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Something of a Calling
Not yet published
Expected 15 Sep 26Weeks before her retirement, a lonely small-town detective discovers that she is not alone in believing the worst about people—someone or something is exacting terrible vengeance on humanity at a scale she would never have imagined.
Detective Andy Cooper is less than two weeks away from retiring, and she’s not looking for any new cases. But while kayaking out on Lake Longdan on her day off, she comes across a grisly, decomposing body.
Her last days with the Longdan Police suddenly become more memorable than she ever wanted, and fate has an additional surprise to throw her a budding friendship with a mysterious woman. As Andy proceeds with what she thinks is her final homicide investigation, what she discovers could be the unraveling of the world as she knows it.
Eco-horror meets the detective novel in this suspenseful tale, perfect for fans of T. Kingfisher, Paul Tremblay, Laurel Hightower, and Kealan Patrick Burke.
Detective Andy Cooper is less than two weeks away from retiring, and she’s not looking for any new cases. But while kayaking out on Lake Longdan on her day off, she comes across a grisly, decomposing body.
Her last days with the Longdan Police suddenly become more memorable than she ever wanted, and fate has an additional surprise to throw her a budding friendship with a mysterious woman. As Andy proceeds with what she thinks is her final homicide investigation, what she discovers could be the unraveling of the world as she knows it.
Eco-horror meets the detective novel in this suspenseful tale, perfect for fans of T. Kingfisher, Paul Tremblay, Laurel Hightower, and Kealan Patrick Burke.
- GenresHorror
192 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication September 15, 2026
About the author
Zoje Stage
16 books2,826 followersZoje Stage is a USA Today and internationally bestselling author of psychological thrillers (Baby Teeth, Dear Hanna, Getaway), psychological horror (Wonderland, Mothered), and offbeat books of dark whimsy (My UnderSlumberBumbleBeast, The Girl Who Outgrew the World). She's been a "Book of the Week" author in People magazine, and a Bram Stoker award nominee. Her books have been named "best of the year" by Forbes Magazine, Library Journal, PopSugar, Barnes & Noble, Book Riot, BookPage, Bloody Disgusting, and more. She lives in Pittsburgh with her cats.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 28, 2026
Thank you to the author, NetGalley, and the publisher for this advanced copy for my honest review
This was my first eco-horror book and definitely won’t be my last. The book was short and sweet but really packed a punch. It really makes you think about how we interact and disregard the animals we share the world with. It was nice to see them fighting back.
This was my first eco-horror book and definitely won’t be my last. The book was short and sweet but really packed a punch. It really makes you think about how we interact and disregard the animals we share the world with. It was nice to see them fighting back.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Something of a Calling by Zoje Stage was an easy five star read for me. I was completely pulled in from the very first page and ended up finishing it in a single sitting, it’s that engaging.
The story follows Andy Cooper, a detective on the verge of retirement, who becomes involved in a deeply unsettling case. What stood out to me the most was Andy herself. She felt incredibly real and grounded, and I found myself fully invested in her perspective as the story unfolded.
Having previously read and loved Baby Teeth, I had high expectations going into this novella, and it absolutely delivered. Zoje Stage’s writing is accessible and easy to follow while still maintaining a strong sense of tension and atmosphere.
This novella blends psychological and ecological horror in a way that feels both terrifying and thought-provoking. Beneath the surface, it explores the idea of humanity’s impact on the natural world, raising unsettling questions about whether humans themselves are becoming an invasive force.
Overall, this was a sharp, haunting, and impactful read that lingered with me after I finished. I would highly recommend it to readers who enjoy horror with deeper thematic elements.
Something of a Calling by Zoje Stage was an easy five star read for me. I was completely pulled in from the very first page and ended up finishing it in a single sitting, it’s that engaging.
The story follows Andy Cooper, a detective on the verge of retirement, who becomes involved in a deeply unsettling case. What stood out to me the most was Andy herself. She felt incredibly real and grounded, and I found myself fully invested in her perspective as the story unfolded.
