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Whispers in the Dark
Mare of Easttown meets The Outsider in this spine-tingling and twisty debut about a series of disappearances in a small, fundamentalist town and what one broken family must do to remain together as dark forces close in.
After losing her young son in an accident, Rachel Kennan throws herself into her career as police chief of a small Virginia town to avoid focusing on her grief. Meanwhile, her husband, Finn, a washed-up writer whose alcoholism led to the devastating tragedy that changed everything, struggles to redeem himself before his family completely falls apart. Their two daughters are the only things keeping Rachel and Finn together, but the girls have demons of their own.
At the same time, a disturbing crime rocks their tightknit, religious community, sending Rachel chasing leads in a place that does not take kindly to outsiders. When an ominous force in the forest starts calling to the children, fear spawns hate among the townspeople, placing the Kennan family directly in the line of fire. Left with no choice but to rely on each other, Rachel and Finn must come together to face threats inside and out.
A haunting family saga and a disquieting horror debut, Nowhere draws from Appalachian folklore to caution us that true terror is what we bury in our own hearts.
After losing her young son in an accident, Rachel Kennan throws herself into her career as police chief of a small Virginia town to avoid focusing on her grief. Meanwhile, her husband, Finn, a washed-up writer whose alcoholism led to the devastating tragedy that changed everything, struggles to redeem himself before his family completely falls apart. Their two daughters are the only things keeping Rachel and Finn together, but the girls have demons of their own.
At the same time, a disturbing crime rocks their tightknit, religious community, sending Rachel chasing leads in a place that does not take kindly to outsiders. When an ominous force in the forest starts calling to the children, fear spawns hate among the townspeople, placing the Kennan family directly in the line of fire. Left with no choice but to rely on each other, Rachel and Finn must come together to face threats inside and out.
A haunting family saga and a disquieting horror debut, Nowhere draws from Appalachian folklore to caution us that true terror is what we bury in our own hearts.
345 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 28, 2025
37 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 30, 2025
What a story, dark, disturbing, and utterly compelling. This was a tale of Appalachian folk lore, with echoes of the Pied Piper and Peter Pan. However, the main characters were (mostly) unlikeable and deeply flawed individuals, with very few redeeming features.
A new police chief, Rachel, relocates to a remote and deeply religious small town in the Appalachian mountains. Both her and her family, being outsiders with a colourful past, are not made welcome by the fundamentalist locals.
The body of a hiker is found, impaled on a tree branch, in the forest, and this is just the beginning.The town's children gradually undergo personality changes and start disappearing into the forest. When they return, they are not what they were.
This was a dark and very disturbing tale, with a cast of well developed characters and a fast-moving plot. I found it a real page turner and a fully engaging story. Highly recommended!
A new police chief, Rachel, relocates to a remote and deeply religious small town in the Appalachian mountains. Both her and her family, being outsiders with a colourful past, are not made welcome by the fundamentalist locals.
The body of a hiker is found, impaled on a tree branch, in the forest, and this is just the beginning.The town's children gradually undergo personality changes and start disappearing into the forest. When they return, they are not what they were.
This was a dark and very disturbing tale, with a cast of well developed characters and a fast-moving plot. I found it a real page turner and a fully engaging story. Highly recommended!
August 25, 2025
5 Star ARC Review ✨
After the tragic loss of her son, Rachel Kennan has buried herself in work as deputy of a small religious Appalachian town. Her marriage to Finn is unraveling under the weight of grief and his alcoholism. The only thread holding them together is their daughters, Charlie and Lucy.
But when crimes stir tension in a community that already despises them, and a dark force from the woods begins calling to the children, fear spreads like wildfire. As kids start to vanish, Rachel and Finn must put aside their differences and confront both the townspeople and the creeping horror in the shadows.
This book blew me away. I could NOT stop reading. A horror thriller absolutely drenched in blood and folklore, it kept escalating—every time I thought “whew, this is creepy,” it got creepier. The dread sinks in and never lets go, even past the final page.
Think Children of the Corn, but set in the Appalachian Mountains:
🌲 small-town religion
🌲 chilling woods
🌲 creepy children
🌲 dark, merciless folklore
Allison Gunn has written a story that feels destined for the screen—I could easily see this as a haunting series or film.
Thank you to NetGalley for approving me for this honest review! I cannot wait to read more from this incredible author.
After the tragic loss of her son, Rachel Kennan has buried herself in work as deputy of a small religious Appalachian town. Her marriage to Finn is unraveling under the weight of grief and his alcoholism. The only thread holding them together is their daughters, Charlie and Lucy.
But when crimes stir tension in a community that already despises them, and a dark force from the woods begins calling to the children, fear spreads like wildfire. As kids start to vanish, Rachel and Finn must put aside their differences and confront both the townspeople and the creeping horror in the shadows.
This book blew me away. I could NOT stop reading. A horror thriller absolutely drenched in blood and folklore, it kept escalating—every time I thought “whew, this is creepy,” it got creepier. The dread sinks in and never lets go, even past the final page.
Think Children of the Corn, but set in the Appalachian Mountains:
🌲 small-town religion
🌲 chilling woods
🌲 creepy children
🌲 dark, merciless folklore
Allison Gunn has written a story that feels destined for the screen—I could easily see this as a haunting series or film.
Thank you to NetGalley for approving me for this honest review! I cannot wait to read more from this incredible author.
August 23, 2025
Based on the description I really thought I would like this, but unfortunately it fell a bit flat for me.
Initially there was a creepy atmosphere, but this didn’t continue. I think part of the problem was how deeply unlikable all the characters were, especially Rachel. Nobody listened to anyone else and everyone was angry about something all the time.
The story didn’t really feel like it went anywhere and the conclusion was a bit lacklustre. Sadly this just wasn’t really for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Embla Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Initially there was a creepy atmosphere, but this didn’t continue. I think part of the problem was how deeply unlikable all the characters were, especially Rachel. Nobody listened to anyone else and everyone was angry about something all the time.
The story didn’t really feel like it went anywhere and the conclusion was a bit lacklustre. Sadly this just wasn’t really for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Embla Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2025
Congrats on making the Rachel the most hateful character I’ve ever experienced 👏🏻 the number of times I wanted to help Finn m@rder and bury her body was too many to count.
August 22, 2025
Whispers In The Dark - Review
By Allison Gunn
Published by: Embla Books
Out: 28th August 2025
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Book Blurb:
Rachel Kennan knows she’ll never be accepted as police chief by the locals of the deeply religious town of Dahlmouth in Virginia. But she couldn’t really care less. The loss of her son, caused by her husband’s recklessness, has torn her marriage apart. But they have two daughters and life, or some semblance of life, needs to carry on for them.
One day Rachel is called out to a horrifying scene in the woods. A man has been nailed to a tree - dead. If that wasn’t bad enough, Abby Grayson, a young local girl then goes missing. Rachel swears the two incidents must be related and when more children start going missing things take a very dark turn and soon the whole town is scared and up in arms. Rachel must work out what is real and how to get her family to safety.
My Thoughts:
Holy Moly! What have I just read? This got creepy … fast. I’m not easily scared but this book unsettled me … and I loved it.
“Come play with us.” She giggled.
Let’s start with the Kennan family. Rachel, Finn, and their two daughters, Charlie, and Lucy. They had gone through the worst thing any family could go through. The loss of a child. Their son, Aidan. The feeling of grief was palpable, and the complexities of this family were strong. I can’t say I was drawn to any of the characters, but they were certainly compelling.
The locals didn’t trust the family and made it extremely obvious, which had a huge impact on the story and added even more layers to this already deep tale.
And then it got even darker!!!
This horror-thriller was drenched in Appalachian folklore where children fall under a sinister, deathly possession. The atmosphere was so oppressive and thick, I could have cut it with a knife. I was on the edge of my seat. The environment of a small, closely knit, deeply faithful town added to the claustrophobic feel of this story, which only kept me reading.
This is a fantastic, chilling, suspenseful, deeply immersive debut. Don’t expect neat, happy resolutions. This story lingers long after the final page. But this was done in such a cleverly, un-annoying way, in my opinion. I was gripped and struggled to put this book down.
Parts of this read gave me similar vibes to the series called ‘From’.
On another note, this would make an excellent film or series … if done well.
I will be looking for more books by this author for sure.
By Allison Gunn
Published by: Embla Books
Out: 28th August 2025
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Book Blurb:
Rachel Kennan knows she’ll never be accepted as police chief by the locals of the deeply religious town of Dahlmouth in Virginia. But she couldn’t really care less. The loss of her son, caused by her husband’s recklessness, has torn her marriage apart. But they have two daughters and life, or some semblance of life, needs to carry on for them.
One day Rachel is called out to a horrifying scene in the woods. A man has been nailed to a tree - dead. If that wasn’t bad enough, Abby Grayson, a young local girl then goes missing. Rachel swears the two incidents must be related and when more children start going missing things take a very dark turn and soon the whole town is scared and up in arms. Rachel must work out what is real and how to get her family to safety.
My Thoughts:
Holy Moly! What have I just read? This got creepy … fast. I’m not easily scared but this book unsettled me … and I loved it.
“Come play with us.” She giggled.
Let’s start with the Kennan family. Rachel, Finn, and their two daughters, Charlie, and Lucy. They had gone through the worst thing any family could go through. The loss of a child. Their son, Aidan. The feeling of grief was palpable, and the complexities of this family were strong. I can’t say I was drawn to any of the characters, but they were certainly compelling.
The locals didn’t trust the family and made it extremely obvious, which had a huge impact on the story and added even more layers to this already deep tale.
And then it got even darker!!!
This horror-thriller was drenched in Appalachian folklore where children fall under a sinister, deathly possession. The atmosphere was so oppressive and thick, I could have cut it with a knife. I was on the edge of my seat. The environment of a small, closely knit, deeply faithful town added to the claustrophobic feel of this story, which only kept me reading.
This is a fantastic, chilling, suspenseful, deeply immersive debut. Don’t expect neat, happy resolutions. This story lingers long after the final page. But this was done in such a cleverly, un-annoying way, in my opinion. I was gripped and struggled to put this book down.
Parts of this read gave me similar vibes to the series called ‘From’.
On another note, this would make an excellent film or series … if done well.
I will be looking for more books by this author for sure.
October 24, 2025
That was such a fun read!
Scary, unsettling and tense!
The kids here - Other Charlie and little Lucy especially - were brilliantly done! That scene in the kitchen when Lucy says to her dad: Don’t open the door! Really got to me!
The author had done a great job playing in the emotions of any adult / parent reading that! These kids were SCARY!! And I loved that!
The setting - a small isolated town surrounded by woods - was perfect for the plot of the book! I think the author created this really gloomy, cold atmosphere and the use of folk stories and legends about changelings was something that I really enjoyed here.
I couldn’t help but feel as if i was reading Stephen King! A much less dense that is 😜
Also the scene when Michelle is in the car driving to Dahlmouth!! Awesome!!!
What a great book!!!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC copy of that. Although I have to admit I now purchased my own copy of this 🙌
Scary, unsettling and tense!
The kids here - Other Charlie and little Lucy especially - were brilliantly done! That scene in the kitchen when Lucy says to her dad: Don’t open the door! Really got to me!
The author had done a great job playing in the emotions of any adult / parent reading that! These kids were SCARY!! And I loved that!
The setting - a small isolated town surrounded by woods - was perfect for the plot of the book! I think the author created this really gloomy, cold atmosphere and the use of folk stories and legends about changelings was something that I really enjoyed here.
I couldn’t help but feel as if i was reading Stephen King! A much less dense that is 😜
Also the scene when Michelle is in the car driving to Dahlmouth!! Awesome!!!
What a great book!!!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC copy of that. Although I have to admit I now purchased my own copy of this 🙌
September 14, 2025
This book was delightfully scary. It centers on police chief Rachel and her husband Finn, who are adjusting to life in a very small town while reeling from the death of their son. When strange things start happening (body in the woods, missing kids, people acting out of character) they have to admit that there may be something supernatural going on.
The mystery in this book was good and the setting was atmospheric and creepy. I do wish we got a little more background on the characters and that the characters talked to each other more, but the way it was written added to the mystery. There were some gory parts in the book but overall it was more creepy than gory. I am not entirely sure I understood why some of the things happened but maybe we are not supposed to understand. The ending of the book dragged just a little bit in that final scene but I think it was resolved appropriately for the rest of the story.
Overall, this is certainly not a feel good story but is creepy throughout and downright scary at times. I would recommend to those who like horror. Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The mystery in this book was good and the setting was atmospheric and creepy. I do wish we got a little more background on the characters and that the characters talked to each other more, but the way it was written added to the mystery. There were some gory parts in the book but overall it was more creepy than gory. I am not entirely sure I understood why some of the things happened but maybe we are not supposed to understand. The ending of the book dragged just a little bit in that final scene but I think it was resolved appropriately for the rest of the story.
Overall, this is certainly not a feel good story but is creepy throughout and downright scary at times. I would recommend to those who like horror. Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2025
I knew as soon as I saw the email for this one that I wanted to take part in and read this. I am a sucker for a good gripping horror story and this one really didn’t disappoint! It was much more eerie and chilling than I thought it would be and I just absolutely loved it. The whole mixture of characters within the town was a joy to read about and unpick their secrets. I’ve always loved dark creepy forests but after reading this I may think twice about entering any 😂 A brilliant book
September 6, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for the arc! I was really excited for this book. It definitely had some of its spooky moments, but I struggled to really get into it and focus, it felt scattered. Though that could’ve totally been the intention behind the story, it just wasn’t for me.
December 18, 2025
Didn’t love it, didn’t hate it. I liked the creepy, moody vibe and the setting, but it was slow for me and never fully pulled me in. The idea and folklore were interesting, I just wanted a bit more from the story overall.
Not bad, just not a favorite. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Not bad, just not a favorite. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
August 9, 2025
Now THIS is my kind of horror! A close knit town in the arse-end of nowhere surrounded by a dark and foreboding forest where something unspeakable is lurking; luring in and changing the children of the town.
This book proves you don’t need oodles of blood and gore to pull off a good horror story (not that there’s anything wrong with a bit of gore sometimes of course!!) While the creepiness practically drips off the pages throughout, there were also a few jaw-dropping stand-out passages that really cemented Whispers In The Dark as one of my fave reads of the year so far.
I thought the evil throughout was beautifully contrasted by Lucy, youngest daughter of Rachel and Finn and one of the first characters to spot the differences in the changed children. No spoilers here, but all of my fave scenes involved Lucy (including one that frankly scared the 💩 outta me! - she was defo my fave character!
This book also explores the topic of grief in a truly heartbreaking way; again, a very effective contrast with the more insidious evil throughout. It’s difficult to say more without giving away spoilers, I think the less you know going in the more you’ll feel all the feels!
Suffice it to say this was unquestionably a five star read for me, I loved the moody atmosphere, I loved the whole ‘the monsters already in the house’ vibe, I loved the completely flawed characters and I LOVED the ending. This is an author I’ll absolutely be on the lookout for in the future, especially if there’s more horror to come 🖤
Thank you so much @lovebookstours , @author_allison_gunn @emblabooks and @bonnierbooks_uk for my copy of Whispers In The Dark to read and review 🫶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book proves you don’t need oodles of blood and gore to pull off a good horror story (not that there’s anything wrong with a bit of gore sometimes of course!!) While the creepiness practically drips off the pages throughout, there were also a few jaw-dropping stand-out passages that really cemented Whispers In The Dark as one of my fave reads of the year so far.
I thought the evil throughout was beautifully contrasted by Lucy, youngest daughter of Rachel and Finn and one of the first characters to spot the differences in the changed children. No spoilers here, but all of my fave scenes involved Lucy (including one that frankly scared the 💩 outta me! - she was defo my fave character!
This book also explores the topic of grief in a truly heartbreaking way; again, a very effective contrast with the more insidious evil throughout. It’s difficult to say more without giving away spoilers, I think the less you know going in the more you’ll feel all the feels!
Suffice it to say this was unquestionably a five star read for me, I loved the moody atmosphere, I loved the whole ‘the monsters already in the house’ vibe, I loved the completely flawed characters and I LOVED the ending. This is an author I’ll absolutely be on the lookout for in the future, especially if there’s more horror to come 🖤
Thank you so much @lovebookstours , @author_allison_gunn @emblabooks and @bonnierbooks_uk for my copy of Whispers In The Dark to read and review 🫶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 28, 2025
ARC read review. Thank you NetGalley for my ARC copy.
4⭐️
I’m not usually a horror fan but this book kept me gripped throughout and I don’t think I’ll be taking a walk in the woods for a while. It is fast paced and provides lots of creepy moments that made me want to keep reading to know what had happened. The only down side that I felt from this story was how quickly it took for Rachel to realise that her daughter was not her daughter instead of being under the influence of drugs. If one of my children was behaving like that I’d like to think I’d know something was extremely wrong 🙈.
Premise: the story begins with 2 police officers coming to the small back town of Dahlmouth to find all of thw residents gone and a strange atmosphere and feeling surrounding the town. We are then introduced to Rachel Kennan who is the Chief Police Officer of Dahlmouth. Rachel and her family have been through heartache over the last year since the tragic death of their son Aidan. Along with this the residents of Dahlmouth to not trust or like the Kennan family because of Rachel’s previous life style and Finn, her husband’s, damaging article of the town. The family are divided but trying to keep up a pretence for their daughters, Charlie and Lucy. Following the discovery of a mutilated body of a man nailed to a tree in the forest seriously creepy and strange things begin to happen in the town and when Charlie goes into the woods with her friends the events that follow will affect Rachel and her family’s life forever.
A must read on the lead up to Halloween 👻.
4⭐️
I’m not usually a horror fan but this book kept me gripped throughout and I don’t think I’ll be taking a walk in the woods for a while. It is fast paced and provides lots of creepy moments that made me want to keep reading to know what had happened. The only down side that I felt from this story was how quickly it took for Rachel to realise that her daughter was not her daughter instead of being under the influence of drugs. If one of my children was behaving like that I’d like to think I’d know something was extremely wrong 🙈.
Premise: the story begins with 2 police officers coming to the small back town of Dahlmouth to find all of thw residents gone and a strange atmosphere and feeling surrounding the town. We are then introduced to Rachel Kennan who is the Chief Police Officer of Dahlmouth. Rachel and her family have been through heartache over the last year since the tragic death of their son Aidan. Along with this the residents of Dahlmouth to not trust or like the Kennan family because of Rachel’s previous life style and Finn, her husband’s, damaging article of the town. The family are divided but trying to keep up a pretence for their daughters, Charlie and Lucy. Following the discovery of a mutilated body of a man nailed to a tree in the forest seriously creepy and strange things begin to happen in the town and when Charlie goes into the woods with her friends the events that follow will affect Rachel and her family’s life forever.
A must read on the lead up to Halloween 👻.
August 24, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Embla Books for sending this one over to me!
This is such a great book to start the 'spooky season'. An outsider police chief in charge of a small, close-knit religious town. What could possibly go wrong?!
This is based on Appalachian folklore, which I don't know too much about but man, am I now obsessed. I normally love anything to do with urban legends and this did not disappoint. It was creepy, suspenseful, eerie and when you add kids to the mix, it was always bound to be haunting.
The environment and setting of the town just felt so sinister, you was waiting for something to happen from the very beginning and Allison Gunn was amazing at creating suspenseful tension throughout the whole book.
The main characters, Rachel and Finn, were not particular likeable but that actually adds to the book in my opinion. With Rachel, there was a bit of bravado and 'I know best' quite a lot of the times which can be annoying, but I guess that comes with her police background.
I have to say I was utterly hooked for majority of the book. From around the 60% to 80% mark, I feel like it did lose it's pacing just a little bit but then it went right back on track and full steam ahead, where I couldn't put it down! Overall, I would definitely recommend this book, especially for the upcoming spooky season (but maybe check trigger warnings as there are some heavy topics going on!)
This is such a great book to start the 'spooky season'. An outsider police chief in charge of a small, close-knit religious town. What could possibly go wrong?!
This is based on Appalachian folklore, which I don't know too much about but man, am I now obsessed. I normally love anything to do with urban legends and this did not disappoint. It was creepy, suspenseful, eerie and when you add kids to the mix, it was always bound to be haunting.
The environment and setting of the town just felt so sinister, you was waiting for something to happen from the very beginning and Allison Gunn was amazing at creating suspenseful tension throughout the whole book.
The main characters, Rachel and Finn, were not particular likeable but that actually adds to the book in my opinion. With Rachel, there was a bit of bravado and 'I know best' quite a lot of the times which can be annoying, but I guess that comes with her police background.
I have to say I was utterly hooked for majority of the book. From around the 60% to 80% mark, I feel like it did lose it's pacing just a little bit but then it went right back on track and full steam ahead, where I couldn't put it down! Overall, I would definitely recommend this book, especially for the upcoming spooky season (but maybe check trigger warnings as there are some heavy topics going on!)
August 10, 2025
This book is everything I love about horror. Small town, suspicious residents, claustrophobic foreboding atmosphere, creepy children and strange happenings, alongside grief, trauma, guilt and family dynamics. The story really has so much to offer.
The author pulled me in from the first few pages. I really liked how the author portrayed the complexity of Rachel and Finns relationship as they struggled with their grief whilst trying to hold things together for their daughters Charlie and Lucy. Set this amongst the backdrop of being outsiders, who will never be seen to belong to the town, and things ramp up pretty quickly.
The story was creepy, and without giving too much away, I really wanted Lucy to be okay! With each chapter, things just got worse for the town and Rachel and Finns family. It was so tense waiting to see what would happen and if somehow, they could save each other from the unfolding horror.
Like all good horror stories, the author holds up a mirror to the horror of humanity and all our flaws, against supernatural happenings... both equally terrifying!
Highly recommend this to any horror fans, especially if you like small town, supernatural horror. It will certainly put you off those woodland walks!
Huge thanks to the author, publisher, and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book to review.
The author pulled me in from the first few pages. I really liked how the author portrayed the complexity of Rachel and Finns relationship as they struggled with their grief whilst trying to hold things together for their daughters Charlie and Lucy. Set this amongst the backdrop of being outsiders, who will never be seen to belong to the town, and things ramp up pretty quickly.
The story was creepy, and without giving too much away, I really wanted Lucy to be okay! With each chapter, things just got worse for the town and Rachel and Finns family. It was so tense waiting to see what would happen and if somehow, they could save each other from the unfolding horror.
Like all good horror stories, the author holds up a mirror to the horror of humanity and all our flaws, against supernatural happenings... both equally terrifying!
Highly recommend this to any horror fans, especially if you like small town, supernatural horror. It will certainly put you off those woodland walks!
Huge thanks to the author, publisher, and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book to review.
August 21, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Embla Books for the Advanced Reader’s Copy of Whispers in the Dark by Allison Gunn.
Rachel Kennan is the Chief of a small Virginian town called Dahlmouth. The town doesn’t even pretend to hide their contempt towards her. She doesn’t care as she is still mourning the loss her son who died in a drinking and driving accident at the hands of her estranged husband, Finn.
After finding the mutilated body of a man nailed to a tree, a child disappears. Then more people start disappearing into the woods. When everyone is in the woods, where do you go to hide when they start coming out of the woods? Nowhere!
This has all the feels of an 80’s horror movie. Small town mentality, religious townspeople, creepy children, dark and unexplained forces at work. That ending actually surprised me and I don't think it could have been written better.
As I’ve read this story, and though it’s unrelated, I kept hearing that one quote from Cold Hand Luke ringing in my head like an earworm:
“What we’ve got here… is failure to communicate. Some men you just can’t reach. So, you get what we had here last week, which is the way he wants it… well, he gets it.”
Unrelated but strangely fitting.
Do you think the pigs made it to the pen or the slaughterhouse? I’m putting my money on the slaughterhouse.
Rachel Kennan is the Chief of a small Virginian town called Dahlmouth. The town doesn’t even pretend to hide their contempt towards her. She doesn’t care as she is still mourning the loss her son who died in a drinking and driving accident at the hands of her estranged husband, Finn.
After finding the mutilated body of a man nailed to a tree, a child disappears. Then more people start disappearing into the woods. When everyone is in the woods, where do you go to hide when they start coming out of the woods? Nowhere!
This has all the feels of an 80’s horror movie. Small town mentality, religious townspeople, creepy children, dark and unexplained forces at work. That ending actually surprised me and I don't think it could have been written better.
As I’ve read this story, and though it’s unrelated, I kept hearing that one quote from Cold Hand Luke ringing in my head like an earworm:
“What we’ve got here… is failure to communicate. Some men you just can’t reach. So, you get what we had here last week, which is the way he wants it… well, he gets it.”
Unrelated but strangely fitting.
Do you think the pigs made it to the pen or the slaughterhouse? I’m putting my money on the slaughterhouse.
August 29, 2025
Rating: 7/5 (if I could!)
What a book! From start to finish, this story gripped me with its pacing, chaos, and atmosphere. The emotions are overwhelming, and the way the tension builds from the opening to the last chapter left me breathless.
Some readers may call the characters “unlikable” — but in horror, mystery, and thriller, that’s exactly the point. They aren’t here to comfort you, they’re here to unsettle you. The real focus is the folklore and the eerie mystery of Dahlmouth, and that was executed brilliantly.
Lucy's creature or the creature that took her place especially gave me chills — her transformation into something both familiar and monstrous was unforgettable. Charlie’s rebellion, Rachel and Finn’s broken dynamic, and the way everything tied together in the woods… devastating, haunting, and yet strangely beautiful.
The creatures themselves weren’t grotesque, just hollow-eyed, but that simplicity made them terrifying. Every time they appeared, I felt them in the room with me. This isn’t jumpscare horror — it’s immersive horror, the kind that crawls under your skin.
Overall: a debut that feels god-tier. For lovers of folklore, mystery, and horror, this book is worth every page. Allison Gunn is an author to watch — this story will stay with me for a long time.
What a book! From start to finish, this story gripped me with its pacing, chaos, and atmosphere. The emotions are overwhelming, and the way the tension builds from the opening to the last chapter left me breathless.
Some readers may call the characters “unlikable” — but in horror, mystery, and thriller, that’s exactly the point. They aren’t here to comfort you, they’re here to unsettle you. The real focus is the folklore and the eerie mystery of Dahlmouth, and that was executed brilliantly.
Lucy's creature or the creature that took her place especially gave me chills — her transformation into something both familiar and monstrous was unforgettable. Charlie’s rebellion, Rachel and Finn’s broken dynamic, and the way everything tied together in the woods… devastating, haunting, and yet strangely beautiful.
The creatures themselves weren’t grotesque, just hollow-eyed, but that simplicity made them terrifying. Every time they appeared, I felt them in the room with me. This isn’t jumpscare horror — it’s immersive horror, the kind that crawls under your skin.
Overall: a debut that feels god-tier. For lovers of folklore, mystery, and horror, this book is worth every page. Allison Gunn is an author to watch — this story will stay with me for a long time.
August 4, 2025
This book TERRIFIED me (in a good way). The levels of suspense, tension and down-right spine chilling moments were seamlessly blended around a narrative of a married couple trying to navigate the trauma of their past, their present and their future for themselves and their children.
At first glance you would take this book as a horror story, which it delivers in spades! But delve a little deeper and it's a story about loss, identity, self-preservation, family and navigating trauma both personal and shared.
This book was a fantastic read,. The writing narrative is compelling, the right blend of descriptive setting to draw the scene of this ruralised town with its deep rooted beliefs and its unique characters. Rachel Kennan the chief is a strong woman but considered an outsider and judged and when the horror moments started, believe me all the hairs on my neck stood up on end. I adored the character of Rachel and Finn's youngest daughter Lucy, her innocence brought light to the dark and the ending.... what an ending!! No spoilers but this book will leave me a little bit scared of sleep for a while!
At first glance you would take this book as a horror story, which it delivers in spades! But delve a little deeper and it's a story about loss, identity, self-preservation, family and navigating trauma both personal and shared.
This book was a fantastic read,. The writing narrative is compelling, the right blend of descriptive setting to draw the scene of this ruralised town with its deep rooted beliefs and its unique characters. Rachel Kennan the chief is a strong woman but considered an outsider and judged and when the horror moments started, believe me all the hairs on my neck stood up on end. I adored the character of Rachel and Finn's youngest daughter Lucy, her innocence brought light to the dark and the ending.... what an ending!! No spoilers but this book will leave me a little bit scared of sleep for a while!
August 4, 2025
En la remota y sombría ciudad de Dahlmouth, Virginia, la jefa de policía Rachel Kennan se enfrenta a un hallazgo escalofriante: un cuerpo brutalmente mutilado y clavado a un árbol en medio del bosque. Lo que parece un caso aislado rápidamente se convierte en un misterio más profundo, con símbolos extraños grabados en los árboles, desapariciones inexplicables, y un silencio inquietante que envuelve al pueblo entero. Mientras Rachel lucha por descubrir la verdad, se enfrenta a sus propios demonios personales (incluida la muerte de su hijo) y a una comunidad que no confía en ella. A medida que el terror crece, se hace evidente que algo oscuro y ancestral está despertando en Dahlmouth, y puede que nadie esté a salvo.
Uno de los puntos fuertes del libro es su atmósfera: el pueblo aislado, el bosque amenazante, los rumores de cosas que acechan en la oscuridad… todo está construido con un detalle tan vívido que resulta fácil imaginarse allí. El misterio se va desenredando poco a poco, con revelaciones inquietantes y momentos verdaderamente escalofriantes.
TW: Homofobia.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Uno de los puntos fuertes del libro es su atmósfera: el pueblo aislado, el bosque amenazante, los rumores de cosas que acechan en la oscuridad… todo está construido con un detalle tan vívido que resulta fácil imaginarse allí. El misterio se va desenredando poco a poco, con revelaciones inquietantes y momentos verdaderamente escalofriantes.
TW: Homofobia.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
August 4, 2025
Quirky horror story affecting a whole town.
Rachel is a terrible chief who seems to want to get things done but she's a difficult character to get along with. Finn isn't much better and it's their demons that seem to bind them together.
There's a mix of characters in this although it evolves largely around one family and their impact on the town. Loss is a huge theme in this and comes in a variety of ways. The characters are sad, frustrating and tense at times so you find yourself on a bit of a journey as you wait to see what happens. I found that most characters bumbled along in this nightmare although Lucy seemed determined to break the chain. I did feel sorry for her and was waiting for the end to see how things worked out for her! I thought initially this might go along the lines of Children of the Corn but it didn't quite go that way and something else appears to be going on in the woods.
Rachel is a terrible chief who seems to want to get things done but she's a difficult character to get along with. Finn isn't much better and it's their demons that seem to bind them together.
There's a mix of characters in this although it evolves largely around one family and their impact on the town. Loss is a huge theme in this and comes in a variety of ways. The characters are sad, frustrating and tense at times so you find yourself on a bit of a journey as you wait to see what happens. I found that most characters bumbled along in this nightmare although Lucy seemed determined to break the chain. I did feel sorry for her and was waiting for the end to see how things worked out for her! I thought initially this might go along the lines of Children of the Corn but it didn't quite go that way and something else appears to be going on in the woods.
September 22, 2025
📆 single, linear timeline
👀 3rd person
🐢 -🐇 medium-paced
I love the cover on this, it's absolutely perfect for the story and rather creepy!
I often find 'horror' books to be disappointing, they just aren't scary enough. But this one gave me goosebumps! lt would make such a good film, although l'm too much of a wimp to watch horror, even though I love reading it!
I thought the characters were incredibly well written and incredibly complex. That's not surprising that they would be seeing everything they had been through, and Gunn's ability to capture that in words was sublime.
The plot was engaging, scary and emotional. 'Whispers in the Dark' is so more than just a horror story. At the heart of it was a story that I actually found rather
moving. A story of pain and loss and what we do with that, how we live with it.
I thought this was astounding for a debut novel and think that Gunn will be an author to look out for in future.
👀 3rd person
🐢 -🐇 medium-paced
I love the cover on this, it's absolutely perfect for the story and rather creepy!
I often find 'horror' books to be disappointing, they just aren't scary enough. But this one gave me goosebumps! lt would make such a good film, although l'm too much of a wimp to watch horror, even though I love reading it!
I thought the characters were incredibly well written and incredibly complex. That's not surprising that they would be seeing everything they had been through, and Gunn's ability to capture that in words was sublime.
The plot was engaging, scary and emotional. 'Whispers in the Dark' is so more than just a horror story. At the heart of it was a story that I actually found rather
moving. A story of pain and loss and what we do with that, how we live with it.
I thought this was astounding for a debut novel and think that Gunn will be an author to look out for in future.
January 1, 2026
Lost all of its initial promise
This book started out really well. I loved the descriptive writing style and could picture everything in my head but after a few chapters, it started to veer off into something that completely lost me.
There wasn’t one character that was likeable (which was extremely disappointing) and this had me pulled further and further away from the story. The dialogue at times was just completely strange. Why would anyone describe a missing child as having “bluebell eyes” when describing them to an EMT or someone looking for them? It was just really random. Some of the dialogue between Finn and Rachel seemed really unnaturally at points and the characters who supposedly despise Rachel and don’t trust her suddenly calling her ‘Rach’ in conversation was really jarring.
It was a really promising beginning and I liked the concept but unfortunately a poor execution.
This book started out really well. I loved the descriptive writing style and could picture everything in my head but after a few chapters, it started to veer off into something that completely lost me.
There wasn’t one character that was likeable (which was extremely disappointing) and this had me pulled further and further away from the story. The dialogue at times was just completely strange. Why would anyone describe a missing child as having “bluebell eyes” when describing them to an EMT or someone looking for them? It was just really random. Some of the dialogue between Finn and Rachel seemed really unnaturally at points and the characters who supposedly despise Rachel and don’t trust her suddenly calling her ‘Rach’ in conversation was really jarring.
It was a really promising beginning and I liked the concept but unfortunately a poor execution.
August 22, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC and giving me the opportunity to read this novel in advance. I leave this review voluntarily.
“Whispers In The Woods” (US version “Nowhere”) Dang! Y’all need Jesus!
★★★★★
The description “This is “The Outsider” meets “Mare of Easttown” (I’ve watched (and read “The Outsider”) both and absolutely loved them) hit the nail on the head.
This is a story that covers deep rooted trauma, horrors and tragedy in the most eerie way and I can only say, damn this was right up my alley!
The way this story unfolds and gets more dark, grim, unsettling and disturbing made it hard to put down. I simply got pulled in (or lured by whispers and songs) and when I finished this story I felt as if part of me got left behind in Dalmouth.
Allison Gunn knows how to mess you up in the best way and I recommend getting your hands on a copy of this novel if you dare..
“Whispers In The Woods” (US version “Nowhere”) Dang! Y’all need Jesus!
★★★★★
The description “This is “The Outsider” meets “Mare of Easttown” (I’ve watched (and read “The Outsider”) both and absolutely loved them) hit the nail on the head.
This is a story that covers deep rooted trauma, horrors and tragedy in the most eerie way and I can only say, damn this was right up my alley!
The way this story unfolds and gets more dark, grim, unsettling and disturbing made it hard to put down. I simply got pulled in (or lured by whispers and songs) and when I finished this story I felt as if part of me got left behind in Dalmouth.
Allison Gunn knows how to mess you up in the best way and I recommend getting your hands on a copy of this novel if you dare..
August 18, 2025
This is by far my most favourite read of the year so far. It gripped me from the very first page and never let go. This novel is so much more than a supernatural horror—it’s a deeply human story about grief, brokenness, and the lengths we go to protect the ones we love.
Rachel Kennan is a beautifully complex protagonist—tough and driven, yet emotionally frayed from the tragic loss of her son. As the police chief of a small Virginia town steeped in tradition and suspicion, she’s forced to carry not only the weight of her family’s grief but also the burden of a chilling new crime that shakes the community to its core.
Gunn weaves a slow-burning, atmospheric narrative that pulses with dread. The setting—dark woods, a closed-off town, and a growing sense of unease—feels like a character of its own. And when something ancient begins to whisper to the children from the shadows, the story escalates into something truly harrowing. I found myself holding my breath through entire chapters.
What sets Whispers in the Dark apart is its raw emotional power. Finn’s spiral into alcoholism and guilt is heartbreakingly real, and the fractured relationship between him and Rachel is portrayed with both honesty and empathy. Their daughters, too, are given emotional depth that makes their vulnerabilities—and strength—all the more affecting.
Drawing on Appalachian folklore, it delivers a haunting cautionary tale that lingers long after the final page. The horror is both external and internal, and the author balances both with incredible finesse. Fans of literary horror, psychological suspense, and family dramas will find something unforgettable here.
An eerie, evocative, and emotionally devastating read—Allison Gunn is a voice to watch in horror fiction and I for one, cannot wait to read more of her work!
Rachel Kennan is a beautifully complex protagonist—tough and driven, yet emotionally frayed from the tragic loss of her son. As the police chief of a small Virginia town steeped in tradition and suspicion, she’s forced to carry not only the weight of her family’s grief but also the burden of a chilling new crime that shakes the community to its core.
Gunn weaves a slow-burning, atmospheric narrative that pulses with dread. The setting—dark woods, a closed-off town, and a growing sense of unease—feels like a character of its own. And when something ancient begins to whisper to the children from the shadows, the story escalates into something truly harrowing. I found myself holding my breath through entire chapters.
What sets Whispers in the Dark apart is its raw emotional power. Finn’s spiral into alcoholism and guilt is heartbreakingly real, and the fractured relationship between him and Rachel is portrayed with both honesty and empathy. Their daughters, too, are given emotional depth that makes their vulnerabilities—and strength—all the more affecting.
Drawing on Appalachian folklore, it delivers a haunting cautionary tale that lingers long after the final page. The horror is both external and internal, and the author balances both with incredible finesse. Fans of literary horror, psychological suspense, and family dramas will find something unforgettable here.
An eerie, evocative, and emotionally devastating read—Allison Gunn is a voice to watch in horror fiction and I for one, cannot wait to read more of her work!
August 8, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I found the writing really engaging and the story gripping, from start to finish. I liked the outsider style and found it exciting to read with this writing and thematic connection.
Overall, I found it interesting and easy to connect with the characters. With that connection, I found myself desperate to find what was happening to this tight knit community. I wanted to see the why and understand the mind or minds behind it.
I liked the flow and pace of the book, as I really found it created a great feel and made me want to keep coming back to the book, and not want to put it down.
This was definitely a good read, very enjoyable, and one I would recommend. I also am glad this was my introduction to this author, as I know I will want to read more from them.
Overall, I found it interesting and easy to connect with the characters. With that connection, I found myself desperate to find what was happening to this tight knit community. I wanted to see the why and understand the mind or minds behind it.
I liked the flow and pace of the book, as I really found it created a great feel and made me want to keep coming back to the book, and not want to put it down.
This was definitely a good read, very enjoyable, and one I would recommend. I also am glad this was my introduction to this author, as I know I will want to read more from them.
August 9, 2025
‘Whispers in the Dark’ is a genuinely scary paranormal horror which quickly got under my skin and made it impossible for me to read it when it was dark outside! It also made me close all the bedroom doors and check on my own daughter several times during the night. Admittedly I can be a bit of a wimp with these types of books but that doesn’t change the fact that this is a gripping novel with tension that builds up steadily and makes you feel like an icy fist is closing over your heart.
I really liked the main characters, Rachel and Finn even though they have complex and flawed personalities. Their little family has been destroyed by secrets and tragedy but that’s really the least of their problems. I’d definitely recommend this book to fans of paranormal horror.
I really liked the main characters, Rachel and Finn even though they have complex and flawed personalities. Their little family has been destroyed by secrets and tragedy but that’s really the least of their problems. I’d definitely recommend this book to fans of paranormal horror.
August 24, 2025
Pros:
This was a very creepy read and definitely lived up to it's Horror genre. If you find anything with unseen monsters in the woods and creepy children scary this is definitely the book for you. Allison Gun really builds up moments of suspense and although it doesn't go into too much detail on the graphic stuff she manages to describe these situations enough that you can still picture the situations in your head. You really felt the vibe of the Kennan's being outsiders. This story also mentions self harm, sexuality and how grief affects people differently.
Cons:
I didn't really connect very well with the main characters story in some parts so I did find those few parts a bit slow and tedious to read but the creepiness of the story kept me engaged.
This was a very creepy read and definitely lived up to it's Horror genre. If you find anything with unseen monsters in the woods and creepy children scary this is definitely the book for you. Allison Gun really builds up moments of suspense and although it doesn't go into too much detail on the graphic stuff she manages to describe these situations enough that you can still picture the situations in your head. You really felt the vibe of the Kennan's being outsiders. This story also mentions self harm, sexuality and how grief affects people differently.
Cons:
I didn't really connect very well with the main characters story in some parts so I did find those few parts a bit slow and tedious to read but the creepiness of the story kept me engaged.
January 15, 2026
This is a strong, unsettling read that leans heavily into grief, moral ambiguity, and the slow unraveling of a family and a town. Rachel is a difficult protagonist to like emotionally closed-off and prickly but that feels deliberate rather than accidental.
The story constantly deepens just when you think you understand what’s going on, adding layers instead of neat answers. The growing unease around the children is particularly effective, and the atmosphere never lets up.
The portrayal of small-town bigotry is frustrating in the most realistic way — depressingly familiar and very much a part of modern life. Overall, this is an emotionally messy, tense, and thought-provoking horror that lingers after you finish.
The story constantly deepens just when you think you understand what’s going on, adding layers instead of neat answers. The growing unease around the children is particularly effective, and the atmosphere never lets up.
The portrayal of small-town bigotry is frustrating in the most realistic way — depressingly familiar and very much a part of modern life. Overall, this is an emotionally messy, tense, and thought-provoking horror that lingers after you finish.
August 25, 2025
Dahlmouth, Virginia. A small town full of secrets, faith, and fear. When Police Chief Rachel Kennan loses her young son, grief tears her family apart. But soon—children start disappearing, whispers spread through the woods, and something otherworldly seems to be watching 👀🌌
💔 Raw & emotional family drama
🌌 Appalachian folklore + creepy atmosphere
👨👩👧 Characters so real, you feel their pain
📖 A slow-burn horror that lingers long after the last page
This book is haunting, heartbreaking, and absolutely unputdownable. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Would you dare step into the woods of Dahlmouth at night? 🌲
Thank you Net galley for the ARC
💔 Raw & emotional family drama
🌌 Appalachian folklore + creepy atmosphere
👨👩👧 Characters so real, you feel their pain
📖 A slow-burn horror that lingers long after the last page
This book is haunting, heartbreaking, and absolutely unputdownable. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Would you dare step into the woods of Dahlmouth at night? 🌲
Thank you Net galley for the ARC
July 31, 2025
4+ ⭐
Sometimes, I just want a normal uncomplicated main character who has their life together.
Then along comes a character like Rachel (and to a lesser extent Finn) and they are just perfect in their complicated messed up way.
This book was at times one of the creepiest more sinister things I've read in a long while.
It made the hairs on the back of my neck stand out.
It also made me a tiny bit emotional, in the love that Rachel had for her children.
I flew through it.
Worth every minute of your time.
Sometimes, I just want a normal uncomplicated main character who has their life together.
Then along comes a character like Rachel (and to a lesser extent Finn) and they are just perfect in their complicated messed up way.
This book was at times one of the creepiest more sinister things I've read in a long while.
It made the hairs on the back of my neck stand out.
It also made me a tiny bit emotional, in the love that Rachel had for her children.
I flew through it.
Worth every minute of your time.
September 12, 2025
This book was so fricken amazing 🙌🏼! Thank you to the author and netgalley for the arc!! I absolutely loved this book by the end of it. At first, I wasn’t sure because I did not like any of the characters except for Finn and Lucy. I thought they were all snobby and just not likable. But the more I read the story just got so good! I loved the thrill, spookiness and all the craziness that came along with it! I could not stand Rachel🙈 she was just so mean to Finn! But the story itself with the children going Nowhere! This would be so good turned into a show!! Definitely a 5 star read!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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