UnPutDownable
Albany Walker has a unique gift for blending high-stakes tension with undeniable chemistry, and "Dreadful Things" is a masterclass in why she remains a powerhouse in the world of romance. Whether it’s paranormal or suspense.
If you are looking for a story that is as haunting as it is heart-racing, this is the one. Although friends with monsters remains my all-time favorite this book isn’t too far behind.
Book Review: Dreadful Things
Author: Albany Walker
Genre: Romantic Suspense / Psychological Thriller
The Vibe: Gritty, Obsessive, and Heart-Pounding
Also, let me note that I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I was super excited to receive my first ever ARC from one of my favorite authors and it did not disappoint. I also downloaded the Kindle unlimited to re read later.
The Synopsis
Harlyn Wade’s life stopped the night her twin sister Hayzel (my Grandmother’s name) was murdered. A year later, with the case having gone cold and the police looking the other way, Harlyn is the only one who refuses to let go. She knows the killer is still out there—mainly because she can feel him watching her.
Moving to Michigan for fresh start (although she had another purpose) doesn’t quite work out the way she planned.
Desperate to find the monster who took her sister, Harlyn’s path collides with FBI profiler Agent, Boone Landry. He’s sharp, ruthless, and trained to see through the eyes of predators. While Landry recognizes the dangerous obsession driving Harlyn, he find himself unable to stay away. But as their connection deepens, the darkness closing in on Harlyn proves that the monster isn’t just hiding in the shadows anymore—he’s coming for her.
Why It’s a 4-Star Read
* The Atmosphere: Walker excels at creating a sense of sadness and "dread" that lives up to the title. From the very first page, there is a chilling introduction that puts you in the mindset for what to expect in the novel going forward thus making the suspense feel incredibly visceral.
* Harlyn & Landry’s Chemistry: The dynamic between Harlyn and Agent Landry is electric. Landry is the perfect "protective yet intense" hero, and his sharp, professional exterior provides a brilliant foil to Harlyn’s raw, grief-driven determination. Because of his profession, he reads her so well, which only enhances their connection.
* Dual POV Brilliance: By utilizing a dual perspective, Walker lets us inside the heads of both characters, heightening the emotional stakes and making every near-miss with the killer feel that much more urgent.
* The "Albany Walker" Signature: Like her previous works, this book doesn't shy away from the darker side of human nature, but it balances that darkness with a romance that feels earned and deeply passionate. As I stated earlier, the friends with Monster series was my first introduction to Walker and one of my all-time favorite series. I’ve read the books and listened to the audiobooks more than once. I read books 1 & 2 of the Ivy Institute last week, then Just yesterday I finished up the three book audiobook series for Tasting Madness, which was narrated beautifully and also a suspenseful series (I finished in just two days). And today I’ve read Dreadful Things in one day straight through. Next I’m going to buy the Infinity Chronicles on Audible as they are on sale. I also read them a few years ago. Lastly, I will be reading the Corrupt Credence series next.
Final Verdict
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dreadful Things is a pulse-pounding reminder of why Albany Walker is a must-buy author. It is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of grief, justice, and the thin line between protection and obsession. For fans of romantic suspense that actually delivers on the "suspense," this book is an absolute triumph.
"He sees the danger in her determination, the recklessness in her eyes—and he wants her anyway."