Make No Mistake

by Steph Nelson

She needs a miracle. What she gets is a nightmare.

Dalice is barely keeping it together. Not only is she a single parent juggling two dead-end jobs. She's also caring for her critically ill toddler, scraping together every dollar she can for the heart transplant he’ll need someday.

But when someday becomes today, she gets desperate.

Then Dalice meets Shane. He’s charming, kind, and part of a mysterious group led by a woman who claims to have healing abilities.

Dalice is skeptical at first. But the miracles the group promises seem alluringly real. And with her son’s life hanging in the balance, she’s willing to overlook the fact that the supposed healings come at a devastating cost … one that even the most devoted mother may not be able to pay.



Previously titled The Threshing Floor

Genres: Thriller, Horror, Mystery Thriller, Cults, Mystery, Magical Realism

346 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 11, 2024

About the author

A lifelong PNW girl, Steph currently lives in Boise, Idaho.

Her books have been reviewed in the New York Times and Library Journal.

She loves long walks by the Boise River, thrifting for vintage clothing, yoga, traveling just about anywhere, and devouring books.

Find her on Instagram/Threads: @stephnelsonauthor

Reviews

[Sidney]

dnf at page 214. I just don't care about anyone or anything happening in this book. But here's my summary of what I read

Dalice is a single mom to a sick son. She needs to pick up a second job to help cover the cost of his medical bills & make ends meet.. On day one of the new job she meets a group of church people & within that group is Shane & a woman she knew in high school Mickey. From there it's pretty much reading about two mid 30 something's pining over each other like some freshmen in high school. Like literally within a month of meeting this man Dalice is like " omg I'm so in love with him " please be so for real . I hated Dalice. Like ma'am needs to be worrying about her son in the hospital not stressing about when she gets to see Shane again.

ANYWHO Mickey decided to invite Dalice to an event where she meets Reva. She learns Reva has the ability to heal people. Immediately, Dalice is like ohhhh she can heal my son of his condition so she decided to join the group/cult. At this point I really would have thought this is where it picked up. 40 pages later & still nothing has happened.

I had really high expectations for this like I really really tried to push through but I couldn't. This was a total snooze fest for me. I don't like the instant love trope. I don't like that Dalice is more concerned with Shane than her son. It was just overall not for me.

[gabi · Rating 3 out of 5]

everyone in this book is so dumb god bless

[Nicola Cox · Rating 3 out of 5]

this was a good read had the cult vibes chapters were really short which helped to fly through this book the writing was good but this book won’t be memorable to me I wanted more shock factor that would of really would of given me reason to higher the rating I kind of guessed the plot reveal which is why I gave it a lower rating

[cupid. ˚ʚ♡ɞ˚ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted this book to give what I thought it was gonna give, and it didn’t. A single, struggling, mom being lured into a cult so she could get ‘miracle healing’ for her baby son who needs a new heart? Being lured in and having to survive the horrors and creepiness of the cult to get back to her kid? That was my assumption.

It’s far from what happens. Instead our protagonist Dalice ends up falling insta in love with the antagonist’s brother, Shane, and for the most of the book all they do is make googoo eyes at eachother and do the hanky panky in between the flashbacks of Reva’s and Shane’s life growing up, and how she inherited her healing ability and how it was exploited. There was less cult and more soap opera / weird love triangle, I wasn’t sure if Reva had more than sisterly feelings toward her brother or not. The only real good bit was 80% in when everything went down. This was definitely less thriller and more just…. Romance with ( barely ) creepy vibes thrown in.The writing also felt clunky and the characters robotic. How they were written to react to Major things happening was insane. It was like sims characters when someone dies and they exclaim over the dead body before going to make a grilled cheese like nothing happened.

I would not recommend this if you’re looking for an actual thriller / horror read.

[K~Terror · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 ⭐️ | This was a fast-paced emotional read that I devoured in no time. Very entertaining and easy to connect with the characters.

[Jessica Wallace · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not quite 4⭐️’s but a solid 3.5 ⭐️’s. I thought the beginning started off slow, felt like forever to actually pick up. Interesting concept a girl with magical hands made of gold meant to heal anyone only later to be used for her own personal greed and torture. But she was just like her mother so the apple didnt fall too far from the tree. Idk how Shane could have put his entire life aside to abide by his psycho sister’s commands. I guess it does go to show how far a parent will go in order to do what they need to do in order to protect their children l. Idk if I missed it but what happened to Juniper?! Overall everything seemed to happen in the last 100 pages wish there was more to start with vs waiting till the end. I almost didnt finish it.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book!! Loved all the twists and turns!!!