Having previously read and loved Baby Teeth, I had high expectations going into this novella, and it absolutely delivered. Zoje Stage’s writing is accessible and easy to follow while still maintaining a strong sense of tension and atmosphere.
This novella blends psychological and ecological horror in a way that feels both terrifying and thought-provoking. Beneath the surface, it explores the idea of humanity’s impact on the natural world, raising unsettling questions about whether humans themselves are becoming an invasive force.
Overall, this was a sharp, haunting, and impactful read that lingered with me after I finished. I would highly recommend it to readers who enjoy horror with deeper thematic elements.
May 15, 2026
Something of a Calling is a shadowy murder mystery novel that follows Andy, a detective nearing retirement who stumbles upon the strangest case she’s ever encountered. Someone or something is lurking within the earthy confines of her home town of Longdan.
I really enjoyed how this book slowly unveils the layers of its mystery to the reader. The author does a fantastic job at making you care about the main character and her heartbreaking past. The book also paints a poignant vision about human interaction with nature and the balance between their coexistence.
My thanks to the publisher and the author for sending me an Advance Reader Copy of this book. It was provided to me through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Everything stated in my review is my own opinion written in my own words.
I really enjoyed how this book slowly unveils the layers of its mystery to the reader. The author does a fantastic job at making you care about the main character and her heartbreaking past. The book also paints a poignant vision about human interaction with nature and the balance between their coexistence.
My thanks to the publisher and the author for sending me an Advance Reader Copy of this book. It was provided to me through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Everything stated in my review is my own opinion written in my own words.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“Something of a Calling” by Zoje Stage is one of those quick, eerie reads that hooks you immediately and then slowly spirals into something much bigger and honestly kind of unsettling to think about.
The book opens with Detective Andy Cooper, who’s literally about to retire and pretty cynical about the world, stumbling across a dead body that’s been chewed. Clearly not a normal murder. It’s gruesome right from the start, with some pretty vivid gore, and it only gets weirder from there. People aren’t just dying; they’re being eaten by all sorts of wild animals. And not in a clean, “animal attack” kind of way either. There’s something off about it.
Andy is a really strong main character. She’s tired, a little lost, and dealing with a lot with her daughter’s death, a failed marriage, and the looming question of what her life even looks like after retirement. She’s not overly dramatic about it, just quietly worn down, which makes her feel very real. And even though she could just walk away from this case, she can’t help but dig deeper.
As the story goes on, the mystery expands way beyond a single case. These bizarre deaths are happening everywhere, and they all point to something unnatural with animals acting aggressively, intelligently, and in ways they absolutely shouldn’t. There are even chapters from victims’ perspectives (which really help set the tone of the book) and, more interestingly, from the animals themselves. The animals are definitely changing. They’re getting smarter, more coordinated, and even herbivores are turning into predators.
The concept is super unique and kind of terrifying when you really think about it. It leans heavily into environmental themes with basically the idea that nature is fighting back against humans, and while that message can feel a little on-the-nose at times, it’s also what gives the story its deeper meaning. Essentially like “The Birds” but with all animals.
There’s also a side plot with Fiona, a woman Andy befriends who seems to represent everything Andy feels like she’s lost, like connection, curiosity, and a love for the natural world. Their friendship is nice and feels genuine, but it does develop pretty quickly and could’ve used more time to really hit.
That’s kind of the main downside of the book overall; it’s short. Like, easily a one-sitting read. The pacing is fast, which keeps you engaged, but it also means some parts feel rushed, especially when the story starts explaining what’s actually going on. There’s a bit of an info-dump near the end, and you might wish the concept had been explored more deeply.
Still, for a horror story, it has a surprisingly thoughtful and even hopeful ending. It shifts from pure dread to something more reflective about balance, nature, and humanity’s place in the world, which is not what you’d expect after all the chaos and gore.
Overall, “Something of a Calling” is a creepy, thought-provoking novella that mixes horror with environmental commentary in a really unique way. This book is definitely memorable, and it might make you look at the natural world a little differently afterward.
“Something of a Calling” by Zoje Stage is one of those quick, eerie reads that hooks you immediately and then slowly spirals into something much bigger and honestly kind of unsettling to think about.
