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The Monster's Club: How long can you hide?
Malibu, California, 2029. A uniformed postman delivers a neatly addressed envelope to a woman; it’s for her husband, Jackson Sosa.
The moment it’s delivered, the past begins to breathe again. To understand who Jackson Sosa is, we need to jump back to 1999.
Severdeen, California, 1999. Before spring break, Jackson, Colin, and Erik, nicknamed “Dumpster,” hatch a plan to steal their high school’s unsettling wolf mascot costume and film a prank in the woods for a televised contest to win a cash prize. Over the thirteen days leading up to that night, we get a glimpse into their lives as they each fall in love, experience their first times, uncover family secrets, and navigate the messy, electric rush of youth. When the cameras finally roll, the stunt takes a dark turn, setting off a chain of events that will shatter their bond and haunt them for the rest of their lives.
Thirty years later, the past refuses to stay quiet. A mysterious envelope arrives at the doorstep of one of the survivors, triggering a slow unraveling. We return to the events of 1999 as they really happened—through flashbacks that finally expose the fractures, the secrets, and the heartbreaking decisions that shaped their lives.
Told across two timelines, The Monster’s Club is a gripping psychological drama blending emotional suspense with a deeply nostalgic coming-of-age story. It explores friendship, identity, guilt, and the terrifying weight of choices made too young.
It’s not just about what happened.
It’s about how they got there
and what it cost them to stay silent.
Are you ready to remember?
The moment it’s delivered, the past begins to breathe again. To understand who Jackson Sosa is, we need to jump back to 1999.
Severdeen, California, 1999. Before spring break, Jackson, Colin, and Erik, nicknamed “Dumpster,” hatch a plan to steal their high school’s unsettling wolf mascot costume and film a prank in the woods for a televised contest to win a cash prize. Over the thirteen days leading up to that night, we get a glimpse into their lives as they each fall in love, experience their first times, uncover family secrets, and navigate the messy, electric rush of youth. When the cameras finally roll, the stunt takes a dark turn, setting off a chain of events that will shatter their bond and haunt them for the rest of their lives.
Thirty years later, the past refuses to stay quiet. A mysterious envelope arrives at the doorstep of one of the survivors, triggering a slow unraveling. We return to the events of 1999 as they really happened—through flashbacks that finally expose the fractures, the secrets, and the heartbreaking decisions that shaped their lives.
Told across two timelines, The Monster’s Club is a gripping psychological drama blending emotional suspense with a deeply nostalgic coming-of-age story. It explores friendship, identity, guilt, and the terrifying weight of choices made too young.
It’s not just about what happened.
It’s about how they got there
and what it cost them to stay silent.
Are you ready to remember?
429 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2025
About the author
Federica Alice Carlino
3 books8 followersBorn in Milan, Italy, Federica Alice Carlino began her career with Mediaset TV before pursuing a diverse education in the arts. In Milan, she studied filmmaking, acting, photography, editing, visual effects, and makeup, developing a strong multidisciplinary foundation. Her passion for prosthetic makeup brought her to Rome, where she trained under acclaimed artist Sergio Stivaletti, renowned for his collaborations with director Dario Argento.
In 2016, Federica relocated to Los Angeles, where she earned her BFA in Filmmaking from the New York Film Academy. She later refined her craft through acting studies at the Met Film School in Ealing, UK, and Pinewood Studios, further deepening her understanding of performance and storytelling.
Although she has been writing scripts and stories her entire life, The Monster’s Club marks her first book. With it, Federica brings her cinematic voice to literature, transforming memories, emotions, and visions into a haunting narrative that blends psychological depth with universal themes.
In 2016, Federica relocated to Los Angeles, where she earned her BFA in Filmmaking from the New York Film Academy. She later refined her craft through acting studies at the Met Film School in Ealing, UK, and Pinewood Studios, further deepening her understanding of performance and storytelling.
