Doe

by Rebecca Barrow

Thrilling crossover YA Horror perfect for fans of Krystal Sutherland and Tiffany Jackson, where the captain of a high school cheer team is caught in a bitter rivalry and turns to an ancient, supernatural creature for help, not knowing she’s just made a deal with a devil and could lose everything that matters, including her life.

Maris Larsen is the captain of the West Eaton High cheer team. She’s Coach’s favorite and the team worships her. Being on the team makes her feel special—powerful. When she’s leading the girls on the mat, Maris doesn’t have to think about her dead-end life in a dead-end town. She can forget about her depressed mother and absent father and the fact that her girlfriend doesn’t really love her. But when newcomer and Coach’s new golden girl, Genevieve Ray, joins the team, the only thing going right in Maris’s life is suddenly in jeopardy. A bitter rivalry develops between the two, but Maris is determined to take Genevieve down. The knife she needs to wield comes to Maris in her dreams.

While sleepwalking, Maris is visited by a monstrous, decaying beast in the shape of an enormous deer. Doe is an ancient, tired creature who has been wandering, trapped in her current form for decades. She cannot die, but she cannot go on living as she has. Only a girl related by blood to those who bound her in this form can free her, but those girls she loved died years ago—murdered in a fire.

But Maris is somehow linked to Doe’s beloved girls—linked by blood—and so she has the power to free Doe, to unleash her immense power. In Maris’s dreams, she and Doe form a bond, but Maris doesn’t know the creature from her dreams is real. Maris doesn’t understand the danger she’s in. She only knows Doe has promised her a way to win her battle with Genevieve. But for Maris to win, someone has to die, and the only real winner in the end will be Doe.

Genres: Horror, Young Adult, LGBT, Queer, Fiction, Fantasy, Novel In Verse

368 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication June 23, 2026

About the author

Rebecca Barrow is the critically acclaimed author of Bad Things Happen Here, Interview with the Vixen, This Is What It Feels Like, and You Don’t Know Me But I Know You. She is a lover of sunshine, the sea, and Old Hollywood icons. She lives and writes in England. Visit her at www.rebeccabarrow.com

Reviews

[Prof. Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Doe by Rebecca Barrow is an unsettling yet mesmerizing journey into the mind of a girl caught between her desires, her past, and an ancient supernatural force. Unfolding more like a series of deep personal inner thoughts than a traditional narrative, the book immerses readers deeply into Maris Larsen’s psyche, making it a psychological thriller that lingers long after the final page.

What truly sets Doe apart is its unconventional storytelling style. The aphoristic style format—composed of Maris' deepest thoughts—creates an intimate, almost voyeuristic experience. This approach invites us to witness her raw, unfiltered thoughts as she grapples with her tumultuous life: the weight of her role as cheer captain, her strained relationship with her depressed mother, her feelings of inadequacy, and her complicated romance. It’s this internal dialogue that makes her character so real and relatable, even amid the supernatural chaos.

The supernatural element, embodied by the ancient, decaying creature named Doe, adds a dark, visceral layer to the story. The creature’s presence feels both mythic and disturbingly tangible, blurring the lines between nightmares and reality. Maris’s dreams, where she interacts with Doe, are vividly written—both thrilling and terrifying—highlighting her psychological unraveling. The twist lies in how her desire for power and her rivalry with Genevieve unwittingly lead her deeper into this supernatural web, revealing how her past magical bonding with Doe has haunting consequences.

Barrow masterfully explores themes of power, rivalry, and identity, all wrapped in a suspenseful, horror-tinged narrative. The plot twists keep the tension high, especially as Maris unknowingly makes a deal with a devil—literally—without fully understanding the stakes. The idea that someone must die for her to win, and that she might be the one to pay the ultimate price, adds a heartbreaking layer of moral ambiguity that lingers.

Fans of YA horror and dark psychological thrillers like Krystal Sutherland and Tiffany Jackson will find Doe to be a compelling crossover—part coming-of-age story, part supernatural nightmare. It’s a haunting reminder of how past traumas and unexamined desires can open doors to forces beyond our understanding. Barrow’s writing is evocative, intense, and richly atmospheric, making Doe a book that’s hard to put down.

While I would have loved a bit more resolution at the end, the ambiguity and moral complexity make Doe a thought-provoking read. It’s a beautifully dark tale about the cost of power and the danger of diving into things we don’t fully understand. I recommend it to anyone looking for a psychological thriller that’s as creepy as it is emotionally gripping.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance copy from the publisher via Netgalley for review purposes; this in no way influences my review.

This was my first by Rebecca Barrow, and I definitely plan to read more of her catalog. I really loved the way Doe was written and the way different perspectives were presented. I especially loved Doe’s history and how it led to her present situation. It was a really fascinating read and one that when I could sit down to read, I didn’t want to put it down. As much as I enjoyed Maris and Doe and Team especially, the ending felt almost sudden. It made sense, everything was leading up to it, but I didn’t wholly enjoy the turns it took. I wouldn’t necessarily describe Doe as a “scary” read, but it’s definitely tense and I just really loved how Team chapters built this feeling of one organism made of many girls, each dealing with different difficult situations, and finding their only joy and solace in cheer and the group of girls. Definitely a fascinating read.

[Haley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance physical copy from Penguin Teen Canada in exchange for an honest review.

This book wasn’t what I expected going in, but I enjoyed the journey! I haven’t seen any mentions of this, but the story is told in prose which originally took me by surprise. This results in a fast-paced, and occasionally abrupt story, where we change between the different perspectives (Genevieve, Maris, the team).

Doe is an ancient deer-like god-creature which used to support a group of girls in the distant past. Now, she finds Maris who is a descendant of one of those girls. Maris happens to be the only person who can see Doe.

Maris is captain of her teams cheer squad, cheer is her entire life and her value comes from being captain. When a new girl, Genevieve is added to the team, she feels threatened.

Stereotypical cheer bitchiness ensues, and Maris gets more and more cruel with Doe whispering in her ear.

A unique, fast paced read!

[Tonia]

3.5stars
DOE surrounds primarily around the life of Maris a captain on the cheerleading team. The team is her family, the only one she really has. So, when Genevieve, a top gymnast that knows the coach is added on the team Maris feels her spot being threatened.
Also in the background is DOE a creature that has been watching Maris for a while because she knew her grandmother and now she wants Maris.

The story is written in prose, which complicates the depths of the characters and the blending of the past and present. I feel like this story was meant to be more complex and the prose writing does not give way to show the layers needed for the story to be that 5 star. Even with the short writing it took me a while to get through it.

Thank you netgalley and penguin young readers group for this arc

[Trisha]

this cover is gorgeous!

A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A verse novel about a girl, Maris, who wants everything in the world but feels she deserves nothing. The one thing she truly has is her team - until Genevieve shows up to take that from her, too. Then, in her dreams, Maris meets Doe, an ancient creature with incredible powers… if only she weren’t bound. Doe will help Maris, but it will come with a cost.

The book was beautifully written, and being a verse novel, a quick read! Dark, enchanting, tense, and occasionally terrifying.

[Nicole Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Nancy Paulsen Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Rebecca Barrow’s “Doe” is a chilling, poetic YA horror story that combines supernatural dread with the brutal social hierarchies of high school cheerleading. Told entirely in verse, this is a quick but emotionally heavy read; it’s one that uses lyricism to explore jealousy, power, obsession, and the dangerous pull of belonging.

At the center of the story is Maris Larsen, the captain of a small-town cheer squad that functions less like a team and more like a hive mind. To these girls, cheerleading is everything: identity, future, family. There is even a collective “we” perspective from the cheer team’s POV to show the extent of their togetherness. To be cut from the team is to be erased. Maris thrives on this power, using it to escape her bleak home life and uncertain future, but her control is threatened when Genevieve Ray, a talented, confident newcomer, joins the squad mid-season and refuses to play by Maris’s rules. What begins as rivalry quickly turns poisonous.

Enter Doe: an ancient, supernatural creature in the form of a decaying deer, bound by a curse and tethered to Maris by blood and legacy. Doe is not human, not moral, and not gentle. Through dreamlike, sleepwalking encounters, Doe offers Maris exactly what she wants, such as power, control, and victory, all at a terrible cost. While Maris believes she is using Doe as a weapon against Genevieve, it becomes increasingly clear that Doe has its own agenda. All Doe has ever wanted is freedom, and it is willing to destroy everything to get it.

The story rotates between perspectives: Maris’s controlling, fear-driven voice; Doe’s haunting, ancient perspective; Genevieve’s quiet vulnerability; and the chapters told from the collective “we” of the cheer team itself. These collective chapters are especially effective, emphasizing how groupthink erases individuality and fuels cruelty, while also highlighting the genuine strength and comfort found in female togetherness and found family.

Barrow excels at atmosphere. The horror here is more psychological than graphic, but several moments linger long after the final page. The slow build means Doe’s full plan takes time to unfold over the course of half the book, but the tension steadily tightens, creating an ominous sense of inevitability. While the middle felt repetitive at times and the ending was a bit undeveloped, the conclusion is deeply unsettling and intentionally tragic. Doe gets what it wants, but the cost is irreversible, leaving behind loss, guilt, and sacrifice.

Importantly, “Doe” does not offer a traditional hero. Maris is selfish, manipulative, and terrified of losing her status; Genevieve is largely an innocent casualty of another girl’s insecurity; and Doe, while sympathetic in its suffering, is ultimately a violent force of destruction. The story serves as a cautionary tale about obsession, the dangers of unchecked power, and what happens when insecurity is given supernatural teeth.

Overall, “Doe” is a dark, lyrical YA horror story perfect for older teen readers who enjoy slow-burn dread, morally messy characters, and stories about toxic group dynamics. With its Yellowjackets-like vibes, poetic structure, and unsettling supernatural presence, this book is both a sharp critique of high school social hierarchies and a haunting meditation on what we sacrifice to feel powerful and to belong.

[Aurora · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this novel in verse, a bitter rivalry forms when a cheerleading coach admits the daughter of her friend into the team without a tryout mid-season. Genevieve doesn’t fit in with the cheer team, and Maris, the former captain, begins thinking about how she can get rid of her. Meanwhile, Doe, an eldritch-like entity that can only be seen by descendants of a specific bloodline due to a binding spell, begins meeting with Maris and convincing her to help her escape her bindings.

If you were a fan of Dare Me (the book or the TV show) I think you’ll find a lot to love in Doe. Unlike a lot of media about cheerleaders, there are barely any male characters in this book. They’re essentially a footnote or only used for the development of the female characters. Most of them aren’t even named. It is, ironically, more gay than the recently released young adult book Queerleaders. Most of the girls on Maris’s cheer team aren’t straight, and the love triangle has no men in it. Doe, the eldritch deer entity the book is named after, initially doesn’t know how to answer the question “are you a boy or a girl”, but ends up adopting she/her pronouns, so I think it can be confidently said that she’s a female eldritch deer entity. She also has plenty of female rage, in a horror way.

Speaking of Doe, I was surprised by how sympathetic a protagonist she was. You wouldn’t really think she would be from the description, but you can understand the pain she experiences when she bonds with a group of girls and it doesn’t go well. She’s trapped in a decaying deer body and invisible to almost the entire world, which yeah, would make pretty much anyone go insane, even if you’re a nature spirit or eldritch entity or whatever.

Doe also does a good job of portraying how trapped all the girls on the cheerleading team feel about their situation. They’re not popular girls, unlike how cheerleaders tend to be presented in media, and they’re not rich (they’re quite the opposite). They come from broken homes and their cheer team is their one safe haven, even if it does give them a bit of a mob mentality when something like Genevieve’s entrance onto the team disrupts things.

The verse was a somewhat unconventional style for telling this story in, as was having one of the “main characters” be a first-person plural group (the team), but I think those choices worked well. I’m not a particularly big reader of poetry, but it worked well like how Sonya Sones’ novels in verse work. Fans of her books will find a lot to enjoy in Doe.

Doe releases June 23 from Nancy Paulsen Books. Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin Young Readers Group and Rebecca Barrow for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Kelesea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Doe


Author: Rebecca Barrow


Age Group: Teen/Young Adult


Genre: Horror


Series: Standalone


Star Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars


I received an e-book advanced reader’s copy of this book from Netgalley–thank you to Netgalley and the publisher!


Doe is a horror story unlike any I’ve ever read: a group of lonely girls, their cheer captain, angry and furious and fierce and full of life, and a mysterious, natural horror looking for community and perhaps something altogether more sinister. The tone was sparse, poetic, lovely and haunting, and I was immediately immersed in the narrative. Just who or what is Doe? And what does it desire? These high school girls, full of petty squabbles and teenage rage, are looking for trouble, and what should they come upon but an ancient, unknowable being, tied to the natural world and perhaps with its own score to settle? What soon follows is something that cannot be undone, and that has reaching consequences. What will happen to Maris and the girls? Not everyone will make it out alive…


This horror story had me captivated from its first spare, sparse words: There is the cheerleading team, and there is their fearless leader: Maris. Brash, beautiful, and wild, she leads the squad to victory under Coach’s careful tutelage. But everything changes when Coach brings in a brand new girl: Genivieve, and she has no intention of bowing to Maris’s rule. Thrown into a tailspin, Maris and the squad plot to get rid of the usurper. When a mysterious being calling itself only Doe appears in Maris’s dreams, she suddenly sees a way out. But Doe has plans of its own, and has Maris in its sights. I loved the way the book was written, in punchy, short bursts. I loved the characters, but especially Doe! I have been obsessed with horror these past couple years, and Doe really scratched that itch. I was trying to make it last because I didn’t want to finish it too fast. But regardless, I flew through the book. I loved Maris and the squad, and the tension with Genivieve. I was breathless by the time I reached the book’s conclusion. I had a feeling I knew what was going to happen, but I was still shocked by the ending! What a haunting treatise on grief, found family, and the lengths we go to honor those we care about. Such a great book, and one of my favorites of 2026! Haunting, dark, and full of teeth!

https://literatureobsessed.blogspot.c...

[Jazisunray Skillern · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maris Larsen’s story in this haunting, atmospheric novel is a masterful blend of psychological drama and supernatural intrigue. As the captain of the West Eaton High cheer team, Maris is a compelling and complex protagonist—both fiercely confident on the mat and deeply vulnerable off it. The author expertly captures the suffocating weight of small-town despair, family dysfunction, and the desperate need to belong, all while threading in an electrifying rivalry that keeps the tension high.

The introduction of Genevieve Ray intensifies the narrative, transforming the cheer team into a battleground not just for athletic dominance, but for Maris’s fragile sense of self. The rivalry is sharp and believable, but it’s the nightmarish presence of Doe—the decaying, otherworldly deer—that elevates this story into something unforgettable. Doe is both terrifying and tragic, a creature of myth who haunts Maris’s dreams and offers her the power she craves, at a terrible cost.

What truly sets this novel apart is its seamless weaving of the supernatural and the real. Maris’s sleepwalking encounters with Doe are rendered in vivid, unsettling detail, blurring the lines between dream and reality. The emotional stakes are as high as the supernatural ones, and the writing never loses sight of Maris’s humanity, even as she’s tempted toward darkness.

This is a novel about power and loss, about the monsters inside us and the ones waiting in the shadows. It’s chilling, beautifully written, and impossible to put down. Highly recommended for fans of dark contemporary fiction with a supernatural twist.

Thank you, Rebecca Barrow, NetGalley, and Penguin Young Readers Group for this Arc.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gymnastics is the only thing keeping Maris afloat in the dead-end town and dreary life into which she was born. Though their school does not have enough money for competitions, Maris and her teammates are nonetheless driven to be the best whenever they are on the mat. But when a new teammate joins them and a forgotten, decades-old history re-emerges in the background, a sinister and irreversible chain of events is set into frightening motion. This horror-centric novel in verse blends the inherent darkness found in poverty-stricken, small town America with paranormal storytelling. Multiple points of view propel the narrative, and though the text itself is brief, it is nonetheless vivid and memorable. Because of its design as a verse novel, the book condenses what would otherwise be a lengthy narrative into a concise, approachable layout that uses carefully crafted words to effectively portray the events in the story. Though this is considered a young adult novel and is marketed to ages twelve and up, it is not a story to be considered lightly, even by mature young readers. Strong language, references to underage drinking, self harm, teen pregnancy, drug use, and violence are all embedded within the plot, making the book gritty and honest in its portrayal of Maris and her teammates while making the book best suited to older teens and beyond. Casting a critical spotlight on some of the challenges faced by young people today, this novel expertly considers reality from a dark and frightening perspective. This is a powerful and intense addition to library collections for mature readers.

[Kera’s Always Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one took me by surprise. It was dark and very stream of consciousness, which worked so well for the story. I'm not sure if it was the formatting of the drc I read or if this book is supposed to be written in verse... either way, I LOVED IT!!

This was incredibly atmospheric. We have a group of girls who have insulated themselves on their cheerleading team. They are a family with a hierarchy and a solid bond. When their beloved coach brings a new girl into the mix, it throws everyone off. Ultimately, this creates a toxic environment, no matter what the intention was and it brings into question (for me) the legitimacy of the coach's motives. How could you not see the problems this could pose, girlfriend?

Meanwhile, there is a doe lurking in the surrounding woods. This is a creature who has lived long, bound in its body by generations past. She longs for release and finds the answer in the cheer captain and fearless leader, Maris. With an unknown connection to how the doe was bound, Maris begins seeing the doe in her dreams and becomes part of her plot.

The way that love/hate and obsession all play together within these characters and their interactions was perfection. There are no illusions that things they are doing are bad, but we also see the motivations behind them and what is at stake. I could have happily gobbled up a couple hundred more pages of this book. I want a follow up... and at the same time, I am content with how all of this ended. I loved every second of this book!

[Jensen McCorkel · Rating 3 out of 5]

A strange, decaying deer-like presence begins visiting in a teenage girl in her dreams, offering power.

Doe leans deeply into psychological horror, often wandering through the unsettling terrain of the mind. Barrow crafts a haunting, messy, and morally gray narrative that explores heavy themes, especially the volatile dynamics of teenage girls. The story captures the intensity of female friendships and rivalries, the crushing pressure to be perfect, and the all-consuming nature of jealousy. It’s less about being hunted by a monster and more about slowly becoming one.

The novel feels fast and emotionally charged, almost like slipping into someone else’s thoughts. Being in verse format makes that experience even more striking. The poetic structure lends a raw immediacy to the story, creating a quick read that’s easy to devour in one sitting. However, that same style can be a double-edged sword. The rapid, fragmented pacing sometimes makes the resolution feel abrupt or underdeveloped. At times, it creates distance rather than immersion. You get impressions of scenes rather than fully inhabiting them. While that works beautifully for atmosphere, it doesn’t always deliver a strong emotional payoff.

Overall, this is a mood-driven, introspective horror story centered on power, identity, and the cost of needing to be the best. It lingers in its ambiguity, making it especially effective for readers who value atmosphere over clear answers.

[Tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐💫

DOE by Rebecca Barrow (June 23, 2026)

Thank you Netgalley and Penguin Teen for the eArc

When Genevieve Ray joins West Eaton High's cheerleading team, captain Maris Larsen realizes she is no longer the coach's favorite. As a rivalry descends on the two, Maris is visited by Doe while sleepwalking, a decaying beast. Together the two form a bond, and Doe promises that there is a way to win the battle between Maris and Genevieve. But with is someone has to d*e.
DOE is a YA horror. Written in-verse, this is a haunting tale that is eerie, gruesome and all out devasting. This pair supernatural elements with the environment that comes with cheerleaders, mean girls, and the feeling of being forgotten and replaced.
Because it is in-verse in nature, this is a über fast-paced read. I really enjoyed that since there was never dull moment. I also found it to be unique with the variety of pov's---specifically the "Team" one.
This is very emotion-tugging from the demons these cheerleaders are facing to the fight that Maris was battling within herself (feeling like she's stuck, that she's going nowhere in life). These characters face a lot. Doe faces a lot. DOE is brutal. It's also fascinating with the supernatural elements, the horrifying things that come from the "creature." A definite must-read.

[Anniee Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC 💚
Doe is one of those stories that slowly creeps under your skin and stays there. From the very beginning, there’s this eerie, unsettling atmosphere that builds with every chapter, pulling you deeper into a world where ambition, rivalry, and something much darker collide.
Without giving anything away, the story follows a main character who is navigating pressure, identity, and competition, but things take a sharp turn when supernatural elements begin to blur the line between control and consequence. What really stood out to me was how the emotional tension and psychological depth were just as strong as the horror elements.
The writing is immersive and haunting, with a steady build that makes everything feel intentional. It’s not overly fast-paced, but that slow burn works in its favor, allowing the tension to fully develop. You can feel that something isn’t right long before it’s revealed and that anticipation keeps you locked in.
Overall, Doe is a chilling, character-driven read that blends real-life struggles with dark, supernatural twists. If you enjoy stories that explore power, choices, and consequences with a haunting edge, this one is definitely worth picking up 👀✨

[Michael Russell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maris is captain of a small-town cheerleading squad. The girls are like family, until their young coach adds a new member in the middle of the season. Genevieve is talented but unwilling to bow to Maris's mean-girl games, and threads of jealousy begin to tear the squad apart. Then a guardian spirit animal whispers in Maris's ear an offer she should - but doesn't -- refuse. This novel in verse builds tension quickly as the only good thing in most of these girls' lives -- the cheer team -- is slowly dismantled in front of them, and the small-town future after high school is nothing to look forward to. The novel is told in alternating voices, from the team, to Maris, to Doe, the spirit animal that was named long ago by a relative of Maris and who needs Maris to help break a curse. Fans of horror will enjoy the slow build that has plenty of hints of what's to come. The horror here is more psychological than bloody, although there are a handful of scenes that could stick with readers long after they've finished. For high school librarians, this is definitely worth adding a copy for general collections if you have any sort of a scary / horror section.

[Kelly E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maris is captain of a high school cheerleading squad, and Genevieve is the new girl in school who is also a superb gymnast. Maris and the rest of the squad operate as a hivemind, and Genevieve is fiercely independent, aware that high school comes to an end eventually and most people move on.
The two clash almost immediately, vying for their Coach’s attention, and for alpha status among the girls.
While sleepwalking, Maris is visited by a monstrous, decaying beast in the shape of an enormous deer. Doe is an ancient, tired creature who has been wandering, trapped in her current form for decades. She cannot die, but she cannot go on living as she has. Only a girl related by blood to those who bound her in this form can free her, but those girls she loved died years ago—murdered in a fire.
This was a 5 star horror read for me. I loved the horror aspects, the supernatural, and the high stakes tension in this psychological horror thriller. The hive mind writing was exceptional, and I hadn’t read anything like that before. This novel will stay with me for a bit, which is always a mark of an excellent book.

[Saren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into this book blind (only knowing that it was YA horror) and it was such an emotional experience. It's written in verse, which was initially quite off putting. But as I read, I found that verse suited the story perfectly. I ended up reading it in 24 hours. It is beautifully written and, once I got used to the writing, it was a pretty quick read.

This is a perfect psychological horror that leans into some pretty heavy themes. It's very stream of consciousness, and I love the idea of a hive mind. The atmosphere is amazing - you have such a close knit team, and the dynamics are completely thrown with a new addition. The characters are perfectly imperfect, and we really get to see their motivations through Barrow's writing. The feeling of dreams versus reality made me question things at times.

Doe and Maris are both compelling characters in their own way - my only real complaint is that I wish we knew a little more about Doe, and the ending was a little too open ended for my liking. 4.5 stars, might end up rounding this up to 5.

Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for the early copy in exchange for a review!

[Hudson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gave me chills. I don't normally read horror, but this felt like a good introduction to the genre. With the book being written in prose, it makes it quick to read but gives it this eerie feeling as well.

I really enjoyed how the novel centers around Maris and Genevieve, emphasizing how young women are often pitted against one another to "make each other better." Their dynamic was so interesting to read and I liked how there were chapters from both perspectives. Two other main perspectives are that of Doe, the supernatural god/monster that's connected to Maris, and the Team.

The Team is also really interesting to me because it's very similar to the stereotypes of cheerleaders and girls in general. They use a first person plural perspective, making it seem like they really are just one being. Talk about hive mind.

Anyway, definitely keep this book on your radar. It comes out in June, but I think it would be the perfect September/October read to welcome in the fall and spooky season.

Thanks to the author, publisher, and Goodreads for posting the giveaway I won this book from!

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first novel in verse, and I actually didn’t read far enough in the synopsis when I requested it (or maybe it didn’t say that anywhere?) to know it was going to be in verse lol but maybe that was fate, because I enjoyed it more than I thought I would! (I’m not big on poetry, so I have kind of been avoiding novels in verse thus far.)

I loved And Don’t Look Back, which is why I requested Doe. While I wished this were a traditionally written novel when started it—and it did take me a little bit to get into—I ended up appreciating the format a lot. Barrow was able to put so much emotion and emphasis on certain words and turns of phrase. I have no reference points to compare this book to, but it felt like Barrow got to the meat of emotions despite having less words to work with. The feral, aching, wanting, violence, tenderness of girlhood. The origin of monsters who just wanted to be whole and loved.

It was slightly repetitive, and certain things could have been developed more to get to the point they did, imo. But otherwise a really great read!

[Alex Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow!

So I’m not entirely sure where to start with this one. I went into it somewhat blind, just more or less knowing it was about a group of cheerleaders and that’s it.

I don’t feel like it was as much horror as maybe supernatural?
The supernatural element, is embodied by an ancient & decaying creature named Doe, that adds the “darker, more horror-esque” element. At first, I thought Doe was just a fictional character until she’s not… Doe went through a lot of loss in her life & whenever she meets Maris, that changes EVERYTHING!

“All that time thinking I was nothing when I had no idea how much less I could be..” -Maris

“We have our leader back and we are going to follow her wherever she might take us. We are each other's family. Us, who want each other when nobody else does who hear each other when nobody wants to listen. Maris she listens, she holds us, she sees. So we are hers and she is ours till death or the end of the world.” -The Team

Huge thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, & of course the author my copy of this digital ARC! 🦌📣

[Alexandra Vlaming · Rating 5 out of 5]

Doe is superb, such an interesting read! The story is interesting, the action picks up as Maris, captain of her schools cheer squad grapples with a new rival, and the story also follows Doe, a super natural being trapped as a deer, seeking freedom by any means necessary.

This is my first book written in verse, and I absolutely loved it, the verse lent a free flow stream of consciousness feel to the story that worked really well I thought. The chapters written as the team were particularly thought provoking, they provided a really unique group think perspective that I found fascinating.

The conclusion caught me off guard, it was brutal, and beautiful, I absolutely loved it. The story overall I found to be thought provoking, really original, and intriguing, I am still thinking about it. Thank you to NetGalley and Nancy Paulson Books for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

[tyler ❤️ · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75 stars.

doe follows the life of cheerleader maris as her spot as captain on the team is threatened by newcomer genevieve. maris has to learn how to navigate the ugliness that's accompanying girlhood, as well as figure out where she stands with supernatural doe.

while it had an interesting premise, doe unfortunately struggled in the landing. the story is written in prose, an unsteady staccato that at times felt choppy and rushed. the chapters were short as well, and while this did make for an easy and quick read, it also didn't aid in making a lot of the characters less two-dimensional. the ending also felt a tad bit rushed and abruptly changed any drive the book did have. i loved the concept of the story, as rotting horror is one of my favorite subgenres, and doe could've absolutely been more immersive if the writing was more fleshed out.

thank you netgalley and penguin young readers group for this arc !

[Talya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started this on a plane and genuinely couldn’t put it down. Written in verse, it’s an incredibly quick read, but it’s also beautifully crafted, with lyrical prose and vivid descriptions.
The story follows a high school cheer captain who believes a rival is threatening the only good thing in her life. When she encounters an ancient evil, she makes a dangerous decision to eliminate that rival.
Each chapter is stunningly written. They are short, purposeful, and told from different points of view. My favorite sections were the “Team” chapters, which perfectly capture the groupthink of high school girls. They move and think almost like a single organism, lacking individual thought. That unity can be a team’s greatest strength, but also its greatest downfall.
I’ll absolutely be seeking out all of Rebecca Barrow’s novels from now on. Thanks to NetGalley and Nancy Paulsen Books for the ARC.

[Caroll-Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Again another book that I received as an ARC, thanks to NetGalley and I went into this blind, like completely blind. The only thing that I knew about it was that it‘s YA horror book.
So I was surprised when I noticed that it‘s a novel in verse, which is the first novel in verse that I actually ever read. I wasn‘t sure if I was going to like it, but fortunately I began to love the style of this book. Not only because I felt like it was beautifully written but also the style made it so easy to read, which is why it took me less than 24 hours to finish it (also because I just couldn‘t put it down).
I don‘t really know how to sum up the story because I am still wrapping my head around it BUT I can tell that I enjoyed it. It‘s about a cheerleader and a pact of the past with something that isn‘t specifically labeled as „devil“ or „demon“ but feels like one. This book is the first one I ever read by Rebecca Borrow, but I am sure it won‘t be the only one.

[Ladz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Content warnings: blood, gore, racism, classism, queerphobia, parentification, mental health deterioration

As I get older, I think my appreciation for young adult books that are still aimed at teenagers only grows. This novel-in-verse is about a cheerleading squad at a high school where the biggest concerns are relationships and college. Oh, and the new girl who joins and threatens to break up the team. The tensions felt a bit nostalgic, and varying problems that not only strain the plot but also strain connections once thought strong. Barrow uses poetry and perspective, especially the collective POV of the team, to great effect. I found it incredibly compelling and hard to put down.

Most of the girls are queer, and I really loved the messiness on display here. Wants compete, desires clash, and there's the literal monster lurking in the shadows. The folkloric horror elements were such a thrill ride, offering a great balance of high school drama and genuine scares.

[Adrianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy from the publisher via Netgalley for review purposes; this in no way influences my review.

Admittedly this was my first time reading anything by Rebecca Barrow, and I do have to say I’ll definitely be picking up more of her work. This was very different than what I normally read, in format and material, but in the best way possible! Books written in prose is not something I normally gravitate towards, but Doe was so atmospheric and really drew me in. I enjoyed the melding of timelines between Doe, the ancient eldritch being, and Maris, a high school cheer captain with a score to settle with the new girl in town, Genevieve. I wouldn’t classify this as scary necessarily, but it did build a lot of tension between Maris and Genevieve. Barrow really captured the sort of hive mind between the cheerleaders on the team.

Overall, I really enjoyed this! I flew through it and it was such a fun, wild ride. I didn’t see that ending coming.

[Kaylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced readers copy from a Goodreads Giveaway.
4.75 stars (actual rating)
I really liked this book. I liked the premise of the book and the way it was written. Maris and Genevieve add such tension to an already taut set of characters.
The only 2 reasons I didn't rate it 5 stars is:
1) for me the ending felt rush. Rebecca Barrow spent such care crafting the characters and unique storyline that the way it ended was off. It ended as if it was supposed to have a sequel (and who knows? Maybe there is a planned sequel).
2) As much as I liked the way the book is written (in poetic verse), I would love to see this novel as a traditionally written novel. I'd love to have some (okay, most...all...) of the scenes fleshed out with more details.
Overall, I really loved this book and I'm so glad I was able to get an advance readers copy!

[Jane Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ★★★★★
Kind thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.

If you're looking for a thriller that treats the high-stakes world of competitive cheerleading with the dark, gritty lens of a classic noir, Doe is it. Rebecca Barrow leans hard into the "cheerleader noir" aesthetic, blending the polished, high-pressure surface of Maris Larsen’s life with a rotting, visceral undercurrent of mystery and dread.

The fast-paced energy of the book mirrors the frantic precision of a routine, but it’s the multi-POV format that really elevates the story. Getting inside the heads of different girls—each with their own jagged edges and secrets, in a way, captures that specific brand of "girlhood ferocity" where the social hierarchy feels like a matter of life and death, especially when a literal monster starts haunting the periphery.

[Nikki Kossaris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have you ever read a story and not been sure who you are rooting for? Rebecca Barrow’s Dig is dark, unsettling, and driven by jealousy that feels almost feral. This leans hard into folklore and witchcraft, but in a way that feels old and decaying rather than aesthetic. The body horror stands out, especially in the way Doe is described. It’s vivid, specific, and hard to shake.

Maris is messy, angry, and not always likable, but her choices feel grounded in her life and the pressure she puts on herself. That makes everything land harder. The rivalry never feels small. It builds into something inevitable, especially as past and present start to blur together in a way that makes it all feel already decided.

The pacing drags a bit in the middle, but the atmosphere and tension carry it through.

A character study in body autonomy weaves it’s way through and this one sticks the landing.