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Dead First
Not yet published
Expected 10 Feb 26From the Bram Stoker award-nominated author of The Spite House comes a bone-chilling new novel about a private investigator hired by a mysterious billionaire to discover why he can’t die.
When private investigator Shyla Sinclair is invited to the looming mansion of mysterious Texan tycoon Saxton Braith, she’s more than a little suspicious. The last thing she expects to see that night is Braith’s assistant driving an iron rod straight through the back of his skull. Scratch that—the last thing she expects to see is Braith’s resurrection afterward.
Braith can’t die, it turns out, but he has no explanation for his immortality, and very few intact memories of his past. Which is why he wants to pay Shyla millions to investigate him, and bring his long-buried history to light.
Shyla can’t help but be intrigued, but she’s also trapped by the offer. Braith has made it clear that he knows she’s the only person he can trust with his secret, because he knows all about hers.
Bold, atmospheric, and utterly frightening, Johnny Compton’s Dead First is spine-chilling supernatural horror about the pursuit of power and the undying need for reckoning.
When private investigator Shyla Sinclair is invited to the looming mansion of mysterious Texan tycoon Saxton Braith, she’s more than a little suspicious. The last thing she expects to see that night is Braith’s assistant driving an iron rod straight through the back of his skull. Scratch that—the last thing she expects to see is Braith’s resurrection afterward.
Braith can’t die, it turns out, but he has no explanation for his immortality, and very few intact memories of his past. Which is why he wants to pay Shyla millions to investigate him, and bring his long-buried history to light.
Shyla can’t help but be intrigued, but she’s also trapped by the offer. Braith has made it clear that he knows she’s the only person he can trust with his secret, because he knows all about hers.
Bold, atmospheric, and utterly frightening, Johnny Compton’s Dead First is spine-chilling supernatural horror about the pursuit of power and the undying need for reckoning.
368 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication February 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 13, 2025
This feels like a standard detective novel with a supernatural twist. There is not much depth to the characters outside of their backstory, and I was not particularly invested in any of them. I had to check several times to make sure this was not part of a series because it felt like I was missing backstory that was repeatedly hinted around. Large parts of the book were really boring.
There are several scary moments in the book, though, and I did feel like those moments were written exceptionally well. Very creepy and well-paced. I'm definitely interested in reading Compton's other books, but this one did not work for me outside of those scary moments.
There are several scary moments in the book, though, and I did feel like those moments were written exceptionally well. Very creepy and well-paced. I'm definitely interested in reading Compton's other books, but this one did not work for me outside of those scary moments.
August 15, 2025
ARC for review. To be published February 10, 2026.
2 stars
PI Shyla Sinclair can’t imagine what billionaire Saxton Braith wants to hire her for, and when she goes to see him she isn’t prepared for what she learns: Braith can’t die. But he’s not quite sure why and he wants a to make sure things stay that way so he wants Shyla to investigate.
Why does Shyla take the job? Braith has something on her and soon Shyla’s situation gets worse when her psychic ex becomes involved.
Some people may really like this bloody horror story but this wasn’t really my thing; a lot of unanswered questions and a bit too gunfighty/ugly violence for my taste. It wasn’t awful, just not for me.
2 stars
PI Shyla Sinclair can’t imagine what billionaire Saxton Braith wants to hire her for, and when she goes to see him she isn’t prepared for what she learns: Braith can’t die. But he’s not quite sure why and he wants a to make sure things stay that way so he wants Shyla to investigate.
Why does Shyla take the job? Braith has something on her and soon Shyla’s situation gets worse when her psychic ex becomes involved.
Some people may really like this bloody horror story but this wasn’t really my thing; a lot of unanswered questions and a bit too gunfighty/ugly violence for my taste. It wasn’t awful, just not for me.
December 7, 2025
I’m an absolute sucker for supernatural mysteries & especially love the PI version! This leaned more towards detective novel than horror but still had a few very well developed horror sequences! I think the horror functioned best when the grotesque became the main focus combined with the shifting doubts of our narrator. Genuinely had goosebumps break out & had to sit up in bed for two chunks! Haven’t had this happen since I read The Hollow Places four years ago.
Compton made some unusual choices that I enjoyed. It feels like we’ve been dropped into an ongoing detective series at book five instead of book one. There’s detailed references to previous cases, character backstory or relationships. This builds complete characters with complex motivations that we understand hints of vs a complete profile of how their every trauma leads them to their choices.
It helps serve the horror too. I had to trust the characters without feeling like I knew everything. The MFC is often unsure of her instincts & internally will debate whether she saw what she perceived. These two elements keep the reader guessing, was that real? Could there be a mundane explanation instead? Because I was off balance/ destabilized going into the horror sequences I was creeped me out.