The book opens with Detective Andy Cooper, who’s literally about to retire and pretty cynical about the world, stumbling across a dead body that’s been chewed. Clearly not a normal murder. It’s gruesome right from the start, with some pretty vivid gore, and it only gets weirder from there. People aren’t just dying; they’re being eaten by all sorts of wild animals. And not in a clean, “animal attack” kind of way either. There’s something off about it.
Andy is a really strong main character. She’s tired, a little lost, and dealing with a lot with her daughter’s death, a failed marriage, and the looming question of what her life even looks like after retirement. She’s not overly dramatic about it, just quietly worn down, which makes her feel very real. And even though she could just walk away from this case, she can’t help but dig deeper.
As the story goes on, the mystery expands way beyond a single case. These bizarre deaths are happening everywhere, and they all point to something unnatural with animals acting aggressively, intelligently, and in ways they absolutely shouldn’t. There are even chapters from victims’ perspectives (which really help set the tone of the book) and, more interestingly, from the animals themselves. The animals are definitely changing. They’re getting smarter, more coordinated, and even herbivores are turning into predators.
The concept is super unique and kind of terrifying when you really think about it. It leans heavily into environmental themes with basically the idea that nature is fighting back against humans, and while that message can feel a little on-the-nose at times, it’s also what gives the story its deeper meaning. Essentially like “The Birds” but with all animals.
There’s also a side plot with Fiona, a woman Andy befriends who seems to represent everything Andy feels like she’s lost, like connection, curiosity, and a love for the natural world. Their friendship is nice and feels genuine, but it does develop pretty quickly and could’ve used more time to really hit.
That’s kind of the main downside of the book overall; it’s short. Like, easily a one-sitting read. The pacing is fast, which keeps you engaged, but it also means some parts feel rushed, especially when the story starts explaining what’s actually going on. There’s a bit of an info-dump near the end, and you might wish the concept had been explored more deeply.
Still, for a horror story, it has a surprisingly thoughtful and even hopeful ending. It shifts from pure dread to something more reflective about balance, nature, and humanity’s place in the world, which is not what you’d expect after all the chaos and gore.
Overall, “Something of a Calling” is a creepy, thought-provoking novella that mixes horror with environmental commentary in a really unique way. This book is definitely memorable, and it might make you look at the natural world a little differently afterward.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Detective Andy Cooper is nearing retirement, but the future isn’t exactly brimming with possibility. Maybe she’ll travel the country in an RV she hasn’t bought yet. Maybe she’ll finally get a dog. Maybe she’ll spend her days gardening beside the shrinking patch of woods behind her house. Truth is, Andy isn’t sure what comes next—and after losing her daughter to a drunk driver and watching her marriage fall apart, the quiet that waits on the other side of retirement feels more like an abyss than a reward.
Then the bodies start appearing.
The victims haven’t been stabbed or shot. Instead, they look like they’ve been chewed. Torn apart by teeth. Not human teeth. As Andy works what may be her final case, she forms an unlikely friendship with Fiona—a woman who seems to embody everything Andy has lost: energy, curiosity, a love of nature and the wild world outside town. But beneath Fiona’s easy smile is a secret that could shatter everything Andy thinks she understands.
This was just a fun read. Andy is a great character—world-weary without being cynical, sharp but quietly wounded—and I would happily follow her into another book. The central mystery is creepy in a wonderfully unsettling way, and the idea behind it is genuinely terrifying once it sinks in. My only real complaint is that the book is too short. The concept here is strong enough that it could have been expanded quite a bit, and the ending ends up feeling a little rushed because of it. Still, the small-town setting gives the story a nice, grounded vibe that makes the horror hit a little harder. So close to a five-star read that I could almost taste it. Even so, this is easily the best book I’ve read so far this year.
Then the bodies start appearing.
The victims haven’t been stabbed or shot. Instead, they look like they’ve been chewed. Torn apart by teeth. Not human teeth. As Andy works what may be her final case, she forms an unlikely friendship with Fiona—a woman who seems to embody everything Andy has lost: energy, curiosity, a love of nature and the wild world outside town. But beneath Fiona’s easy smile is a secret that could shatter everything Andy thinks she understands.
