What do you think?
Rate this book
When Shadows Burn
I know not every book is for everyone, and that’s okay. But I’ve seen how harsh words in reviews can upset my autistic son, who follows my work closely. Honest critique is always welcome, but kindness in delivery makes a real difference. Thanks for understanding.
A quick note for new readers: When Shadows Burn begins as an investigation and intentionally changes shape. If you’re expecting a monster in the attic, this one’s after something closer to home. Think southern-gothic atmosphere, queer liberation, and a town that finally looks in the mirror.
For genre-curious folks: When Shadows Burn leans psychological horror/southern-gothic, grounded, human-driven terror in a small Virginia town. If you liked Midsommar, this may be for you!
"Twin Peaks meets Shirley Jackson." -Jennifer Wright, bestselling author and former political editor-at-large for Harper's Bazaar
Some houses whisper. This one screams.
In the heart of Raven's Cross, Virginia, the decaying Scott house looms. Its broken-window eyes watch a town desperate to forget. When Roxy, a teenage girl, vanishes into a sweltering night, long-buried fears erupt, and suspicion turns savage. The townspeople turn on the newcomers, blaming them for what they refuse to face in themselves. As polite smiles crack and old grudges resurface, Raven's Cross's genteel mask begins to slip, revealing the rot beneath.
Timothy Michaels came to town chasing a story. A true crime podcaster investigating the haunted legacy of the Scott house, he never expected to be pulled into something so immediate-and so dangerous. Alongside unexpected allies, Tim begins to unearth a legacy of complicity and cruelty-one the town would kill to keep buried. Because, in Raven's Cross, the shadows don't just linger. They burn.
A quick note for new readers: When Shadows Burn begins as an investigation and intentionally changes shape. If you’re expecting a monster in the attic, this one’s after something closer to home. Think southern-gothic atmosphere, queer liberation, and a town that finally looks in the mirror.
For genre-curious folks: When Shadows Burn leans psychological horror/southern-gothic, grounded, human-driven terror in a small Virginia town. If you liked Midsommar, this may be for you!
"Twin Peaks meets Shirley Jackson." -Jennifer Wright, bestselling author and former political editor-at-large for Harper's Bazaar
Some houses whisper. This one screams.
In the heart of Raven's Cross, Virginia, the decaying Scott house looms. Its broken-window eyes watch a town desperate to forget. When Roxy, a teenage girl, vanishes into a sweltering night, long-buried fears erupt, and suspicion turns savage. The townspeople turn on the newcomers, blaming them for what they refuse to face in themselves. As polite smiles crack and old grudges resurface, Raven's Cross's genteel mask begins to slip, revealing the rot beneath.
Timothy Michaels came to town chasing a story. A true crime podcaster investigating the haunted legacy of the Scott house, he never expected to be pulled into something so immediate-and so dangerous. Alongside unexpected allies, Tim begins to unearth a legacy of complicity and cruelty-one the town would kill to keep buried. Because, in Raven's Cross, the shadows don't just linger. They burn.
312 pages, Paperback
Published October 14, 2025
9 people are currently reading
3995 people want to read
About the author
Todd Brown
1 book17 followersAudiobook available on Audible narrated by Emily Woo Zeller
When Shadows Burn, featured in Bloody Disgusting
Infinite Generations Social Justice Award Winner
Atlas of Stories Award Winner
American Book Fest Finalist
When Shadows Burn, featured in Bloody Disgusting
Infinite Generations Social Justice Award Winner
Atlas of Stories Award Winner
American Book Fest Finalist
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
October 12, 2025
When Shadows Burn by Todd Brown. Thanks to #booksforward for the gifted copy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When a girl vanishes in Raven’s
Cross, Virginia, suspension runs rampant. Especially on the pod caster in town investigating.
Anyone that appreciates a small town atmospheric read will enjoy this one. It shows how horror can often hide in plain sight in a small town. It’s a slow burn, as we get to know all the town members, but it’s worth it as the ending peaks.
“Not all monsters are make believe.”
When Shadows Burn comes out 10/14.
When a girl vanishes in Raven’s
Cross, Virginia, suspension runs rampant. Especially on the pod caster in town investigating.
Anyone that appreciates a small town atmospheric read will enjoy this one. It shows how horror can often hide in plain sight in a small town. It’s a slow burn, as we get to know all the town members, but it’s worth it as the ending peaks.
“Not all monsters are make believe.”
When Shadows Burn comes out 10/14.
October 16, 2025
When Shadows Burn shines a scorching spotlight on the hypocrisy, bigotry, and prejudices that haunt our neighbors, family, and friends. It lays bare the implicit biases within all of us that - when given enough fuel, momentum, and fear - will certainly turn deadly. I think the mirror-effect of this book is critical for us to gaze upon, and to recognize that regardless of where we live (though the small-town-ness of this story is the sweet spot of narrative location) we all can either be subject to or perpetrators of deep and severe harm. And, we must always remember that we get to choose how we respond. We get to choose how we treat our neighbors, family, and friends. And we get to choose the path of love and understanding over the path of hatred and fear. As long as we step into that space, there will always be hope.
This is a character-driven read, with twists and turns and accelerants that make you want to find out what's next - and you won't see it coming. You'll fall in love with some characters, be repulsed by others, only to find out you probably don't have that right either. Go grab a copy, get cozy, and enjoy this one!
This is a character-driven read, with twists and turns and accelerants that make you want to find out what's next - and you won't see it coming. You'll fall in love with some characters, be repulsed by others, only to find out you probably don't have that right either. Go grab a copy, get cozy, and enjoy this one!
October 2, 2025
This is an amazing horror-esque fiction novel by Todd Brown! You’re instantly transported to the little town of Raven’s Cross with his beautiful, detailed visual descriptions. The characters are described perfectly to understand them quickly and effectively, this helps to drive the story to reach the climax, which comes unexpected. A twist like I have never read before. If you have ever gone through the trials of being part of the LGBTQ+ community or want to understand how important it is to find loving community in the face of hate and fear, this book is perfect for you.
October 21, 2025
Todd Brown’s When Shadows Burn opens with a chilling promise: a haunted house, a small Virginia town, and a true crime podcaster returning to investigate the tragedies tied to that place.
I was hooked right away by the atmosphere, the mystery surrounding the town, and the way multiple POVs slowly gave me insight into the people of Raven’s Cross. Timothy’s perspective, as both a returning native and an outsider, adds layers of tension and uncertainty. There’s constant speculation and suspicion, especially once people begin to disappear.
The true horror of this story doesn’t come from monsters or ghosts, it comes from human behavior. There’s bigotry, sexism, homophobia, and an undercurrent of cruelty that is painfully real. The book also explores queer identity and the longing for liberation in a place that fears difference. Without giving too much away, I’ll just say there’s an element of the story that redefines what a “haunted” space can be, how something feared can become a kind of refuge, and how salvation sometimes hides in plain sight.
I was hooked right away by the atmosphere, the mystery surrounding the town, and the way multiple POVs slowly gave me insight into the people of Raven’s Cross. Timothy’s perspective, as both a returning native and an outsider, adds layers of tension and uncertainty. There’s constant speculation and suspicion, especially once people begin to disappear.