I did struggle with our MFC at times. Her lack of remorse & intense desire to kill certain people made her seem sociopathic. Her tendencies which have commonalities to a much lesser degree with the villain are never really addressed. Also there were times where the author would take two sentences to achieve what one could do. It didn’t make the book repetitive just like there was still fat to trim.
Compton made some unusual choices that I enjoyed. It feels like we’ve been dropped into an ongoing detective series at book five instead of book one. There’s detailed references to previous cases, character backstory or relationships. This builds complete characters with complex motivations that we understand hints of vs a complete profile of how their every trauma leads them to their choices.
It helps serve the horror too. I had to trust the characters without feeling like I knew everything. The MFC is often unsure of her instincts & internally will debate whether she saw what she perceived. These two elements keep the reader guessing, was that real? Could there be a mundane explanation instead? Because I was off balance/ destabilized going into the horror sequences I was creeped me out.
I did struggle with our MFC at times. Her lack of remorse & intense desire to kill certain people made her seem sociopathic. Her tendencies which have commonalities to a much lesser degree with the villain are never really addressed. Also there were times where the author would take two sentences to achieve what one could do. It didn’t make the book repetitive just like there was still fat to trim.
December 17, 2025
A woman is hired to investigate why her client cannot die.. and all hell breaks loose. Literally.
Johnny Compton can write horror! The scenes that included the violent and the paranormal were terrifying and I had to push myself to keep going because I wanted to close my eyes. The way he writes the setting makes you feel like you are there witnessing the events. It was so well done.
Being local to the area, I am very familiar with San Antonio and its paranormal history, so the nods to the town were obvious and strong for me. I have stayed at the Menger Hotel and I cannot shake that it had some inspiration on our adventure. I loved that you could feel the Texas heartbeat throughout.
The only thing I didn’t like was feeling like this was the second or third book in a series, when it wasn’t. There are many references back to a history and another investigation and set of events that the narrator assumes the reader is aware of, except we aren’t. It’s unsettling and instead of being a unique way to provide some character development (like I think Johnny meant to do) it felt more like I was the butt of some inside joke. That everyone was in on something that I was left out of. I can only hope that this means we will get a prequel.
Johnny Compton can write horror! The scenes that included the violent and the paranormal were terrifying and I had to push myself to keep going because I wanted to close my eyes. The way he writes the setting makes you feel like you are there witnessing the events. It was so well done.
Being local to the area, I am very familiar with San Antonio and its paranormal history, so the nods to the town were obvious and strong for me. I have stayed at the Menger Hotel and I cannot shake that it had some inspiration on our adventure. I loved that you could feel the Texas heartbeat throughout.
The only thing I didn’t like was feeling like this was the second or third book in a series, when it wasn’t. There are many references back to a history and another investigation and set of events that the narrator assumes the reader is aware of, except we aren’t. It’s unsettling and instead of being a unique way to provide some character development (like I think Johnny meant to do) it felt more like I was the butt of some inside joke. That everyone was in on something that I was left out of. I can only hope that this means we will get a prequel.
November 6, 2025
Reading for review in the January 2026 issue of Library Journal
Three Words That Describe This Book: Supernatural Detective Horror, Emotionally Charged, Original Monster story
It is important to note that this is as much a PI novel as it is a horror novel. That is not bad. Both are done well. But readers who are not used to how a PI detective novel needs to be written, might not enjoy it as much as a horror novel. I thought those details were done very well. We have well placed red herrings, great investigative detail, back story in Shyla and her former girlfriend/partner Jinh (a psychic) as they work together to investigate. And most importantly, Shyla as our PI is built well. We understand her motivation, her past, and how it all works to make her who she is. The sympathy for her is built well.
The horror part is original and interesting. The client-- Braith- an uber rich TX guy who cannot die-- we see it right at the start-- hiring Shyla to figure out why. Of course it is not that simple. He is not just a vampire and he has ulterior motives etc.. We know this, Shyla knows this. But Compton pulls it off. The horror/monster/supernatural things at not cookie cutter in anyway. The backstory is developed well and how Shyla's specific background and traumas are used to resolve it all is also good.
I am being vague because the reader is told form the start that Shyla has secrets but Compton reveals them slowly which allows the unease to build realistically and keeps the reader interested, turning the pages, without Compton having to sacrifice the pacing and investigation moving forward but still giving us the details we need.
There is an easter egg connection to Compton's first love-- The Spite House. Also a hint that Shyla might be back. This could be a series.