This was just a fun read. Andy is a great character—world-weary without being cynical, sharp but quietly wounded—and I would happily follow her into another book. The central mystery is creepy in a wonderfully unsettling way, and the idea behind it is genuinely terrifying once it sinks in. My only real complaint is that the book is too short. The concept here is strong enough that it could have been expanded quite a bit, and the ending ends up feeling a little rushed because of it. Still, the small-town setting gives the story a nice, grounded vibe that makes the horror hit a little harder. So close to a five-star read that I could almost taste it. Even so, this is easily the best book I’ve read so far this year.
Review of advance copy received from Storygraph
Release: Sept 15, 2026
Author: Zoje Stage
Publisher: Blackstone
Rating: 3.75 ★
Your Thoughts:
Something of a Calling by Zoje Stage is an eerie and immersive psychological thriller that blends detective work with existential dread. Detective Andy Cooper’s journey, on the verge of retirement, becomes an unexpectedly harrowing exploration of grief, isolation, and secrets. The discovery of bodies with strange bite marks is disturbing, but the tension really builds when Andy uncovers the unsettling connection with her new friend Fiona. I was gripped by the mounting sense of dread that Stage so skillfully weaves into the narrative. The eerie tone and the slow unravelling of hidden truths made this a page-turner.
This book suits someone in the mood for something: emotional, tense
Pace: slow-burn
Plot or Character Driven?: character-driven
Strong Character Development?: yes
Loveable Characters?: no
Diverse Cast?: no
Are Character Flaws a Main Focus?: yes
Main Themes / Tropes:
grief, isolation, betrayal, new friendships, murder mystery, strange phenomena, nature
Synopsis:
Detective Andy Cooper, on the brink of retirement, is reeling from the tragic loss of her daughter and the dissolution of her marriage. As she tries to make sense of her life, a series of unusual murders—where victims are found with chunks missing from their bodies—pull her back into one final investigation. As Andy works to uncover the killer, a new friendship with Fiona, a nature-loving free spirit, leads to chilling revelations about Fiona’s hidden past. The dark secrets Andy uncovers may shatter her entire reality.
Favorite Quote:
“The world isn’t ending. It’s correcting itself.”
Author: Zoje Stage
Publisher: Blackstone
Rating: 3.75 ★
Your Thoughts:
Something of a Calling by Zoje Stage is an eerie and immersive psychological thriller that blends detective work with existential dread. Detective Andy Cooper’s journey, on the verge of retirement, becomes an unexpectedly harrowing exploration of grief, isolation, and secrets. The discovery of bodies with strange bite marks is disturbing, but the tension really builds when Andy uncovers the unsettling connection with her new friend Fiona. I was gripped by the mounting sense of dread that Stage so skillfully weaves into the narrative. The eerie tone and the slow unravelling of hidden truths made this a page-turner.
This book suits someone in the mood for something: emotional, tense
Pace: slow-burn
Plot or Character Driven?: character-driven
Strong Character Development?: yes
Loveable Characters?: no
Diverse Cast?: no
Are Character Flaws a Main Focus?: yes
Main Themes / Tropes:
grief, isolation, betrayal, new friendships, murder mystery, strange phenomena, nature
Synopsis:
Detective Andy Cooper, on the brink of retirement, is reeling from the tragic loss of her daughter and the dissolution of her marriage. As she tries to make sense of her life, a series of unusual murders—where victims are found with chunks missing from their bodies—pull her back into one final investigation. As Andy works to uncover the killer, a new friendship with Fiona, a nature-loving free spirit, leads to chilling revelations about Fiona’s hidden past. The dark secrets Andy uncovers may shatter her entire reality.
Favorite Quote:
“The world isn’t ending. It’s correcting itself.”
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley, and Blackstone Publishing for the Advanced Reader’s Copy of Something of a Calling by Zoje Stage. This novel will be published on September 15, 2026.
Detective Andy Cooper is days from retirement. Years prior, her daughter, Daisy, was tragically killed in a drunk driving incident and her marriage fell apart. And before she can ask what’s next in her empty life, there is a gruesome murder case that lands on her desk.