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up to 4.

I think this book was a fun time and had a lot of potential. The cult aspect was really fascinating, and I really enjoyed the multiple POVs of the main characters. It was interesting to see the different points of view, someone who was intrigued by the cult and willing to do anything to save her child, and the brother of the cult leader, who desperately wanted to leave. I also loved seeing the flashbacks into the cult leader's life, and how her "origin story" essentially started. The supernatural aspect was also a really fun addition to the plot.

I think I was expecting the cult to be a little more disturbing/darker than it was. Don't get me wrong, some of the actions taken by the cult leader WERE extremely dark, but I think even compared to Steph's previous novel, The Final Scene, this one felt a little tamer. I also felt like the ending was predictable, and there was a trope included that I absolutely hate in a book (even though I saw it coming and it did make sense for the plot), I just was not a fan of that. I also just couldn't relate much to the FMC's actions to save her child, because a) I don't have a child and I'm not entirely sure that's something I would ever want and b) even if I did have a child, I think more logically than emotionally, and I just don't think I could justify joining a cult willingly if it meant my child could MAYBE be saved.

I do think this book was perfectly fine, but thinking back on it, I do feel like it either needed something a little more, or I just wasn't quite the audience for this one.

[KayleeNeedsANewBook · Rating 4 out of 5]

Make No Mistake by Steph Nelson 🎧
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Seriously, I just devoured the audiobook for Steph Nelson's Make No Mistake, and let me tell you, it was a total mind trip! Huge thanks to Libro.fm and Simon & Schuster Audio for hooking me up with the free copy for this review.

What made this book so creepy for me is how much it hit home. It gets right into that terrifying question every parent thinks about: How far would you actually go to save your child? That fierce, primal instinct, doing whatever it takes to make sure your babies are okay, is the strong emotional pull that just grabbed me and didn't let go. I ate up every single second of this mother's fight.

The book is fast-paced and super entertaining, mixing a compelling love story with some seriously intense religious stuff. "Delusions" is the word I landed on, but honestly, you have to read it to see how deep the rabbit hole goes. At its core, this is a thriller about a desperate woman fighting for everything she loves, and it's a ride you won't want to miss.

Keywords
Good Thriller Suspense Audiobook StephNelson MakeNoMistake Mother Daughter Love Family Betrayal Religious Cult FastPaced EmotionalGripping Review

Hashtags
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[Kaytlin Griffith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish they’d kept the original title “The Threshing Floor” because it would’ve made more sense than “make no mistake” because what mistakes? 🤔

Anyways.. Dalice being pronounced “Dallas” drove me nuts. Why couldn’t it just be Dallas? Also, the way she treated her sister made me want to throat punch her. She was a whiney brat of a woman in her 30s. Throwing a fit when her sister didn’t bend over backwards for her.

Now that we’re past that.. the actual story line was great! A little different from what I normally read with the magical powers type of thing but I still enjoyed it! I mean a healing cult? What could go wrong there, am I right? 😅🫢 I didn’t expect it to become so gruesome towards the end but it made sense that Reva wasn’t a good person. I need a sequel with Sera & how they handle that though!

[Megan King · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rounded up to 5. Really enjoyed this one!! Steph Nelson knows how to write a captivating thriller.

[Amanda Readss · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️ Good read. Didn’t mind the cult, healer storyline, but I couldn’t get past the gold hands.

[Cassie Shingler · Rating 4 out of 5]

such an interesting story line. got a little boring in the middle but the end had me glued

[Simone · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emotional and gripping, this thriller had me hooked from the very beginning.

At its core, it asks the haunting question: How far would you go to save your child? Told through dual timelines, the story captures a mother’s desperation and fierce determination as she fights against impossible odds.

This isn’t just a twisty thriller—it’s an intense, emotional ride with well-drawn characters you can’t help but root for until the very last page. The pacing, suspense, and heartache blend beautifully, making it impossible to put down.

Thank you to Steph Nelson and Xpresso Book Tours for the ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Eliza · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

This was….something. You know when you watch horror movies and think “you can’t possibly be this stupid”? Well, Dallas is in fact that stupid. Every red flag she sees as a beacon to run towards instead of away from. That’s really all I can say about this without spoiling it but let’s just say I spent most of this annoyed

[Dotti Enderle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love books about cults and this one did not disappoint. I read it in one sitting. This is a roller coaster of a story, demonstrating the lengths folks will go through for the ones they love. Check the trigger warnings then dive in.

[Sheri Sheldon · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wanted it to be creepy like chapter one
Was not

[Justine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Simon Maverick for letting me listen and enjoy this book.

I feel like the synopsis doesn’t tell the reader how much religion/ religious aspects play a part in this book. I know cults usually go hand in hand with religion but the way it was written gave me the ick and it just gave religious vibes and I was not here for it. I actually almost DNF’d the book because of it. I do like the fact that the author talks about a child with a very severe illness that would end tragically if not heart transplant happens soon and the ending of the book the author talks about her own experience with the same thing and her child. I didn’t really care for the intsa love but it was fine. What I didn’t like was the becoming friends with an old high school person who was a jerk to you, I would never. It felt staged because she wanted to get Dalice (Dallas didn’t bother me because I listened to the audio) to come to the meetings. Reminds me of everyone and selling the MLM’s and never talking to you until they try to sell you something. I was intrigued at the very ending when things actually started happening. Pacing was fine I got through it quickly. Narrators were also good I enjoyed listening to them and I’m glad the male and females voiced themselves.
I don’t think I’d recommend that his read due to the religious feel of it.

[Kennedy Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

hey so steph, girl i need you so badly to write 24/7 so i can read your books all day long everyday.

this book was so compelling, i literally could not think of anything else, all i wanted to do was read this book. much like the final scene, it was SO original. i feel like i have read the same thriller a thousand times, but these two books have completely reminded me why i love the genre.

the cult aspect was so well done, i loved the back and forth of finding out how it came to be paired with the current events happening. it shows you how easily people can be drawn in AND how someone can come to be a leader as well.

i felt for all the characters, even reva somehow (well until the end LOL). i loved the ten years later epilogue and wanted a 20 years and 30 years and 40 years later. that last line, cmon steph !!!!!! it's stuck in my brain forever now.

seriously though, if you want original plot lines in the thriller genre with a hint of spice and a shit ton of evil characters, steph's books are for you!!!!!!!

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed Steph Nelson’s books and her writing. This was the first one I have read on audio and it definitely pulled me in at first. I thought the plot was creative but there were parts where I wanted for more depth and background. I would have enjoyed hearing how Reva and Shane pulled their group together or what happened in their lives after their Mom passed away. I also thought the open and shut police case on their Mom’s death was odd. No further investigation just seemed to be too good to be true. I understand Dalice was desperate for Cash to be healed, but it felt like that caused her to ignore every red flag waving in front of her telling her to run far away. I liked that Shane seemed to genuinely care for Dalice & Cash, but it did seem like their relationship moved quickly and they still only surface level knew each other. There were moments I saw coming way ahead of time, but it was still an interesting and fun read. The ending? Again, I called the twist ahead of time-but I loved how that popped in!!

[Cassandra Kingman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Make No Mistake by Steph Nelson was honestly a wild ride from start to finish. This book is chaotic in the best way, and the villain? Completely twisted. Like, every time you think it can’t get worse, it somehow does.

The FMC though… she drove me insane. I get it—she’s a mom, and she’s going to do whatever it takes to protect her child. That part made sense. But at the same time, she was told over and over again to get out, and the red flags were basically screaming at her. And she still stayed. It was one of those situations where you understand why she’s doing it, but you’re still sitting there like “WHY are you doing this??”

And her sister? Absolutely terrible. She added nothing but frustration to the situation and just made everything worse every time she showed up.

Overall, this book was messy, stressful, and completely addictive. I was frustrated half the time, but I still couldn’t put it down. If you like thrillers with unhinged villains and characters making questionable decisions, this one definitely delivers.

[Kate Stinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book mixes several genres to create a unique, thrilling and a little bit spooky experience. I loved the mix of cult-y vibes from Reva’s “worship group.” I couldn’t help but rationalize the main characters actions throughout the book. Just how far would you go for your child’s wellbeing? We see how far Dalice would go when given the opportunity to heal her son’s congenital heart defect. The idea of “the threshing floor” happening at the group’s meetings was really odd but also added those cult-y vibes, like a peek behind the curtain of what desperate and lonely people will do when lead by a power hungry leader. It also all comes together in the end, exactly why Reva needs this weird group activity for her healing powers. Overall I thought the characters were well written, with a suspenseful plot line throughout. There is a 10 year time jump in the epilogue that I LOVED! ended on a high note for sure!

[Jamie Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I was finishing the last chapter of the book I was set at about 3.5 stars. It was the author's note at the end that boosted this story. I wish we could have experienced more depth in Dalice and Shane's relationship and falling in love. It felt like a lot of that happened off the pages which just made it a little less of an emotional impact. however, I loved what we did get to experience with them. I felt sorry for the villain of the story too. She went through a very difficult childhood and was not given any practical insight on what was right and wrong. She had to make her own way and it unfortunately turned negative. I enjoyed the cult feeling of the book but was a bit disappointed when Shane had his epiphany that he was a part of one. I was happy it was an HEA but it was a long trip to get there. I would have liked to see Brandy and Dalice's relationship more detailed as well. I did love the little twist at the end but I was expecting it.

[Ali · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting story

The concept was certain interesting. Finding out more about Reva was my main interest, but the reveas weren't very surprising. The romance between Dalice and Shane didn't matter to me and I still find it odd that Dalice could focus so much on Shane when her two year old needs a heart transplant. Obviously, the woman needs a break/ time to destress, all that, but when the story makes a point of how needing the transplant so early means the kid is in a precarious life or death situation, wouldn't that always be at the forefront of her mind? And I know it's silly, but damn do I hate that the kid's name is Cash! I rolled my eyes at that every time.
Again, nothing was too surprising, especially the last reveals about Reva (did the author get her name by rearranging the letters in Vera?) But it was still an entertaining enough read.

[Faithe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Make no mistake by Steph Nelson is a psychological thriller.

Dalice is struggling, shes trying to balance two jobs while being a single parent to a critically ill toddler. Then one day, at her second job, which she took just for the insurance she meets Shane. Shane is kind and charming and seems like a nice church going person. Except the church is not a church at all, and is run by Shane's sister, someone who has healing abilities. Dalice is skeptical but willing to try anything if it could mean helping her son.

It took a bit to sort out the flow of the story and who is who at the beginning of the book. I was not a fan of Dalice's sister and don't understand why she had to be so unlikeable. The ending was full of twists, turns and suspense.

Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book. The opinions in this review are my own.

[Kansas Shearer · Rating 2 out of 5]

Dalice’s desperation as a single mom trying to save her sick son is compelling, and Reva’s backstory, being exploited by her mother, explains her need for control.

But the execution fell flat. The “threshing floor” felt ridiculous, and I wanted more development—more detail about the cult, their rules, and motivations. I also expected darker, creepier, more structured cult behavior. Instead, it felt tamer and underwhelming. Many character decisions didn’t make sense, especially Reva’s brother staying for all these years.

Also… the whole endless french fries thing? It’s mentioned like it’s this defining trait of the group, but it barely shows up in the story in any meaningful way.

[Kas Marek · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC.

This one wasn't bad, but it didn't really work for me. I love the idea of cults in horror/thrillers, but this cult just seemed stupid. The FMC's name is Dalice (pronounced Dallas) and her son's name is Cash. That alone made me kind of hate this book.

Dalice was way too trusting with near strangers around her son, and I kept getting caught up on how she takes her son this cult and lets strangers watch him upstairs.

Anyway, wasn't terrible but likely not something I would recommend.

[M Jacobs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a great time reading this book it was entertaining and suspenseful. I wanted more of the cult development and the community's reaction to possible cult like activity. I also wouldn't mine if the end contained more gruesome scenes. A better understanding of the appearance of the gold dust would have been a nice touch, perhaps a more sinister origin. Dalice's decision-making skills were questionable at best however, I understood her motivation. The ending was great! Thank you to NetGalley and Ticking Clock Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Noelle Ihli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chilling, heartbreaking, twisted, and unexpectedly tender. If you're a cult-thriller fan, or you think you MIGHT be, this is your book. Because this isn’t just a story about cults; it’s about resilience, sacrifice, and the terrifying beauty of what a mother will do to save her child. Dalice’s love for her son Cash is the heartbeat of the book, and watching her navigate the glittering promises—and dangers—of a secretive religious community had me glued to the pages. By the end, I felt both gutted and grateful, and the author's note hit me straight in the chest.

Do NOT sit on this one.

[Karen B · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a mother myself, I related to Dalice’s need to do whatever she could for her sick son, and the lengths she did go to help him. This was suspenseful, chilling and emotional, and the flashbacks of the healing plot was a welcomed addition. I enjoyed how fast-paced and engaging it was. The dual narration of Lexis Danca and Ryan H. Reid was wonderful. The pleas of Dalice could be heard in Lexis’s voice and I enjoyed the calming, soothing voice of Ryan for Shane. I am glad I got to experience this on audio, it was quite captivating.
Thanks to Simon Maverick for the gifted audiobook.