References to The Monkey's Paw a famous story by English author W.W. Jacobs-- first published in 1902 are used here. Enough info is given about that story to allow readers who are unfamiliar with it to understand. Also the story has been adapted and used in other stories enough that people are familiar a bit.
Readalikes-- The Haunting of Room 904 by Erika T. Wurth is a great readalike here. Both are solid supernatural PI stories with strong investigative details, an emotion backstory, and original monster to be stalking.
Harry Dresden fans and Sandman Slims will like this too. Those readers are always eager for new, original supernatural PI stories.
Fans of Alma Katsu's 2025 FIEND, focused on an under rich family has some cross over appeal here too, especially for those who don't want more investigative elements but want the rich family with "monstrous" secrets.
Three Words That Describe This Book: Supernatural Detective Horror, Emotionally Charged, Original Monster story
It is important to note that this is as much a PI novel as it is a horror novel. That is not bad. Both are done well. But readers who are not used to how a PI detective novel needs to be written, might not enjoy it as much as a horror novel. I thought those details were done very well. We have well placed red herrings, great investigative detail, back story in Shyla and her former girlfriend/partner Jinh (a psychic) as they work together to investigate. And most importantly, Shyla as our PI is built well. We understand her motivation, her past, and how it all works to make her who she is. The sympathy for her is built well.
The horror part is original and interesting. The client-- Braith- an uber rich TX guy who cannot die-- we see it right at the start-- hiring Shyla to figure out why. Of course it is not that simple. He is not just a vampire and he has ulterior motives etc.. We know this, Shyla knows this. But Compton pulls it off. The horror/monster/supernatural things at not cookie cutter in anyway. The backstory is developed well and how Shyla's specific background and traumas are used to resolve it all is also good.
I am being vague because the reader is told form the start that Shyla has secrets but Compton reveals them slowly which allows the unease to build realistically and keeps the reader interested, turning the pages, without Compton having to sacrifice the pacing and investigation moving forward but still giving us the details we need.
There is an easter egg connection to Compton's first love-- The Spite House. Also a hint that Shyla might be back. This could be a series.
References to The Monkey's Paw a famous story by English author W.W. Jacobs-- first published in 1902 are used here. Enough info is given about that story to allow readers who are unfamiliar with it to understand. Also the story has been adapted and used in other stories enough that people are familiar a bit.
Readalikes-- The Haunting of Room 904 by Erika T. Wurth is a great readalike here. Both are solid supernatural PI stories with strong investigative details, an emotion backstory, and original monster to be stalking.
Harry Dresden fans and Sandman Slims will like this too. Those readers are always eager for new, original supernatural PI stories.
Fans of Alma Katsu's 2025 FIEND, focused on an under rich family has some cross over appeal here too, especially for those who don't want more investigative elements but want the rich family with "monstrous" secrets.
October 17, 2025
While not my favorite book from the author, there's still so much good here.
It starts with a bang, but then slows to a slightly more methodical and atmospheric read. I'll honest that the first half of the book was a little slower than I liked - I read it in fits and starts. However, once we got to the 2nd half, it was a dark and horrific rollercoaster ride until the end.
I adored Shyla and Remy. I didn't care so much for Shyla's ex.
The author managed to do some powerful worldbuilding and (aside from a couple of long back story bits), I was definitely in.
Not a perfect read, but 3.5 trending 4 and I'm looking forward to the author's next offering.
* ARC via Publisher
It starts with a bang, but then slows to a slightly more methodical and atmospheric read. I'll honest that the first half of the book was a little slower than I liked - I read it in fits and starts. However, once we got to the 2nd half, it was a dark and horrific rollercoaster ride until the end.
I adored Shyla and Remy. I didn't care so much for Shyla's ex.
The author managed to do some powerful worldbuilding and (aside from a couple of long back story bits), I was definitely in.
Not a perfect read, but 3.5 trending 4 and I'm looking forward to the author's next offering.
* ARC via Publisher
September 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5 STARS!
the premise of this drew me in right off the bat. i knew i had to read it. it felt like the author really took a handful of genres and crafted something masterfully good! almost like literally throwing paint on a canvas and out comes a masterpiece of work. the writing style might not be for everyone, but if you give it a chance to immerse yourself in it... it's gritty, gorey, and action-packed. i'd be so hyped if they found a way to make this into a movie. i would def watch that! i'm more of a books > movies type of girl, but this story feels like it would be more impactful on-screen. or maybe that's just me.
one of the major reasons for my rating is that i had trouble really connecting with the characters. i was left wanting more. something about it didn't feel... complete. not sure if that's the word i'm looking for, but as of this moment it's fitting. kind of like there were more questions than answers. i tend to get really invested into the story/characters, so i nitpick. 😅 nonetheless, i did enjoy reading it. it's a solid 3 STARS for now. maybe in the future i'll revisit this read and change my mind. no doubt there're people who would appreciate this much more than i did and rate it higher, because it's still a good story. i'd still recommend it & think it's worth a read. no regrets here!
thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read an advanced copy via NetGalley. i leave this review of my own volition; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
the premise of this drew me in right off the bat. i knew i had to read it. it felt like the author really took a handful of genres and crafted something masterfully good! almost like literally throwing paint on a canvas and out comes a masterpiece of work. the writing style might not be for everyone, but if you give it a chance to immerse yourself in it... it's gritty, gorey, and action-packed. i'd be so hyped if they found a way to make this into a movie. i would def watch that! i'm more of a books > movies type of girl, but this story feels like it would be more impactful on-screen. or maybe that's just me.
one of the major reasons for my rating is that i had trouble really connecting with the characters. i was left wanting more. something about it didn't feel... complete. not sure if that's the word i'm looking for, but as of this moment it's fitting. kind of like there were more questions than answers. i tend to get really invested into the story/characters, so i nitpick. 😅 nonetheless, i did enjoy reading it. it's a solid 3 STARS for now. maybe in the future i'll revisit this read and change my mind. no doubt there're people who would appreciate this much more than i did and rate it higher, because it's still a good story. i'd still recommend it & think it's worth a read. no regrets here!
thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read an advanced copy via NetGalley. i leave this review of my own volition; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 23, 2025
Out February 10th, 2026
Private investigator Shyla Sinclair is summoned to the eerie mansion of Saxton Braith, a reclusive Texas billionaire with a chilling secret—he cannot die. Her skepticism turns to horror when she witnesses Braith’s assistant impale him with an iron rod, only for Braith to resurrect moments later. With no memory of how he became immortal and desperate for answers, Braith offers Shyla a fortune to uncover the truth about his past. But the job comes with strings: Braith knows Shyla’s own buried secrets and insists she’s the only one he can trust.
As Shyla digs deeper into Braith’s shadowy history, she uncovers a web of supernatural forces, forgotten identities, and sinister motives that stretch far beyond the confines of his mansion. The investigation leads her into a world where death is not the end, and power comes at a terrifying cost. Each revelation brings her closer to understanding Braith’s curse—and the role she may unknowingly play in it.
Blending noir detective grit with supernatural horror, Dead First is a haunting exploration of immortality, guilt, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Compton crafts a tense, atmospheric narrative where every answer raises new questions, and the line between investigator and subject begins to blur. It’s a chilling tale of reckoning, where the past refuses to stay buried and the dead don’t always stay dead
Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for this ARC!
Private investigator Shyla Sinclair is summoned to the eerie mansion of Saxton Braith, a reclusive Texas billionaire with a chilling secret—he cannot die. Her skepticism turns to horror when she witnesses Braith’s assistant impale him with an iron rod, only for Braith to resurrect moments later. With no memory of how he became immortal and desperate for answers, Braith offers Shyla a fortune to uncover the truth about his past. But the job comes with strings: Braith knows Shyla’s own buried secrets and insists she’s the only one he can trust.
As Shyla digs deeper into Braith’s shadowy history, she uncovers a web of supernatural forces, forgotten identities, and sinister motives that stretch far beyond the confines of his mansion. The investigation leads her into a world where death is not the end, and power comes at a terrifying cost. Each revelation brings her closer to understanding Braith’s curse—and the role she may unknowingly play in it.
Blending noir detective grit with supernatural horror, Dead First is a haunting exploration of immortality, guilt, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Compton crafts a tense, atmospheric narrative where every answer raises new questions, and the line between investigator and subject begins to blur. It’s a chilling tale of reckoning, where the past refuses to stay buried and the dead don’t always stay dead
Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for this ARC!
August 22, 2025
This ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NG & Johnny Compton
-Dead First-
I ate this book UP in one sitting.
“people who have gone in, have come back changed”
This book was so interesting to me because it has a lot more depth than the description leads on. Especially with telepathy & dreams and things I wasn’t expecting that was a pleasant surprise. You really have two stories being told and merging into one. It’s so clever reading about her past, what lead her to where she is now and how her past has impacted her.
The paranormal aspects are absolutely eerie & daunting. The descriptions in this book paint a picture of EXACTLY HOW CREEPY things looked and made it extremely easy to picture in your mind.
This book is dark and usually I don’t like descriptive torture/ violent books at all but this one was tolerable even in moments I had discomfort and the “this is awful” feeling. The paranormal aspect of that in my opinion helped balance that out.
The story just kept getting better & better as it went on and is definitely a page turner. I wish so badly someone would draw or paint images from this book 😭 the paranormal place they went, the “witches” they saw. So if someone does that send it my way because I’d love to see this in art!
I actually really adored this book!
ALSO LGBTQIA MAIN CHARACTERS 🖤
Thank you NG & Johnny Compton
-Dead First-
I ate this book UP in one sitting.
“people who have gone in, have come back changed”
This book was so interesting to me because it has a lot more depth than the description leads on. Especially with telepathy & dreams and things I wasn’t expecting that was a pleasant surprise. You really have two stories being told and merging into one. It’s so clever reading about her past, what lead her to where she is now and how her past has impacted her.
The paranormal aspects are absolutely eerie & daunting. The descriptions in this book paint a picture of EXACTLY HOW CREEPY things looked and made it extremely easy to picture in your mind.
This book is dark and usually I don’t like descriptive torture/ violent books at all but this one was tolerable even in moments I had discomfort and the “this is awful” feeling. The paranormal aspect of that in my opinion helped balance that out.
The story just kept getting better & better as it went on and is definitely a page turner. I wish so badly someone would draw or paint images from this book 😭 the paranormal place they went, the “witches” they saw. So if someone does that send it my way because I’d love to see this in art!
I actually really adored this book!
ALSO LGBTQIA MAIN CHARACTERS 🖤
August 22, 2025
Probably a 3.5. There were things that I really liked about this book and a couple things I really disliked. It’s good enough that I’ll definitely pick up any future books by Compton though.
September 28, 2025
The SECOND I see a new release is coming from Johnny Compton, I am all in, so Dead First was at the top of the list for me. Compton has an ease with writing strong atmosphere and setting that just FEEL heavy as you read, and that's something that came across so well in this book. That being said, I think readers of Dead First are going to fall fairly solidly into one of two camps, so let's lay it out.
Who I think WILL enjoy this book:
-fans of detective noir
-readers who like their supernatural horror on the violent side
Who I do NOT think will enjoy this book:
-readers who like to connect deeply with characters
-readers with aversion to violent scenes or torture
I did enjoy the book for the most part, but found myself struggling to really align with any of the characters here. And I don't necessarily think that's BAD - not every character is going to resonate with every reader. But in this case, it made it difficult for me to invest in hopes for any one outcome. That experience aside, I still recommend this book and will be waiting for future releases from Compton.
((While the viewpoints shared are my own, I want to thank NetGalley, Putnam Books, & Johnny Compton for this complimentary copy.))
Who I think WILL enjoy this book:
-fans of detective noir
-readers who like their supernatural horror on the violent side
Who I do NOT think will enjoy this book:
-readers who like to connect deeply with characters
-readers with aversion to violent scenes or torture
I did enjoy the book for the most part, but found myself struggling to really align with any of the characters here. And I don't necessarily think that's BAD - not every character is going to resonate with every reader. But in this case, it made it difficult for me to invest in hopes for any one outcome. That experience aside, I still recommend this book and will be waiting for future releases from Compton.
((While the viewpoints shared are my own, I want to thank NetGalley, Putnam Books, & Johnny Compton for this complimentary copy.))
October 21, 2025
Dead First
by Johnny Compton is a moody, genre-blending horror that has a truly killer premise, a private investigator hired by a man who can't die. The story is equally supernatural thriller as well as detective noir, with an eerie atmosphere to boot.
When private investigator Shyla Sinclair is invited to the looming mansion of eccentric billionaire Saxton Braith, she’s more than a little suspicious. The last thing she expects to see that night is Braith’s assistant driving an iron rod straight through the back of his skull. Scratch that—the last thing she expects to see is Braith’s resurrection afterward.
Braith can’t die, it turns out, but he has no explanation for his immortality, and very few intact memories of his past. Which is why he wants to pay Shyla millions to investigate him, and bring his long-buried history to light.
Shyla can’t help but be intrigued, but she’s also trapped by the offer. Braith has made it clear that he knows she’s the only person he can trust with his secret, because he knows all about hers.
Dead First has a fresh premise and a truly eerie atmosphere that hits a bunch of the right notes. Taking the concept of a private investigator hired by a billionaire who can't die was enough to draw me in. As a fan of horror stories as well as mysteries, this blend of the two penned by Bram Stoker award nominated author Johnny Compton to create a supernatural/noir hybrid was something I could not let pass me by.
While the plot itself, along with the creepy mansion-mystery vibe had me going and kept me curious to find out more, but what we end up getting just didn't land for me as well as I had hopes for. The execution fell short of the stellar premise. The pacing dragged on in places, some plot threads felt a bit loose, and the payoff didn't feel as strong as the setup. This all made for someone let down by the end. As someone who typically enjoys Compton's work, personally loved Spite House, this was not a paragraph I wanted to write.
While I admired the ambition and unique plot of Dead First, the pacing and payoff didn't quite work for me. Johnny Compton crafts a solid, imaginative read, just one that doesn't realize the potential of the intriguing setup. However, as with most stories this is objective and still recommend horror fans give this novel a read.
Dead First hits bookstores everywhere on February 10, 2025 from G.P. Putnam's Sons. The audiobook is available for preorder via Libro.fm!
NOTE: We received an advance copy of Dead First from the publisher. Opinions are our own.
When private investigator Shyla Sinclair is invited to the looming mansion of eccentric billionaire Saxton Braith, she’s more than a little suspicious. The last thing she expects to see that night is Braith’s assistant driving an iron rod straight through the back of his skull. Scratch that—the last thing she expects to see is Braith’s resurrection afterward.
Braith can’t die, it turns out, but he has no explanation for his immortality, and very few intact memories of his past. Which is why he wants to pay Shyla millions to investigate him, and bring his long-buried history to light.
Shyla can’t help but be intrigued, but she’s also trapped by the offer. Braith has made it clear that he knows she’s the only person he can trust with his secret, because he knows all about hers.
Dead First has a fresh premise and a truly eerie atmosphere that hits a bunch of the right notes. Taking the concept of a private investigator hired by a billionaire who can't die was enough to draw me in. As a fan of horror stories as well as mysteries, this blend of the two penned by Bram Stoker award nominated author Johnny Compton to create a supernatural/noir hybrid was something I could not let pass me by.
While the plot itself, along with the creepy mansion-mystery vibe had me going and kept me curious to find out more, but what we end up getting just didn't land for me as well as I had hopes for. The execution fell short of the stellar premise. The pacing dragged on in places, some plot threads felt a bit loose, and the payoff didn't feel as strong as the setup. This all made for someone let down by the end. As someone who typically enjoys Compton's work, personally loved Spite House, this was not a paragraph I wanted to write.
While I admired the ambition and unique plot of Dead First, the pacing and payoff didn't quite work for me. Johnny Compton crafts a solid, imaginative read, just one that doesn't realize the potential of the intriguing setup. However, as with most stories this is objective and still recommend horror fans give this novel a read.
Dead First hits bookstores everywhere on February 10, 2025 from G.P. Putnam's Sons. The audiobook is available for preorder via Libro.fm!
NOTE: We received an advance copy of Dead First from the publisher. Opinions are our own.
November 30, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of
Dead First.
I've never read this author before but the premise drew me in.
I love books with supernatural/horror elements and the blurb made me interested to read more.
The narrative isn't for everyone and may be triggering for some people: there's a lot of violence, blood, and murders.
** Minor supernatural spoilers ahead **
PI Shyla Sinclair has been tasked by billionaire Saxton Braith to learn why he can't die. He's not a vampire or a zombie. He's immortal.
Wary and distrustful of her new client, and with the help of her colleague and former girlfriend, Jinh, the duo discover the secret behind Braith's immortality and its downright terrifying.
When their investigation puts Jinh in danger, Shyla has to rely on her wits and her own untapped psychic abilities to defeat a man that can't be killed.
I love the premise, its different and dark, though I was a bit confused by some of the supernatural elements.
I thought the Twins were spectral but they're not, they're human but have spectral abilities and creep around like poltergeists.
Ohhh-kay.
I'm not a fan of the author's writing style.
We're in Shyla's head most of the time and its whirling a mile a minute, no surprise considering the events she's found herself in.
She has a tendency to explain what is happening when something shocking occurs which I found distracting.
It read like the author's way to explain the scene to readers.
The story isn't all ghosts and curses and mayhem; its really about rage, vengeance, love, loyalty, and forgiveness.
Shyla's troubled childhood and what she has done to survive has made her who she is, a survivor, still dealing with the trauma that continues to taint her relationships with her family and Jinh.
It's about Shyla coming to terms with her past and what she has done to get to this point and how her future is still open and waiting for her.
I've never read this author before but the premise drew me in.
I love books with supernatural/horror elements and the blurb made me interested to read more.
The narrative isn't for everyone and may be triggering for some people: there's a lot of violence, blood, and murders.
** Minor supernatural spoilers ahead **
PI Shyla Sinclair has been tasked by billionaire Saxton Braith to learn why he can't die. He's not a vampire or a zombie. He's immortal.
Wary and distrustful of her new client, and with the help of her colleague and former girlfriend, Jinh, the duo discover the secret behind Braith's immortality and its downright terrifying.
When their investigation puts Jinh in danger, Shyla has to rely on her wits and her own untapped psychic abilities to defeat a man that can't be killed.
I love the premise, its different and dark, though I was a bit confused by some of the supernatural elements.
I thought the Twins were spectral but they're not, they're human but have spectral abilities and creep around like poltergeists.
Ohhh-kay.
I'm not a fan of the author's writing style.
We're in Shyla's head most of the time and its whirling a mile a minute, no surprise considering the events she's found herself in.
She has a tendency to explain what is happening when something shocking occurs which I found distracting.
It read like the author's way to explain the scene to readers.
The story isn't all ghosts and curses and mayhem; its really about rage, vengeance, love, loyalty, and forgiveness.
Shyla's troubled childhood and what she has done to survive has made her who she is, a survivor, still dealing with the trauma that continues to taint her relationships with her family and Jinh.
It's about Shyla coming to terms with her past and what she has done to get to this point and how her future is still open and waiting for her.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What in the hell did I just read? I mean that in a good way. This book had so much going on, and I loved it. I’m an absolute sucker for a PI novel, and when you mix it with horror, that’s my bread and butter. Compton did a great job of making it seem like all of these things could happen. Yes, even a man who somehow can’t die, and can’t remember why. If you’re thinking he’s not telling you everything, well friends, you would be right. Of course, our MC Shyla suspects the same, but she’s too much of a bad a—. To show her hand, or her fears. Shyla herself was an amazing character. I loved her tough attitude, even through the insane amount of baggage she had lugging behind her. I mean, who wouldn’t be that way after everything she’d been through? But when she got into her case, I couldn’t put it down. I really liked following the paper trail, and found myself suspecting the same exact things she was. If it was so easy for her to find and follow this paper trail, why couldn’t Braith? Like all things, there’s a reason. You just have to hold on for dear life to find it. There’s a point in the story when, after everything you’ve found out, you still don’t know who to trust. It makes for a great story as you come careening around the corner toward the end. I can see this being optioned for movie rights. I could visualize it all in my head as I read it. When it happens, I’ll be there to watch!
Huge thanks to Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons and NetGalley for sending me this ARC for review! All of my reviews are given honestly!
Huge thanks to Putnam | G.P. Putnam's Sons and NetGalley for sending me this ARC for review! All of my reviews are given honestly!
September 12, 2025
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Dead First by Johnny Compton
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Mystery/Thriller
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: February 10, 2026
3.5/5
Black Private Investigator FMC
Asian Telegraph Girlfriend
Immortal Client's
Paranormal Mystery
Dead First begins with our PI, Shyla, entering a mansion and discovering the man who hired her cannot die and wants to know more about his own past. Dark secrets and an interesting religion are discovered as the story unravels.
This was such an interesting combination of private investigating and paranormal elements, I ended up quite enjoying it. Shylas backstory is interesting and added another layer to make her character more compelling. Couple her with Jihn, her telepathic girlfriend, and some culty suspects and you get a very entertaining paranormal mystery.
If you like your mysteries with a touch of the uncanny, you'll enjoy Dead First.
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Mystery/Thriller
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: February 10, 2026
3.5/5
Black Private Investigator FMC
Asian Telegraph Girlfriend
Immortal Client's
Paranormal Mystery
Dead First begins with our PI, Shyla, entering a mansion and discovering the man who hired her cannot die and wants to know more about his own past. Dark secrets and an interesting religion are discovered as the story unravels.
This was such an interesting combination of private investigating and paranormal elements, I ended up quite enjoying it. Shylas backstory is interesting and added another layer to make her character more compelling. Couple her with Jihn, her telepathic girlfriend, and some culty suspects and you get a very entertaining paranormal mystery.
If you like your mysteries with a touch of the uncanny, you'll enjoy Dead First.
September 15, 2025
Dead First had such a strong premise, and I really wanted to love it. A private investigator hired to figure out why a man can’t die? That immediately grabbed my attention. The setup is weird, creepy, and intriguing.
The first few chapters pulled me in, and the atmosphere was great: eerie mansion, shady billionaire, lots of unanswered questions. But somewhere along the way, the momentum started to fizzle out for me. The plot felt like it was building to something big, but it didn’t quite land. There were definitely some cool moments and creepy imagery, but overall, it didn’t hit as hard as I was hoping.
That said, the writing is solid, and I’ll definitely check out more from this author—I can tell there’s a unique voice here.
Many thanks to Edelweiss and G.P. Putnam's Sons for providing an eARC prior to publication.
The first few chapters pulled me in, and the atmosphere was great: eerie mansion, shady billionaire, lots of unanswered questions. But somewhere along the way, the momentum started to fizzle out for me. The plot felt like it was building to something big, but it didn’t quite land. There were definitely some cool moments and creepy imagery, but overall, it didn’t hit as hard as I was hoping.
That said, the writing is solid, and I’ll definitely check out more from this author—I can tell there’s a unique voice here.
Many thanks to Edelweiss and G.P. Putnam's Sons for providing an eARC prior to publication.
December 2, 2025
Dead First wastes no time in getting the story moving. Private Detective Shyla Sinclair meets with exceedingly rich Saxton Braith who has quite the job for her - find out why he can't die. More than a little suspicious, Shyla agrees - partly due to the pay and partly due to her fear that Braith knows her secret. In order to survive this job, Shyla must confront her complicated history and her relentless fury at her parents.
A supernatural mystery with lots of gore to firmly put this novel in the horror genre, I really enjoyed this book. The story is fast-paced and Shyla is a witty, likeable main character. The storyline the author weaves takes the reader on a wild ride where things aren't exactly as they seem and I had no clue the story would conclude the way it did.
I think this is a solid pick for a crime thriller reader who wants something that leans into the horror genre.
A supernatural mystery with lots of gore to firmly put this novel in the horror genre, I really enjoyed this book. The story is fast-paced and Shyla is a witty, likeable main character. The storyline the author weaves takes the reader on a wild ride where things aren't exactly as they seem and I had no clue the story would conclude the way it did.
I think this is a solid pick for a crime thriller reader who wants something that leans into the horror genre.
September 2, 2025
Dead First had some fun elements—maybe a dash of charm or mystery peppered in. I appreciated the effort, but for me, it didn’t quite come together.
The story had potential, but it felt a bit too familiar and slow to pick up. Some twists were predictable, and a few plot threads seemed underdeveloped. The characters just didn’t quite click with me, either—like we never really got to know them or care about what was going on in their heads.
Still, it wasn’t a total miss. There were moments where I enjoyed the vibe and kept turning pages, hoping things would spark.
The story had potential, but it felt a bit too familiar and slow to pick up. Some twists were predictable, and a few plot threads seemed underdeveloped. The characters just didn’t quite click with me, either—like we never really got to know them or care about what was going on in their heads.
Still, it wasn’t a total miss. There were moments where I enjoyed the vibe and kept turning pages, hoping things would spark.
October 1, 2025
Thank you so much to the author and publisher for letting me read this ARC copy! I liked this one. It was an easy read for me. I'm used to reading horror stories, so this one was right up my alley! I enjoy the paranormal twists the book had, it was a good mix of genres, I feel like, and the storyline had me needing to know how it ended! All in all, I would totally recommend this book to my scary book people.
September 18, 2025
I am really enjoying the scope of this author‘s writing. I enjoy the fantasy and horror themes he includes.
This is just a wild, thrill-ride from the first chapter. PI Shyla Sinclair gets an intriguing invitation to a tycoon’s mansion and discovers her potential client’s death and subsequent resurrection… Showing her his problem is the first step to getting her to help him, blackmail is the next. She has secrets, too.
He needs her to help him figure out why he can’t die… and he is willing to pay her handsomely.
I really loved Shyla and Jinh, her psychic ex-girlfriend who is such a huge part of her life. Shyla gets herself into some dangerous situations, learning what people sacrifice for power.
I enjoyed this so much. Highly recommend.
This is just a wild, thrill-ride from the first chapter. PI Shyla Sinclair gets an intriguing invitation to a tycoon’s mansion and discovers her potential client’s death and subsequent resurrection… Showing her his problem is the first step to getting her to help him, blackmail is the next. She has secrets, too.
He needs her to help him figure out why he can’t die… and he is willing to pay her handsomely.
I really loved Shyla and Jinh, her psychic ex-girlfriend who is such a huge part of her life. Shyla gets herself into some dangerous situations, learning what people sacrifice for power.
I enjoyed this so much. Highly recommend.
Want to read
December 25, 2025Won but have not yet received a copy through a Goodreads Giveaway! Giveaway ended Dec 23, 2025.
October 22, 2025
“Dead First” starts out super strong and then slows down. The second half was a wild, horrifying ride that I didn’t want to get off of. Overall it was an enjoyable read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
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