This felt like a Mitch Albom novel. It was a well written, quick novel that can be read in a single afternoon. The chapters are short and the story is straight to the point and easy to follow. It was a fast-paced, page turner. Whereas Mitch writes heart-warming, tear-jerkers of a story, this story contained more bodies. Dead bodies. But a dead body can still be warm, right? And the murder weapon… Let’s just say that the murder weapon is a collection of many different things.
Immediately loved Andy as the FMC. She was relatable, grounded and level headed as a character and people in the same circumstances as her would probably make the same decisions. I think that the book was predictable given the clues provided but it was still enjoyable read. Decisions made could have gone either way and I do appreciate the direction that was taken.
The social-political commentary regarding the state of our current environment is obvious. Some readers may appreciate that and others may not. As for what side of the fence I’m on, well, ask me about my cats and that would probably tell you.
Zoje Stage absolutely made me a fan today.
Detective Andy Cooper is days from retirement. Years prior, her daughter, Daisy, was tragically killed in a drunk driving incident and her marriage fell apart. And before she can ask what’s next in her empty life, there is a gruesome murder case that lands on her desk.
This felt like a Mitch Albom novel. It was a well written, quick novel that can be read in a single afternoon. The chapters are short and the story is straight to the point and easy to follow. It was a fast-paced, page turner. Whereas Mitch writes heart-warming, tear-jerkers of a story, this story contained more bodies. Dead bodies. But a dead body can still be warm, right? And the murder weapon… Let’s just say that the murder weapon is a collection of many different things.
Immediately loved Andy as the FMC. She was relatable, grounded and level headed as a character and people in the same circumstances as her would probably make the same decisions. I think that the book was predictable given the clues provided but it was still enjoyable read. Decisions made could have gone either way and I do appreciate the direction that was taken.
The social-political commentary regarding the state of our current environment is obvious. Some readers may appreciate that and others may not. As for what side of the fence I’m on, well, ask me about my cats and that would probably tell you.
Zoje Stage absolutely made me a fan today.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Some horrors don’t come from monsters… they come from what we’ve done to the world.
This book completely pulled me under.
What starts as a final case for Detective Andy Cooper quickly becomes something so much bigger...something unsettling, almost otherworldly, and deeply rooted in the idea that maybe humanity isn’t as untouchable as we think.
Andy is such a strong, grounded main character. She’s carrying grief, exhaustion, and years of seeing the worst of people, and you can feel how worn down she is by it all. Watching her step into something she can’t fully explain but somehow understands on a deeper level was both eerie and emotional.
The atmosphere is where this book really shines. The quiet lake, the small-town isolation, the sense that something is shifting just beneath the surface… it creates this constant feeling of unease that builds with every chapter.
And the eco-horror element? So well done.
It’s subtle, creeping, and almost… justified in a way that makes you uncomfortable.
The story really leans into that idea of nature pushing back, of consequences catching up, and it makes you question where the line between horror and truth actually is.
There’s also this underlying emotional thread about grief, loneliness, and what comes after a life defined by loss and duty. It gives the story so much depth beyond just the mystery.
By the end, I was completely immersed and honestly a little shaken.
Thank you so much Blackstone Publishing, Zoje Stage, & NetGalley for the #gifted earc.
All opinions are my own 🖤
This book completely pulled me under.
What starts as a final case for Detective Andy Cooper quickly becomes something so much bigger...something unsettling, almost otherworldly, and deeply rooted in the idea that maybe humanity isn’t as untouchable as we think.
Andy is such a strong, grounded main character. She’s carrying grief, exhaustion, and years of seeing the worst of people, and you can feel how worn down she is by it all. Watching her step into something she can’t fully explain but somehow understands on a deeper level was both eerie and emotional.
The atmosphere is where this book really shines. The quiet lake, the small-town isolation, the sense that something is shifting just beneath the surface… it creates this constant feeling of unease that builds with every chapter.
And the eco-horror element? So well done.
It’s subtle, creeping, and almost… justified in a way that makes you uncomfortable.
The story really leans into that idea of nature pushing back, of consequences catching up, and it makes you question where the line between horror and truth actually is.
There’s also this underlying emotional thread about grief, loneliness, and what comes after a life defined by loss and duty. It gives the story so much depth beyond just the mystery.
By the end, I was completely immersed and honestly a little shaken.
Thank you so much Blackstone Publishing, Zoje Stage, & NetGalley for the #gifted earc.
All opinions are my own 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When Detective Andy Cooper reaches her retirement week, she finds a dead body- and a dead end list of possibilities of what to do with her time afterward, when she is faced with unending options and time. Since this is a woman who has lost her daughter to a drunk driver, and a husband/ divorce, her retirement poses more question and daunting end than exciting landscape of possibility, so who can blame her for chewing her lip in consternation? The dead body brings with it the idea of animals who are "taking back what is rightfully theirs", fed up perhaps with being treated like scum by selfish human beings who take shortcuts rather than appreciate wildlife the majority of the time. This novella was hauntingly beautiful, with a powerful and evocative message. The women displayed here were so strong and courageous- I couldn't help but admire how gentle yet also how tough they ALL were. Stage blew me away, and with so few pages! Thanks to Netgalley and Blackstone Publishing for the eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“If humanity was guided by the hearts of children, we wouldn’t be in this predicament.”
When I saw that Zoje Stage had a new book coming out, I was excited. I love their writing and the books that they put out are always different and contain something unexpected. Something of a Calling was just that.
Stage created a connection to the earth and the creatures that are forgotten. She set a stage where they are allowed to take back and reclaim this land as their own again.
Through the main character you get to see the struggles between what is exposed to Andy in their job, in their life and why that has so precisely worn them down. Due to this experience Stage sets up the scene so that the reader can get a glimpse of why it is such an essential need towards the end for Andy to listen to the animals around her, to tune in.
Thank you NetGalley for this advance copy and I am leaving the review voluntarily.
When I saw that Zoje Stage had a new book coming out, I was excited. I love their writing and the books that they put out are always different and contain something unexpected. Something of a Calling was just that.
Stage created a connection to the earth and the creatures that are forgotten. She set a stage where they are allowed to take back and reclaim this land as their own again.
Through the main character you get to see the struggles between what is exposed to Andy in their job, in their life and why that has so precisely worn them down. Due to this experience Stage sets up the scene so that the reader can get a glimpse of why it is such an essential need towards the end for Andy to listen to the animals around her, to tune in.
Thank you NetGalley for this advance copy and I am leaving the review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A retiring police officer is called in on a case that seems as if animals may have attacked the victim. Then another body that is in similar condition shows up. Then the police begin to notice that there are strange cases popping up in other countries. What in the literal world is going on?
Well, for starters, “Something of a Calling” is an environmental horror story. You will just have to read this short novel to find out what is causing the situation.
The story was good, but that was a problem for me because the premise was unique. The story should have been great. The information was interesting, however, the characters were not. They just felt there. There is only one interesting character, Fiona, but she isn’t the main character.
Just an okay novel that should have been much better.
2 ½ out of 5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
Well, for starters, “Something of a Calling” is an environmental horror story. You will just have to read this short novel to find out what is causing the situation.
The story was good, but that was a problem for me because the premise was unique. The story should have been great. The information was interesting, however, the characters were not. They just felt there. There is only one interesting character, Fiona, but she isn’t the main character.
Just an okay novel that should have been much better.
2 ½ out of 5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑵𝒆𝒕𝒈𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒚
Andy is less than 2 weeks from retirement when she stumbles upon a body while kayaking. She's more than happy to pass this one on to her predecessor in hopes the next few weeks will be quiet. Unfortunately, after another body is found, that doesnt seem very likely.
I absolutely loved the premise of this book. Eco-horror mixed with vengeance is right up my alley. Unfortunately the main character fell kind of flat for me. Andy didn't seem to have any personality. I didn't even feel like she was cynical enough to be interesting.
I did however really like the character she becomes friends with. I think I would have enjoyed the story had it been about the friend, instead of Andy.
I would like to thank Zoje Stage, Netgalley, and Blackstone Publishing for an ARC copy in exchange for a review.
Andy is less than 2 weeks from retirement when she stumbles upon a body while kayaking. She's more than happy to pass this one on to her predecessor in hopes the next few weeks will be quiet. Unfortunately, after another body is found, that doesnt seem very likely.
I absolutely loved the premise of this book. Eco-horror mixed with vengeance is right up my alley. Unfortunately the main character fell kind of flat for me. Andy didn't seem to have any personality. I didn't even feel like she was cynical enough to be interesting.
I did however really like the character she becomes friends with. I think I would have enjoyed the story had it been about the friend, instead of Andy.
I would like to thank Zoje Stage, Netgalley, and Blackstone Publishing for an ARC copy in exchange for a review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Soon to be retired Detective Andy has stumbled upon quite a baffling string of cases that she feels she needs closure on before she’s finished. This story is gruesome but also gentle in theme and imagery. It brings to light the beauty of the world around us, the animals we’ve pushed away and how this could affect us all in the long run. Having a degree in environmental sciences myself, I really felt this story. The helplessness that comes with watching animals and the environment suffer. The feeling that the animals are entitled to more respect is strong as well.
I enjoyed Andy as a character, she feels well rounded even in this shorter story. I think the length of this works well because it got to the point and it felt complete.
Excellent read! Now I must find more eco horror so I can be spooked while cheering for the animals
Thank you NetGalley for this copy to review
I enjoyed Andy as a character, she feels well rounded even in this shorter story. I think the length of this works well because it got to the point and it felt complete.
Excellent read! Now I must find more eco horror so I can be spooked while cheering for the animals
Thank you NetGalley for this copy to review
May 22, 2026
All thanks to Net Galley for the advanced copy of this book!
Well..that was a lot of words. I honestly am not entirely sure how to feel about this book. There’s a very obvious, somewhat preachy message that’s pretty obvious as soon as you get a few pages in. Which at 149 pages isn’t all that long, and somehow felt even longer. We don’t really get a picture of the main character Andy beyond a few simple facts and Andy is really chill about a lot of things in a way that makes me think Andy has some screws loose. I went into the book thinking I was getting a horror story and I guess there’s some gruesome moments but it’s downplayed by the sheer lack of plot. The interactions between Fiona and Andy were strange at best and given Andy’s life as a detective she’s extremely quick to accept the situation happening around her. I dunno. This was weird, and almost not in a good way.
Well..that was a lot of words. I honestly am not entirely sure how to feel about this book. There’s a very obvious, somewhat preachy message that’s pretty obvious as soon as you get a few pages in. Which at 149 pages isn’t all that long, and somehow felt even longer. We don’t really get a picture of the main character Andy beyond a few simple facts and Andy is really chill about a lot of things in a way that makes me think Andy has some screws loose. I went into the book thinking I was getting a horror story and I guess there’s some gruesome moments but it’s downplayed by the sheer lack of plot. The interactions between Fiona and Andy were strange at best and given Andy’s life as a detective she’s extremely quick to accept the situation happening around her. I dunno. This was weird, and almost not in a good way.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a police procedural mixed with environmental horror novella. Now that’s a genre. This was well written and I liked the two main characters. Andy had quite the sad life and I was rooting for her. I liked Fiona’s character, she seemed well developed for a side character. The story is interesting and won’t be for everyone. It’s not a fast paced story, but it is compelling. It’s a short read which normally I enjoy, but feel this one would’ve been a smidge better if it was a little longer to fully flesh out its ideas. I can’t put my finger on what was missing, but there was something. However, I did enjoy this book and I would recommend it.
Thank you, NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for allowing me to read this book early. The opinion in this review is my own.
Thank you, NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for allowing me to read this book early. The opinion in this review is my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
thank you to netgalley and the publishers for an e arc in exchange for an honest review!
I loved this so much more than I thought I would! I wasn't sure if ecological horror would be my thing, but this book definitely made me a fan. While I think this definitely could have been stretched to a full length novel, what we got within 190 pages was still great. The political message about the damage humans have done to the earth/animals as well as the critique on the farming industry was also really well done and definitely makes you think.
Overall, this has definitely made me a Zoje Stage fan, and I'm excited to pick up another one of her books!
I loved this so much more than I thought I would! I wasn't sure if ecological horror would be my thing, but this book definitely made me a fan. While I think this definitely could have been stretched to a full length novel, what we got within 190 pages was still great. The political message about the damage humans have done to the earth/animals as well as the critique on the farming industry was also really well done and definitely makes you think.
Overall, this has definitely made me a Zoje Stage fan, and I'm excited to pick up another one of her books!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a short police procedural story dedicated to the natural world; specifically, the animals that live most adjacently to humans - deer, squirrels, foxes, hares, racoons, etc. We follow retiring detective Andy Cooper as she begins to investigate a couple of bizarre deaths in her area. What she ultimately uncovers will call into question her life's purpose - and in turn ours. Will we respond to the calling?
The whole, overarching theme of this little novella really resonated with me. The author definitely had a purpose in writing, and I really felt that in my reading experience. Highly recommend if you like eco-horror.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
The whole, overarching theme of this little novella really resonated with me. The author definitely had a purpose in writing, and I really felt that in my reading experience. Highly recommend if you like eco-horror.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review.
This was a short book (almost like a novella) but certainly an impactful one! This story explores the relationship between humans and animals and (sometimes gruesomely) what it would look like if animals teamed up to get their revenge. Honestly for most of the book I found myself thinking “…Good for them.” It definitely makes you take a second look at the beautiful wildlife around us. The only downfall of this book is that I needed MORE!
This was a short book (almost like a novella) but certainly an impactful one! This story explores the relationship between humans and animals and (sometimes gruesomely) what it would look like if animals teamed up to get their revenge. Honestly for most of the book I found myself thinking “…Good for them.” It definitely makes you take a second look at the beautiful wildlife around us. The only downfall of this book is that I needed MORE!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Eco-horror.....is that a thing? Apparently yes, yes it is and I am here for it! A quick well crafted read that had me hooked from the get go. I very much liked the characters in this one. They were believable and relatable. I wish that this was longer! An excellent book club read as there are so many interesting conversations that could be generated by the subject matter.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read this one free of charge, I am leaving my review voluntarily .
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read this one free of charge, I am leaving my review voluntarily .
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Holy cannoli. I didn't expect to be hit in the guilt to this extent.
This book contains the opportunity to reflect on what on earth we are doing here as humans. From an ecological perspective, to the connections we make with humans and animals.
Zoje has managed to pack in such depth of character within these pages that I was sad when it was over. I felt as though I'd climbed into the tale and feared for the future of this fictional world.
Be cautious though, dear reader. You may not root for humans as much as you once did.
This book contains the opportunity to reflect on what on earth we are doing here as humans. From an ecological perspective, to the connections we make with humans and animals.
Zoje has managed to pack in such depth of character within these pages that I was sad when it was over. I felt as though I'd climbed into the tale and feared for the future of this fictional world.
Be cautious though, dear reader. You may not root for humans as much as you once did.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Since moving into my house in 2020, I have fallen in love with my animal neighbors and I frequently see squirrels, deer, groundhogs, cardinals, blue jays, chipmunks, raccoons... I've discovered that they all love black oil sunflower seeds, and I feel honored when they stop by for snacks. Really, this book exists because of my proximity to these animals and my wish that we'd made a better world for them.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Something of a Calling packs a punch in its shorter page count. It's well written and Zoje Stage crafts compelling narrative that holds your attention from page one. It's a quick read, but leaves you to consider a lot about your relationship to animals and the natural world.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Really enjoyed this book by Zoje Stage. It had great characters, along with a great story/plot. The pacing was great too. Will definitely be looking for more books to read by Zoje Stage. #SomethingofaCalling #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
A detective is called in to investigate a grisly murder a week before her retirement from the police force. No spoilers from me. Loved it.
May 1, 2026
I liked the core ideas here but it just didn’t feel quite as fleshed out as I would’ve liked it to be.
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