The true horror of this story doesn’t come from monsters or ghosts, it comes from human behavior. There’s bigotry, sexism, homophobia, and an undercurrent of cruelty that is painfully real. The book also explores queer identity and the longing for liberation in a place that fears difference. Without giving too much away, I’ll just say there’s an element of the story that redefines what a “haunted” space can be, how something feared can become a kind of refuge, and how salvation sometimes hides in plain sight.
August 1, 2025
In When Shadows Burn, Todd Brown crafts a psychological thriller that unfolds not with fireworks, but with the steady, creeping dread of something watching just outside your periphery. The novel centers on Timothy Michaels, a podcaster returning to his eerie hometown of Raven’s Cross, only to find himself tangled in a web of old secrets, decaying folklore, and personal ghosts.
What makes the story resonate isn’t just the paranormal hints or the chilling house at the center—it’s how Brown turns the familiar rhythms of small-town life into something quietly sinister. Conversations feel just off enough to unsettle. Nostalgia is curdled. Memory isn’t safe. Brown’s prose is conversational yet sharp, and he captures the tension between personal grief and communal denial with haunting clarity.
The Martian House, where much of the mystery originates, is rendered as a breathing entity—a symbol of what’s buried and what refuses to stay buried. But this is more than a haunted-house novel; it’s a meditation on the way trauma embeds itself into communities and families, how stories are told to hide what really happened.
The characters are flawed in ways that feel genuine, and the relationship between Tim and Amanda offers occasional levity without ever undercutting the gravity of the plot. Brown resists neat resolutions, letting ambiguity linger, which works to the book’s advantage.
When Shadows Burn is atmospheric, character-driven, and intellectually provocative. It asks not only what haunts us—but why we keep the hauntings alive. For readers who prefer tension over terror and reflection over resolution, it’s a standout in modern gothic fiction.
(Note: I received an ARC of the book. However, the impartiality of my write-up remains true.)
What makes the story resonate isn’t just the paranormal hints or the chilling house at the center—it’s how Brown turns the familiar rhythms of small-town life into something quietly sinister. Conversations feel just off enough to unsettle. Nostalgia is curdled. Memory isn’t safe. Brown’s prose is conversational yet sharp, and he captures the tension between personal grief and communal denial with haunting clarity.
The Martian House, where much of the mystery originates, is rendered as a breathing entity—a symbol of what’s buried and what refuses to stay buried. But this is more than a haunted-house novel; it’s a meditation on the way trauma embeds itself into communities and families, how stories are told to hide what really happened.
The characters are flawed in ways that feel genuine, and the relationship between Tim and Amanda offers occasional levity without ever undercutting the gravity of the plot. Brown resists neat resolutions, letting ambiguity linger, which works to the book’s advantage.
When Shadows Burn is atmospheric, character-driven, and intellectually provocative. It asks not only what haunts us—but why we keep the hauntings alive. For readers who prefer tension over terror and reflection over resolution, it’s a standout in modern gothic fiction.
(Note: I received an ARC of the book. However, the impartiality of my write-up remains true.)
August 20, 2025
Todd Brown’s When Shadows Burn is exactly what you want if you like your small towns dark, your houses haunted, and your neighbors holding way too many secrets. The Scott house doesn’t just sit quietly, it screams. And trust me, once you step into Raven’s Cross, you’ll hear it too.
The story kicks off with a teenage girl, Roxy, vanishing into the night, and the whole town losing its carefully polished mask. The whispers, the paranoia, the finger-pointing? Chef’s kiss creepy. It’s giving major Twin Peaks vibes with a Shirley Jackson undertone, where the horror isn’t just the house, it’s the people.
Enter Tim Michaels, a true-crime podcaster who thinks he’s chasing a ghost story but instead stumbles into a web of grudges, lies, and cruelty. I loved how his perspective let us peel back the rotten layers of Raven’s Cross piece by piece. It’s slow-burn dread that eventually explodes into pure chaos.
What makes this book stick is the atmosphere. Todd paints Raven’s Cross so vividly that you feel the suffocating summer heat, the decaying house, and the way everyone’s smiles hide a knife. It’s not just a haunted house story, it’s about a haunted town, and the monsters that look a lot like us.
If you’re into gothic suspense, haunted houses with teeth, or just love when a book leaves you slightly unsettled (in the best way), When Shadows Burn belongs on your TBR.
The story kicks off with a teenage girl, Roxy, vanishing into the night, and the whole town losing its carefully polished mask. The whispers, the paranoia, the finger-pointing? Chef’s kiss creepy. It’s giving major Twin Peaks vibes with a Shirley Jackson undertone, where the horror isn’t just the house, it’s the people.
Enter Tim Michaels, a true-crime podcaster who thinks he’s chasing a ghost story but instead stumbles into a web of grudges, lies, and cruelty. I loved how his perspective let us peel back the rotten layers of Raven’s Cross piece by piece. It’s slow-burn dread that eventually explodes into pure chaos.
What makes this book stick is the atmosphere. Todd paints Raven’s Cross so vividly that you feel the suffocating summer heat, the decaying house, and the way everyone’s smiles hide a knife. It’s not just a haunted house story, it’s about a haunted town, and the monsters that look a lot like us.
If you’re into gothic suspense, haunted houses with teeth, or just love when a book leaves you slightly unsettled (in the best way), When Shadows Burn belongs on your TBR.
October 4, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4-Star Review of When Shadows Burn by Todd Brown
For readers who love Shirley Jackson’s creeping dread and the eerie surrealism of Twin Peaks, When Shadows Burn is a haunting treat. Todd Brown builds his story like a house with too many locked rooms — every chapter opens another door you’re not entirely sure you should walk through.
The novel thrives on atmosphere: fog-drenched streets, whispered secrets, and a sense that reality itself is slightly off-kilter. Brown’s prose is elegant but unsettling, the kind that hums quietly with menace even in its softest moments. The small-town setting feels claustrophobic and alive, full of neighbors who smile too easily and histories that refuse to stay buried.
Where the book truly shines is in its slow unraveling — the tension simmers rather than explodes, rewarding patient readers who love psychological suspense over jump scares. The only reason it doesn’t quite earn five stars is that some of its mysteries linger just a bit too long in the dark, teasing resolution without fully delivering.
Still, When Shadows Burn lingers in the mind long after the last page. It’s literary horror for those who prefer their chills with a touch of poetry — eerie, introspective, and quietly devastating.
Perfect for fans of We Have Always Lived in the Castle, Night Film, and stories where the uncanny hides in plain sight
For readers who love Shirley Jackson’s creeping dread and the eerie surrealism of Twin Peaks, When Shadows Burn is a haunting treat. Todd Brown builds his story like a house with too many locked rooms — every chapter opens another door you’re not entirely sure you should walk through.
The novel thrives on atmosphere: fog-drenched streets, whispered secrets, and a sense that reality itself is slightly off-kilter. Brown’s prose is elegant but unsettling, the kind that hums quietly with menace even in its softest moments. The small-town setting feels claustrophobic and alive, full of neighbors who smile too easily and histories that refuse to stay buried.
Where the book truly shines is in its slow unraveling — the tension simmers rather than explodes, rewarding patient readers who love psychological suspense over jump scares. The only reason it doesn’t quite earn five stars is that some of its mysteries linger just a bit too long in the dark, teasing resolution without fully delivering.
Still, When Shadows Burn lingers in the mind long after the last page. It’s literary horror for those who prefer their chills with a touch of poetry — eerie, introspective, and quietly devastating.
Perfect for fans of We Have Always Lived in the Castle, Night Film, and stories where the uncanny hides in plain sight
August 10, 2025
Tim Michaels, an established true crime podcaster, returns to Raven’s Cross to confront his fear. His homecoming, along with the arrival of two strangers, coincides with multiple disappearances and deaths in the town. Tim joins locals to investigate the spooky mysteries. When Shadows Burn is puzzling, suspenseful, poignant, and explores the evil within. Ultimately, it's a story of bravery and resilience to be who you are in a bitterly hostile world!
August 15, 2025
As the mom of a queer child, this book hit me straight in the heart. It’s more than a small-town thriller. It’s a story about resilience, love, and refusing to be erased. The suspense is gripping, the characters feel like family, and the questions it asks about silence and complicity will stick with me for a long time.
September 1, 2025
I was sent an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I ended up reading it in a day and a half. “When Shadows Burn” is powerful, gripping, and sends a powerful message. Highly recommend.
October 13, 2025
This one had all the moody Southern Gothic atmosphere I love — dark secrets, small-town tension, and a haunted house that feels way too real. Todd Brown weaves a supernatural thriller that’s equal parts eerie and emotional, with layers of mystery and commentary tucked between the shadows.
The story follows Timothy Michaels, a true crime podcaster who reluctantly returns to his hometown of Raven’s Cross, Virginia, after two teenage girls disappear. The case hits too close to home, especially when whispers of the Scott House—a decaying, haunted landmark with a sinister past—begin to resurface. As Tim digs deeper he finds himself unraveling not only the town’s dark history but the fear and prejudice still festering within it.
When Shadows Burn blends true-crime obsession with supernatural chills in a way that feels fresh yet nostalgic. The pacing kept me hooked, and the mix of realism and haunting imagery was spot-on. A slow-burn thriller that builds tension beautifully — perfect for fans of Southern Gothic horror and eerie small-town mysteries.
The story follows Timothy Michaels, a true crime podcaster who reluctantly returns to his hometown of Raven’s Cross, Virginia, after two teenage girls disappear. The case hits too close to home, especially when whispers of the Scott House—a decaying, haunted landmark with a sinister past—begin to resurface. As Tim digs deeper he finds himself unraveling not only the town’s dark history but the fear and prejudice still festering within it.
When Shadows Burn blends true-crime obsession with supernatural chills in a way that feels fresh yet nostalgic. The pacing kept me hooked, and the mix of realism and haunting imagery was spot-on. A slow-burn thriller that builds tension beautifully — perfect for fans of Southern Gothic horror and eerie small-town mysteries.
January 31, 2026
When Shadows Burn was a great read!
The story was well-written, making it easy for me to stay hooked the entire time. The characters were all unique, and I enjoyed learning more about each of them throughout the book. One of the things I really enjoyed was the multiple POVs. I love being able to see what each character is doing or thinking as the story unfolds.
Overall, it was a fantastic, thrilling read. I was literally on the edge of my seat the entire time. I highly recommend giving this book a read!
Thank you Books Forward and Todd Brown for the free advanced copy of this book!
~~~~
Cecy's Book Blog: When Shadows Burn Review
The story was well-written, making it easy for me to stay hooked the entire time. The characters were all unique, and I enjoyed learning more about each of them throughout the book. One of the things I really enjoyed was the multiple POVs. I love being able to see what each character is doing or thinking as the story unfolds.
Overall, it was a fantastic, thrilling read. I was literally on the edge of my seat the entire time. I highly recommend giving this book a read!
Thank you Books Forward and Todd Brown for the free advanced copy of this book!
~~~~
Cecy's Book Blog: When Shadows Burn Review
October 10, 2025
When Shadows Burn by Todd Brown is a psychological thriller/southern Gothic read. This book releases on October 14th, this year so this is a preemptive my thoughts on the book. The book centers around Tim Michaels, who is our resident MC and a crime pod caster. Tim heads home to Raven's Cross, Virginia to confront his fears. He gets to town and sees that nothing has really changed since he has left. The story that the author builds is super engaging and the writing is well written for a thriller with small town psychological aspects set into the book:) The mysteries surrounding the small town are in depth and there is a lot of underlying poetry to this book and whatever the small town will do to bury the secrets involving them. This was a great story about the Scott house and Raven's Cross overall. I would suggest this one to fans of thrillers ans small town, very ala Stephen King:)
September 14, 2025
When Shadows Burn by Todd Brown is less about ghosts and more about the ugly secrets a town will do anything to bury. Raven’s Cross looks picture-perfect on the outside, but when a teenage girl goes missing, all that polite small-town charm cracks wide open.
Tim, a true crime podcaster, was just chasing a story, but he ended up unearthing way more than he bargained for lies, grudges, and a legacy of cruelty that had me turning pages way too late at night. The Scott house looms over it all, not so much haunted by spirits as by the weight of what people are willing to hide.
✨️Creepy, tense, and totally engrossing this one gave me chills!
⚡️Thank you Books Forward PR and Todd Brown for sharing this book with me!
Tim, a true crime podcaster, was just chasing a story, but he ended up unearthing way more than he bargained for lies, grudges, and a legacy of cruelty that had me turning pages way too late at night. The Scott house looms over it all, not so much haunted by spirits as by the weight of what people are willing to hide.
✨️Creepy, tense, and totally engrossing this one gave me chills!
⚡️Thank you Books Forward PR and Todd Brown for sharing this book with me!
October 20, 2025
When Shadows Burn falls more into the social horror category rather than traditional horror. While there are supernatural elements and a whole lot of spooky atmosphere, the real horror is not quite what you are expecting. I appreciated the social commentary of the story and the personal story of the author and his family. At times it maybe strayed a little off topic by trying to mention nearly every social justice cause when they weren’t all necessarily important to the story… sometimes sticking with a single strong core theme is even more impactful.
Overall, I found the book to be an enjoyable read and thought it to be a very solid debut novel.
Thank you to Books Forward for the gifted copy.
Overall, I found the book to be an enjoyable read and thought it to be a very solid debut novel.
Thank you to Books Forward for the gifted copy.
August 28, 2025
Stephen king will be proud
August 29, 2025
Tim Michaels is a podcaster who travels to Ravens Cross to face what he is scared of. But this town is full of mystery, and will he survive. Great writing and the characters were fleshed out.
September 3, 2025
OK, I'm angry. This is like the sixth or seventh book this year I've picked up as horror, only to realize that horror is a pretext for something else. Usually, it's been a thriller or a dark fantasy novel or, even worse, romance, but in this case, it's a straightforward lesson in LBGTQ moralizing; to be specific, the book is a morality tale on gay and trans identity, nothing supernatural or horror about it. Now, I get what the author was going for (as he himself explains, he has a trans son and wanted to convey the horror of being trans or just different in contemporary American society), and that's absolutely sincere and admirable - but why con horror fans into reading his work, if he himself admits it's not horror at all? That said, there's a second volume forthcoming, picking up on the 'supernatural' aspects of the story; but how can I trust the author not to con me again? I can't. And of course there's no way I can recommend this kind of book. Publishers should act more responsible, and know their audience.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 9, 2025
The author certainly has a knack for painting a picture. The descriptions of the town and the infamous "Martian house" were incredibly evocative, dripping with atmosphere. I could practically feel the weight of the dreary surroundings. However, it felt…redundant. We get it, the town is depressing, the house is spooky. While the initial impact was effective, drawing me into that melancholic mood, the constant reiteration became a bit much.
Also the sheer amount of context dumped on the reader was a bit overwhelming. The dialogue felt like it was ripped straight out of a suburban parent handbook. Lastly, the sheer number of characters was also a problem. They seemed to pop up out of nowhere, and it was difficult to keep track of who was who and their relevance to the main plot.
Ultimately, I had to put this one down. The "Martian house" was built up as this central, mysterious location. But in the end, it felt more like a backdrop, a landmark that everyone simply passed by. Despite the characters' supposed obsession with the incident that occurred there decades ago, the house itself didn't actively contribute to the suspense or drive the plot forward in a meaningful way. If the story's pacing hadn’t felt so sluggish, with minimal emphasis on fleshing out the town and its inhabitants, which was an anticlimactic experience btw, I probably would’ve committed to finishing this.
I suspect this book might be better suited for a younger audience just beginning to explore the genre. The writing style and the focus on character development over plot driven suspense might resonate more with readers who are new to these types of stories.
Also the sheer amount of context dumped on the reader was a bit overwhelming. The dialogue felt like it was ripped straight out of a suburban parent handbook. Lastly, the sheer number of characters was also a problem. They seemed to pop up out of nowhere, and it was difficult to keep track of who was who and their relevance to the main plot.
Ultimately, I had to put this one down. The "Martian house" was built up as this central, mysterious location. But in the end, it felt more like a backdrop, a landmark that everyone simply passed by. Despite the characters' supposed obsession with the incident that occurred there decades ago, the house itself didn't actively contribute to the suspense or drive the plot forward in a meaningful way. If the story's pacing hadn’t felt so sluggish, with minimal emphasis on fleshing out the town and its inhabitants, which was an anticlimactic experience btw, I probably would’ve committed to finishing this.
I suspect this book might be better suited for a younger audience just beginning to explore the genre. The writing style and the focus on character development over plot driven suspense might resonate more with readers who are new to these types of stories.
October 16, 2025
"She didn't need a man, nor did she need to wait to be told what to do by one. Screw that. She wasn't living in 1950. She was no Donna Reed. She was Chappell Fucking Roan."
Todd Brown, I think you are an incredible writer with amazing potential, and it truly does pain me that I didn't love this book. But where I think When Shadows Burn went wrong is not with Brown's writing, or his ideas - because I see the vision here, I really do - but rather with the marketing and editing (or lack thereof).
Let me get this out of the way at the top: When Shadows Burn is not a horror book. It's really not even a thriller book. It's a bizarre comparison, but go with me on this one: When Shadows Burn is essentially the equivalent of the Bob's Burgers episode "The Bleakening": something dressed up as a creepy horror that ends up being about queer liberation headed by a fabulous drag queen. Now, if that was the story that I had been pitched, I would have gone into this book with a whole different set of expectations - instead, When Shadows Burn is posited as a 'true crime podcaster uncovers the ghosts of a small-town haunted house,' and in all fairness, that's how this book starts. It feels like that was Brown's original intent, and then halfway through, he decided to write a completely different book, because neither Martian House nor the (ad-naseum mentioned) fact that Tim is a podcaster makes any kind of difference in When Shadows Burn.
Now, talking about the queerness in this book, I found that it was massively unbalanced and very oddly written. I want to say the first 70% of When Shadows Burn is just a bunch of small-town people being homophobic for no reason (oh a stranger's just come to town? Must be gay. Like, what?), and then the last 30% is a speedrun of what should have been a straight fiction book about being queer in a small town. This was two separate books ripped apart and pieced together: one is a horror story about ghosts in an old-timey mansion, and one is about a small homophobic town learning to change their ways. Is there a way to blend those two storylines together? Sure! Did When Shadows Burn do it successfully? Unfortunately not.
I would love for this book to just be stripped apart and rewritten more cohesively, because as I've said, I think Brown is a really good writer - and, not only that, but a very good horror writer. There are some absolutely banger lines in this book, particularly when he's almost writing from the perspective of the town itself. For example, I thought this was a killer (no pun intended) passage:
Speaking of which, let's talk a little bit about what horror there is in When Shadows Burn - or, rather, what gore there is, because there's a difference. Please heed the author's trigger warnings at the start of the book, because even for a seasoned horror reader, there is a mutilation scene (of someone who deserves it, if that helps) that was absolutely disgusting, and really just comes out of nowhere. What on-page horror does exist is out of place, gory, and really seems to be just for shock value, and nothing else.
I wanted to like When Shadows Burn so badly, and I think there's so much potential in this book - it just should have gone through a much more rigorous substantive editing process, and been marketed very, very differently.
Todd Brown, I think you are an incredible writer with amazing potential, and it truly does pain me that I didn't love this book. But where I think When Shadows Burn went wrong is not with Brown's writing, or his ideas - because I see the vision here, I really do - but rather with the marketing and editing (or lack thereof).
Let me get this out of the way at the top: When Shadows Burn is not a horror book. It's really not even a thriller book. It's a bizarre comparison, but go with me on this one: When Shadows Burn is essentially the equivalent of the Bob's Burgers episode "The Bleakening": something dressed up as a creepy horror that ends up being about queer liberation headed by a fabulous drag queen. Now, if that was the story that I had been pitched, I would have gone into this book with a whole different set of expectations - instead, When Shadows Burn is posited as a 'true crime podcaster uncovers the ghosts of a small-town haunted house,' and in all fairness, that's how this book starts. It feels like that was Brown's original intent, and then halfway through, he decided to write a completely different book, because neither Martian House nor the (ad-naseum mentioned) fact that Tim is a podcaster makes any kind of difference in When Shadows Burn.
Now, talking about the queerness in this book, I found that it was massively unbalanced and very oddly written. I want to say the first 70% of When Shadows Burn is just a bunch of small-town people being homophobic for no reason (oh a stranger's just come to town? Must be gay. Like, what?), and then the last 30% is a speedrun of what should have been a straight fiction book about being queer in a small town. This was two separate books ripped apart and pieced together: one is a horror story about ghosts in an old-timey mansion, and one is about a small homophobic town learning to change their ways. Is there a way to blend those two storylines together? Sure! Did When Shadows Burn do it successfully? Unfortunately not.
I would love for this book to just be stripped apart and rewritten more cohesively, because as I've said, I think Brown is a really good writer - and, not only that, but a very good horror writer. There are some absolutely banger lines in this book, particularly when he's almost writing from the perspective of the town itself. For example, I thought this was a killer (no pun intended) passage:
"Some shadowed secrets were known... but others were there lurking under the surface... Like when John Arnold's wife ran off with a high school kid. Becky Arnold was found in a field outside of town with the back of a hammer embedded in her brain, flies covering her open eyes. JOhn was questioned and was heavily suspected, but he died of old age all those years later. Maybe one day, after his son Philip dies, someone will find the journal hiding in John's old house, detailing what he was going to do to his wife with a hammer."
Speaking of which, let's talk a little bit about what horror there is in When Shadows Burn - or, rather, what gore there is, because there's a difference. Please heed the author's trigger warnings at the start of the book, because even for a seasoned horror reader, there is a mutilation scene (of someone who deserves it, if that helps) that was absolutely disgusting, and really just comes out of nowhere. What on-page horror does exist is out of place, gory, and really seems to be just for shock value, and nothing else.
I wanted to like When Shadows Burn so badly, and I think there's so much potential in this book - it just should have gone through a much more rigorous substantive editing process, and been marketed very, very differently.
October 25, 2025
I really tried to get into this book, and very much wanted to, but I failed. The premise was intriguing, but the writing style was far heavier on ‘tell’ than ‘show’, which is a struggle for me. I also found it pretty dialogue heavy, with little in the way of exploration regarding character’s thoughts and feelings. Sadly, this book just isn’t me. I feel bad for not finishing, since I DNF the last few books I got from NetGalley, but I suppose I can’t expect to vibe with every book.
September 18, 2025
1.5 I struggled with this one. The writing was poor. There were so many characters. It was hard to figure out their actual purpose in the novel and keep track of who was who. The women were over sexualized, always talking about appearances, including their breast sizes and it reminded me of a horny teenager writing a book for his creative writing class. The characters in the novel were so surface level and not relatable. This is noted as a horror book, and there are several trigger warnings however, it was written very juvenile and besides some of the gory details could be easily read and enjoyed by a 12-year-old. I will say I found the gory details just added just for shock factor.
At about 30% I did start skimming through it.
I will say I did like the big reveal at the end. Without giving too much away, a lot of the towns residents are pretty bigoted and the ending provides satisfaction to the reader who found it frustrating reading all of the bigotry throughout.
Thank you so much to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for this free copy in exchange for a review
At about 30% I did start skimming through it.
I will say I did like the big reveal at the end. Without giving too much away, a lot of the towns residents are pretty bigoted and the ending provides satisfaction to the reader who found it frustrating reading all of the bigotry throughout.
Thank you so much to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for this free copy in exchange for a review
August 3, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for my review.
When Shadows Burn is not your traditional horror story. It’s something else entirely. Tim Michaels is a true crime podcaster who comes back to his hometown, Raven’s Cross, in the hopes of doing an episode on the town’s mysterious Martian Home, a place where Tim had an uncomfortable encounter years ago. The Martian Home was owned by Mr. Scott, who lived there with his wife. Sadly, Mr. Scott came to an untimely end in the 1940s, and his wife disappeared, never to be seen again. When Tim arrives in town around the same time as a mystery couple moves in to the Martian Home, things start to get real weird. Tim and a bunch of Raven’s Cross inhabitants try to investigate a mystery that gets stranger and stranger as the days progress until the find out the truth about Raven’s Cross and its inhabitants.
The bad: There are way, way too many characters introduced in this book. It’s difficult to keep track of who is who, why they are relevant, who they are spending time with, what their deal is, etc. In addition, I did not like how the tone and dialogue in the book shift constantly, between serious/scary and funny. These shifts end up really stilted at times and take you right out of the story. Pick a tone and stick with it! Finally, I feel like a good 50 pages or so could be cut out of here. I felt like there was a bit of filler that needs to be trimmed.
The good: Todd Brown does a great job describing the town and its inhabitants, as well as the new owners of Martian Home and what they may or may not be up to. Brown also does well at building up the suspense regarding what exactly is going on in this town. When he does find his sweet spot, like with the James Pritchard character as well as the Murray Boz character, it’s entertaining to read. In addition, the twist in this book is one almost impossible to suspect, and that’s very satisfying.
The plot drags at times and there are far too many instances of someone in town just completely not understanding words (an example would be the word “bibliophile” being mistaken for both “bibliographer” and “pedophile”) and making sweeping generalizations (no one in town knows what words mean but they are all certain that podcasts are “over,” for example). However, the backstory of who eventually comes to own the Martian House is a positive, albeit surprising one, and very engaging to read. I feel like your enjoyment of the story might be based on personal opinions, without getting into spoiler territory. I do recommend reading the afterword to gain some insight into why the author decided to take a sharp right turn halfway through the book. It’s very sweet and insightful. Some people will truly hate this book. Others will love it. Still others might have no problem accepting the storyline, but still be underwhelmed. I’m unfortunately one of them. When Shadows Burn is an interesting read, but lacking in many ways.
When Shadows Burn is not your traditional horror story. It’s something else entirely. Tim Michaels is a true crime podcaster who comes back to his hometown, Raven’s Cross, in the hopes of doing an episode on the town’s mysterious Martian Home, a place where Tim had an uncomfortable encounter years ago. The Martian Home was owned by Mr. Scott, who lived there with his wife. Sadly, Mr. Scott came to an untimely end in the 1940s, and his wife disappeared, never to be seen again. When Tim arrives in town around the same time as a mystery couple moves in to the Martian Home, things start to get real weird. Tim and a bunch of Raven’s Cross inhabitants try to investigate a mystery that gets stranger and stranger as the days progress until the find out the truth about Raven’s Cross and its inhabitants.
The bad: There are way, way too many characters introduced in this book. It’s difficult to keep track of who is who, why they are relevant, who they are spending time with, what their deal is, etc. In addition, I did not like how the tone and dialogue in the book shift constantly, between serious/scary and funny. These shifts end up really stilted at times and take you right out of the story. Pick a tone and stick with it! Finally, I feel like a good 50 pages or so could be cut out of here. I felt like there was a bit of filler that needs to be trimmed.
The good: Todd Brown does a great job describing the town and its inhabitants, as well as the new owners of Martian Home and what they may or may not be up to. Brown also does well at building up the suspense regarding what exactly is going on in this town. When he does find his sweet spot, like with the James Pritchard character as well as the Murray Boz character, it’s entertaining to read. In addition, the twist in this book is one almost impossible to suspect, and that’s very satisfying.
The plot drags at times and there are far too many instances of someone in town just completely not understanding words (an example would be the word “bibliophile” being mistaken for both “bibliographer” and “pedophile”) and making sweeping generalizations (no one in town knows what words mean but they are all certain that podcasts are “over,” for example). However, the backstory of who eventually comes to own the Martian House is a positive, albeit surprising one, and very engaging to read. I feel like your enjoyment of the story might be based on personal opinions, without getting into spoiler territory. I do recommend reading the afterword to gain some insight into why the author decided to take a sharp right turn halfway through the book. It’s very sweet and insightful. Some people will truly hate this book. Others will love it. Still others might have no problem accepting the storyline, but still be underwhelmed. I’m unfortunately one of them. When Shadows Burn is an interesting read, but lacking in many ways.
July 12, 2025
Thank you for the e-arc in exchange for review.
To start the author while new has potential and I’m definitely curious to see what else he writes in the future. Now onto the book. When Shadows Burn for the most part was a fairly enjoyable novel was also a bit disappointing in the end.
The author does make it clear at the end of the book it was his intention for the book to seem there were paranormal events at play when really it was just people trying to escape the shackles of life in a close minded small town. The execution of which just didn’t work for me and led to disappointment. At times event within the novel felt way to heavy handed to push the reader into specific assumptions. Character dialogue for the most part felt very unnatural and at some points was distracting still thought I found the characters themselves very enjoyable.
Ultimately I would recommend that people give this book a chance on the caveat that they know the book isn’t going to end where they expect.
To start the author while new has potential and I’m definitely curious to see what else he writes in the future. Now onto the book. When Shadows Burn for the most part was a fairly enjoyable novel was also a bit disappointing in the end.
The author does make it clear at the end of the book it was his intention for the book to seem there were paranormal events at play when really it was just people trying to escape the shackles of life in a close minded small town. The execution of which just didn’t work for me and led to disappointment. At times event within the novel felt way to heavy handed to push the reader into specific assumptions. Character dialogue for the most part felt very unnatural and at some points was distracting still thought I found the characters themselves very enjoyable.
Ultimately I would recommend that people give this book a chance on the caveat that they know the book isn’t going to end where they expect.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2026
🥀"When Shadows Burn" is the type of book that waits, watches, and then subtly tightens its hold on you. Even before a single murder is committed, the novel, which takes place in the small, oppressive hamlet of Raven's Cross, Virginia, begins with an eerie feeling that something is very wrong. The massive, dilapidated Scott (Martian) House feels more like a live witness one who has seen too much and remembers everything than a location. Todd Brown creates a mood of dread, quiet, and long-buried remorse from the opening few pages. Timothy Michaels, a true-crime podcaster returning to his hometown to look into the notorious Scott house legacy, is at the center of the book.
🥀Curiosity sparked by research soon becomes harmful and personal. As the town's animosity starts to surface, the author does a great job of making Tim feel grounded and human flawed, perceptive, and more nervous. Readers are able to dissect Raven's Cross layer by layer thanks to his outsider-insider perspective, exposing a society that values comfort over the truth. The town's general paranoia is sparked by the disappearance of a teenage girl. One of the best parts of the book is what comes next: the psychological disclosure of "polite" society. Newcomers, foreigners, and anyone who doesn't neatly meet the town's expectations are blamed, and neighbors grin while becoming more suspicious.
🥀The author uses terrifying realism to depict the transformation of fear into cruelty, giving the terror an unsettling familiarity rather than a supernatural quality. The work feels remarkably contemporary despite having strong Southern Gothic roots. Old legends and whispered folklore clash with public opinion, podcasts, and mob mentality.
🥀Tension and emotional depth are added by the supporting cast, especially those who dare to question the town's conventions. Here, relationships are brittle because of discrimination, fear, and the need to fit in. Uncomfortable subjects like systematic discrimination, intolerance, and survival are not avoided in the book; rather, they are organically incorporated into the plot, giving the thriller a strong emotional undertone. The writing has a cinematic and immersive style. Instead of depending on frequent shocks, the pacing is purposeful, allowing uneasiness to develop. It's the long burn that makes moments of violence or disclosure feel earned and disturbing. Raven's Cross is so realistically depicted that you feel as though you've been there or escaped from from the silent eateries to the dimly lit streets.
🥀The author does a great job of allowing the reader to consider whether the house itself or the individuals who refuse to face their own culpability are the true monsters. Here, relationships are brittle because of discrimination, fear, and the need to fit in.
This book ends with a persistent feeling of disquiet that seems completely deliberate rather than with simple solutions. The author lets the story's emotional & thematic weight sink in gradually rather than succinctly explaining everything. Readers are left thinking about the essence of fear, truth, & collective guilt as well as what societies choose to remember as well as what they frantically attempt to hide.
🥀Curiosity sparked by research soon becomes harmful and personal. As the town's animosity starts to surface, the author does a great job of making Tim feel grounded and human flawed, perceptive, and more nervous. Readers are able to dissect Raven's Cross layer by layer thanks to his outsider-insider perspective, exposing a society that values comfort over the truth. The town's general paranoia is sparked by the disappearance of a teenage girl. One of the best parts of the book is what comes next: the psychological disclosure of "polite" society. Newcomers, foreigners, and anyone who doesn't neatly meet the town's expectations are blamed, and neighbors grin while becoming more suspicious.
🥀The author uses terrifying realism to depict the transformation of fear into cruelty, giving the terror an unsettling familiarity rather than a supernatural quality. The work feels remarkably contemporary despite having strong Southern Gothic roots. Old legends and whispered folklore clash with public opinion, podcasts, and mob mentality.
🥀Tension and emotional depth are added by the supporting cast, especially those who dare to question the town's conventions. Here, relationships are brittle because of discrimination, fear, and the need to fit in. Uncomfortable subjects like systematic discrimination, intolerance, and survival are not avoided in the book; rather, they are organically incorporated into the plot, giving the thriller a strong emotional undertone. The writing has a cinematic and immersive style. Instead of depending on frequent shocks, the pacing is purposeful, allowing uneasiness to develop. It's the long burn that makes moments of violence or disclosure feel earned and disturbing. Raven's Cross is so realistically depicted that you feel as though you've been there or escaped from from the silent eateries to the dimly lit streets.
🥀The author does a great job of allowing the reader to consider whether the house itself or the individuals who refuse to face their own culpability are the true monsters. Here, relationships are brittle because of discrimination, fear, and the need to fit in.
This book ends with a persistent feeling of disquiet that seems completely deliberate rather than with simple solutions. The author lets the story's emotional & thematic weight sink in gradually rather than succinctly explaining everything. Readers are left thinking about the essence of fear, truth, & collective guilt as well as what societies choose to remember as well as what they frantically attempt to hide.
November 14, 2025
Book Review
Title: When Shadows Burn by Todd Brown
Genre: Crime, Thriller, Horror
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Todd Brown’s When Shadows Burn is a compelling exploration of psychological darkness, trauma, and survival, blending elements of horror and emotional depth in a way that lingers long after the final page. Rather than relying solely on external threats or shock value, Brown focuses his narrative on the human mind—how fear shapes us, how memory haunts us, and how ordinary people confront the extraordinary. The result is a story that is as introspective as it is unsettling, inviting readers not just to witness terror, but to experience the weight of it alongside the characters.
At the heart of the novel is a protagonist struggling to reconcile past trauma with present danger. Brown carefully reveals personal history through gradual, fragmented detail, mirroring the way real memory works—uneven, selective, and often painful. This narrative technique allows readers to uncover the character’s motivations and emotional scars in a natural progression. The slow unraveling of both past and present keeps the tension taut, creating an atmosphere where dread accumulates quietly rather than erupting suddenly.
One of Brown’s strengths is his use of setting to reflect emotional states. Whether the story unfolds in desolate landscapes, abandoned structures, or the suffocating silence of isolation, each space carries symbolism that reinforces the protagonist’s inner turmoil. Shadows are not merely physical darkness in this novel; they represent memory, guilt, and the parts of the self that refuse to remain buried. The environment becomes a character in its own right, shaping the narrative and influencing behavior.
The novel balances introspection with action, though some readers may find the pacing deliberate. Brown takes his time developing character psychology, and this careful, steady unfolding contributes significantly to the overall emotional impact. Those looking for fast-paced horror may find the progression slower than expected, but for readers who appreciate character-driven storytelling, the pacing allows for deeper thematic resonance.
Stylistically, Brown writes with clarity and purpose. His prose is vivid without becoming overwrought, and his dialogue feels grounded and authentic. Emotional intensity is conveyed through subtle description rather than melodrama, making the moments of horror and revelation feel earned rather than imposed.
Ultimately, When Shadows Burn is a thoughtful and atmospheric novel that examines fear not just as something external, but as something deeply internal. Todd Brown invites readers to confront the shadows we carry within ourselves—and to consider how they shape every choice we make. It is a book that rewards patience and reflection, offering a haunting experience that continues to smolder in the imagination long after the story ends.
Title: When Shadows Burn by Todd Brown
Genre: Crime, Thriller, Horror
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Todd Brown’s When Shadows Burn is a compelling exploration of psychological darkness, trauma, and survival, blending elements of horror and emotional depth in a way that lingers long after the final page. Rather than relying solely on external threats or shock value, Brown focuses his narrative on the human mind—how fear shapes us, how memory haunts us, and how ordinary people confront the extraordinary. The result is a story that is as introspective as it is unsettling, inviting readers not just to witness terror, but to experience the weight of it alongside the characters.
At the heart of the novel is a protagonist struggling to reconcile past trauma with present danger. Brown carefully reveals personal history through gradual, fragmented detail, mirroring the way real memory works—uneven, selective, and often painful. This narrative technique allows readers to uncover the character’s motivations and emotional scars in a natural progression. The slow unraveling of both past and present keeps the tension taut, creating an atmosphere where dread accumulates quietly rather than erupting suddenly.
One of Brown’s strengths is his use of setting to reflect emotional states. Whether the story unfolds in desolate landscapes, abandoned structures, or the suffocating silence of isolation, each space carries symbolism that reinforces the protagonist’s inner turmoil. Shadows are not merely physical darkness in this novel; they represent memory, guilt, and the parts of the self that refuse to remain buried. The environment becomes a character in its own right, shaping the narrative and influencing behavior.
The novel balances introspection with action, though some readers may find the pacing deliberate. Brown takes his time developing character psychology, and this careful, steady unfolding contributes significantly to the overall emotional impact. Those looking for fast-paced horror may find the progression slower than expected, but for readers who appreciate character-driven storytelling, the pacing allows for deeper thematic resonance.
Stylistically, Brown writes with clarity and purpose. His prose is vivid without becoming overwrought, and his dialogue feels grounded and authentic. Emotional intensity is conveyed through subtle description rather than melodrama, making the moments of horror and revelation feel earned rather than imposed.
Ultimately, When Shadows Burn is a thoughtful and atmospheric novel that examines fear not just as something external, but as something deeply internal. Todd Brown invites readers to confront the shadows we carry within ourselves—and to consider how they shape every choice we make. It is a book that rewards patience and reflection, offering a haunting experience that continues to smolder in the imagination long after the story ends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2025
When Shadows Burn is a book with an admirable aim to highlight bigotry and hypocrisy in Small town USA , and it has a voice that feels entirely its own. I was drawn in by the supernatural mystery, but I was happily surprised by the author’s clear and powerful message. Todd Brown masterfully holds a mirror up to the hypocrisy and prejudice that exist in many communities, and I really appreciated how the story explores what marginalized people have to go through just to exist. The book does an excellent job of weaving in diversity of gender, sexuality, and neurodiversity, making the town of Raven’s Cross feel both genuine and a little too familiar - it is far too easy to see when we look around the world today.
What really resonated with me was how Todd showed how many of the supposedly "righteous" people are actually hiding terrible deeds of their own which really makes a great point about the gap between public perception and private reality.
The writing style was a bit of a mixed bag for me, as it felt very dramatic and descriptive, almost like a true-crime podcast. While this is an interesting approach, I felt it sometimes pulled me out of the story a bit, but this is something that I know can be a personal preference rather than an issue with a book. Similarly, some of the dialogue and character descriptions were a little too on-the-nose, with the message ending up feeling a little too forced or pushed. It made it hard to fully connect with the characters when their lines felt like they were primarily written to make a point. I also found it a little hard to keep track of everyone due to the large cast of characters, although I loved the ambition of introducing so many different people to get a full feel for the town. There was perhaps a couple too many for me, but I really liked the wide multi POV.
The most clever part of this book was its core premise, but I van’t say more without giving spoilers away - do trust me though that it’s a testament to the author's creativity and what they set out to achieve with this story.
While When Shadows Burn wasn't a perfect personal fit for me, I wholeheartedly admire and agree with the author’s intent and the powerful message at the heart of the story. I think this book is a great read for anyone who appreciates a unique narrative style and wants a story that will challenge them to think about society's prejudices.
What really resonated with me was how Todd showed how many of the supposedly "righteous" people are actually hiding terrible deeds of their own which really makes a great point about the gap between public perception and private reality.
The writing style was a bit of a mixed bag for me, as it felt very dramatic and descriptive, almost like a true-crime podcast. While this is an interesting approach, I felt it sometimes pulled me out of the story a bit, but this is something that I know can be a personal preference rather than an issue with a book. Similarly, some of the dialogue and character descriptions were a little too on-the-nose, with the message ending up feeling a little too forced or pushed. It made it hard to fully connect with the characters when their lines felt like they were primarily written to make a point. I also found it a little hard to keep track of everyone due to the large cast of characters, although I loved the ambition of introducing so many different people to get a full feel for the town. There was perhaps a couple too many for me, but I really liked the wide multi POV.
The most clever part of this book was its core premise, but I van’t say more without giving spoilers away - do trust me though that it’s a testament to the author's creativity and what they set out to achieve with this story.
While When Shadows Burn wasn't a perfect personal fit for me, I wholeheartedly admire and agree with the author’s intent and the powerful message at the heart of the story. I think this book is a great read for anyone who appreciates a unique narrative style and wants a story that will challenge them to think about society's prejudices.
January 29, 2026
I closed this book and immediately checked my locks—not because it’s scary in a jump-scare way, but because it gets under your skin 🔥🖤
I finished When Shadows Burn by Todd Brown last night, and I’m still thinking about Raven’s Cross and that decaying Scott house that feels like a character all its own. This really does live up to the “Southern Gothic with modern twists” description. The atmosphere is thick, humid, and uncomfortable in the best possible way, like something bad has been waiting a long time to surface.