Although she has been writing scripts and stories her entire life, The Monster’s Club marks her first book. With it, Federica brings her cinematic voice to literature, transforming memories, emotions, and visions into a haunting narrative that blends psychological depth with universal themes.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
February 16, 2026
An Unforgettable, Emotionally Gripping Read ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Monster’s Club: How Long Can You Hide? by Federica Alice Carlino is the kind of novel that stays with you long after you turn the last page. Built on two compelling timelines (1999 and 2029), the story masterfully blends mystery, psychological drama, and nostalgia into something deeply immersive, unveiling secrets and buried truths keeps you turning the pages. The friendships feel real, raw, and beautifully complex. Every choice the characters make carries weight, and the emotional consequences feel authentic and powerful. It feels like watching a TV series, but on paper. The part that I like from this book is that isn’t just a mystery, it’s an exploration identity. Her writing feels really cinematic, introspective, it’s an enjoyable read, the book flows effortlessly, and you hardly notice the pages turning because it’s so engaging. In my opinion, it’s perfect for readers trying to get out of a reading slump or for those who want to start exploring this genre. Would I recommend it to people in my community who don’t read much in English? Yes. The writing is clear and easy to understand, and I didn’t come across any overly complicated sentences or heavy slang.
I was so happy to read this in ARC copy and hope to watch a tv series about it one day, will be amazing watch this pages comes to life! Hope in the second book soon 😍
The Monster’s Club: How Long Can You Hide? by Federica Alice Carlino is the kind of novel that stays with you long after you turn the last page. Built on two compelling timelines (1999 and 2029), the story masterfully blends mystery, psychological drama, and nostalgia into something deeply immersive, unveiling secrets and buried truths keeps you turning the pages. The friendships feel real, raw, and beautifully complex. Every choice the characters make carries weight, and the emotional consequences feel authentic and powerful. It feels like watching a TV series, but on paper. The part that I like from this book is that isn’t just a mystery, it’s an exploration identity. Her writing feels really cinematic, introspective, it’s an enjoyable read, the book flows effortlessly, and you hardly notice the pages turning because it’s so engaging. In my opinion, it’s perfect for readers trying to get out of a reading slump or for those who want to start exploring this genre. Would I recommend it to people in my community who don’t read much in English? Yes. The writing is clear and easy to understand, and I didn’t come across any overly complicated sentences or heavy slang.
I was so happy to read this in ARC copy and hope to watch a tv series about it one day, will be amazing watch this pages comes to life! Hope in the second book soon 😍
February 16, 2026
I have to start with this: the first locker room scene had my heart racing. The tension was so thick it literally gave me anxiety.
The police scene? Same thing. Intense, cinematic, and nerve-wracking. I didn't even realize I was holding my breath until it was over. I could see everything unfolding so clearly in my head, and when I watched the proof of concept, it was almost exactly how I had imagined it. That rarely happens, and it just proves how vividly this story is written.
What I love most is how invested I am in the characters. I trust Colin, I do. There’s something about him that feels right even when everything around him spirals. And Dumpster? What a cool character. Seriously. He adds this raw, unpredictable energy that makes every scene he’s in better. I wanan give him a hug.
And Charlotte… I fell in love with her. She feels emotionally magnetic. You can’t help but root just wanna be her or be her.
Now I’m sitting here needing to know what happens next because it feels like things are about to get even juicier. It feels like we’re just scratching the surface of something big.
If the rest of the story keeps this same intensity and character depth, it’s going to be something special. I’m all in!
The police scene? Same thing. Intense, cinematic, and nerve-wracking. I didn't even realize I was holding my breath until it was over. I could see everything unfolding so clearly in my head, and when I watched the proof of concept, it was almost exactly how I had imagined it. That rarely happens, and it just proves how vividly this story is written.
What I love most is how invested I am in the characters. I trust Colin, I do. There’s something about him that feels right even when everything around him spirals. And Dumpster? What a cool character. Seriously. He adds this raw, unpredictable energy that makes every scene he’s in better. I wanan give him a hug.
And Charlotte… I fell in love with her. She feels emotionally magnetic. You can’t help but root just wanna be her or be her.
Now I’m sitting here needing to know what happens next because it feels like things are about to get even juicier. It feels like we’re just scratching the surface of something big.
If the rest of the story keeps this same intensity and character depth, it’s going to be something special. I’m all in!
February 16, 2026
In my opinion, this book is a masterpiece!
I found it beautifully written. Federica is so talented and her style is so unique and well-structured that it gives the illusion of seeing each story unfold before your eyes, like a canvas taking shape page by page.
I loved her way of expressing thoughts and situations that everyone can relate to, proving what a great artist she is.
I know she's working on turning this opera into a TV series and I hope she succeeds; it's worth bringing on screen.
I found it beautifully written. Federica is so talented and her style is so unique and well-structured that it gives the illusion of seeing each story unfold before your eyes, like a canvas taking shape page by page.
I loved her way of expressing thoughts and situations that everyone can relate to, proving what a great artist she is.
I know she's working on turning this opera into a TV series and I hope she succeeds; it's worth bringing on screen.
March 19, 2026
Wow! Wow! Woooow!
Oh my gosh! I cannot stress this enough, you neeeeed to read this book! This is easily one of the best books I’ve read this year and I cannot wait until it’s turned into a show! I related the most to Dumpster and the journal that his mom found was absolutely relatable! As someone who was diagnosed with the official disorder, it was so relatable. How Dumpster presents himself compared to what was in the journal… I felt like it was me. I really related to him and it made me that much more invested in the story! I loved the dual timeline and the ending had me flabbergasted! I wasn’t expecting it and I loved that! This book left me wanting more! And the fact that the author actually went through some of the stuff in the book is crazy! Wow! I’m telling you, get the book! You will not regret it!
Oh my gosh! I cannot stress this enough, you neeeeed to read this book! This is easily one of the best books I’ve read this year and I cannot wait until it’s turned into a show! I related the most to Dumpster and the journal that his mom found was absolutely relatable! As someone who was diagnosed with the official disorder, it was so relatable. How Dumpster presents himself compared to what was in the journal… I felt like it was me. I really related to him and it made me that much more invested in the story! I loved the dual timeline and the ending had me flabbergasted! I wasn’t expecting it and I loved that! This book left me wanting more! And the fact that the author actually went through some of the stuff in the book is crazy! Wow! I’m telling you, get the book! You will not regret it!
July 10, 2026
I honestly didn't expect The Monster's Club to affect me the way it did.
From the very first chapters, I felt like I was growing up alongside the characters. And I'm in my 30s. Their friendships, relationships, and emotions felt so real that by the end of the book they didn't feel like fictional characters anymore. They felt like people I'd known for years.
The '90s nostalgia was something I had been missing more than I realized. The music, the movies, the little pop culture references... it all brought me back to a simpler time. It made the story feel even more authentic, and I found myself smiling at so many of those little details before the book completely shattered my heart.
There were moments that genuinely made me cry. Not because the story tries to force emotion, but because you become so attached to these characters that their pain becomes yours. I kept thinking about them long after I finished reading.
One of my favorite things about the book is that it's really about love in all its forms: friendship, family, first love, loyalty, and the people who leave permanent marks on our lives. It's a mystery, but it's also a story about growing up and learning that some moments stay with you forever.
After finishing the book, I immediately looked up the cast of the upcoming adaptation, and I have to say Noah Andre feels like the perfect choice for Jackson. Now I can't wait to see him bring one of my favorite characters to life on screen.
I already know this is one of those stories I'll think about for a long time, and I'll be counting the days until Book Two.
From the very first chapters, I felt like I was growing up alongside the characters. And I'm in my 30s. Their friendships, relationships, and emotions felt so real that by the end of the book they didn't feel like fictional characters anymore. They felt like people I'd known for years.
The '90s nostalgia was something I had been missing more than I realized. The music, the movies, the little pop culture references... it all brought me back to a simpler time. It made the story feel even more authentic, and I found myself smiling at so many of those little details before the book completely shattered my heart.
There were moments that genuinely made me cry. Not because the story tries to force emotion, but because you become so attached to these characters that their pain becomes yours. I kept thinking about them long after I finished reading.
One of my favorite things about the book is that it's really about love in all its forms: friendship, family, first love, loyalty, and the people who leave permanent marks on our lives. It's a mystery, but it's also a story about growing up and learning that some moments stay with you forever.
After finishing the book, I immediately looked up the cast of the upcoming adaptation, and I have to say Noah Andre feels like the perfect choice for Jackson. Now I can't wait to see him bring one of my favorite characters to life on screen.
I already know this is one of those stories I'll think about for a long time, and I'll be counting the days until Book Two.
September 23, 2026
This one immediately caught my attention with its premise, cover, and especially its strong 90s vibes. I was really intrigued by the setup and wanted to see how everything would unfold.
One of my favorite parts was the way all the characters’ stories interconnected. I especially enjoyed the found family aspect and getting to see not only the kids and their friendships, but also how their parents and family lives tied into the bigger story in the end. There were definitely some characters I found myself not liking, but I ended up appreciating the story more as their journey unfolded because they were specifically written that way by the author for the story.
The pacing was definitely on the slower side for me, and I think that was partly because of my expectations. Going in, I thought this was more of a horror/thriller, but it actually ended up being more of a psychological drama and coming-of-age story. Rather than focusing heavily on horror, this story focuses more on kids being kids and how the choices they make can shape the rest of their lives.
Overall, I really enjoyed the nostalgic 90s atmosphere and the way the different pieces of everyone’s lives come together in the end. If you’re someone who loves 90s nostalgia, coming-of-age stories, found family, complicated friendships, and psychological drama with a darker mystery woven throughout, I think you should add this to your TBR.
Thank you to the author and Indie Author Insider for sending me a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
One of my favorite parts was the way all the characters’ stories interconnected. I especially enjoyed the found family aspect and getting to see not only the kids and their friendships, but also how their parents and family lives tied into the bigger story in the end. There were definitely some characters I found myself not liking, but I ended up appreciating the story more as their journey unfolded because they were specifically written that way by the author for the story.
The pacing was definitely on the slower side for me, and I think that was partly because of my expectations. Going in, I thought this was more of a horror/thriller, but it actually ended up being more of a psychological drama and coming-of-age story. Rather than focusing heavily on horror, this story focuses more on kids being kids and how the choices they make can shape the rest of their lives.
Overall, I really enjoyed the nostalgic 90s atmosphere and the way the different pieces of everyone’s lives come together in the end. If you’re someone who loves 90s nostalgia, coming-of-age stories, found family, complicated friendships, and psychological drama with a darker mystery woven throughout, I think you should add this to your TBR.
Thank you to the author and Indie Author Insider for sending me a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2026
Not gonna lie, I almost didn’t pick this up.
Thought it might lean too emotional for me. I was wrong.
The prank felt stupid in the most believable way. The kind of thing you’d actually do at 17 because you think you’re invincible. And when it goes wrong, it doesn’t feel dramatic. It feels sick. Real.
What I didn’t expect was the shift in the middle of the book. The night they’re drinking and things start coming out during a game. That scene changes everything. The tone tightens. You start seeing the cracks between them. The loyalty doesn’t look the same anymore.
Up until then, it’s about the mistake. After that, it’s about character.
Jackson’s decisions make more sense, but in a worse way. You see the calculation. The self preservation. The ego.
By the time the story moves forward in time, you’re not just wondering what happened. You’re wondering who these guys actually are.
That turn in the middle is what makes the book different. It doesn’t stay in one lane. It evolves.
I wanna see this on the screen.
Thought it might lean too emotional for me. I was wrong.
The prank felt stupid in the most believable way. The kind of thing you’d actually do at 17 because you think you’re invincible. And when it goes wrong, it doesn’t feel dramatic. It feels sick. Real.
What I didn’t expect was the shift in the middle of the book. The night they’re drinking and things start coming out during a game. That scene changes everything. The tone tightens. You start seeing the cracks between them. The loyalty doesn’t look the same anymore.
Up until then, it’s about the mistake. After that, it’s about character.
Jackson’s decisions make more sense, but in a worse way. You see the calculation. The self preservation. The ego.
By the time the story moves forward in time, you’re not just wondering what happened. You’re wondering who these guys actually are.
That turn in the middle is what makes the book different. It doesn’t stay in one lane. It evolves.
I wanna see this on the screen.
February 16, 2026
What a great book, guys! This story is intense, emotional, and incredibly powerful from the very first page. I love that it focuses on something much more real and disturbing, the darkness that can exist inside ordinary people.
There are no actual monsters in this story. The real monsters are simply bad people who make selfish, cruel, and manipulative choices. The characters feel authentic and complex, and their actions create tension that feels painfully realistic.
What impressed me most is how unpredictable the story is. I could not anticipate what would happen next. Every chapter brought new twists and emotional turns that kept me completely engaged. The suspense builds naturally through the characters and their decisions, making it impossible to stop reading.
I am Italian and I am very proud. This book shows strength, passion, and powerful storytelling that reflects the depth and creativity of Italian writers. It is a meaningful and unforgettable read that stays with you long after you finish it. 🇮🇹
There are no actual monsters in this story. The real monsters are simply bad people who make selfish, cruel, and manipulative choices. The characters feel authentic and complex, and their actions create tension that feels painfully realistic.
What impressed me most is how unpredictable the story is. I could not anticipate what would happen next. Every chapter brought new twists and emotional turns that kept me completely engaged. The suspense builds naturally through the characters and their decisions, making it impossible to stop reading.
I am Italian and I am very proud. This book shows strength, passion, and powerful storytelling that reflects the depth and creativity of Italian writers. It is a meaningful and unforgettable read that stays with you long after you finish it. 🇮🇹
February 16, 2026
I have read all the reviews from readers of Federica's book, and I am pleased to note that the spirit and essence of what the author has written have been truly captured. As a mother, I can say that Federica developed a keen interest in cinema from a very young age, particularly in everything that goes into production. She didn’t play with dolls; instead, she wanted videotapes of her favorite films or cartoons. She sought out stories that would fill her creative spaces. She was born an artist, and I wholeheartedly agree with those who express a desire to see this work on the big screen. You deserve it, Federica. This would be your dream. Your countless sacrifices, studies, renunciations, and struggles deserve tangible recognition. You have immense potential and preparation. This book of yours traverses various topics. It is a visual narrative that not only appeals to those born in the '90s but also resonates with the generation of parents from that era, revealing truths that cannot be ignored. Wishing you the very best in all your endeavors. Love, Mom 🌹
February 15, 2026
I can immediately tell that Federica is a filmmaker at heart. Her point of view is incredible, and her writing is so visual that I could see each scene unfolding before me. It honestly felt like I was watching a movie rather than reading a book. I’ve also seen her proof of concept for the TV series and other projects, and I really admire her style.
I connected deeply with Colin. His inner thoughts, especially when he is alone, felt authentic and relatable. His love story with Charlotte is tender, emotional, and beautifully written. It stayed with me long after I finished reading, which took me like a day because it's so good!
I also read that Ben Armstrong has been considered for the role of Jackson, and he looks exactly as I imagined him. He would be a perfect fit. I truly hope this becomes a TV series one day because it already feels cinematic.
I connected deeply with Colin. His inner thoughts, especially when he is alone, felt authentic and relatable. His love story with Charlotte is tender, emotional, and beautifully written. It stayed with me long after I finished reading, which took me like a day because it's so good!
I also read that Ben Armstrong has been considered for the role of Jackson, and he looks exactly as I imagined him. He would be a perfect fit. I truly hope this becomes a TV series one day because it already feels cinematic.
February 15, 2026
I’m currently reading The Monster's Club by Federica Alice Carlino** and I already feel like I need to share how much I love this story.
Even though I’m not finished yet, this book means so much to me. I struggle with an eating disorder and I am a lesbian, and I can see myself so clearly in Dumpster’s character. The way Dumpster’s feelings and identity are written feels honest and real. It does not feel forced or dramatic, it just feels true.
There is something so powerful about feeling seen in a book. Sometimes it is hard to explain what you are going through, but when I read this story I feel understood. I feel less alone. That connection is something really special.
I still have more to read, but right now I can honestly say I love this story. It already has a place in my heart and I cannot wait to see how it continues.
Even though I’m not finished yet, this book means so much to me. I struggle with an eating disorder and I am a lesbian, and I can see myself so clearly in Dumpster’s character. The way Dumpster’s feelings and identity are written feels honest and real. It does not feel forced or dramatic, it just feels true.
There is something so powerful about feeling seen in a book. Sometimes it is hard to explain what you are going through, but when I read this story I feel understood. I feel less alone. That connection is something really special.
I still have more to read, but right now I can honestly say I love this story. It already has a place in my heart and I cannot wait to see how it continues.
February 15, 2026
The characters are complex and believable, especially the protagonist, whose fear and determination feel palpable. The writer has a knack for creating atmospheric settings that heighten the suspense, making you feel as if you are right there, hiding and watching every step of the way.
The pacing is excellent, with twists that feel earned rather than forced, and the climax delivers a satisfying mix of shock and emotional payoff. While the story can be intense at times, it’s exactly what fans of thrillers and coming of age look for.
Overall, The Monster's Club is a thrilling, well crafted read that I would highly recommend to anyone who loves suspense, mystery, and a touch of horror.
I want more,
The pacing is excellent, with twists that feel earned rather than forced, and the climax delivers a satisfying mix of shock and emotional payoff. While the story can be intense at times, it’s exactly what fans of thrillers and coming of age look for.
Overall, The Monster's Club is a thrilling, well crafted read that I would highly recommend to anyone who loves suspense, mystery, and a touch of horror.
I want more,
February 16, 2026
I have to admit that I usually read spicy books, so picking this up felt different for me and in the best way. There are maybe two or three intimate moments, but they are written with such taste and sensitivity that they never feel vulgar or exaggerated. STILL HOT THOUGH! They serve the story.
What really stands out is the atmosphere. It genuinely feels like stepping back into the late 90s.
It’s refreshing to read something that focuses on suspense, character depth, and emotional consequences instead of relying on explicit content.
Definitely not what I expected, and I mean that in the best way.
I bought this in Burbank at a book vending machine at Three Sisters and I fell in love with the cover!
What really stands out is the atmosphere. It genuinely feels like stepping back into the late 90s.
It’s refreshing to read something that focuses on suspense, character depth, and emotional consequences instead of relying on explicit content.
Definitely not what I expected, and I mean that in the best way.
I bought this in Burbank at a book vending machine at Three Sisters and I fell in love with the cover!
February 16, 2026
I wasn’t even born in the ’90s, but reading The Monster’s Club genuinely made me feel like I was there. That’s how vivid and immersive the writing is. Everything feels so real. I swear I could reach out and touch the characters, kind of wish I could (Jackson LOL).
How do you even create nostalgia for an era someone didn’t live through? Because somehow, you did. You pulled me into a time I never experienced and made it feel personal. That’s rare.
I LOVE THIS. PLEASE WRITE THE SECOND BOOK!!!! WHAT A CLIFFHANGER, GIRL. 😭
How do you even create nostalgia for an era someone didn’t live through? Because somehow, you did. You pulled me into a time I never experienced and made it feel personal. That’s rare.
I LOVE THIS. PLEASE WRITE THE SECOND BOOK!!!! WHAT A CLIFFHANGER, GIRL. 😭
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews