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No Rest for the Wicked
With an expert hand, Rachel Louise Adams’s debut No Rest for the Wicked reads like an edge of your seat, heart-pounding scary movie.
In one Halloween obsessed Midwestern town, everyone’s on red alert after a local politician goes missing. Little do they know it’s only the beginning.
It’s been close to twenty years since forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorne left her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin. The town is famous for its Halloween celebrations, but also its history of violent deaths linked to the holiday. To Dolores, it’s the place she fled, family, bad memories, and all. Until the FBI calls to tell her that her father--the former mayor turned US Senator--is missing under mysterious circumstances.
Some people count to ten to wake up from a nightmare. Dolores always counts the bones of her head sphenoid, frontal, lacrimal. But no matter how many times she counts them, it doesn’t change the fact that her father is missing, that his final words of warning to her were to trust no one, and that now, the rest of her family is giving Dolores a chilling welcome. With Halloween fast approaching, Dolores must face the past she left behind before it’s too late.
In one Halloween obsessed Midwestern town, everyone’s on red alert after a local politician goes missing. Little do they know it’s only the beginning.
It’s been close to twenty years since forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorne left her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin. The town is famous for its Halloween celebrations, but also its history of violent deaths linked to the holiday. To Dolores, it’s the place she fled, family, bad memories, and all. Until the FBI calls to tell her that her father--the former mayor turned US Senator--is missing under mysterious circumstances.
Some people count to ten to wake up from a nightmare. Dolores always counts the bones of her head sphenoid, frontal, lacrimal. But no matter how many times she counts them, it doesn’t change the fact that her father is missing, that his final words of warning to her were to trust no one, and that now, the rest of her family is giving Dolores a chilling welcome. With Halloween fast approaching, Dolores must face the past she left behind before it’s too late.
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First published September 16, 2025
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About the author
Rachel Louise Adams
5 books155 followers5 Things You Should Know About Me:
1) I don’t believe in rating books, so all the reviews I leave on Goodreads will be 5 stars. Happy birthday to all authors, I guess.
2) I’m the proud creature of two wonderful cats.
3) I don’t believe in choosing between a great plot and great characters. Readers deserve both. But if I had to choose, I’d choose characters.
4) Don’t open a book of mine until you’ve checked the content warnings on The Story Graph.
5) Storytelling is magical. I sincerely believe that creating makes us better humans. Part of that process is connecting with readers, so reach out to me. I’ll answer you, and I’ll be glad to hear from you.
Finally, as to the sort of books that I like--let's just say that if a talented author rips out my heart, stabs it, and hands it back, my response will be: ‘Thanks. I’m your number one fan’.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachellouis...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
1) I don’t believe in rating books, so all the reviews I leave on Goodreads will be 5 stars. Happy birthday to all authors, I guess.
2) I’m the proud creature of two wonderful cats.
3) I don’t believe in choosing between a great plot and great characters. Readers deserve both. But if I had to choose, I’d choose characters.
4) Don’t open a book of mine until you’ve checked the content warnings on The Story Graph.
5) Storytelling is magical. I sincerely believe that creating makes us better humans. Part of that process is connecting with readers, so reach out to me. I’ll answer you, and I’ll be glad to hear from you.
Finally, as to the sort of books that I like--let's just say that if a talented author rips out my heart, stabs it, and hands it back, my response will be: ‘Thanks. I’m your number one fan’.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachellouis...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 892 reviews
April 7, 2025
Okay, so this book is super good, but everyone should know that the cover is extremely misleading. You're probably thinking that this is a cozy mystery involving a nice pleasant woman who owns a lot of black cats or something, right?? And the cats are all quirky and cute and wander around doing endearing cat things, right?? Right?? Wrong. The cats in this book are feral cats who are being rounded up and murdered. And also one gets hit by a car. They're not a major plot point and there's nothing graphic, but holy shit I was so not prepared for the direction that the cat subplot took in this book.
Anyway, other than the cat-related awfulness, I really enjoyed this one. When I first requested it from NetGalley, I was under the impression that it was a supernatural mystery, probably because of the cover and the repeated mentions of Halloween. It turns out that there's actually nothing otherworldly about the events in this book, which I probably would have realized if I hadn't skimmed the blurb and loudly squealed “Ooh! Cats! Ooh! Halloween!” and immediately requested it. It's more of the ever-popular “estranged daughter returns home” trope meets a police procedural type deal, which is absolutely not a bad thing. It's dark and suspenseful and well-written and I definitely did not see the identity of the Big Bad coming. Some of it is a tad predictable – I daresay that most readers will figure out the twist regarding the 2003 Halloween party before any of the characters do – but I certainly didn't expect the present-day plotline to play out the way it did.
Also, this is not a cozy, no matter what the cute kitties on the cover tell you. Trigger warnings include: murder, sexual assault, cat death, kidnapping (of adults), and parental estrangement. There are also a few slightly gruesome scenes, and no one is running a food truck or a chocolate shop while rekindling feelings for their old high school boyfriend … or whatever it is that the kids these days are doing in cozy mysteries, I dunno. Pretty much all of the characters are broken people having broken people thoughts and doing broken people things, but in a not-overly-depressing sort of way.
It kind of feels like No Rest for the Wicked could be start of a new series, and if so I will happily read the next installment as soon as I can get my hands on it. I'm totally not going to be fooled if it has adorable puppies on the cover, though, because fool-me-once and all of that.
My overall rating: 4.35 stars, rounded down.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is September 16, 2025.
Anyway, other than the cat-related awfulness, I really enjoyed this one. When I first requested it from NetGalley, I was under the impression that it was a supernatural mystery, probably because of the cover and the repeated mentions of Halloween. It turns out that there's actually nothing otherworldly about the events in this book, which I probably would have realized if I hadn't skimmed the blurb and loudly squealed “Ooh! Cats! Ooh! Halloween!” and immediately requested it. It's more of the ever-popular “estranged daughter returns home” trope meets a police procedural type deal, which is absolutely not a bad thing. It's dark and suspenseful and well-written and I definitely did not see the identity of the Big Bad coming. Some of it is a tad predictable – I daresay that most readers will figure out the twist regarding the 2003 Halloween party before any of the characters do – but I certainly didn't expect the present-day plotline to play out the way it did.
Also, this is not a cozy, no matter what the cute kitties on the cover tell you. Trigger warnings include: murder, sexual assault, cat death, kidnapping (of adults), and parental estrangement. There are also a few slightly gruesome scenes, and no one is running a food truck or a chocolate shop while rekindling feelings for their old high school boyfriend … or whatever it is that the kids these days are doing in cozy mysteries, I dunno. Pretty much all of the characters are broken people having broken people thoughts and doing broken people things, but in a not-overly-depressing sort of way.
It kind of feels like No Rest for the Wicked could be start of a new series, and if so I will happily read the next installment as soon as I can get my hands on it. I'm totally not going to be fooled if it has adorable puppies on the cover, though, because fool-me-once and all of that.
My overall rating: 4.35 stars, rounded down.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is September 16, 2025.
June 17, 2025
Who says you can never go home again? Dolores Hawthorne is a forensic pathologist who has not stepped foot in her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin in almost twenty years. When she receives a phone call from the FBI informing her father is missing under suspicious circumstances. Correct me if I am wrong but most people who go missing do so under mysterious circumstances, but I digress.
His final words to her were to trust no one, which doesn't make coming home feel very inviting. Her family members are giving her a cold reception, and the townspeople aren't that chummy either. But Dolores is determined to get to the bottom of what happened to her father and not one single creepy Halloween obsessed townsperson is going to get in her way or will they????
I thought the author did a great job of depicting the small town feel of this book. Little Horton, is where everyone either knows everyone, has dated everyone or is related to everyone. The author also does a great job of creating atmosphere and tension! The town has a dark, eerie, and creepy vibe with its Halloween obsession and cats running about.
This book is packed full of secrets and lies and a few twists as well. As the plot unfolds readers get glimpses into the past and the reason Dolores left town and stayed away for so long. This was a very well-crafted debut novel, and I look forward to reading more books by Rachel Louise Adams.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
His final words to her were to trust no one, which doesn't make coming home feel very inviting. Her family members are giving her a cold reception, and the townspeople aren't that chummy either. But Dolores is determined to get to the bottom of what happened to her father and not one single creepy Halloween obsessed townsperson is going to get in her way or will they????
I thought the author did a great job of depicting the small town feel of this book. Little Horton, is where everyone either knows everyone, has dated everyone or is related to everyone. The author also does a great job of creating atmosphere and tension! The town has a dark, eerie, and creepy vibe with its Halloween obsession and cats running about.
This book is packed full of secrets and lies and a few twists as well. As the plot unfolds readers get glimpses into the past and the reason Dolores left town and stayed away for so long. This was a very well-crafted debut novel, and I look forward to reading more books by Rachel Louise Adams.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
September 7, 2025
Grab yourself a pumpkin spice latte and plug in your plastic jack o’lantern and sit back and enjoy how this mystery (set the week of Halloween) unfolds! I promise you that you won’t predict the big plot twist! 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! I would have given it 5 Stars if two of the characters didn’t get away with committing a terrible crime! Thank you NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the Advanced Readers Copy (ARC).
September 15, 2025
This book was okay. It took a very long time for threads to come together, and I found myself frustrated at times by not having enough context and feeling confused. The storyline was good however, and it was a fairly easy read.
Thank you to Net Galley and Minotaur Books for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Net Galley and Minotaur Books for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 17, 2025
Almost 20-years ago, Dolores Hawthorne fled her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin. She attended college, worked hard, and became a successful forensic pathologist.
She never planned to go back, until she gets a phone call from the FBI, telling her that her father, Little Horton's former mayor turned US Senator, has gone missing under mysterious circumstances.
In spite of everything, Dolores cares for her father and returns to help in the investigation in any way she can.
Her reunion with her remaining family and the town is mixed, but before long, she's coming to grips with her past and aiding the FBI with the search.
Other startling occurrences hit the town hard and it becomes clear, something sinister is haunting Little Horton this Halloween season.
Confession time. When I was offered an ARC of this book, I took one look at the cover, read the title, and thought, yes, absolutely, yes. It just looked like something I would enjoy, and luckily, that was true.
However, I had no clue what it was about, but made certain assumptions, and they were all wrong. I actually Buddy Read this with a friend and we both commented quickly that we both assumed it was YA, which it's clearly not.
If you read the synopsis, unlike me, you'll have no problem understanding that, but I just felt like the cover, though one of the most gorgeous covers that I've set my eyes on lately, really doesn't portray the feel that I took from this Adult Mystery/Thriller novel.
With this out of the way, my head scratching at the cover art choice really has nothing to do with the book, or the story. I really enjoyed the twisted nature of this and all the dark small town drama. It was captivating and also contained one of my favorite tropes.
I absolutely adore when an MC returns to their hometown, after a number of years away, and ends up digging into some sort of mystery from their past. It's even better when there are past and present mysteries intertwined, and that's exactly what Adams delivered here.
It was interesting watching Dolores reintroduce herself to the home she left behind. The interactions among her family were interesting, and I liked how we learned about the past via various timeline/perspective shifts.
We also get a front row seat to the investigation into her father's disappearance, as well as the other incidents happening around town.
Little Horton was a fun setting. It's a self-proclaimed Halloween town, so they really lean into the holiday. It gave a lovely, moody backdrop to our overriding mysteries.
Overall, I had a lot of fun with this. It was intriguing and fast-paced. I was surprised by it in many ways, and look forward to reading more from this author. I actually would love another book with Dolores as a main character. I grew very fond of her over the course of the story.
Thank you to the publisher, Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with copies to read and review.
Everything from the tone, setting and characters, to the mystery itself, was engaging for me. Rachel Louise Adams is definitely an author I'll be reading more from the future!
She never planned to go back, until she gets a phone call from the FBI, telling her that her father, Little Horton's former mayor turned US Senator, has gone missing under mysterious circumstances.
In spite of everything, Dolores cares for her father and returns to help in the investigation in any way she can.
Her reunion with her remaining family and the town is mixed, but before long, she's coming to grips with her past and aiding the FBI with the search.
Other startling occurrences hit the town hard and it becomes clear, something sinister is haunting Little Horton this Halloween season.
Confession time. When I was offered an ARC of this book, I took one look at the cover, read the title, and thought, yes, absolutely, yes. It just looked like something I would enjoy, and luckily, that was true.
However, I had no clue what it was about, but made certain assumptions, and they were all wrong. I actually Buddy Read this with a friend and we both commented quickly that we both assumed it was YA, which it's clearly not.
If you read the synopsis, unlike me, you'll have no problem understanding that, but I just felt like the cover, though one of the most gorgeous covers that I've set my eyes on lately, really doesn't portray the feel that I took from this Adult Mystery/Thriller novel.
With this out of the way, my head scratching at the cover art choice really has nothing to do with the book, or the story. I really enjoyed the twisted nature of this and all the dark small town drama. It was captivating and also contained one of my favorite tropes.
I absolutely adore when an MC returns to their hometown, after a number of years away, and ends up digging into some sort of mystery from their past. It's even better when there are past and present mysteries intertwined, and that's exactly what Adams delivered here.
It was interesting watching Dolores reintroduce herself to the home she left behind. The interactions among her family were interesting, and I liked how we learned about the past via various timeline/perspective shifts.
We also get a front row seat to the investigation into her father's disappearance, as well as the other incidents happening around town.
Little Horton was a fun setting. It's a self-proclaimed Halloween town, so they really lean into the holiday. It gave a lovely, moody backdrop to our overriding mysteries.
Overall, I had a lot of fun with this. It was intriguing and fast-paced. I was surprised by it in many ways, and look forward to reading more from this author. I actually would love another book with Dolores as a main character. I grew very fond of her over the course of the story.
Thank you to the publisher, Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with copies to read and review.
Everything from the tone, setting and characters, to the mystery itself, was engaging for me. Rachel Louise Adams is definitely an author I'll be reading more from the future!
September 21, 2025
No Rest For The Wicked is Rachel Louise Adams’s debut novel. One I highly enjoyed! It’s a slow burn thriller that I couldn’t put down.
First, can we just take a moment for that cover!!!! I freaking love it!!! I think this book will be flying off the shelves come this Halloween! 😻
It’s been almost twenty years since Dolores Hawthorne left home. She’s a successful pathologist out of LA. One day she gets a call saying her father is missing. The very father that she has been estranged from.
Some bad things happened back then, causing Dolores to flee her hometown in the first place. Your job is to figure out what and just who was responsible. And, where the heck is her father?
I finished this in two days and ate it right up! Can’t wait to see what she has coming out next!!! If you’re looking for a creepy read this coming spooky season, add No Rest For The Wicked to your TBR!!!
Thank you to Rachel Louise Adams, Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the opportunity.
Pub Date - 9/16/25
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First, can we just take a moment for that cover!!!! I freaking love it!!! I think this book will be flying off the shelves come this Halloween! 😻
It’s been almost twenty years since Dolores Hawthorne left home. She’s a successful pathologist out of LA. One day she gets a call saying her father is missing. The very father that she has been estranged from.
Some bad things happened back then, causing Dolores to flee her hometown in the first place. Your job is to figure out what and just who was responsible. And, where the heck is her father?
I finished this in two days and ate it right up! Can’t wait to see what she has coming out next!!! If you’re looking for a creepy read this coming spooky season, add No Rest For The Wicked to your TBR!!!
Thank you to Rachel Louise Adams, Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the opportunity.
Pub Date - 9/16/25
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 15, 2025
I came to this novel through GR, sometimes you find these little gems through your GR friends in their reading.
This book felt like a Halloween book due to the cover whereas it is far more a thriller with a Halloween theme.
Dolores Diaz returns home on the request of the FBI after her father has dissappeared, him being a former US senator warrants this attention.
She's a forensic pathologist who has not been home in 18 years and somehow lost touch with her father, stepmother, step brother and a step sister who she never met.
The next day with murder, mayhem and Halloween will make her remember what happened all those years ago to Dolores Hawthorn and what is happening in the present time.
This is truly a Halloween homecoming.
An excellent paced book that leaves you wanting more story from this New writer. She is talented and one can only hope she will deliver more books as strong as this one. She did deliver some great twists and they are heartbreaking at some point.
This book is well worth your reading time.
This book felt like a Halloween book due to the cover whereas it is far more a thriller with a Halloween theme.
Dolores Diaz returns home on the request of the FBI after her father has dissappeared, him being a former US senator warrants this attention.
She's a forensic pathologist who has not been home in 18 years and somehow lost touch with her father, stepmother, step brother and a step sister who she never met.
The next day with murder, mayhem and Halloween will make her remember what happened all those years ago to Dolores Hawthorn and what is happening in the present time.
This is truly a Halloween homecoming.
An excellent paced book that leaves you wanting more story from this New writer. She is talented and one can only hope she will deliver more books as strong as this one. She did deliver some great twists and they are heartbreaking at some point.
This book is well worth your reading time.
October 23, 2025
Shaking my head at this slow burn absurd debut.
No Rest for the Wicked contains an intriguing premise and a stellar cover, but the reveal is ridiculous, implausible, and very disappointing.
I’m also unclear what the point of all the feral cats were either, other than to increase the spooky vibes around Halloween.
I listened to the audiobook which is narrated by Jeremy Carlisle Parker. She is a great reader, and I do not hold her responsible for the ridiculous plot.
Sorry, but I can’t recommend this one. I did make it to the end, but I wish I hadn’t.
3/5 stars
No Rest for the Wicked contains an intriguing premise and a stellar cover, but the reveal is ridiculous, implausible, and very disappointing.
I’m also unclear what the point of all the feral cats were either, other than to increase the spooky vibes around Halloween.
I listened to the audiobook which is narrated by Jeremy Carlisle Parker. She is a great reader, and I do not hold her responsible for the ridiculous plot.
Sorry, but I can’t recommend this one. I did make it to the end, but I wish I hadn’t.
3/5 stars
March 25, 2025
I honestly think a little piece of my soul died at the ending of this book 😓😓 I am stunned that this is a debut, the writing is phenomenal, the plot so well thought out with such character depth / development and completely unexpected twists.
I need a book two just so I can see how Delores is doing after everything that happens, I need to make sure my girl is okay and happy 🥺🥺
The vibes were immaculate, small town that is absurdly obsessed with Halloween, two legacy family’s feuding in the midst of a murder mystery / serial killer spree .. what more can you actually ask for?!
This book is the thriller of your dreams and you seriously need to read it. If anybody is as emotionally invested as me with these characters and needs to form a support group please reach out to me 😂
Thank you for the gifted copy!! And seriously add this to your tbr shelf for the release date which is: September 16th 2025 💛
I need a book two just so I can see how Delores is doing after everything that happens, I need to make sure my girl is okay and happy 🥺🥺
The vibes were immaculate, small town that is absurdly obsessed with Halloween, two legacy family’s feuding in the midst of a murder mystery / serial killer spree .. what more can you actually ask for?!
This book is the thriller of your dreams and you seriously need to read it. If anybody is as emotionally invested as me with these characters and needs to form a support group please reach out to me 😂
Thank you for the gifted copy!! And seriously add this to your tbr shelf for the release date which is: September 16th 2025 💛
September 20, 2025
Do I have a great Halloween season read for you fellow thriller reader…that is if you are not extra squeamish.
♤ First off check out the cover art
♤ Next how about the title?
♤ Third how about some of these chapter names ?:
● Nightmare
● Once Upon October
● Masks
● Spider
● Black Tide Rising
● Alchemy
● The Girl Without A Face
● Trick or Treat
● Demons
● By The Pricking of My Thumbs
● Tragedies
● Nightmare
● Halloween Town
● Wolves
● Murky Waters
● Death Anatomy
● Once Upon an October
● Operation Cats
● To The Bone
● Curiosity Killed the Cat
● Smoke
● Toxic
● Strays
● Midnight
● Ghosts and Milk
● Halloween Monster
Not convinced yet?
♤How about placing the novel in a town that is known as a place to celebrate Halloween, where out of towners flock every October 31st to celebrate in a town that has had many unexplained murders?
♤ How about a town which is over run by cats?
♤ How about a book so twisted you could not possibly guess who done it?
♤ How about about a novel with a well developed protagonist?
♤ How about a protagonist who happens to be a forensic physician?
♤ Do you think you would enjoy a thriller that stirs in family drama, a dab of politics and power and men and women who abuse that power?
♤ Would you enjoy an author who's very first novel, a murder mystery keeps you engaged with her writing?
♤ Do you appreciate a dark thriller that is a slow burn?
♤♤♤ OK THEN ♤♤♤
Make sure to choose this book for your Halloween read as…
THERE IS NO REST FOR THE WICKED!
Thank you to Rachel Louise Adams and her publisher Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read this novel. Thanks also goes to NetGalley for facilitating the advanced readers for this novel.
♤ First off check out the cover art
♤ Next how about the title?
♤ Third how about some of these chapter names ?:
● Nightmare
● Once Upon October
● Masks
● Spider
● Black Tide Rising
● Alchemy
● The Girl Without A Face
● Trick or Treat
● Demons
● By The Pricking of My Thumbs
● Tragedies
● Nightmare
● Halloween Town
● Wolves
● Murky Waters
● Death Anatomy
● Once Upon an October
● Operation Cats
● To The Bone
● Curiosity Killed the Cat
● Smoke
● Toxic
● Strays
● Midnight
● Ghosts and Milk
● Halloween Monster
Not convinced yet?
♤How about placing the novel in a town that is known as a place to celebrate Halloween, where out of towners flock every October 31st to celebrate in a town that has had many unexplained murders?
♤ How about a town which is over run by cats?
♤ How about a book so twisted you could not possibly guess who done it?
♤ How about about a novel with a well developed protagonist?
♤ How about a protagonist who happens to be a forensic physician?
♤ Do you think you would enjoy a thriller that stirs in family drama, a dab of politics and power and men and women who abuse that power?
♤ Would you enjoy an author who's very first novel, a murder mystery keeps you engaged with her writing?
♤ Do you appreciate a dark thriller that is a slow burn?
♤♤♤ OK THEN ♤♤♤
Make sure to choose this book for your Halloween read as…
THERE IS NO REST FOR THE WICKED!
Thank you to Rachel Louise Adams and her publisher Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read this novel. Thanks also goes to NetGalley for facilitating the advanced readers for this novel.
August 20, 2025
If there's one book you need to read this Fall or Halloween season, it's Rachel Louise Adams' debut thriller, NO REST FOR THE WICKED. With its haunting cover and intriguing synopsis, I knew that I needed to dive in.
In Halloween-obsessed Little Horton, a local politician vanishes, setting the town on edge. Forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorne returns after twenty years when her father—the former mayor turned senator—disappears under mysterious circumstances. As Halloween nears, she must confront her past and a family who may not be trustworthy.
I chose to stick with the audiobook route and I am so happy I did because it's a 5 out of 5 narration! I listened to it in record speed and I am not a speed audiobook listener as it takes me time to pay attention. This book hooked me right from the beginning. The mystery is very unique and it gave me adult Halloweentown vibes without the magic (IDK IDK IDK but the town is obsessed with Halloween). I thought Dolores was a great protagonist—flawed and relatable that readers can feel close to. I also really enjoyed our secondary characters very much and could see them having their own book within Adams' universe if she chooses to do that. Speaking of which, I cannot wait to see what Rachel Louise Adams has in store next for readers. I hope she stays within this realm of thrillers, that's for sure.
In Halloween-obsessed Little Horton, a local politician vanishes, setting the town on edge. Forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorne returns after twenty years when her father—the former mayor turned senator—disappears under mysterious circumstances. As Halloween nears, she must confront her past and a family who may not be trustworthy.
I chose to stick with the audiobook route and I am so happy I did because it's a 5 out of 5 narration! I listened to it in record speed and I am not a speed audiobook listener as it takes me time to pay attention. This book hooked me right from the beginning. The mystery is very unique and it gave me adult Halloweentown vibes without the magic (IDK IDK IDK but the town is obsessed with Halloween). I thought Dolores was a great protagonist—flawed and relatable that readers can feel close to. I also really enjoyed our secondary characters very much and could see them having their own book within Adams' universe if she chooses to do that. Speaking of which, I cannot wait to see what Rachel Louise Adams has in store next for readers. I hope she stays within this realm of thrillers, that's for sure.
July 3, 2025
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Rachel Louise Adams, and St. Martin's Press for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Always eager to tackle books by authors new to me, I gladly accepted this ARC by Rachel Louise Adams. A debut thriller provides readers an insight into the ideas Adams has to offer, presenting both a thrilling and resourceful piece that is sure to keep people reading well into the night. Delores Hawthorne is returning to her Wisconsin hometown after being away for decades. Her purpose is to assist with a missing person investigation surrounding her father. However, as people turn up dead, Delores learns that there may be more going on of a notably sinister nature. She will have to watch her back as Hallowe’en spirits stir.
Adams pens a great first book for readers to enjoy.
Forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorne has been away from her hometown for many years.
Little Horton, Wisconsin has a history of being one of America’s great Hallowe’en communities, but this is not why Delores has come back. Her father, a high-ranking politician, is missing and the FBI are seeking answers. Delores tries to find her father and determine what might have happened.
With a cryptic letter left for her, Delores tries to decipher what her father might be trying to tell her.
As Hallowe’en approaches, a number of violent murders turn the town to looking at past events or a similar nature. Delores is baffled and trying to solve things swiftly, permitting her to return to L.A.
With the pressure on, Delores works with the feds to shed light on the case, but can only wonder if she would have been better to stay away from Little Horton. Nothing is as it seems and Delores Hawthorne is soon in the hot seat to explain everything that has been taking place. A strong first novel by Rachel Louise Adams that has me hoping she has other ideas brewing.
I quite enjoy discovering new authors in genres familiar to me. Rachel Louise Adams delivers a strong debut novel that mixes a great thriller with something a little scarier. She keeps the reader on the edge of their seat as the mystery blossoms, with Hallowe’en serving as a great backdrop. Strong characters provide decent pathways for the the narrative to gain momentum. Plot points are sharp and keep twisting the reader in ways they might not have expected. I am eager to read more by Rachel Louise Adams in the future.
Kudos, Madam Adams, for a great debut!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Always eager to tackle books by authors new to me, I gladly accepted this ARC by Rachel Louise Adams. A debut thriller provides readers an insight into the ideas Adams has to offer, presenting both a thrilling and resourceful piece that is sure to keep people reading well into the night. Delores Hawthorne is returning to her Wisconsin hometown after being away for decades. Her purpose is to assist with a missing person investigation surrounding her father. However, as people turn up dead, Delores learns that there may be more going on of a notably sinister nature. She will have to watch her back as Hallowe’en spirits stir.
Adams pens a great first book for readers to enjoy.
Forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorne has been away from her hometown for many years.
Little Horton, Wisconsin has a history of being one of America’s great Hallowe’en communities, but this is not why Delores has come back. Her father, a high-ranking politician, is missing and the FBI are seeking answers. Delores tries to find her father and determine what might have happened.
With a cryptic letter left for her, Delores tries to decipher what her father might be trying to tell her.
As Hallowe’en approaches, a number of violent murders turn the town to looking at past events or a similar nature. Delores is baffled and trying to solve things swiftly, permitting her to return to L.A.
With the pressure on, Delores works with the feds to shed light on the case, but can only wonder if she would have been better to stay away from Little Horton. Nothing is as it seems and Delores Hawthorne is soon in the hot seat to explain everything that has been taking place. A strong first novel by Rachel Louise Adams that has me hoping she has other ideas brewing.
I quite enjoy discovering new authors in genres familiar to me. Rachel Louise Adams delivers a strong debut novel that mixes a great thriller with something a little scarier. She keeps the reader on the edge of their seat as the mystery blossoms, with Hallowe’en serving as a great backdrop. Strong characters provide decent pathways for the the narrative to gain momentum. Plot points are sharp and keep twisting the reader in ways they might not have expected. I am eager to read more by Rachel Louise Adams in the future.
Kudos, Madam Adams, for a great debut!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
September 16, 2025
*3.5 Stars*
Dolores Hawthorne has not been home in twenty years, determined never to return to the Halloween-obsessed town of Little Horton, Wisconsin. Yet when the FBI calls to notify her that her father, a former U.S. Senator, is missing, Dolores finds herself compelled to go back for answers. Upon her arrival, she faces a chilly welcome from her family—and receives a letter from her father, warning her not to trust anyone. Teaming up with two FBI agents, Dolores begins searching for the truth. But as their investigation deepens, bodies begin to pile up. With Halloween fast approaching, Dolores must grapple with her past before time runs out.
When I saw the cover of this book, I was under the impression that this would be a paranormal mystery. I quickly realized that this would not be the case. Not only was the small town of Little Horton obsessed with Halloween, but it also had a severe stray cat population. There are several references to these cats throughout this book, but not in the way I was expecting. However, I still enjoyed this debut mystery. I enjoyed delving into Delores’s past through the dual timelines and discovering how her past is connected to the FBI investigation. Although I found the ending to be surprising, several clues are given through different characters point of views.
If you are looking for a darker mystery with a Halloween theme, I would recommend No Rest for the Wicked.
No Rest for the Wicked is out September 16th.
Thank you to NetGalley, MacMillan Audio, and Minotaur Books for the opportunity to review No Rest for the Wicked. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dolores Hawthorne has not been home in twenty years, determined never to return to the Halloween-obsessed town of Little Horton, Wisconsin. Yet when the FBI calls to notify her that her father, a former U.S. Senator, is missing, Dolores finds herself compelled to go back for answers. Upon her arrival, she faces a chilly welcome from her family—and receives a letter from her father, warning her not to trust anyone. Teaming up with two FBI agents, Dolores begins searching for the truth. But as their investigation deepens, bodies begin to pile up. With Halloween fast approaching, Dolores must grapple with her past before time runs out.
When I saw the cover of this book, I was under the impression that this would be a paranormal mystery. I quickly realized that this would not be the case. Not only was the small town of Little Horton obsessed with Halloween, but it also had a severe stray cat population. There are several references to these cats throughout this book, but not in the way I was expecting. However, I still enjoyed this debut mystery. I enjoyed delving into Delores’s past through the dual timelines and discovering how her past is connected to the FBI investigation. Although I found the ending to be surprising, several clues are given through different characters point of views.
If you are looking for a darker mystery with a Halloween theme, I would recommend No Rest for the Wicked.
No Rest for the Wicked is out September 16th.
Thank you to NetGalley, MacMillan Audio, and Minotaur Books for the opportunity to review No Rest for the Wicked. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 26, 2025
This cover!! 👀 I was sold the second I saw it!! Thank you so much @minotaur_books for my gorgeous gifted copy! I paired this with the audiobook so I could take it EVERYWHERE! Highly recommended the audio!! Thank you @macmillan.audio for the free audiobook!🖤
Now… this is the way to welcome in the Halloween 🎃 season!! 👏Our girl Delores fled her hometown of Little Horton… aka Halloween town.. 👻.. 18 years ago. She had NO plans of ever going back. Especially after.. the incident.
I guess when you father is missing.. maybe murdered… you make an exception. 😳 This book hit the ground running. Right out the gate there was ALOT of suspense.. mystery.. and secrets. 🤫
All the small town vibes… EVERYONE knows each other and knows what EVERYONE is doing. 😂 That is one reason why the dynamics in the book worked so well!! The creepy little business of their obsession with Halloween 🎃 just added to the mystery. 😏
I can’t believe this is a debut! This kept me guessing until the end!! 😉 It was so good that I couldn’t put it down!!
Now… this is the way to welcome in the Halloween 🎃 season!! 👏Our girl Delores fled her hometown of Little Horton… aka Halloween town.. 👻.. 18 years ago. She had NO plans of ever going back. Especially after.. the incident.
I guess when you father is missing.. maybe murdered… you make an exception. 😳 This book hit the ground running. Right out the gate there was ALOT of suspense.. mystery.. and secrets. 🤫
All the small town vibes… EVERYONE knows each other and knows what EVERYONE is doing. 😂 That is one reason why the dynamics in the book worked so well!! The creepy little business of their obsession with Halloween 🎃 just added to the mystery. 😏
I can’t believe this is a debut! This kept me guessing until the end!! 😉 It was so good that I couldn’t put it down!!
September 3, 2025
This one sounded like an excellent choice for my Halloween reading binge. A town that has a gruesome history, of more than 125yrs, for Halloween murders. Yeah, that sounds like my kind of Halloween story.
The book summary introduces the primary storyline of Dolores, a Los Angeles forensic pathologist (therefore an extremely busy one), who left home (WI) 18yrs ago and has never been back. After getting a call from the FBI about her missing father, Dolores flies back home. What the book summary doesn’t say is that Dolores’s father left a cryptic message for her. Dolores hasn’t seen or spoken to anyone in her family since she left. Other than some generic birthday cards, she’s had no contact with her family. Needless to say, her showing up is not received well from her remaining family, especially stepmother Charlotte, and her much younger half-siblings, Asher and Josie. Without revealing any spoilers, it was revealed pretty early that there is a reason why Dolores hasn’t been home in 18yrs and why she and Charlotte despise each other.
The summary also doesn’t mention the other MC’s Kate, a local police officer and the two FBI agents Wyatt and Paul. Kate, the only woman on the force, gets the typical misogynistic crap from her Chief and fellow officers, and all the crap assignments like cat duty. The small town of Little Horton is kind of overrun with stray cats and the police are tasked with rounding them up, which usually falls to Kate. Additionally, Kate went to high school with Dolores and absolutely despises Dolores. Once the town doctor and ME is murdered, Wyatt and Paul designate Dolores as the town’s temporary ME.
The story flips back and forth between Dolores, Kate, and the agents, Wyatt and Paul and the investigation starts to reveal that there was something being covered up by Dolores’s father, a US Senator and the former Mayor and Gregory Lawson, a dairy king and the richest man in town. The Hawthornes and the Lawsons used to be close friends back in the day, which is so typical for a Senator and a rich business owner. Dolores even used to date Jacob Lawson. There is a reason they no longer are, but no spoilers here.
It’s not long before the dead bodies/murders start piling up and I’ve narrowed down the killer to two suspects. Wow! Did I ever get that one wrong! I did not see that one coming! It’s deep into the second half that the storylines collide and it’s a flurry of really scary and intense scenes for Dolores and others. The finale was really emotional, and I don’t know if it’s just me, but there was sort of a cliffhanger that had me thinking that this could be the start of a new series. I hope so, I will definitely read that or any sequel.
The character development for most of the MCs and the killer was well done. The pacing was steady to fast and the storyline very interesting with an overall really creepy vibe to it. The writing was also well done; had me completely shocked. I do want to mention one trigger warning, especially since the publisher decided to bring the matter front and center on the cover, but it was horrible to discover the fate of the kitties. When I saw the cover, I thought I was looking at familiars for a coven of witches. Not! Enough said on that terrible matter. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.4 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #MacmillanAudio #NoRestfortheWicked
The book summary introduces the primary storyline of Dolores, a Los Angeles forensic pathologist (therefore an extremely busy one), who left home (WI) 18yrs ago and has never been back. After getting a call from the FBI about her missing father, Dolores flies back home. What the book summary doesn’t say is that Dolores’s father left a cryptic message for her. Dolores hasn’t seen or spoken to anyone in her family since she left. Other than some generic birthday cards, she’s had no contact with her family. Needless to say, her showing up is not received well from her remaining family, especially stepmother Charlotte, and her much younger half-siblings, Asher and Josie. Without revealing any spoilers, it was revealed pretty early that there is a reason why Dolores hasn’t been home in 18yrs and why she and Charlotte despise each other.
The summary also doesn’t mention the other MC’s Kate, a local police officer and the two FBI agents Wyatt and Paul. Kate, the only woman on the force, gets the typical misogynistic crap from her Chief and fellow officers, and all the crap assignments like cat duty. The small town of Little Horton is kind of overrun with stray cats and the police are tasked with rounding them up, which usually falls to Kate. Additionally, Kate went to high school with Dolores and absolutely despises Dolores. Once the town doctor and ME is murdered, Wyatt and Paul designate Dolores as the town’s temporary ME.
The story flips back and forth between Dolores, Kate, and the agents, Wyatt and Paul and the investigation starts to reveal that there was something being covered up by Dolores’s father, a US Senator and the former Mayor and Gregory Lawson, a dairy king and the richest man in town. The Hawthornes and the Lawsons used to be close friends back in the day, which is so typical for a Senator and a rich business owner. Dolores even used to date Jacob Lawson. There is a reason they no longer are, but no spoilers here.
It’s not long before the dead bodies/murders start piling up and I’ve narrowed down the killer to two suspects. Wow! Did I ever get that one wrong! I did not see that one coming! It’s deep into the second half that the storylines collide and it’s a flurry of really scary and intense scenes for Dolores and others. The finale was really emotional, and I don’t know if it’s just me, but there was sort of a cliffhanger that had me thinking that this could be the start of a new series. I hope so, I will definitely read that or any sequel.
The character development for most of the MCs and the killer was well done. The pacing was steady to fast and the storyline very interesting with an overall really creepy vibe to it. The writing was also well done; had me completely shocked. I do want to mention one trigger warning, especially since the publisher decided to bring the matter front and center on the cover, but it was horrible to discover the fate of the kitties. When I saw the cover, I thought I was looking at familiars for a coven of witches. Not! Enough said on that terrible matter. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.4 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #MacmillanAudio #NoRestfortheWicked
October 22, 2025
FIVE STELLAR STARS ALERT!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"That's what trauma was like to her, she supposed-not water that the sponge of her mind kept squeezing out, but ice."
Dolores returns home after being gone for eighteen years to assist the FBI in locating her missing father. In all that time she has had NO contact with her family or friends. Why? What was so awful that she left and never looked back and what happened to her father?
Okay mystery lovers, this one is for YOU! I flew through this in no time flat. Rachel Louise Adams' writing is vivid and immersive with just the right amount of suspects and red herrings. There are SEVERAL complex characters that I was emotionally conflicted over, which for me is the sign of a superb writer! Between the past and the present I was questioning everything and though I managed to figure out key aspects, this a twisty story FOR. SURE.
I can't rave about Jeremy Carlisle Parker enough; she's a fabulous performer. She brings Adams' rich writing to LIFE, with subtle inflections of emotion via tone, but also conveyed with excellent modulation. If you're an audiobook fan this is one you'll want to hear!
NO REST FOR THE WICKED is an atmospheric small town mystery at its finest. Two timelines, two influential families with dark secrets and two missing person tales, is sure to keep you guessing. What's not to love? Adams has entered the publishing world with a stunning debut and I for one will be first in line for her next novel!
___
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for my gifted copies. All opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"That's what trauma was like to her, she supposed-not water that the sponge of her mind kept squeezing out, but ice."
Dolores returns home after being gone for eighteen years to assist the FBI in locating her missing father. In all that time she has had NO contact with her family or friends. Why? What was so awful that she left and never looked back and what happened to her father?
Okay mystery lovers, this one is for YOU! I flew through this in no time flat. Rachel Louise Adams' writing is vivid and immersive with just the right amount of suspects and red herrings. There are SEVERAL complex characters that I was emotionally conflicted over, which for me is the sign of a superb writer! Between the past and the present I was questioning everything and though I managed to figure out key aspects, this a twisty story FOR. SURE.
I can't rave about Jeremy Carlisle Parker enough; she's a fabulous performer. She brings Adams' rich writing to LIFE, with subtle inflections of emotion via tone, but also conveyed with excellent modulation. If you're an audiobook fan this is one you'll want to hear!
NO REST FOR THE WICKED is an atmospheric small town mystery at its finest. Two timelines, two influential families with dark secrets and two missing person tales, is sure to keep you guessing. What's not to love? Adams has entered the publishing world with a stunning debut and I for one will be first in line for her next novel!
___
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for my gifted copies. All opinions are my own.
August 31, 2025
This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, captivating thriller. It has a likable, intelligent female protagonist, a small town setting, wit, a touch of humor, murder, mystery, suspense, secrets, lies, twists and turns, and an unexpected, satisfying conclusion. I especially liked the cats and the Halloween theme, and the heroine's unconventional method of dealing with stress. Many thanks to Ms. Adams, St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books, and NetGalley, who provided me with an advanced reader copy of this fantastic novel. This is my honest opinion.
November 4, 2025
This was much more of a suspenseful mystery thriller than anything spooky, but as I read a lot of crime novels - I was perfectly happy with that.
I like the typical setup of our protagonist returning to the home after a lengthy period away.
We know that something has happened to forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorn in Little Horton nearly 20 years ago, it's a call from the FBI that informs her thar her father is missing and the reason for her return.
Whilst there wasn't much spiooky shenanigans, the town is famous for its Halloween celebrations and a history of violent deaths which links in with the glowing pumpkin inspired cover.
The whole mystery is compelling as Dolores slowly reveals to herself as she can't remember all of it is quite tense.
The short chapters help build the suspense, whilst the red herrings and twisty turny reveals keeps you hooked.
I like the typical setup of our protagonist returning to the home after a lengthy period away.
We know that something has happened to forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorn in Little Horton nearly 20 years ago, it's a call from the FBI that informs her thar her father is missing and the reason for her return.
Whilst there wasn't much spiooky shenanigans, the town is famous for its Halloween celebrations and a history of violent deaths which links in with the glowing pumpkin inspired cover.
The whole mystery is compelling as Dolores slowly reveals to herself as she can't remember all of it is quite tense.
The short chapters help build the suspense, whilst the red herrings and twisty turny reveals keeps you hooked.
October 17, 2025
What a bummer that gorgeous, perfect cover leads to a not great read. I am totally over women leads who we’re told are super smart, capable, drop dead gorgeous (the one here has “legs for days” - sorry paused for an eye roll) career supstars and then they behave like children, make terrible choices and exhibit none of the traits that would lead one to be any of these things . Or they’re nearly perfect, but some childhood trauma prevents them from figuring out the plot of the book they’re in…go to therapy already!
Sorry, there have been too many bad books this year and terrible leads. I Dnfd this one at 26%, I would have stuck it through to the end I if anyone could have put a stop to the dreadful similes or the constant repetition. Another bugaboo that is happening in far too many books. We get it the MC’s father REALLY loved her.
Sorry, there have been too many bad books this year and terrible leads. I Dnfd this one at 26%, I would have stuck it through to the end I if anyone could have put a stop to the dreadful similes or the constant repetition. Another bugaboo that is happening in far too many books. We get it the MC’s father REALLY loved her.
September 14, 2025
Delores left her Halloween obsessed hometown two decades ago so it stirs up a lot of drama, questions, and memories when she returns. She’s now a forensic pathologist and has to put her expertise to use when a politician goes missing and it opens up an entire investigation.
I really enjoyed this book about 60% of the time. The characters were great, the plot was interesting, and the last 20% had me flying from page to page! I struggled with the pacing in the first half of the book and was getting frustrated with each chapter ending on a huge question or twist but not actually leading to answers until the end. It took me a little bit to get invested since we didn’t know exactly what the issue was until further into the book but once that piece came together, it was so good! I wish we’d found out more a bit earlier so I could have felt invested sooner but the way it played out made me like the book overall regardless. Super fun and twisty!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Rachel Louise Adams, and St Martin’s Press for providing this free E-ARC, this publishes on September 16th. This is my honest review!
I really enjoyed this book about 60% of the time. The characters were great, the plot was interesting, and the last 20% had me flying from page to page! I struggled with the pacing in the first half of the book and was getting frustrated with each chapter ending on a huge question or twist but not actually leading to answers until the end. It took me a little bit to get invested since we didn’t know exactly what the issue was until further into the book but once that piece came together, it was so good! I wish we’d found out more a bit earlier so I could have felt invested sooner but the way it played out made me like the book overall regardless. Super fun and twisty!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Rachel Louise Adams, and St Martin’s Press for providing this free E-ARC, this publishes on September 16th. This is my honest review!
September 8, 2025
⭐⭐⭐.5
Pre-Read Notes:
I grabbed this one for the cover! There is a cat in this story, but definitely not central to the plot.
"Today, her body wasn’t allowed to quit. She might help her team catch a killer." p132
This book is sort of like a cross between a domestic thriller and a dual-era mystery. The combo was successful, and so was the use of two timelines. Sometimes the transitions are a little rough, but in general, I found it interesting to the story and the mystery.
The lead character, Dolores, was the perfect unlikeable lead. She has so many secrets that I think the choice to alternate perspectives is smart. It keeps the story moving when Dolores can't or won't address what comes next.
If you enjoy a twisty mystery that pushes into domestic thriller territory, I recommend this book for you. It quite reminds me of THE BELLES by Lacey N. Dunham, which is a mashup of dark academia, domestic thriller, and mystery, with a definite streak of girl power. I've realized I really like these genre mashups that all seem to rally around girl rage!
Content Notes: cheating, divorce, FBI, alcohol consumption, party pranks, gr*pe, roofies, unconsciousness, trauma memory,
Thank you to Rachel Louise Adams, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for an accessible digital arc of NO REST FOR THE WICKED. All views are mine.
Pre-Read Notes:
I grabbed this one for the cover! There is a cat in this story, but definitely not central to the plot.
"Today, her body wasn’t allowed to quit. She might help her team catch a killer." p132
This book is sort of like a cross between a domestic thriller and a dual-era mystery. The combo was successful, and so was the use of two timelines. Sometimes the transitions are a little rough, but in general, I found it interesting to the story and the mystery.
The lead character, Dolores, was the perfect unlikeable lead. She has so many secrets that I think the choice to alternate perspectives is smart. It keeps the story moving when Dolores can't or won't address what comes next.
If you enjoy a twisty mystery that pushes into domestic thriller territory, I recommend this book for you. It quite reminds me of THE BELLES by Lacey N. Dunham, which is a mashup of dark academia, domestic thriller, and mystery, with a definite streak of girl power. I've realized I really like these genre mashups that all seem to rally around girl rage!
Content Notes: cheating, divorce, FBI, alcohol consumption, party pranks, gr*pe, roofies, unconsciousness, trauma memory,
Thank you to Rachel Louise Adams, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for an accessible digital arc of NO REST FOR THE WICKED. All views are mine.
July 30, 2025
No Rest for the Wicked was one insanely good suspense thriller debut, and I absolutely loved it!
Dolores is forced back to her hometown of Little Horton, a town obsessed with Halloween, when her father goes missing under suspicious circumstances. Not only does she have to go back to a town that she thought she'd never see again, but she also has to face the secrets that forced her away in the first place.
This book was a murder mystery/slow burn suspense thriller. There were secrets galore and two prominent feuding families. We get to take a look at what happened all those years ago through Dolores' memories of her last and final Halloween in Little Horton.
I really enjoyed this book and was shocked that it was the author's debut because of how well written it was. The cover is what drew me to this book, but the incredible story is what kept me turning the pages.
This isn't a supernatural thriller, but I think it will make a perfect book for the spooky fall months this year!
Expected Publication Date: September 16th, 2025.
Thank you to NetGalley, Minotaur Books, and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dolores is forced back to her hometown of Little Horton, a town obsessed with Halloween, when her father goes missing under suspicious circumstances. Not only does she have to go back to a town that she thought she'd never see again, but she also has to face the secrets that forced her away in the first place.
This book was a murder mystery/slow burn suspense thriller. There were secrets galore and two prominent feuding families. We get to take a look at what happened all those years ago through Dolores' memories of her last and final Halloween in Little Horton.
I really enjoyed this book and was shocked that it was the author's debut because of how well written it was. The cover is what drew me to this book, but the incredible story is what kept me turning the pages.
This isn't a supernatural thriller, but I think it will make a perfect book for the spooky fall months this year!
Expected Publication Date: September 16th, 2025.
Thank you to NetGalley, Minotaur Books, and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 9, 2025
In all honesty, this one exceeded my expectations! It started stronger than it finished, however, and I found myself wishing for a different resolution. 3.5 stars that are right smack dab in the middle, but likely round up.
September 17, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the audio ARC. It hasn't affected the contents of my review.
So many thoughts, where to start. How about that cover? I love it, but questionable marketing. Not sure it conveys the tone of the story! Which is not horror, and is not cozy at all. There are definitely legions of cats in the story, but they are in the background. So, I am conflicted. (The town is overrun with stray cats, due to a local commercial series years before featuring kittens; everyone got a kitten after, and then everyone didn't keep or care for their kittens, so now cats are everywhere.) I also am conflicted because even though the cover doesn't really convey mystery/suspense, it is unique and sets itself apart from the crowd. So actually maybe it's genius, what do I know. I definitely read it because of the cover.
Okay but what about the story? I liked it! Our MC is Dolores, who left her infamous hometown eighteen years before and has never been back, and never exchanged more than an an unsigned birthday card with her family in the years since. (Her hometown is a famous Halloween tourist destination, but again, that's sort of background, not the focus.) Dolores is now a well-respected prominent forensic pathologist who often gives testimony at trial. The plot kicks off when she gets a call from the FBI saying that her father—the former mayor of her town and a former Senator—is missing. The reason that Dolores left is unraveled over the course of the novel, but you get hints right away. Pretty much right away after her unwelcome homecoming, there is a murder, and Dolores is sucked in to the investigation. The plot goes from there.
As with the cover, I am also conflicted about the fact that I figured out all but one part of the mystery, which is very unusual for me. I can't decide if I'm proud that I'm smart, or mad that it was too easy (I guessed a lot of it before I was even halfway through the book). Usually I err on the side of "this wasn't good if I could figure it out," but with this one for some reason I'm giving it more credit. Maybe it's because the book was also pretty thematically rich, and the only reason for reading it wasn't to find out what was going on and whodunnit, but to follow Dolores's emotional journey, and to see where it leads her.
All that said, this was really good, and I'll definitely read more from this author. I also kind of hope this isn't the last we see of Dolores.
So many thoughts, where to start. How about that cover? I love it, but questionable marketing. Not sure it conveys the tone of the story! Which is not horror, and is not cozy at all. There are definitely legions of cats in the story, but they are in the background. So, I am conflicted. (The town is overrun with stray cats, due to a local commercial series years before featuring kittens; everyone got a kitten after, and then everyone didn't keep or care for their kittens, so now cats are everywhere.) I also am conflicted because even though the cover doesn't really convey mystery/suspense, it is unique and sets itself apart from the crowd. So actually maybe it's genius, what do I know. I definitely read it because of the cover.
Okay but what about the story? I liked it! Our MC is Dolores, who left her infamous hometown eighteen years before and has never been back, and never exchanged more than an an unsigned birthday card with her family in the years since. (Her hometown is a famous Halloween tourist destination, but again, that's sort of background, not the focus.) Dolores is now a well-respected prominent forensic pathologist who often gives testimony at trial. The plot kicks off when she gets a call from the FBI saying that her father—the former mayor of her town and a former Senator—is missing. The reason that Dolores left is unraveled over the course of the novel, but you get hints right away. Pretty much right away after her unwelcome homecoming, there is a murder, and Dolores is sucked in to the investigation. The plot goes from there.
As with the cover, I am also conflicted about the fact that I figured out all but one part of the mystery, which is very unusual for me. I can't decide if I'm proud that I'm smart, or mad that it was too easy (I guessed a lot of it before I was even halfway through the book). Usually I err on the side of "this wasn't good if I could figure it out," but with this one for some reason I'm giving it more credit. Maybe it's because the book was also pretty thematically rich, and the only reason for reading it wasn't to find out what was going on and whodunnit, but to follow Dolores's emotional journey, and to see where it leads her.
All that said, this was really good, and I'll definitely read more from this author. I also kind of hope this isn't the last we see of Dolores.
September 13, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Sept. 16, 2025
Dolores Hawthorne left her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin more than twenty years ago and is now a forensic pathologist in California. Although she vowed never to return, she receives a call one night from an FBI agent – her beloved father, the former mayor of Little Horton, has gone missing. When Dolores returns, she is given the icy greeting she expects from her stepmother and half-siblings, but what Dolores doesn’t expect is for two other men in Little Horton to be murdered within days of each other. In order to find her father, and uncover the murderer, Dolores must face the shadows and demons of her past, before more people are killed.
“No Rest for the Wicked” is a dynamite debut for the spooky season. Rachel Louise Adams delivers a haunting tale of murder and mayhem, set in the backdrop of the unofficial “Halloween town” of Wisconsin. Narrated by Dolores, as well as several other prominent characters, readers are immediately pulled in to the page-turning, goosebump-inducing plot.
Dolores has her reasons for avoiding her beloved father and her hometown, but readers don’t find out her secrets right away. Adams reveals the truth in increments, yet I was able to connect to Dolores immediately and my empathy for her only grew as her history was revealed. The characters in “Wicked” are complex, presenting as one thing on the surface but who are, in fact, quite different deep down, yet all are likable in their own ways.
The murders, and the disappearance of Dolores’ father, are the biggest components, of course, and Adams builds tension with well-developed twists and turns. Trying to guess the outcome was so much fun, especially with the small-town Halloween vibes that Little Horton gave off. Some of the ending I was able to speculate but others were completely unexpected, making “Wicked” one-hundred percent enjoyable.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with “Wicked”, but the premise of Adams’ novel pulled me in (and I’m always game to read a spooky novel in the fall) and I am so glad I did. I hope Adams stays in this genre, as I am always looking for new horror authors to enjoy and Adams seems to be just what I’m looking for!
Expected publication date: Sept. 16, 2025
Dolores Hawthorne left her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin more than twenty years ago and is now a forensic pathologist in California. Although she vowed never to return, she receives a call one night from an FBI agent – her beloved father, the former mayor of Little Horton, has gone missing. When Dolores returns, she is given the icy greeting she expects from her stepmother and half-siblings, but what Dolores doesn’t expect is for two other men in Little Horton to be murdered within days of each other. In order to find her father, and uncover the murderer, Dolores must face the shadows and demons of her past, before more people are killed.
“No Rest for the Wicked” is a dynamite debut for the spooky season. Rachel Louise Adams delivers a haunting tale of murder and mayhem, set in the backdrop of the unofficial “Halloween town” of Wisconsin. Narrated by Dolores, as well as several other prominent characters, readers are immediately pulled in to the page-turning, goosebump-inducing plot.
Dolores has her reasons for avoiding her beloved father and her hometown, but readers don’t find out her secrets right away. Adams reveals the truth in increments, yet I was able to connect to Dolores immediately and my empathy for her only grew as her history was revealed. The characters in “Wicked” are complex, presenting as one thing on the surface but who are, in fact, quite different deep down, yet all are likable in their own ways.
The murders, and the disappearance of Dolores’ father, are the biggest components, of course, and Adams builds tension with well-developed twists and turns. Trying to guess the outcome was so much fun, especially with the small-town Halloween vibes that Little Horton gave off. Some of the ending I was able to speculate but others were completely unexpected, making “Wicked” one-hundred percent enjoyable.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with “Wicked”, but the premise of Adams’ novel pulled me in (and I’m always game to read a spooky novel in the fall) and I am so glad I did. I hope Adams stays in this genre, as I am always looking for new horror authors to enjoy and Adams seems to be just what I’m looking for!
August 25, 2025
Hello Jeremy Carlisle Parker, the narrator of the audiobook; If it wasn’t for her fabulous work this would have been a DNF.
Is this a thriller, suspense, horror? No. Does the plot involve cats? No. Is the book confused and includes absurd developments. Yes.
There are several elements of a psychological thriller here but the author is unable to maintain suspense so we end up in this cycle of repetitions where characters just relive certain events from their past the same way over and over. It is extremely frustrating. The writing is fine but when the plot is essentially non existent, there is only so long you can continue reading about nothing.
After the initial exposition, the book struggles to maintain the pulse, the middle sags and eventually flatlines entirely. It doesn’t take long to realize that nothing will happen until the last 10%. And truly NOTHING happens. All the answers are delivered at the very end. And they are bonkers.
The novel starts with a mystery of the father who disappears, but then for 10+ hours instead of a plot that follows breadcrumbs and tries to solve that mystery the story takes a sharp turn in the direction of some pseudo psychological ramblings about misremembered memories, high school bullies, saccharine youth infatuations and maybe-maybe-not abuse. There’s also an abdominal scar that will be mentioned over and over. Absolutely nothing being said or remembered is reliable, motivations are non existent, and somehow everyone we meet is a genius in their field.
Fair warning, it will take an immense degree of suspension of disbelief to accept the resolution and all the developments leading to it. To me, the plot seems quite infantile and the overall book very confused. Not unlike the completely random cover. The narrator deserves all the credit for the commitment to the source material.
*Access to ARC via NetGalley
Is this a thriller, suspense, horror? No. Does the plot involve cats? No. Is the book confused and includes absurd developments. Yes.
There are several elements of a psychological thriller here but the author is unable to maintain suspense so we end up in this cycle of repetitions where characters just relive certain events from their past the same way over and over. It is extremely frustrating. The writing is fine but when the plot is essentially non existent, there is only so long you can continue reading about nothing.
After the initial exposition, the book struggles to maintain the pulse, the middle sags and eventually flatlines entirely. It doesn’t take long to realize that nothing will happen until the last 10%. And truly NOTHING happens. All the answers are delivered at the very end. And they are bonkers.
The novel starts with a mystery of the father who disappears, but then for 10+ hours instead of a plot that follows breadcrumbs and tries to solve that mystery the story takes a sharp turn in the direction of some pseudo psychological ramblings about misremembered memories, high school bullies, saccharine youth infatuations and maybe-maybe-not abuse. There’s also an abdominal scar that will be mentioned over and over. Absolutely nothing being said or remembered is reliable, motivations are non existent, and somehow everyone we meet is a genius in their field.
Fair warning, it will take an immense degree of suspension of disbelief to accept the resolution and all the developments leading to it. To me, the plot seems quite infantile and the overall book very confused. Not unlike the completely random cover. The narrator deserves all the credit for the commitment to the source material.
*Access to ARC via NetGalley
September 16, 2025
This was such a great mystery-- I can't believe it's a debut! So rarely does a twist truly surprise me anymore, but this one was really shocking!
Dolores, a forensic pathologist in California, has been estranged from her father, Alexander; stepmom, Charlotte; and two half siblings since age 18. She left her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin and never looked back. Little Horton is famous for its Halloween celebrations--and violence that has occurred over the years on that date--but for Dolores, it's just a holiday that she studiously avoids since she left.
But then she receives a call from the FBI: her father has gone missing. She reluctantly returns to Little Horton to investigate with two agents.
This book is spell binding! It effortlessly draws you into the claustrophobic and judgmental town of Little Horton, with its relentless focus on Halloween--and secrets and lies. Everyone in Little Horton reveres Alexander as their former mayor and Senator. For Dolores' family, especially the formidable and scary Charlotte, nothing matters more than appearances.
Adams weaves a taut and dark tale, as the bodies pile up, and Dolores looks into her father's life and disappearance, while slowly remembering more and more about why she left Little Horton so long ago. This story is dramatic and well-written, filled with plenty of suspense. It keeps you guessing, while also featuring nuanced, flawed characters. I would love a sequel!
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Minotaur Books in return for an unbiased review.
Dolores, a forensic pathologist in California, has been estranged from her father, Alexander; stepmom, Charlotte; and two half siblings since age 18. She left her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin and never looked back. Little Horton is famous for its Halloween celebrations--and violence that has occurred over the years on that date--but for Dolores, it's just a holiday that she studiously avoids since she left.
But then she receives a call from the FBI: her father has gone missing. She reluctantly returns to Little Horton to investigate with two agents.
This book is spell binding! It effortlessly draws you into the claustrophobic and judgmental town of Little Horton, with its relentless focus on Halloween--and secrets and lies. Everyone in Little Horton reveres Alexander as their former mayor and Senator. For Dolores' family, especially the formidable and scary Charlotte, nothing matters more than appearances.
Adams weaves a taut and dark tale, as the bodies pile up, and Dolores looks into her father's life and disappearance, while slowly remembering more and more about why she left Little Horton so long ago. This story is dramatic and well-written, filled with plenty of suspense. It keeps you guessing, while also featuring nuanced, flawed characters. I would love a sequel!
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Minotaur Books in return for an unbiased review.
September 3, 2025
Don't let the cats on the cover and the word Halloween in the blurb fool you! This is not a cute, cozy, Halloween mystery. I didn't know what I was getting into, I just saw cats and Halloween and said yes. It's completely different than the vibes it gives off, but different does not equate to bad, it was VERY good! Small town, family drama and secrets, lies and corruption! When Dolores gets a call from the FBI that her politician father has gone missing, she returns to her Halloween-obsessed hometown of Little Horton for the first time in almost 20 years. With a cold reception from her family and suspicions abound, Dolores is determined to discover what happened to her father and the truth of why. We get past portions, filling in the story of what happened to Dolores and why she has stayed away for so long, tying into the present-day mystery. It's not cozy and feel-good, it's deep and dark. It kept my interest the entire time and I wanted to know how it would play out! A strong debut, can't wait to see what Rachel Louise Adams has in store for us in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC. Book releases 9/16/25.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC. Book releases 9/16/25.
September 17, 2025
I couldn’t download this book fast enough. Look at that cover! 🙀
Home is where the heart is. For some, maybe, but for Dolores it has been 20 years since she left her small hometown in Wisconsin. If it hadn’t been for a call from the FBI informing her that her father is missing, it could’ve been 20 more before she returned. The small town feel was real, but it wasn’t warm and fuzzy. Maybe the way this town bonded over their enthusiasm for Halloween could stand out as a small town feeling, but it wasn’t warm, it was creepy. Dolores’ reception home was cold, at best.
The character development was fantastic and the suspense kept the pages briskly turning. Why did Dolores leave anyway? Luckily, the narrative peeks into the past. For a debut novel, it’s a good, dark thriller. And the cats! Great Halloween fodder. Recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for an early copy.
Home is where the heart is. For some, maybe, but for Dolores it has been 20 years since she left her small hometown in Wisconsin. If it hadn’t been for a call from the FBI informing her that her father is missing, it could’ve been 20 more before she returned. The small town feel was real, but it wasn’t warm and fuzzy. Maybe the way this town bonded over their enthusiasm for Halloween could stand out as a small town feeling, but it wasn’t warm, it was creepy. Dolores’ reception home was cold, at best.
The character development was fantastic and the suspense kept the pages briskly turning. Why did Dolores leave anyway? Luckily, the narrative peeks into the past. For a debut novel, it’s a good, dark thriller. And the cats! Great Halloween fodder. Recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for an early copy.
October 3, 2025
NO REST FOR THE WICKED
by Rachel Louise Adams
She swore she would never go back
In Horton, Wisconsin—a small town known for its over-the-top Halloween celebrations—a former politician goes missing under strange circumstances. His daughter Dolores, a forensic pathologist, returns home after twenty years when she learns of his disappearance. But why has she been gone so long? Why does she hate Halloween? And why are her father’s last words to her—trust no one—still echoing in her mind?
This is a moderately paced, slow-burn mystery thriller and a decent debut read. The writing is solid overall. Some twists were predictable, while others caught me off guard. Dolores is a flawed, haunted character, and the trauma she carries adds depth. There were some timeline shifts that didn’t always flow smoothly, and I’m not quite sure why the cats were included—maybe just to add a Halloween vibe? Either way, I’m curious to see what the author writes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the e-ARC.
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