What hooked me early on was the town itself. Raven’s Cross feels eerily real—the polite smiles, the unspoken rules, the way suspicion turns sharp the moment Roxy disappears. Watching the townspeople slowly turn on the newcomers was unsettling, especially because it felt so believable. The ugliness doesn’t explode all at once; it seeps out, scene by scene.
Timothy Michaels, the true crime podcaster, was another strong draw for me. His investigation into the Scott house blends modern obsession with haunted histories in a way that felt fresh. I liked how the podcast angle wasn’t gimmicky—it actually deepens the story and raises questions about voyeurism, complicity, and who benefits from digging up the past 🎙️✨ The gradual uncovering of the town’s buried secrets kept me turning pages well past when I should’ve gone to sleep.
The comparisons to Twin Peaks and Shirley Jackson make sense, but this book still feels like it has its own voice. It’s more about collective guilt and quiet cruelty than outright horror, and that made it hit harder for me.
I’m giving this 4.5 stars because it’s deliberately paced and emotionally heavy, but that slow burn absolutely pays off. If you enjoy Southern Gothic, small-town mysteries, or dark literary thrillers that focus on atmosphere and moral decay, I’d strongly recommend When Shadows Burn by Todd Brown. It’s haunting, smart, and lingers long after the final page 🔥📖
I finished When Shadows Burn by Todd Brown last night, and I’m still thinking about Raven’s Cross and that decaying Scott house that feels like a character all its own. This really does live up to the “Southern Gothic with modern twists” description. The atmosphere is thick, humid, and uncomfortable in the best possible way, like something bad has been waiting a long time to surface.
What hooked me early on was the town itself. Raven’s Cross feels eerily real—the polite smiles, the unspoken rules, the way suspicion turns sharp the moment Roxy disappears. Watching the townspeople slowly turn on the newcomers was unsettling, especially because it felt so believable. The ugliness doesn’t explode all at once; it seeps out, scene by scene.
Timothy Michaels, the true crime podcaster, was another strong draw for me. His investigation into the Scott house blends modern obsession with haunted histories in a way that felt fresh. I liked how the podcast angle wasn’t gimmicky—it actually deepens the story and raises questions about voyeurism, complicity, and who benefits from digging up the past 🎙️✨ The gradual uncovering of the town’s buried secrets kept me turning pages well past when I should’ve gone to sleep.
The comparisons to Twin Peaks and Shirley Jackson make sense, but this book still feels like it has its own voice. It’s more about collective guilt and quiet cruelty than outright horror, and that made it hit harder for me.
I’m giving this 4.5 stars because it’s deliberately paced and emotionally heavy, but that slow burn absolutely pays off. If you enjoy Southern Gothic, small-town mysteries, or dark literary thrillers that focus on atmosphere and moral decay, I’d strongly recommend When Shadows Burn by Todd Brown. It’s haunting, smart, and lingers long after the final page 🔥📖
September 19, 2025
When Shadows Burn
By Todd Brown
Not everything is as it seems in the small town of Raven’s Cross as podcaster Tim Michaels returns to do an episode involving the mysterious Martian House. At the same time a mysterious shop owner has come to town and purchased the house as well as opening their own bookshop. People start to disappear and Tim finds himself center in his next episode.
Brown has a knack for capturing small town life and the way people talk and gossip about things even when they don’t understand them completely. He also does a good job of creating a foreboding atmosphere reminiscent of early Stephen King.
Originally I was recommended this book as a new queer centered horror novel and while yes, it has queer elements in the story, I would say it’s more of a horror story written for those that have queer family members because by the end most queer people know where the story is heading and ultimately how it ends.
Underneath everything there is a good novel but many conversations begin to feel like repeated information and at times like a textbook defining queer identities and issues. Also small towns are complicated and I wish more of that was shown through the story. That being said it did grab my attention and I was curious to see where it was going. I did finish it feeling slightly underwhelmed but seeing as there is a sequel planned I am curious of where things may head.
Thanks to NetGalley and Koehler Books for providing a free earc to review.
By Todd Brown
Not everything is as it seems in the small town of Raven’s Cross as podcaster Tim Michaels returns to do an episode involving the mysterious Martian House. At the same time a mysterious shop owner has come to town and purchased the house as well as opening their own bookshop. People start to disappear and Tim finds himself center in his next episode.
Brown has a knack for capturing small town life and the way people talk and gossip about things even when they don’t understand them completely. He also does a good job of creating a foreboding atmosphere reminiscent of early Stephen King.
Originally I was recommended this book as a new queer centered horror novel and while yes, it has queer elements in the story, I would say it’s more of a horror story written for those that have queer family members because by the end most queer people know where the story is heading and ultimately how it ends.
Underneath everything there is a good novel but many conversations begin to feel like repeated information and at times like a textbook defining queer identities and issues. Also small towns are complicated and I wish more of that was shown through the story. That being said it did grab my attention and I was curious to see where it was going. I did finish it feeling slightly underwhelmed but seeing as there is a sequel planned I am curious of where things may head.
Thanks to NetGalley and Koehler Books for providing a free earc to review.
November 4, 2025
Within Raven's Cross, Virginia, people always wanted to forget the old Scott House. When a teenage girl goes missing, the townspeople blame newcomers, and old grudges resurface. True crime podcaster Timothy Michaels was hoping to chase the story of the haunted house, and finds that there is a legacy of complicity and cruelty, as well as a willingness to kill to keep secrets buried.
Tim had left the town and is back to perhaps start a podcast about the Scott House. It has its own local creepy legend about it, which got magnified in time. We meet various residents, some of whom are stereotypically small-town, small-minded people. Some deliberately seem to enjoy bullying others just for the sake of being bullies, and a creepy cast to the evenings comes in. The local gossip enjoys spreading rumors that others believe, and it gets completely out of hand. The horror vibe intensifies as more people disappear, with Tim and a local high school teacher trying to investigate a potential supernatural infestation.
I don't want to spoil the horror elements or the truth when it's revealed in the final quarter of the book. The truth makes it a different kind of horror. We slide from supernatural to a very natural kind of horror, with the townsfolk showing incredible spite and willingness to hurt others without listening for truth. It's actually really sad, for all that the epilogue gives a little hope for the town's future. Hopefully, readers will be better than the townsfolk are.
Tim had left the town and is back to perhaps start a podcast about the Scott House. It has its own local creepy legend about it, which got magnified in time. We meet various residents, some of whom are stereotypically small-town, small-minded people. Some deliberately seem to enjoy bullying others just for the sake of being bullies, and a creepy cast to the evenings comes in. The local gossip enjoys spreading rumors that others believe, and it gets completely out of hand. The horror vibe intensifies as more people disappear, with Tim and a local high school teacher trying to investigate a potential supernatural infestation.
I don't want to spoil the horror elements or the truth when it's revealed in the final quarter of the book. The truth makes it a different kind of horror. We slide from supernatural to a very natural kind of horror, with the townsfolk showing incredible spite and willingness to hurt others without listening for truth. It's actually really sad, for all that the epilogue gives a little hope for the town's future. Hopefully, readers will be better than the townsfolk are.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews