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What Waits Below
An unrelenting thriller about family, fear, and survival. When Brynn Donovan’s estranged father escapes prison and drags her on a cross-country road trip from hell, she must confront the nightmares of her past—and the chilling possibility that his paranoia isn’t madness after all. Perfect for fans of Riley Sager and Paul Tremblay, this twist-packed novel will keep you guessing until the final page.
Eight years ago, Brynn Donovan watched her father kill her mother. He’s supposed to be in prison—but he’s escaped. And he’s coming for her.
What should be an ordinary evening after work turns deadly when Brynn’s estranged father, Alan, ambushes her and forces her into his car.
It’s the start of the road trip from a cross-country trek to the Rocky Mountains and the remote shelter Alan built years ago to protect his family from the monsters living in his head—the ones he swears will erupt from the earth at any moment.
With each passing mile, Alan spirals further, pulling Brynn back into the nightmare she thought she’d escaped forever. Only this time, a string of unsettling events makes her question whether the threat is real or only in his mind.
Alan is paranoid, and he’s definitely dangerous—but is he insane?
The truth is never what it seems. Sometimes, the most dangerous monsters are the ones you don’t see coming.
Previously published as Feeders
Eight years ago, Brynn Donovan watched her father kill her mother. He’s supposed to be in prison—but he’s escaped. And he’s coming for her.
What should be an ordinary evening after work turns deadly when Brynn’s estranged father, Alan, ambushes her and forces her into his car.
It’s the start of the road trip from a cross-country trek to the Rocky Mountains and the remote shelter Alan built years ago to protect his family from the monsters living in his head—the ones he swears will erupt from the earth at any moment.
With each passing mile, Alan spirals further, pulling Brynn back into the nightmare she thought she’d escaped forever. Only this time, a string of unsettling events makes her question whether the threat is real or only in his mind.
Alan is paranoid, and he’s definitely dangerous—but is he insane?
The truth is never what it seems. Sometimes, the most dangerous monsters are the ones you don’t see coming.
Previously published as Feeders
331 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2025
173 people are currently reading
1539 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
October 27, 2025
Please tell me there will be a book two. The ending feels like I was left clinging to a cliff by my fingertips. Save me!
Narrator Shelley Reece's spellbinding performance made it impossible not to become invested in the horrors and demons being fought by these dynamic and emotionally complex characters.
Many thanks to both Mr. Stephens and Ms. Reece for the hours of riveting escapism.
Narrator Shelley Reece's spellbinding performance made it impossible not to become invested in the horrors and demons being fought by these dynamic and emotionally complex characters.
Many thanks to both Mr. Stephens and Ms. Reece for the hours of riveting escapism.
October 16, 2025
It’s like ‘A quiet place’ had a baby with ‘The last of us’. It’s a horror delish sprinkled with enough gore and feelings.
How could a book like this make me feel so much? It brought tears to my eyes. It's so damn good, it's almost unfair that we're thrown into it with the expectation to dislike some characters only to steal our emotions and empathy later on. Oh, and the twists, I did not expect one of those to be so powerful. It left me breathless for a moment and I had to reread the paragraph to make sure that was for real.
‘What Waits Below’ by Caleb N. Stephens is an absolute rush. This book starts with a devastating family history and jumps right into the action, leaving you glued to the pages for hours. The story follows Brynn, whose father, Alan, has obsessively tried to warn his family about strange creatures he calls "Feeders" coming out from below and killing everyone. In one of their countless family arguments, Brynn’s mother gets killed when Alan’s gun unloads accidentally. When Alan breaks out of prison and abducts her, all she can think about is escape from her delusional father, which she succeeds. But her world is turned upside down when she escapes from a hospital and rushes outside to a terrifying sight that makes her question everything she ever doubted about Alan.
From that moment on, the story becomes an intense, relentless, and insanely addictive ride. Her party is now hellbent on reaching the shelter Alan built. The group of survivors she’s part of is a perfect mix of horror archetypes—the skeptic, the believer, the complainer, the innocent—and their dynamics feel so natural and entertaining. And as expected they’re going to experience all sorts of twists and betrayals. But even through all this seemingly dysfunctional family, there were moments that made me smile and my heart warmed up, sweet moments of respite.
While I wasn't a huge fan of Brynn's somewhat childish tone (especially considering her trauma and tumultuous childhood), the sheer momentum of the plot more than makes up for it. However, Brynn’s character is very complex and she did have a good development throughout the book.
The creature design and its lore was fantastic, feeling both fresh and believable within the story's context. I feel like you should do more justice to this book cover, because this story is fire.
The end is bittersweet in a way and clearly hints to a sequel or perhaps a series, which I’m more than prepared to devour. Would be nice to be made into a TV Series.
Thanks to Caleb N. Stephens, Thrillerscape Press, and NetGalley for the ARC. This is a voluntary review, reflecting solely my personal opinion.
How could a book like this make me feel so much? It brought tears to my eyes. It's so damn good, it's almost unfair that we're thrown into it with the expectation to dislike some characters only to steal our emotions and empathy later on. Oh, and the twists, I did not expect one of those to be so powerful. It left me breathless for a moment and I had to reread the paragraph to make sure that was for real.
‘What Waits Below’ by Caleb N. Stephens is an absolute rush. This book starts with a devastating family history and jumps right into the action, leaving you glued to the pages for hours. The story follows Brynn, whose father, Alan, has obsessively tried to warn his family about strange creatures he calls "Feeders" coming out from below and killing everyone. In one of their countless family arguments, Brynn’s mother gets killed when Alan’s gun unloads accidentally. When Alan breaks out of prison and abducts her, all she can think about is escape from her delusional father, which she succeeds. But her world is turned upside down when she escapes from a hospital and rushes outside to a terrifying sight that makes her question everything she ever doubted about Alan.
From that moment on, the story becomes an intense, relentless, and insanely addictive ride. Her party is now hellbent on reaching the shelter Alan built. The group of survivors she’s part of is a perfect mix of horror archetypes—the skeptic, the believer, the complainer, the innocent—and their dynamics feel so natural and entertaining. And as expected they’re going to experience all sorts of twists and betrayals. But even through all this seemingly dysfunctional family, there were moments that made me smile and my heart warmed up, sweet moments of respite.
While I wasn't a huge fan of Brynn's somewhat childish tone (especially considering her trauma and tumultuous childhood), the sheer momentum of the plot more than makes up for it. However, Brynn’s character is very complex and she did have a good development throughout the book.
The creature design and its lore was fantastic, feeling both fresh and believable within the story's context. I feel like you should do more justice to this book cover, because this story is fire.
The end is bittersweet in a way and clearly hints to a sequel or perhaps a series, which I’m more than prepared to devour. Would be nice to be made into a TV Series.
Thanks to Caleb N. Stephens, Thrillerscape Press, and NetGalley for the ARC. This is a voluntary review, reflecting solely my personal opinion.
October 16, 2025
"What the hell is happening? I don’t have time to dwell on the thought before everything begins to tremble. Then there’s an awful sound; this horrible, jagged crunch like the earth is coming alive. Like an ocean of glass is being chewed right beneath my feet."
☠️ Brynn is forced to confront the nightmares of her past (including the murder she witnessed, and living under her father’s influence), and also the possibility that her father’s paranoia may not be entirely delusional.
☠️ This one is such a ride and reads like a movie in my head. Action-packed, tension-filled... Has cinematic quality, fast-paced although it only has one POV, dialogue-heavy and visually descriptive. The characters are well-written and realistic. Expect ambiguous horror elements and high emotional stakes. I'd also like to listen to the audio version.
☠️ Themes: psychological vs. supernatural horror, trauma and survival, family and betrayal.
Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
☠️ Brynn is forced to confront the nightmares of her past (including the murder she witnessed, and living under her father’s influence), and also the possibility that her father’s paranoia may not be entirely delusional.
☠️ This one is such a ride and reads like a movie in my head. Action-packed, tension-filled... Has cinematic quality, fast-paced although it only has one POV, dialogue-heavy and visually descriptive. The characters are well-written and realistic. Expect ambiguous horror elements and high emotional stakes. I'd also like to listen to the audio version.
☠️ Themes: psychological vs. supernatural horror, trauma and survival, family and betrayal.
Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2025
This is such a fun horror novel that reads like a thriller. My heart was racing the whole time. The book pulls you in immediately and does not stop! Well done
September 23, 2025
This book jumps right into the action. Immediately. You don't have a chance to take a breath and ready yourself. It's just BOOM. And it... Does. Not. Stop.
It's a little bit gory, a little bit emotional and a lot fantastic. The author's keen use of imagery made for a movie in my head. Speaking of movies....this book would make a great one.
It's a little bit gory, a little bit emotional and a lot fantastic. The author's keen use of imagery made for a movie in my head. Speaking of movies....this book would make a great one.
September 25, 2025
What a ride! I love a book that starts rocking from the first chapter and doesn’t let up. It’s captivating and nail biting the whole way through. I am a sucker for a well done apocalypse novel and this one delivers.
Brynn is kidnapped by her father, who has just escaped from prison for murdering her mother. He killed her after going mad, insisting that the end was coming via monsters from below. But, is he really crazy after all?
The characters are flawed but very well hashed out and there are plenty of twists along the way. It’s a quick, fast paced, and fun read. Perfect for a late night under the covers.
My ONLY criticism here is I wish the author had asked an equestrian about names for tack/equipment and horse behaviors. It irked me they were wrong, but that’s a me issue and honestly most readers wouldn’t even notice. Probably the same beef doctors have with Grey’s anatomy lol.
Overa, solid read. I very much enjoyed it and anyone who wants a fast paced apocalyptic thriller will love.
Brynn is kidnapped by her father, who has just escaped from prison for murdering her mother. He killed her after going mad, insisting that the end was coming via monsters from below. But, is he really crazy after all?
The characters are flawed but very well hashed out and there are plenty of twists along the way. It’s a quick, fast paced, and fun read. Perfect for a late night under the covers.
My ONLY criticism here is I wish the author had asked an equestrian about names for tack/equipment and horse behaviors. It irked me they were wrong, but that’s a me issue and honestly most readers wouldn’t even notice. Probably the same beef doctors have with Grey’s anatomy lol.
Overa, solid read. I very much enjoyed it and anyone who wants a fast paced apocalyptic thriller will love.
October 25, 2025
It’s spooky season and this book is perfect for it! Jeez, this was a wild ride! I couldn’t stop listening! It gave me major The Last of Us vibes with a splash of The Walking Dead energy. I was completely here for it!
October 4, 2025
"There's too much...feeling with no way to drown it out.
No pills. No booze. No escape. Only the wind and the snow and Alan."
Listen, I came across a video on TT and this beautiful soul was raving about this book.
I never ran so fast and have zero regrets. This book was phenomenal.
Brynn is this amazing tattoo artist who also has some daddy issues and addiction problems. One night she gets off work and heads home but gets abducted by her dad instead. He is trying to save her from "the feeders". This brings Brynn back to her childhood nightmare. Is he delusional? Has he been right all along?
This was a wild story that was gross and beautifully done. We have lovable but flawed characters, great pacing, scary as shit, and emotional. I got in my feels a few time.
Also the narrator did such an amazing job of you prefer audio books.
Highly recommend for anyone looking for a creepy time.
This deserves so much recognition.
No pills. No booze. No escape. Only the wind and the snow and Alan."
Listen, I came across a video on TT and this beautiful soul was raving about this book.
I never ran so fast and have zero regrets. This book was phenomenal.
Brynn is this amazing tattoo artist who also has some daddy issues and addiction problems. One night she gets off work and heads home but gets abducted by her dad instead. He is trying to save her from "the feeders". This brings Brynn back to her childhood nightmare. Is he delusional? Has he been right all along?
This was a wild story that was gross and beautifully done. We have lovable but flawed characters, great pacing, scary as shit, and emotional. I got in my feels a few time.
Also the narrator did such an amazing job of you prefer audio books.
Highly recommend for anyone looking for a creepy time.
This deserves so much recognition.
December 16, 2025
"Here's the thing about reality. It sucks. It's too real. Too much emotion. Too much pain."
I couldn't put this horror delight down! The pacing is RELENTLESS, beginning with a kidnapping and then morphing into a post apocalyptic creature feature. Sudden bursts of intense action are woven throughout the story providing a cinematic feel. While in a fight for her life, Brynn begins to view things differently as she also faces the trauma of her past and examines what she knows about her father.
Shelley Reece narrates the audiobook and her performance adds to the excitement, danger and intensity of these scenes. Reece also conveys the quieter poignant moments of reflection and contemplation with nuanced emotion. I switched between listening and physically reading and I highly recommend it!
Caleb Stephens EXCELS at immersive VIVID writing and I truly felt like I was experiencing things WITH Brynn. Sights, smells, sounds and even bodily functions were all visceral! Brynn is an addict and there's a lot of inner turmoil as well as physical consequences (lots of vomiting) of abusing drugs. There's also some gore and gun violence but it's not gratuitous. Relationships between characters are explored with themes of redemption, forgiveness and sacrifice. Dangers of other people versus an unknown enemy are also prevalent, though I would've loved more details about the creatures. Picture a mix of 'Tremors', 'The Last of Us', and '10 Cloverfield Lane', and you'll get an idea of what to expect! (IYKYK!)
WHAT WAITS BELOW is an utterly enthralling and unpredictable adrenaline inducing experience. If you love psychological suspense with prepper and end of the world vibes, that leaves you wanting MORE, this is for you!
____
Thank you to Caleb N. Stephens for my gifted copies. All opinions are my own.
I couldn't put this horror delight down! The pacing is RELENTLESS, beginning with a kidnapping and then morphing into a post apocalyptic creature feature. Sudden bursts of intense action are woven throughout the story providing a cinematic feel. While in a fight for her life, Brynn begins to view things differently as she also faces the trauma of her past and examines what she knows about her father.
Shelley Reece narrates the audiobook and her performance adds to the excitement, danger and intensity of these scenes. Reece also conveys the quieter poignant moments of reflection and contemplation with nuanced emotion. I switched between listening and physically reading and I highly recommend it!
Caleb Stephens EXCELS at immersive VIVID writing and I truly felt like I was experiencing things WITH Brynn. Sights, smells, sounds and even bodily functions were all visceral! Brynn is an addict and there's a lot of inner turmoil as well as physical consequences (lots of vomiting) of abusing drugs. There's also some gore and gun violence but it's not gratuitous. Relationships between characters are explored with themes of redemption, forgiveness and sacrifice. Dangers of other people versus an unknown enemy are also prevalent, though I would've loved more details about the creatures. Picture a mix of 'Tremors', 'The Last of Us', and '10 Cloverfield Lane', and you'll get an idea of what to expect! (IYKYK!)
WHAT WAITS BELOW is an utterly enthralling and unpredictable adrenaline inducing experience. If you love psychological suspense with prepper and end of the world vibes, that leaves you wanting MORE, this is for you!
____
Thank you to Caleb N. Stephens for my gifted copies. All opinions are my own.
September 28, 2025
In "WHAT WAITS BELOW," Caleb Stephens has accomplished a rare feat. He has created a work of literature that is not only a journey into fear and the unknown but a breathtaking tale of horror and suspense. This is a novel that will haunt your dreams and ignite your imagination, making it a must-read for aficionados of horror and the supernatural.
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Caleb Stephens's debut horror novel, "WHAT WAITS BELOW," is a relentless thrill ride that refuses to relent. The story unfolds as a harrowing apocalyptic road trip across the desolate Southwest, accompanied by gripping family dynamics, unexpected twists, and haunting imagery.
.
Stephens, known for his expertise in crime fiction, delves headfirst into the world of horror, and the results are nothing short of mind-bending. The tale begins as a slow burn, artfully building tension, and suddenly, like a cataclysmic eruption, it plunges readers into a maelstrom of unimaginable horrors. While the title hints at what the book is about, don't let your imagination wander too far—these creatures, aptly called "feeders," are a far cry from mere giant cockroaches.
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The unforgettable ending is not a cliffhanger but rather a tantalizing setup for what promises to be a gripping sequel. Stephens has well crafted a world that pulls you in, and his characters evoke genuine empathy. "WHAT WAITS BELOW" is a heart-pounding journey through a nightmarish landscape where family bonds are tested against the backdrop of global chaos—a story that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.
.
Caleb Stephens's debut horror novel, "WHAT WAITS BELOW," is a relentless thrill ride that refuses to relent. The story unfolds as a harrowing apocalyptic road trip across the desolate Southwest, accompanied by gripping family dynamics, unexpected twists, and haunting imagery.
.
Stephens, known for his expertise in crime fiction, delves headfirst into the world of horror, and the results are nothing short of mind-bending. The tale begins as a slow burn, artfully building tension, and suddenly, like a cataclysmic eruption, it plunges readers into a maelstrom of unimaginable horrors. While the title hints at what the book is about, don't let your imagination wander too far—these creatures, aptly called "feeders," are a far cry from mere giant cockroaches.
.
The unforgettable ending is not a cliffhanger but rather a tantalizing setup for what promises to be a gripping sequel. Stephens has well crafted a world that pulls you in, and his characters evoke genuine empathy. "WHAT WAITS BELOW" is a heart-pounding journey through a nightmarish landscape where family bonds are tested against the backdrop of global chaos—a story that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.
September 14, 2025
This was the ultimate road trip from Hell!! What a fast paced thriller/horror read! I normally don’t read Horror but am a huge fan of this author and of thrillers! This book will keep you wanting more and turning pages late into the night! Highly recommend! Perfect book for spooky season!
November 14, 2025
A special thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and author Caleb N. Stephens for selecting me to receive a copy of What Waits Below 🖤 This is my honest and voluntary review:
My rating: 4.5 stars
⭐️���️⭐️⭐️✨
Oh my, I am speechless! This book was wonderfully written. Action packed, thrilling, horrifying and very detailed - Caleb Stephens did an amazing job with his story telling.
My rating: 4.5 stars
⭐️���️⭐️⭐️✨
Oh my, I am speechless! This book was wonderfully written. Action packed, thrilling, horrifying and very detailed - Caleb Stephens did an amazing job with his story telling.
November 8, 2025
WHERE IS BOOK 2 CALEB STEPHENS?????? Here I am thinking that I’m going to read a book about a dad kidnapping his daughter because he’s two sheets to the wind. This book grabs you by the throat in chapter one and never lets go. Caleb Stephens writes like he’s personally trying to trigger your fight-or-flight—cinematic, relentless, and low-key stress cardio.what’s crazy is that I don’t even enjoy these types of books, but this one was chef’s kiss! 4.25⭐️
October 25, 2025
I was fortunate to receive an ARC and this book was really good! It's fast paced, well laid out and keeps you gripped. In the beginning I didn't believe the dad either....oh you will though. YOU WILL! Perfect for this spooky season.
September 19, 2025
I’m not sure how to make this happen, but someone needs to make this book into a movie! ASAP!! This was by far the best book I had the pleasure of reading this year. I was honored to receive an advanced copy and boy did I eat this up! It is not your typical thriller/mystery. It is more on the dystopia side. But it will keep you engaged and on the edge of your seat from the very first page. I gasped, I teared up, I got mad and I cheered! This book is the complete package. I can’t wait for the sequel. Caleb Stephens is an automatic buy author.
September 16, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
This was so so good!!! I absolutely love any kind of horror / thriller story involving a world take over by aliens/zombies/creatures and this hit the nail on the head. In this story, it follows the ‘feeders’, some unknown creatures that have come to the surface after millions of years and they’re after one thing, humans.
I just loved that the action started from the very first chapter. It really didn’t miss a beat and the author has such a way of keeping a reader engaged. I just couldn’t put it down and I was eager to know what would happen next. Some parts had me on the edge of my seat! I love when a book can fully grip me and this one really did. I can’t wait for the sequel!!!
Thank you NetGalley & Victory Editing for letting me ARC read!
This was so so good!!! I absolutely love any kind of horror / thriller story involving a world take over by aliens/zombies/creatures and this hit the nail on the head. In this story, it follows the ‘feeders’, some unknown creatures that have come to the surface after millions of years and they’re after one thing, humans.
I just loved that the action started from the very first chapter. It really didn’t miss a beat and the author has such a way of keeping a reader engaged. I just couldn’t put it down and I was eager to know what would happen next. Some parts had me on the edge of my seat! I love when a book can fully grip me and this one really did. I can’t wait for the sequel!!!
Thank you NetGalley & Victory Editing for letting me ARC read!
October 10, 2025
OMG! This was such a good book!! This was like no other book I’ve read and I just loved it!!
For a thriller/ horror book, I found myself so emotional so many times.
The way Caleb writes you truly envision the surroundings and the details. It really draws you in.
I couldn’t get enough of this book and def need a book 2! I didn’t want it to end. I need to know what happens!!
This book will live in my head forever!
Thank you Caleb for the early gifted copy!!
For a thriller/ horror book, I found myself so emotional so many times.
The way Caleb writes you truly envision the surroundings and the details. It really draws you in.
I couldn’t get enough of this book and def need a book 2! I didn’t want it to end. I need to know what happens!!
This book will live in my head forever!
Thank you Caleb for the early gifted copy!!
December 23, 2025
I liked this!! It kept me engaged and it was different than my usual reads. A good balance of thriller, suspense, emotional and gory. Felt like a movie, i just wish the ending was a tiny bit different
December 10, 2025
Absolutely LOVED this book!!
September 20, 2025
Gripping, dark, and relentlessly tense, this horror thriller takes you on a wild and chilling road trip you won’t forget.
Caleb Stephens delivers flawless writing that immerses you completely—every emotion, every nightmare, every ounce of fear seeps off the page. From start to finish, I was glued to the story, heart racing, desperate to know what would happen next.
At its core, this is Brynn’s harrowing journey. Kidnapped by her father, she’s forced to confront the horrors of her past and the nightmares that shaped her childhood. The story balances raw, emotional family trauma with truly terrifying moments, creating a haunting blend of horror and heartbreak.
This book is intense, powerful, and impossible to put down.
Huge thanks to Caleb Stephens for including me on his ARC team—I feel so lucky to have read this early!
Caleb Stephens delivers flawless writing that immerses you completely—every emotion, every nightmare, every ounce of fear seeps off the page. From start to finish, I was glued to the story, heart racing, desperate to know what would happen next.
At its core, this is Brynn’s harrowing journey. Kidnapped by her father, she’s forced to confront the horrors of her past and the nightmares that shaped her childhood. The story balances raw, emotional family trauma with truly terrifying moments, creating a haunting blend of horror and heartbreak.
This book is intense, powerful, and impossible to put down.
Huge thanks to Caleb Stephens for including me on his ARC team—I feel so lucky to have read this early!
November 5, 2025
where do I even begin with this one?!
first, thank you Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this arc 🫶 it was truly a ride I will never forget.
now, to the book. what an absolutely INSANE rollercoaster ride this took me on. I felt all of the feelings- fear, anger, shock, sadness, happiness, and anxiety.
so, we meet Brynn first, whos father, Alan, has been attempting to train her on what to do and where to go when the feeders, as he calls them, finally come and invade the lands. Brynn doesn't believe him- no one does. they all think he's lost his mind, especially after he kills his wife in a freak accident arguing over the feeders.
well, turns out he actually knew what he was talking about, and when the feeders really do come, he escapes from prison and captures Brynn, her brother Mac, and their aunt Vivian to take to the shelter he built for his family.
so, Soo many things happen to them on their journey to the shelter- from crazy people trying to injure/kill them, people trying to steal from them, and then Alan's best friend Tasker betraying all of them. Brynn truly cannot catch a break and I felt so bad for her, given everything she had to endure to get her family to safety. and who knew that Tank would be the true hero in all of this?! he was my absolute favorite character in this book.
the way the author describes Brynn's addiction to pain pills was done in a very realistic way, and I enjoyed that a lot. it's not often you come across that in fiction books, so it was really nice to read a very realistic experience of opiate addiction.
this book was so well-written. it was an experience that will live rent-free in my head until the next book comes out, and Brynn's journey continues.
I vote that in the next book Tank and Brynn develop a Romantic relationship! *fingers crossed*
first, thank you Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this arc 🫶 it was truly a ride I will never forget.
now, to the book. what an absolutely INSANE rollercoaster ride this took me on. I felt all of the feelings- fear, anger, shock, sadness, happiness, and anxiety.
so, we meet Brynn first, whos father, Alan, has been attempting to train her on what to do and where to go when the feeders, as he calls them, finally come and invade the lands. Brynn doesn't believe him- no one does. they all think he's lost his mind, especially after he kills his wife in a freak accident arguing over the feeders.
well, turns out he actually knew what he was talking about, and when the feeders really do come, he escapes from prison and captures Brynn, her brother Mac, and their aunt Vivian to take to the shelter he built for his family.
so, Soo many things happen to them on their journey to the shelter- from crazy people trying to injure/kill them, people trying to steal from them, and then Alan's best friend Tasker betraying all of them. Brynn truly cannot catch a break and I felt so bad for her, given everything she had to endure to get her family to safety. and who knew that Tank would be the true hero in all of this?! he was my absolute favorite character in this book.
the way the author describes Brynn's addiction to pain pills was done in a very realistic way, and I enjoyed that a lot. it's not often you come across that in fiction books, so it was really nice to read a very realistic experience of opiate addiction.
this book was so well-written. it was an experience that will live rent-free in my head until the next book comes out, and Brynn's journey continues.
I vote that in the next book Tank and Brynn develop a Romantic relationship! *fingers crossed*
October 1, 2025
I just love when I come across books like this. I believe this was previously published under a different name and somehow slipped under my radar back then but just WOW. This truly is post-apocalyptic fiction at its finest.
Very reminiscent of some past favourite books & tv series (The Stand, The Passage, The Road, The Walking Dead & The Last of Us) and so well written that it felt like watching a movie! I could picture every scene so clearly in my mind and I was so heavily invested in the characters’ journeys.
Whilst the first 19% had me thinking this would go down a different route, I was absolutely stunned by the reveal at the 20% mark. I mean it, I was so caught off guard I almost dropped my kindle. From that point on, it was a race. For the characters - a race to survive, for me - a race to get to the last page so I could finally breathe.
I wasn’t expecting to feel so emotional whilst reading this, but there’s certain scenes that absolutely gutted me. To make a reader care so deeply about characters so soon into a novel is such a massive talent! I went in completely blind and couldn’t have expected how this reading experience would go. To maximise yours I will say nothing more. Don’t spoil this one for yourselves - go in blind, trust the plot and trust the process.
My only gripe is that I was in no way ready for this book to end. It’s somewhat of an ambiguous ending but I would’ve happily read more. I wish this was a series and I certainly hope to see this on the big screen one day. Outstanding. 5 well deserved stars.
Very reminiscent of some past favourite books & tv series (The Stand, The Passage, The Road, The Walking Dead & The Last of Us) and so well written that it felt like watching a movie! I could picture every scene so clearly in my mind and I was so heavily invested in the characters’ journeys.
Whilst the first 19% had me thinking this would go down a different route, I was absolutely stunned by the reveal at the 20% mark. I mean it, I was so caught off guard I almost dropped my kindle. From that point on, it was a race. For the characters - a race to survive, for me - a race to get to the last page so I could finally breathe.
I wasn’t expecting to feel so emotional whilst reading this, but there’s certain scenes that absolutely gutted me. To make a reader care so deeply about characters so soon into a novel is such a massive talent! I went in completely blind and couldn’t have expected how this reading experience would go. To maximise yours I will say nothing more. Don’t spoil this one for yourselves - go in blind, trust the plot and trust the process.
My only gripe is that I was in no way ready for this book to end. It’s somewhat of an ambiguous ending but I would’ve happily read more. I wish this was a series and I certainly hope to see this on the big screen one day. Outstanding. 5 well deserved stars.
October 16, 2025
For the past eight years, Brynn Donovan's father has been in prison convicted of killing her mother. Brynn & brother Max initially lived with their aunt but recently Brynn has been living her own life as a tattoo artist. On the way home from work one evening, Brynn's estranged father kidnaps her & says that what he said back then was true: there is something under the earth that is coming to get them & once he has secured Max too, they are heading for a shelter he has built to keep them both safe. Brynn looks for an opportunity to escape but events start to make her wonder if the threat may be real after all.
Liked: the storyline was good & completely different to what I initially expected. This is one of those books that it is best to go into knowing as little as possible apart from the setup. Dislikes: the main character Brynn - being a smartass a-hole is not the same as being a strong character. The pacing was also way too full-on all the time with barely time to catch your breath. Overall, whilst it was a good story, the main character affected my enjoyment of it. I rate this one 3.5 stars (rounded down).
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Thrillerscape Press, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
TWs:
Liked: the storyline was good & completely different to what I initially expected. This is one of those books that it is best to go into knowing as little as possible apart from the setup. Dislikes: the main character Brynn - being a smartass a-hole is not the same as being a strong character. The pacing was also way too full-on all the time with barely time to catch your breath. Overall, whilst it was a good story, the main character affected my enjoyment of it. I rate this one 3.5 stars (rounded down).
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Thrillerscape Press, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
TWs:
November 28, 2025
November Read/ Listen: 𝔹𝕆𝕆𝕂 ℝ𝔼𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎📗📕
📗What Waits Below
✍️ Caleb Stephens
📈⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4/5
This was my second book by Caleb Stephens (and I’m currently reading a third!), and he’s quickly become one of my favorite authors.
I went into this one completely blind. It started fast and hooked me right away… and then I realized it was a zombie thriller. Honestly? I normally hate zombie apocalypse stories. But Caleb Stephens completely changed my mind. He added so much depth and heart to the story that it felt like so much more than just a typical zombie book. 👏
The writing was vivid, intense, and incredibly descriptive. It kept me on the edge of my seat from the first page to the very last line. And that ending? It definitely felt like it was setting up a sequel — and I really hope there is one!
This book tackled themes of determination, addiction, survival, family bonds, guilt, regret, and a parent’s love for their child. So much packed into one great book.
🗣️ Quotes:
“I’m a chalk line sketched on the sidewalk, a smiling concrete smudge waiting for the rain to wash me away.”
“One day at a time , it’s all you got “
📗What Waits Below
✍️ Caleb Stephens
📈⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4/5
This was my second book by Caleb Stephens (and I’m currently reading a third!), and he’s quickly become one of my favorite authors.
I went into this one completely blind. It started fast and hooked me right away… and then I realized it was a zombie thriller. Honestly? I normally hate zombie apocalypse stories. But Caleb Stephens completely changed my mind. He added so much depth and heart to the story that it felt like so much more than just a typical zombie book. 👏
The writing was vivid, intense, and incredibly descriptive. It kept me on the edge of my seat from the first page to the very last line. And that ending? It definitely felt like it was setting up a sequel — and I really hope there is one!
This book tackled themes of determination, addiction, survival, family bonds, guilt, regret, and a parent’s love for their child. So much packed into one great book.
🗣️ Quotes:
“I’m a chalk line sketched on the sidewalk, a smiling concrete smudge waiting for the rain to wash me away.”
“One day at a time , it’s all you got “
October 23, 2025
The story of What Waits Below by Caleb Stephens opens with Brynn Donovan’s estranged father escaping prison and forcing her on a cross-country road trip from hell, as she’s dragged toward a remote shelter he built to hide from what he believes are monsters erupting from the earth.
I picked this up after seeing the author on TikTok and hearing people call it a fun horror read, and honestly it turned out exactly like that. It’s not trying to be this earth-shaking masterpiece, but it doesn’t need to be, it’s just a good time. The writing is strong, the pacing is quick, and it plays out almost like a movie with how vivid the scenes are. The creepy, eerie moments hit in all the right ways and kept me turning pages even though horror isn’t usually my thing.
The “monsters below” concept and the father’s paranoia give this one a unique twist. It’s got action, suspense, and enough freaky visuals (both human and otherwise) to satisfy the spooky-season mood. A fun, creepy read that I’d give three and a half stars.
I picked this up after seeing the author on TikTok and hearing people call it a fun horror read, and honestly it turned out exactly like that. It’s not trying to be this earth-shaking masterpiece, but it doesn’t need to be, it’s just a good time. The writing is strong, the pacing is quick, and it plays out almost like a movie with how vivid the scenes are. The creepy, eerie moments hit in all the right ways and kept me turning pages even though horror isn’t usually my thing.
The “monsters below” concept and the father’s paranoia give this one a unique twist. It’s got action, suspense, and enough freaky visuals (both human and otherwise) to satisfy the spooky-season mood. A fun, creepy read that I’d give three and a half stars.
September 30, 2025
This is my second book by Caleb Stephens and I absolutely love his writing and enjoy his stories. He is extremely talented.
What Waits Below was my very first apocalyptic novel, so at times I found myself struggling a little to picture certain scenes and details, just because the genre was so new to me. That said, this was a great story! It gets you invested from the beginning, and that ending! I tapped my Kindle eager to read the next page and literally said, “noooooo!” because I NEEDED to know more! This book MUST be a series, because I would immediately read the continuation. Honestly, the whole time I was reading I kept thinking, this would make an incredible show.
If apocalyptic novels are your thing (or even if, like me, you’re new to the genre), I 100000% recommend this one. Add it to your TBR immediately.
Thank you so much Caleb Stephens for the ARC copy of What Waits Below!!
What Waits Below was my very first apocalyptic novel, so at times I found myself struggling a little to picture certain scenes and details, just because the genre was so new to me. That said, this was a great story! It gets you invested from the beginning, and that ending! I tapped my Kindle eager to read the next page and literally said, “noooooo!” because I NEEDED to know more! This book MUST be a series, because I would immediately read the continuation. Honestly, the whole time I was reading I kept thinking, this would make an incredible show.
If apocalyptic novels are your thing (or even if, like me, you’re new to the genre), I 100000% recommend this one. Add it to your TBR immediately.
Thank you so much Caleb Stephens for the ARC copy of What Waits Below!!
November 6, 2025
After recently reading an ARC of Caleb’s upcoming release You’ll Never Know (a 5-star read for me — out 18 November 2025, get your hands on it, thank me later), I knew I wanted to explore more of his earlier work. So when he generously gifted me an Audible code for What Waits Below, I jumped straight in.
This one’s A Quiet Place meets 10 Cloverfield Lane — eerie, claustrophobic, and full of unease. A father and daughter trapped underground, something stirring in the dark, and the slow unravelling of love, guilt, and madness.
The audiobook narration was fantastic — atmospheric and tense, perfectly matching the sense of dread that builds with every chapter. While the first half leaned a little heavier on setup than I expected, once things escalated, I couldn’t stop listening.
Creepy, emotional, and unsettling in all the right ways. Caleb Stephens has a real gift for exploring trauma and grief through the lens of horror, and I’ll definitely be reading more from him.
This one’s A Quiet Place meets 10 Cloverfield Lane — eerie, claustrophobic, and full of unease. A father and daughter trapped underground, something stirring in the dark, and the slow unravelling of love, guilt, and madness.
The audiobook narration was fantastic — atmospheric and tense, perfectly matching the sense of dread that builds with every chapter. While the first half leaned a little heavier on setup than I expected, once things escalated, I couldn’t stop listening.
Creepy, emotional, and unsettling in all the right ways. Caleb Stephens has a real gift for exploring trauma and grief through the lens of horror, and I’ll definitely be reading more from him.
October 16, 2025
Eight years after witnessing her father murder her mother, Brynn has tried to rebuild her life. But when her father escapes from prison, her nightmare begins again. Kidnapped and forced on a road trip into the remote Rockies, Brynn must confront not only the man who destroyed her family but also the terrifying possibility that his delusions about monsters beneath the earth may be real. Trapped between madness and survival, Brynn learns that what waits below might be worse than anything above.
Caleb N. Stephens delivers a tense and gripping psychological horror that has you on the edge from the first page. The stories central relationship, the daughter facing the father who ruined her life, is both chilling and emotionally compelling. The suspense and the isolated mountainous setting adds a claustrophobic sense of dread that is a perfect complement to the unfolding horror. Brynn is a relatable and resilient FMC and her struggle to survive feels urgent and authentic. My only minor critique is that a few of the plot twists feel a bit predictable but the atmosphere and pacing more than make up for it. Overall this is a strong and suspenseful read perfect for fans of psychological horror and thrillers!
Thank you to NetGalley, Caleb N. Stephens, and Thrillerscape Press for this eARC! Publication date is October 15th, 2025.
Caleb N. Stephens delivers a tense and gripping psychological horror that has you on the edge from the first page. The stories central relationship, the daughter facing the father who ruined her life, is both chilling and emotionally compelling. The suspense and the isolated mountainous setting adds a claustrophobic sense of dread that is a perfect complement to the unfolding horror. Brynn is a relatable and resilient FMC and her struggle to survive feels urgent and authentic. My only minor critique is that a few of the plot twists feel a bit predictable but the atmosphere and pacing more than make up for it. Overall this is a strong and suspenseful read perfect for fans of psychological horror and thrillers!
Thank you to NetGalley, Caleb N. Stephens, and Thrillerscape Press for this eARC! Publication date is October 15th, 2025.
September 28, 2025
What an incredible, wild ride this story was!! I absolutely love tales of ancient eldritch horrors, Native American lore, and creature features, and What Waits Below had it all! For anyone who was a fan of the 90s horror films Tremors, this gave great nostalgic vibes!!
Brynn is our main character, and she shows such tremendous growth during this story. The entire cast of characters was such a dynamic group, with some you like but later hate and vice versa. Except for Benny and Randall, those idjits are just worthy of all the hate!!
What Waits Below will bring out all the emotions, freak you out, give you the gore that we love in horror, but also leave you thinking “what if?”. Such a fantastic story!!
Brynn is our main character, and she shows such tremendous growth during this story. The entire cast of characters was such a dynamic group, with some you like but later hate and vice versa. Except for Benny and Randall, those idjits are just worthy of all the hate!!
What Waits Below will bring out all the emotions, freak you out, give you the gore that we love in horror, but also leave you thinking “what if?”. Such a fantastic story!!
October 29, 2025
Caleb Stephens is my gateway to horror. And What Waits Below (previously published as Feeders) proves that what you don't know CAN hurt you.
Brynn is kind of wild, boozing and doing "blues", but happy in her job as a tattoo artist. It's no wonder she lives like she does, given that her father, Alan, a prepper and controlling man, killed her mother. For which he was imprisoned. But now he's out. And Brynn doesn't see him coming!
This book was an intense terror ride. The scenes in the tunnels nearly made me hyperventilate, and reaffirmed my commitment to never going into caves!
Some things live under the earth. Alan was right. But by the time you hear the drilling, it's too late.
Thank you to Caleb Stephens and Thrillerscape Press for an advance reader's copy.
Brynn is kind of wild, boozing and doing "blues", but happy in her job as a tattoo artist. It's no wonder she lives like she does, given that her father, Alan, a prepper and controlling man, killed her mother. For which he was imprisoned. But now he's out. And Brynn doesn't see him coming!
This book was an intense terror ride. The scenes in the tunnels nearly made me hyperventilate, and reaffirmed my commitment to never going into caves!
Some things live under the earth. Alan was right. But by the time you hear the drilling, it's too late.
Thank you to Caleb Stephens and Thrillerscape Press for an advance reader's copy.
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