free her of her SAHM status in a world where women are expected to be perfect homemakers, and nothing else.
Things aren’t going great for Natalie’s BFFs, or the town as a whole, either, and Mrs. Smith and the creepy woods soon become the scapegoat.
It’s only Natalie’s 12 year old daughter, Jill, and Icelandic housekeeper, Una, who see there’s something more going on. So, naturally, it’s up to them to save the town, once and for all.
The story is told from multiple POVs and, frankly, I could have done without Mrs. Smiths perspective. The humans and their reactions were sooo much more interesting to me (and I loved their ambitious small town vibes!).
There are also quite a few explicit scenes of bestiality that I would have really rather done without… they were super gross and, worse, boring.
That said, I loved so much of this! The folktale-ish voice, the retelling of not-well-known (in the US, at least) fairytales, the cast of very strong characters, the beautiful and repugnant monster, the way the story really brought the sea world to life… *chef’s kiss.*
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Courtney Patterson. She was perfect for this story! It made me feel like I was a kid listening to an amazing story time reading, but with a story that engaged me as an adult.
Thanks, NetGalley and Harlequin Audio, for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Premise - The gorgeous Mrs. Smith of Cold Harbor’s creepy, crumbling mansion feeds her eternal beauty with human sacrifice. But that’s not what worries Natalie Scott.
No, she’s more bothered about Mrs. Smith blocking a career-making real estate deal, the kind that’ll finally free her of her SAHM status in a world where women are expected to be perfect homemakers, and nothing else.
Things aren’t going great for Natalie’s BFFs, or the town as a whole, either, and Mrs. Smith and the creepy woods soon become the scapegoat.
It’s only Natalie’s 12 year old daughter, Jill, and Icelandic housekeeper, Una, who see there’s something more going on. So, naturally, it’s up to them to save the town, once and for all.
The story is told from multiple POVs and, frankly, I could have done without Mrs. Smiths perspective. The humans and their reactions were sooo much more interesting to me (and I loved their ambitious small town vibes!).
There are also quite a few explicit scenes of bestiality that I would have really rather done without… they were super gross and, worse, boring.
That said, I loved so much of this! The folktale-ish voice, the retelling of not-well-known (in the US, at least) fairytales, the cast of very strong characters, the beautiful and repugnant monster, the way the story really brought the sea world to life… *chef’s kiss.*
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Courtney Patterson. She was perfect for this story! It made me feel like I was a kid listening to an amazing story time reading, but with a story that engaged me as an adult.
Thanks, NetGalley and Harlequin Audio, for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
While I am a fan of Adam’s works I have to admit the only series I am completely cought up on is the Books By the Bay series, with which I fell in love (or, at least author-crush) with her. There was something about her characters that spoke to me. I have yet to be able to fully connect with the crew of the Secrets, Books and Scone Society, but I do like it. This one here, though, allowed me to attatch myself to the characters, even if I hated them. Each of these characters are flawed, sometimes self-centered… but never boring. I loved that I got see the story through so many different view points- including the mysterious Mrs. Smith. The premise was amazing, I loved how she created a little, deeply flawed, community. It was wicked and delicious. I devoured it, leaving no bones… I mean, crumbs.
Filled with moments of humor, this book gave a twisted edge to a 1980’s domestic drama with just a touch of the paranormal. I felt like it was slightly different than what I have yet seen from Adams, and I was excited to see what she would do. Cinnematic and atmospheric, I was captivated by the book. Four stars all the way!
As far as adult content, there’s a good amount of violence- some going into quite a lot of detail. Then there’s sexual content; not over-the-top explicit, I would say spice level two, maybe three. There’s drinking, language, bullying, cheating, references to sexual assault/ harassment, and marginalization of women. It might be a lot to take in for a younger reader. Perhaps New Adult?
I was lucky enough to recieve an eARC of this book from Netgalley and Harlequin Press in exchange for an honest review. As always, the (definitely opinionated) views here are wholly my own. Thank you for the opprtunity.
Filled with moments of humor, this book gave a twisted edge to a 1980’s domestic drama with just a touch of the paranormal. I felt like it was slightly different than what I have yet seen from Adams, and I was excited to see what she would do. Cinnematic and atmospheric, I was captivated by the book. Four stars all the way!
As far as adult content, there’s a good amount of violence- some going into quite a lot of detail. Then there’s sexual content; not over-the-top explicit, I would say spice level two, maybe three. There’s drinking, language, bullying, cheating, references to sexual assault/ harassment, and marginalization of women. It might be a lot to take in for a younger reader. Perhaps New Adult?
I was lucky enough to recieve an eARC of this book from Netgalley and Harlequin Press in exchange for an honest review. As always, the (definitely opinionated) views here are wholly my own. Thank you for the opprtunity.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I felt a bit "Monstery", so I was thrilled to find 𝑰𝑵𝑽𝑨𝑺𝑰𝑽𝑬 𝑺𝑷𝑬𝑪𝑰𝑬𝑺 𝒃𝒚 𝑬𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝑨𝒅𝒂𝒎𝒔
𝑵𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝑪𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒚 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 available in @netgalley from @hanoversquarepress & @htpbooks_audio and will be out April 14th.
This was a complete escapist delight for me!
A monster of ancient lore masquerading as an old woman in a village must consume the perfect adolescent children to maintain her power. As a species go, these humans don't seem to care about her or her environment anymore, so no qualms as the annual young people's regata is nearing, bringing her many opportunities to snatch her meals. Another need she has now is to reproduce, despite her repulsion to the human males. However, needs must, and on she goes toward her quest.
The cast of women in Cold Harbor have enough to deal with without this meddlesome monster, but one 12-year-old girl and an Icelandic housekeeper are sure something is afoot. Will they be able to defeat the real monster with so many tangled in her tentacles?
This was really just a fun read with some underlying messages of how we are toward one another as humanity. It was funny, a bit campy but in a delightful way, and easy to slip under and let the story take me away from some heavy real world issues for a moment. I liked the not so subtle questions of blame, responsibility, & culpability while still keeping it light.
Patterson is a new narrator to me, I think, and I found her voices to be perfect fits for the characters. It made this format a win for me!
For a bit of a cozy (are severed floating limbs cozy?) horror mystery with some darker edges, I definitely recommend this one!
𝑵𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝑪𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒚 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 available in @netgalley from @hanoversquarepress & @htpbooks_audio and will be out April 14th.
This was a complete escapist delight for me!
A monster of ancient lore masquerading as an old woman in a village must consume the perfect adolescent children to maintain her power. As a species go, these humans don't seem to care about her or her environment anymore, so no qualms as the annual young people's regata is nearing, bringing her many opportunities to snatch her meals. Another need she has now is to reproduce, despite her repulsion to the human males. However, needs must, and on she goes toward her quest.
The cast of women in Cold Harbor have enough to deal with without this meddlesome monster, but one 12-year-old girl and an Icelandic housekeeper are sure something is afoot. Will they be able to defeat the real monster with so many tangled in her tentacles?
This was really just a fun read with some underlying messages of how we are toward one another as humanity. It was funny, a bit campy but in a delightful way, and easy to slip under and let the story take me away from some heavy real world issues for a moment. I liked the not so subtle questions of blame, responsibility, & culpability while still keeping it light.
Patterson is a new narrator to me, I think, and I found her voices to be perfect fits for the characters. It made this format a win for me!
For a bit of a cozy (are severed floating limbs cozy?) horror mystery with some darker edges, I definitely recommend this one!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
5 stars
I expected to have some fun with this book based on the synopsis, but it absolutely blew me out of the water (sorry). This was VERY fun and deeper than I expected, too.
Natalie is a housewife who is trying to move into career woman territory, but no one is making that easy on her, and the more I got to know her, the more okay I felt about that. She's not the worst, by any means, but she's a little gross in some increasingly apparent ways. It seems like she might come up against an interesting match when everyone's least favorite neighbor, the elusive Mrs. Smith, starts slithering her way into the social scene. She is...memorable, to say the least.
In addition to these two, the novel is full of great characters, with Una and Jill (the local shared house cleaner and Natalie's young daughter, respectively), as the standout stars. I LOVED getting to know both of them and to see their relationship develop. It's also fascinating to uncover information about their circumstances alongside them. The pacing and the info roll is so strong throughout.
I found this unputdownable and read it almost straight through. I cannot wait until the audiobook comes out so that I can experience this wild situation in that modality, too.
Fans of suburban drama, monsters, and women of all ages simply killing it in life will have a total blast with this one. I know I did.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Hanover Square Press for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
I expected to have some fun with this book based on the synopsis, but it absolutely blew me out of the water (sorry). This was VERY fun and deeper than I expected, too.
Natalie is a housewife who is trying to move into career woman territory, but no one is making that easy on her, and the more I got to know her, the more okay I felt about that. She's not the worst, by any means, but she's a little gross in some increasingly apparent ways. It seems like she might come up against an interesting match when everyone's least favorite neighbor, the elusive Mrs. Smith, starts slithering her way into the social scene. She is...memorable, to say the least.
In addition to these two, the novel is full of great characters, with Una and Jill (the local shared house cleaner and Natalie's young daughter, respectively), as the standout stars. I LOVED getting to know both of them and to see their relationship develop. It's also fascinating to uncover information about their circumstances alongside them. The pacing and the info roll is so strong throughout.
I found this unputdownable and read it almost straight through. I cannot wait until the audiobook comes out so that I can experience this wild situation in that modality, too.
Fans of suburban drama, monsters, and women of all ages simply killing it in life will have a total blast with this one. I know I did.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Hanover Square Press for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
September 12, 2025
** This review is based on an e-ARC I received from Net Galley **
** Rating: 4.5/5 **
Invasive Species is a story about the women of Cold Harbor and what they will do to achieve their goals. All of this taking place in a town under the stresses of a mysterious woman named Mrs. Smith.
Natalie Scott is a mother trying to reclaim her identity after being a stay-at-home mother for several years, wrangling her three children and the multiple responsibilities that entails. You feel her desire to succeed and reclaim her life by jumping back into the workforce. You want her to succeed surrounded by those that don’t believe in her and facing her own doubts.
Her daughter Jill is trying to find her own identity when she gets drawn into the mystery of what is going on in Cold Harbor. Is something deeper happening? Or is the town using the mysterious Mrs. Smith and her property as a scapegoat? Jill enlists the help of their housekeeper Una to help figure it out.
The story succeeds greatly in slowly building the tension, chapter by chapter, as it approaches the final act of the book. The multiple points of view do an amazing job of showing how the situation is weighing on each character. In a small town, the garden club gossip can affect people’s attitudes and reveal secrets.
Invasive Species is a story that is rich in characters and tension. Some people want what’s best for the town of Cold Harbor while others are only out for themselves. It’s up to the reader to discover which.
** Rating: 4.5/5 **
Invasive Species is a story about the women of Cold Harbor and what they will do to achieve their goals. All of this taking place in a town under the stresses of a mysterious woman named Mrs. Smith.
Natalie Scott is a mother trying to reclaim her identity after being a stay-at-home mother for several years, wrangling her three children and the multiple responsibilities that entails. You feel her desire to succeed and reclaim her life by jumping back into the workforce. You want her to succeed surrounded by those that don’t believe in her and facing her own doubts.
Her daughter Jill is trying to find her own identity when she gets drawn into the mystery of what is going on in Cold Harbor. Is something deeper happening? Or is the town using the mysterious Mrs. Smith and her property as a scapegoat? Jill enlists the help of their housekeeper Una to help figure it out.
The story succeeds greatly in slowly building the tension, chapter by chapter, as it approaches the final act of the book. The multiple points of view do an amazing job of showing how the situation is weighing on each character. In a small town, the garden club gossip can affect people’s attitudes and reveal secrets.
Invasive Species is a story that is rich in characters and tension. Some people want what’s best for the town of Cold Harbor while others are only out for themselves. It’s up to the reader to discover which.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A dark story of a small town in Long Island told by the 13 year old scared of the ocean, the Icelandic housekeeper who hears all, the bored housewife turned relator, and the monster. Not only is this a wonderfully told monster story, the monster makes some very very valid points on the 'invasive species" being humans who are destroying the ocean. A 1000 year old monster is up for her 100 year life cycle to restart and living as a recluse on the outskirts of town for the past 90 years, she must join society again to consume her 9 "man-children" to replenish her life. This story was wonderfully paced, stomach churning in the detail, and heartbreaking in the end. Una, Mrs. Smith, and Jill's storylines I feel like were wrapped up beautifully, I wanted a little more with Natalie. I felt like we were left with some unanswered questions with her actions. All in all a haunting story that I would read again and will recommend to everyone who loves a good horror. I'm not afraid of the ocean, but after this I will be looking at eels differently.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hanover Square Press for letting me read this book early!
Thank you to Netgalley and Hanover Square Press for letting me read this book early!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐬 - 𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐬
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟏𝟒 (𝟒/𝟓 🌟)
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: What does it really mean to be a monster?
Invasive Species mixes 1980s suburbia with mythological horror in a story that you will devour.
Natalie Scott is worried about Mrs. Smith blocking her first real estate sale. The one that will replace her stay-at-home mom status, making her a working woman extraordinaire.
While Natalie and her friends are facing their own demons - Mrs. Smith and her deep, dark woods are an easy target for everyone's problems.
When Una - the Icelandic housekeeper - senses something is awry, she teams up with Natalie's daughter, Jill. Armed with library books and a whole lot of grit, they go forth to save the town once and for all.
I highly recommend this book, especially to those looking to dip their toes into the horror genre.
🐙 𝐒𝐜𝐢-𝐅𝐢/𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐫
🐙 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐅𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞
🐙 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢-𝐏𝐎𝐕
🐙 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐲, 𝐘𝐞𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐳𝐲
🐙 𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐛𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐚
This book is a delightful departure into the world of horror for author, Ellery Adams.
Thank you NetGalley & Hanover Square Press for this arc. All opinions expressed are my own.
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟏𝟒 (𝟒/𝟓 🌟)
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: What does it really mean to be a monster?
Invasive Species mixes 1980s suburbia with mythological horror in a story that you will devour.
Natalie Scott is worried about Mrs. Smith blocking her first real estate sale. The one that will replace her stay-at-home mom status, making her a working woman extraordinaire.
While Natalie and her friends are facing their own demons - Mrs. Smith and her deep, dark woods are an easy target for everyone's problems.
When Una - the Icelandic housekeeper - senses something is awry, she teams up with Natalie's daughter, Jill. Armed with library books and a whole lot of grit, they go forth to save the town once and for all.
I highly recommend this book, especially to those looking to dip their toes into the horror genre.
🐙 𝐒𝐜𝐢-𝐅𝐢/𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐫
🐙 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐅𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞
🐙 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢-𝐏𝐎𝐕
🐙 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐲, 𝐘𝐞𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐳𝐲
🐙 𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐛𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐚
This book is a delightful departure into the world of horror for author, Ellery Adams.
Thank you NetGalley & Hanover Square Press for this arc. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a delightfully wicked, Lovecraftian gem that completely pulled me in. With its eerie small town atmosphere and the unsettling sense that something monstrous is hiding in plain sight, this novel creates a constant undercurrent of dread and fascination. Adams delivers “modern Lovecraft” in the best possible way with honoring the cosmic horror roots while making the story accessible, character driven, and emotionally engaging. The blend of creeping unease, community dynamics, and escalating horror is expertly handled.
The characters are well developed and believable, which makes the unfolding terror hit even harder. Their relationships of a small town and reactions ground the story, allowing the supernatural elements to feel both surreal and disturbingly real. Smart, atmospheric, and thoroughly entertaining, this is a standout for fans of cosmic horror and small-town mysteries with a dark edge. Highly recommended.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Ellery Adams, and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
The characters are well developed and believable, which makes the unfolding terror hit even harder. Their relationships of a small town and reactions ground the story, allowing the supernatural elements to feel both surreal and disturbingly real. Smart, atmospheric, and thoroughly entertaining, this is a standout for fans of cosmic horror and small-town mysteries with a dark edge. Highly recommended.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Ellery Adams, and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins, and the author for the arc!
This book had my attention from beginning to end. As someone who commonly reads several books simultaneously it’s hard for me to find a book that captures my attention enough to be my only focus…this book was the exception to that rule.
The characters for me were not likeable (while at times relatable) so I was not emotionally invested in their journey; rather I was compelled to know the fates of the characters and if their bad behavior would come back to haunt them. What kept this book from being a five star read for me were two things: 1. The large sections of the book that detailed the antagonist’s motives and observations (I would have appreciated more mystery) and 2. I’m uncertain of the theme, or rather, I’m uncertain if the sole theme is the “wrath of nature” when it is disrespected.
If you’re looking for a page-turner (and are good with a cast of characters who largely don’t deserve your sympathy) then this is definitely a book you will enjoy!
This book had my attention from beginning to end. As someone who commonly reads several books simultaneously it’s hard for me to find a book that captures my attention enough to be my only focus…this book was the exception to that rule.
The characters for me were not likeable (while at times relatable) so I was not emotionally invested in their journey; rather I was compelled to know the fates of the characters and if their bad behavior would come back to haunt them. What kept this book from being a five star read for me were two things: 1. The large sections of the book that detailed the antagonist’s motives and observations (I would have appreciated more mystery) and 2. I’m uncertain of the theme, or rather, I’m uncertain if the sole theme is the “wrath of nature” when it is disrespected.
If you’re looking for a page-turner (and are good with a cast of characters who largely don’t deserve your sympathy) then this is definitely a book you will enjoy!
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