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We Are for the Dark
What starts as a missing person investigation morphs into something much darker when an FBI-agent-turned-Catholic-priest and a junior constable arrive on a remote Newfoundland island
This murder-mystery-turned-nail-biting-horror is perfect for fans of religious horror like The Possession of Alba Díaz and the cult-classic movie The Wicker Man
An isolated town. A missing priest. An ancient, hungry darkness.
When Father Shane Ryan is summoned to a meeting with His Eminence Cardinal Jacobs, he’s confused. A recently ordained priest at a small Maryland parish, Father Ryan has no idea why His Eminence would want to meet him. When he arrives, the Cardinal opens by laying out Father Ryan’s past as an FBI analyst. It seems a priest has gone missing, and the case is…unusual.
Weeks ago, Constable Miriam Rideout from the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary fielded a frantic call from a priest on a remote Newfoundland island. He begged for help, but then the line went dead, and no one has since been reported missing. When permission to perform a wellness check is denied by her superiors, Miriam takes some vacation time and books a ticket on the ferry.
Thrown together with friendly but cagey locals, Miriam and Father Ryan soon learn that something about the island isn’t right. There’s a fishing port without boats, a town with no stores and no cars, and strange, bulbous purple wildflowers are growing everywhere. The two don’t trust each other, but they begin to learn that an alliance, however uneasy, is a necessity. Because something evil lurks beneath the island—something ancient, eternal, hungry—and neither it nor the uncanny islanders have any intention of letting these newcomers leave.
A growing sense of dread intensifies until it explodes in this pulse-pounding supernatural horror.
This murder-mystery-turned-nail-biting-horror is perfect for fans of religious horror like The Possession of Alba Díaz and the cult-classic movie The Wicker Man
An isolated town. A missing priest. An ancient, hungry darkness.
When Father Shane Ryan is summoned to a meeting with His Eminence Cardinal Jacobs, he’s confused. A recently ordained priest at a small Maryland parish, Father Ryan has no idea why His Eminence would want to meet him. When he arrives, the Cardinal opens by laying out Father Ryan’s past as an FBI analyst. It seems a priest has gone missing, and the case is…unusual.
Weeks ago, Constable Miriam Rideout from the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary fielded a frantic call from a priest on a remote Newfoundland island. He begged for help, but then the line went dead, and no one has since been reported missing. When permission to perform a wellness check is denied by her superiors, Miriam takes some vacation time and books a ticket on the ferry.
Thrown together with friendly but cagey locals, Miriam and Father Ryan soon learn that something about the island isn’t right. There’s a fishing port without boats, a town with no stores and no cars, and strange, bulbous purple wildflowers are growing everywhere. The two don’t trust each other, but they begin to learn that an alliance, however uneasy, is a necessity. Because something evil lurks beneath the island—something ancient, eternal, hungry—and neither it nor the uncanny islanders have any intention of letting these newcomers leave.
A growing sense of dread intensifies until it explodes in this pulse-pounding supernatural horror.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2026
About the author
Gretchen McNeil
23 books2,219 followersGretchen McNeil is the author of the YA horror/suspense novels POSSESS, 3:59, RELIC, GET EVEN, GET DIRTY, and TEN (a YALSA Top Ten Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers, a Romantic Times Top Pick, and a Booklist Top Ten Horror Fiction for Youth) all with Balzer + Bray for HarperCollins. Gretchen’s first YA contemporary I’M NOT YOUR MANIC PIXIE DREAM GIRL, also with Balzer + Bray, hit shelves in 2016, and her next novel will be the horror-comedy #MURDERTRENDING for Disney/Freeform in August 2018.
Gretchen’s novels have been published internationally in Chinese, Spanish, Turkish, and Czech. The film adaptation of TEN starring China Anne McClain (Descendants 2, Black Lightning), Rome Flynn (The Bold and the Beautiful), and Callan McAuliffe (Flipped, I Am Number Four), directed by Chris Robert for Rain Maker Films, premiered on Lifetime on September 16, 2017.
Gretchen is repped by Ginger Clark of Curtis Brown, Ltd. You can find Gretchen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and on her website.
Gretchen’s novels have been published internationally in Chinese, Spanish, Turkish, and Czech. The film adaptation of TEN starring China Anne McClain (Descendants 2, Black Lightning), Rome Flynn (The Bold and the Beautiful), and Callan McAuliffe (Flipped, I Am Number Four), directed by Chris Robert for Rain Maker Films, premiered on Lifetime on September 16, 2017.
Gretchen is repped by Ginger Clark of Curtis Brown, Ltd. You can find Gretchen on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and on her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
August 29, 2026
**3.5-stars**
We Are for the Dark is an Adult Religious Horror novel from Gretchen McNeil. I've never read and Adult novel from McNeil, and actually mistakenly went into this believing it was YA. You might ask, didn't you read the synopsis?
And my answer to that would be, no, I did not. I've had enough success with McNeil in the past to jump on anything new she has releasing.
That assumption was quickly corrected based on the content and perspectives given at the start of the story, and I was excited to see how McNeil would deliver in this age group.
The story is set on a remote Newfoundland island and I was instantly drawn into that setting. I live on an island and love island set stories in general.
We follow two characters, Miriam Rideout, a Junior Constable from the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, and Father Shane Ryan, a FBI Agent turned Catholic Priest.
Father Ryan gets summoned to the island by His Eminence Cardinal Jacobs. Father Ryan is newly-ordained and he has no idea why this man of prominence would want to meet with him. It becomes clear that His Eminence is aware of Ryan's past in the FBI, and he needs his help investigating the mysterious disappearance of a local priest.
Weeks prior, Constable Miriam Rideout fielded a call from the island, a frantic priest begging for help. During the call the line went dead, leaving Rideout very unsettled. No further reports or calls came in from the island and Rideout was left scratching her head.
She appeals to her higher-ups for permission to travel to the island and do a wellness check on the caller, but her appeal is denied. After which, Rideout decides to take some vacation time and books her travel to the island. She feels like something is wrong, and she's not going let her boss deter her from helping someone in need.
Rideout and Ryan's paths end up crossing once they're on the island. The outsiders amongst a sea of locals. It's clear to both that something is very off with the island, but what? And are Rideout and Ryan now in danger too?
Though they don't trust each other at first, neither one of them is a dummy and they know their alliance is necessary. Something ancient lurks on this island, an entity to which the locals may be in service, and they have no intention of letting these newcomers leave.
This was good. I really enjoyed the setting and the atmosphere was great, but there were also aspects that I wasn't as crazy about. Some of the action towards the end became a little muddled as the paced increased, but overall it's a solid story.
I liked the working relationship between Rideout and Ryan, but even that went too far after a certain point. To me, it didn't make sense, especially considering the circumstances they were facing, but what do I know. I've never been trapped on an island by crazy islanders before. I am in the crazy islander. ((kidding, kidding))
I would recommend this for Readers who enjoy Religious Horror, or Horror Thrillers in general. Particularly if you've enjoyed things like Harrow Lake and The Wicker Man. The atmosphere is where it's at with this one, so Atmosphere Girlies, like myself, so definitely check it out.
Thank you to the publisher, Recorded Books and DAW, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm happy to see McNeil in the Adult space and am looking forward to further releases in this lane.
We Are for the Dark is an Adult Religious Horror novel from Gretchen McNeil. I've never read and Adult novel from McNeil, and actually mistakenly went into this believing it was YA. You might ask, didn't you read the synopsis?
And my answer to that would be, no, I did not. I've had enough success with McNeil in the past to jump on anything new she has releasing.
That assumption was quickly corrected based on the content and perspectives given at the start of the story, and I was excited to see how McNeil would deliver in this age group.
The story is set on a remote Newfoundland island and I was instantly drawn into that setting. I live on an island and love island set stories in general.
We follow two characters, Miriam Rideout, a Junior Constable from the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, and Father Shane Ryan, a FBI Agent turned Catholic Priest.
Father Ryan gets summoned to the island by His Eminence Cardinal Jacobs. Father Ryan is newly-ordained and he has no idea why this man of prominence would want to meet with him. It becomes clear that His Eminence is aware of Ryan's past in the FBI, and he needs his help investigating the mysterious disappearance of a local priest.
Weeks prior, Constable Miriam Rideout fielded a call from the island, a frantic priest begging for help. During the call the line went dead, leaving Rideout very unsettled. No further reports or calls came in from the island and Rideout was left scratching her head.
She appeals to her higher-ups for permission to travel to the island and do a wellness check on the caller, but her appeal is denied. After which, Rideout decides to take some vacation time and books her travel to the island. She feels like something is wrong, and she's not going let her boss deter her from helping someone in need.
Rideout and Ryan's paths end up crossing once they're on the island. The outsiders amongst a sea of locals. It's clear to both that something is very off with the island, but what? And are Rideout and Ryan now in danger too?
Though they don't trust each other at first, neither one of them is a dummy and they know their alliance is necessary. Something ancient lurks on this island, an entity to which the locals may be in service, and they have no intention of letting these newcomers leave.
This was good. I really enjoyed the setting and the atmosphere was great, but there were also aspects that I wasn't as crazy about. Some of the action towards the end became a little muddled as the paced increased, but overall it's a solid story.
I liked the working relationship between Rideout and Ryan, but even that went too far after a certain point. To me, it didn't make sense, especially considering the circumstances they were facing, but what do I know. I've never been trapped on an island by crazy islanders before. I am in the crazy islander. ((kidding, kidding))
I would recommend this for Readers who enjoy Religious Horror, or Horror Thrillers in general. Particularly if you've enjoyed things like Harrow Lake and The Wicker Man. The atmosphere is where it's at with this one, so Atmosphere Girlies, like myself, so definitely check it out.
Thank you to the publisher, Recorded Books and DAW, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm happy to see McNeil in the Adult space and am looking forward to further releases in this lane.
March 25, 2026
⛪️ We Are For the Dark ⛪️
This book was so odd. There were definitely some creepy movements but everyone in this book sucked!
🩸 What to Expect
• Religious horror
• Remote island
• Missing priest
• Folk horror
• Ancient evil
_ _ _ _
⭐️ Final Score: 2.75 Stars
📅 Pub Date: September 1, 2026
📝 Thank you to DAW and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
This book was so odd. There were definitely some creepy movements but everyone in this book sucked!
🩸 What to Expect
• Religious horror
• Remote island
• Missing priest
• Folk horror
• Ancient evil
_ _ _ _
⭐️ Final Score: 2.75 Stars
📅 Pub Date: September 1, 2026
📝 Thank you to DAW and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
September 2, 2026
We Are for the Dark begins with a 911 call so strange that it could easily be dismissed as a prank. Constable Miriam Rideout listens as a frightened priest claims to be on a remote Newfoundland island where something dark is happening. Then the call abruptly drops. Despite being denied permission to investigate, Miriam cannot let it go.
Meanwhile, Father Shane Ryan, a recently ordained priest and former FBI analyst, is summoned by a cardinal to investigate a missing clergyman: the same priest who contacted Miriam. Miriam and Father Ryan initially pursue the case independently, but their investigations soon converge. Forced into an uneasy partnership, they begin unraveling mysteries that challenge both their skepticism and their understanding of the island’s history.
Everything about the community feels slightly wrong. A seemingly miraculous recovery, religious relics far older than the settlement should allow, and the discovery of an anchorhold—a cell where an anchorite was enclosed to spend her life in prayer—raise increasingly unsettling questions. Chapters from the perspective of an imprisoned anchorite deepen the mystery, especially because it remains unclear when she lived on the island or how her story connects to the present.
The islanders are equally unnerving. They are guarded, secretive, and strangely insistent that Father Ryan celebrate Mass for them. Their distinctive Newfoundland speech helps establish a strong sense of place, but their behavior makes it increasingly clear that the residents may be every bit as dangerous as whatever monstrous presence lurks beneath the island.
McNeil effectively uses the isolation of the setting to build dread. There is something especially frightening about trapping skeptical characters on an island where communication is unreliable, escape is uncertain, and everyone around them appears to know more than they are willing to reveal. With each discovery, the story grows stranger and more fearsome.
Amid the religious horror and mounting terror, a potentially taboo connection develops between Miriam and Father Ryan. Their attraction introduces a small measure of warmth and vulnerability into an otherwise dark story. Both characters carry their own troubles, and the feelings forming between them give them and the reader a brief source of human connection as the island closes in.
Cassandra Campbell’s narration strengthens both the distinctive setting and the steadily escalating tension. She handles the characters’ accents skillfully, giving the islanders individual voices while reinforcing the feeling that Miriam and Father Ryan have entered a close-knit community where they do not belong. Campbell also puts palpable emotion into her performance, using changes in tone and intensity to propel the story’s fear, distrust, and mystery. Her narration makes the characters’ unease feel immediate and allows the dread to build even during the quieter moments.
We Are for the Dark will particularly appeal to readers who enjoy isolated settings, folk and religious horror, suspicious communities, and rational investigators forced to confront the impossible. Fans of the eerie island mysteries and supernatural skepticism found in Midnight Mass and Widow’s Bay should feel immediately at home—although “home” may be the last word anyone would use for this island.
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for providing an advanced listener copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Meanwhile, Father Shane Ryan, a recently ordained priest and former FBI analyst, is summoned by a cardinal to investigate a missing clergyman: the same priest who contacted Miriam. Miriam and Father Ryan initially pursue the case independently, but their investigations soon converge. Forced into an uneasy partnership, they begin unraveling mysteries that challenge both their skepticism and their understanding of the island’s history.
Everything about the community feels slightly wrong. A seemingly miraculous recovery, religious relics far older than the settlement should allow, and the discovery of an anchorhold—a cell where an anchorite was enclosed to spend her life in prayer—raise increasingly unsettling questions. Chapters from the perspective of an imprisoned anchorite deepen the mystery, especially because it remains unclear when she lived on the island or how her story connects to the present.
The islanders are equally unnerving. They are guarded, secretive, and strangely insistent that Father Ryan celebrate Mass for them. Their distinctive Newfoundland speech helps establish a strong sense of place, but their behavior makes it increasingly clear that the residents may be every bit as dangerous as whatever monstrous presence lurks beneath the island.
McNeil effectively uses the isolation of the setting to build dread. There is something especially frightening about trapping skeptical characters on an island where communication is unreliable, escape is uncertain, and everyone around them appears to know more than they are willing to reveal. With each discovery, the story grows stranger and more fearsome.
Amid the religious horror and mounting terror, a potentially taboo connection develops between Miriam and Father Ryan. Their attraction introduces a small measure of warmth and vulnerability into an otherwise dark story. Both characters carry their own troubles, and the feelings forming between them give them and the reader a brief source of human connection as the island closes in.
Cassandra Campbell’s narration strengthens both the distinctive setting and the steadily escalating tension. She handles the characters’ accents skillfully, giving the islanders individual voices while reinforcing the feeling that Miriam and Father Ryan have entered a close-knit community where they do not belong. Campbell also puts palpable emotion into her performance, using changes in tone and intensity to propel the story’s fear, distrust, and mystery. Her narration makes the characters’ unease feel immediate and allows the dread to build even during the quieter moments.
We Are for the Dark will particularly appeal to readers who enjoy isolated settings, folk and religious horror, suspicious communities, and rational investigators forced to confront the impossible. Fans of the eerie island mysteries and supernatural skepticism found in Midnight Mass and Widow’s Bay should feel immediately at home—although “home” may be the last word anyone would use for this island.
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for providing an advanced listener copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 9, 2026
WE ARE FOR THE DARK
By Gretchen McNeil
A Creepy Setting with a Strong Start
3.5 rounded down
This religious folk horror novel begins with an investigation into a missing priest that takes a much darker turn when an FBI agent-turned-Catholic priest and a junior constable arrive on an isolated, obscure Newfoundland island. Something sinister lurks beneath the island, and the strange islanders seem determined to keep the newcomers from ever leaving.
I especially liked the creepy island setting, where total isolation and the trappings of modern civilization have been stripped away, making the eerie darkness of the island feel even more sinister. The locals’ obsession with saying Mass adds another strange and unsettling element to the story.
I also enjoyed the cat-and-mouse banter between Father Ryan and Constable Miriam Rideout, which brought some humor to the tension and growing sense of dread. I found the first half especially strong, with plenty of tense and unsettling moments that kept me turning the pages. Unfortunately, the last part didn’t work as well for me, and I felt the story lost some of the suspense and intrigue that made the beginning so compelling. Overall, though, the creepy atmosphere and isolated setting made this an entertaining read.
Thank you to NetGalley and DAW for the eARC
Publishing on September 01 2026
By Gretchen McNeil
A Creepy Setting with a Strong Start
3.5 rounded down
This religious folk horror novel begins with an investigation into a missing priest that takes a much darker turn when an FBI agent-turned-Catholic priest and a junior constable arrive on an isolated, obscure Newfoundland island. Something sinister lurks beneath the island, and the strange islanders seem determined to keep the newcomers from ever leaving.
I especially liked the creepy island setting, where total isolation and the trappings of modern civilization have been stripped away, making the eerie darkness of the island feel even more sinister. The locals’ obsession with saying Mass adds another strange and unsettling element to the story.
I also enjoyed the cat-and-mouse banter between Father Ryan and Constable Miriam Rideout, which brought some humor to the tension and growing sense of dread. I found the first half especially strong, with plenty of tense and unsettling moments that kept me turning the pages. Unfortunately, the last part didn’t work as well for me, and I felt the story lost some of the suspense and intrigue that made the beginning so compelling. Overall, though, the creepy atmosphere and isolated setting made this an entertaining read.
Thank you to NetGalley and DAW for the eARC
Publishing on September 01 2026
July 9, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley and DAW for the pre-release copy of We Are For the Dark by Gretchen McNeil. Below is my honest review.
Let's start with the pros:
Awesome setting - creepy, atmospheric, mysterious, gives that preternatural eerie feeling of dread from the start.
Good characters - the two MCs are developed and have some depth to them
Twisty plot with decent pacing
And the cons:
Predictable, unsatisfying ending
I like this author a lot, having enjoyed her YA horror/thriller TEN and absolutely loving her 2025 adult horror release They Fear Not Men in the Woods, which is an epic banger of a novel and you need to go read it immediately.
I'm glad she's branched into adult horror (get it, branched, after I just mentioned the book with "in the Woods" in the title???), and I hope she keeps going with it. But alas, this one wasn't my favorite of hers.
3.5 stars, rounded down to 3.
Let's start with the pros:
Awesome setting - creepy, atmospheric, mysterious, gives that preternatural eerie feeling of dread from the start.
Good characters - the two MCs are developed and have some depth to them
Twisty plot with decent pacing
And the cons:
Predictable, unsatisfying ending
I like this author a lot, having enjoyed her YA horror/thriller TEN and absolutely loving her 2025 adult horror release They Fear Not Men in the Woods, which is an epic banger of a novel and you need to go read it immediately.
I'm glad she's branched into adult horror (get it, branched, after I just mentioned the book with "in the Woods" in the title???), and I hope she keeps going with it. But alas, this one wasn't my favorite of hers.
3.5 stars, rounded down to 3.
September 3, 2026
Well, surprising doesn’t even begin to describe this book. The author really managed to keep me on my toes for the entirety of it, without imagining the extent of what the characters were going to go through. The atmosphere is so thick in this book, permeating through every word, and creating an uncomfortable feeling until the end.
I loved the main characters and their dynamics, with both their strength and electricity seeping through the pages. There is some steam in the story and it is spicy! I have to admit I did fall in love a bit with the character of Shane too lol.
I’d describe this story as a slow burn that does deliver massively if the reader has the patience to stay with it. To be honest, the most enjoyable experience was the slow build up to the end, which was truly heartbreaking and in my opinion unexpected.
This author keeps surprising me with their originality and atmosphere, but most of all with how they manage to keep me from knowing what is happening at all times.
This author knows how to write and knows how to keep the reader guessing.
If you love a story drenched in atmosphere and having to wait for your prize, I’d suggest you pick this one as your next read!
Thanks to Black Crow Books for a copy and this is my honest opinion.
I loved the main characters and their dynamics, with both their strength and electricity seeping through the pages. There is some steam in the story and it is spicy! I have to admit I did fall in love a bit with the character of Shane too lol.
I’d describe this story as a slow burn that does deliver massively if the reader has the patience to stay with it. To be honest, the most enjoyable experience was the slow build up to the end, which was truly heartbreaking and in my opinion unexpected.
This author keeps surprising me with their originality and atmosphere, but most of all with how they manage to keep me from knowing what is happening at all times.
This author knows how to write and knows how to keep the reader guessing.
If you love a story drenched in atmosphere and having to wait for your prize, I’d suggest you pick this one as your next read!
Thanks to Black Crow Books for a copy and this is my honest opinion.
September 18, 2026
Thank you Gretchen McNeil and NetGalley for the advanced audiobook of this novel.
3.75 Stars
I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would. I loved how the author made setting on an island off of Newfoundland and Labrador essentially a character in itself.
I know religious cult like stuff is not everyone's cup of tea, but I liked how the author mixed in folklore and fantasy amongst the religious ritual esthetics it gave the story more depth and took it away from the same old story of that trope.
There was one specific part that creeped me out but it really wasn't scary. The narrative still held a tension throughout, which made the story enjoyable.
I have mixed feelings about the ending but it's was alright.
The narration was great.
Good read.
3.75 Stars
I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would. I loved how the author made setting on an island off of Newfoundland and Labrador essentially a character in itself.
I know religious cult like stuff is not everyone's cup of tea, but I liked how the author mixed in folklore and fantasy amongst the religious ritual esthetics it gave the story more depth and took it away from the same old story of that trope.
There was one specific part that creeped me out but it really wasn't scary. The narrative still held a tension throughout, which made the story enjoyable.
I have mixed feelings about the ending but it's was alright.
The narration was great.
Good read.
September 6, 2026
My rating is 3.75
What starts as a pretty standard missing person investigation story, definitely felt like a thriller novel more so than a horror, came out of the gate pretty strong. A strange phone call to a junior constable sets off a chain of events that spirals out of control in the last act. A remote Island near Newfoundland, that no one has ever heard of, is the desolate setting and all of the inhabitants are older and creepy. They are hiding something and Miriam is bound and determined to find out what. Since the missing person was a priest, the Cardinal sends Father Shane Ryan out to also look into the mystery.
Miriam and Father Shane, a former FBI agent hiding something dark of his own, work together despite differing views on religion and how to conduct the investigation. Their dynamic is super odd and didn't work for me, especially with the religious side. I would think a priest, especially one just 4 years in, would have better control of himself when it comes to a woman. He is far from a typical priest though.
The last 25% brings in the darker horror aspects of this tale, giving "no one gets off the Island" vibes. We get some cool background from a series of chapters by one of the religious order, a woman describing her life as an anchorite, imprisoned in the anchorhold on the island. An ancient evil is feared and for good reason.
There is a lot to like in this thought provoking tale but I could have done without certain scenes.
Cassandra Campbell is a terrific narrator and does a wonderful job with the different accents but I felt this would really have benefited from dual narration so we had male voices. It would have elevated the performance for me.
Thank you to NetGalley, Blackcrow Books and RBMedia for the opportunity to do an immersive read and review this title. My thoughts are my own.
What starts as a pretty standard missing person investigation story, definitely felt like a thriller novel more so than a horror, came out of the gate pretty strong. A strange phone call to a junior constable sets off a chain of events that spirals out of control in the last act. A remote Island near Newfoundland, that no one has ever heard of, is the desolate setting and all of the inhabitants are older and creepy. They are hiding something and Miriam is bound and determined to find out what. Since the missing person was a priest, the Cardinal sends Father Shane Ryan out to also look into the mystery.
Miriam and Father Shane, a former FBI agent hiding something dark of his own, work together despite differing views on religion and how to conduct the investigation. Their dynamic is super odd and didn't work for me, especially with the religious side. I would think a priest, especially one just 4 years in, would have better control of himself when it comes to a woman. He is far from a typical priest though.
The last 25% brings in the darker horror aspects of this tale, giving "no one gets off the Island" vibes. We get some cool background from a series of chapters by one of the religious order, a woman describing her life as an anchorite, imprisoned in the anchorhold on the island. An ancient evil is feared and for good reason.
There is a lot to like in this thought provoking tale but I could have done without certain scenes.
Cassandra Campbell is a terrific narrator and does a wonderful job with the different accents but I felt this would really have benefited from dual narration so we had male voices. It would have elevated the performance for me.
Thank you to NetGalley, Blackcrow Books and RBMedia for the opportunity to do an immersive read and review this title. My thoughts are my own.
August 12, 2026
This one, while still ending up an entertaining story, did not live up to my expectations. I went into We Are for the Dark expecting a religious/cult horror story, that takes place on a remote island, where an isolated group of people has a hidden agenda - and I got that. I also got, unexpectedly, . Definitely did not have that one on my bingo card, and this unfortunately did affect my reading experience. Add on top of that inconsistent story-telling (different writing-styles and word-choices within singular paragraphs), awkwardly written out conversations (the MCs did not come across as mature adults, but almost like teenagers), and a relatively underwhelming conclusion. That being said, there were moments that the atmosphere was genuinely eerie and oppressive. It's a good read if you're looking for a quick read and want to dip your toes into the horror genre.
A big thanks to DAW and NetGalley for this ARC!
A big thanks to DAW and NetGalley for this ARC!
September 17, 2026
𝑊ℎ𝑦 𝑤𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑉𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑎𝑏𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑎 𝑚𝑖𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑖𝑛 𝑁𝑒𝑤𝑓𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑑𝑙𝑎𝑛𝑑, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ℎ𝑜𝑤 𝑤𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑛 𝑘𝑛𝑜𝑤 𝑎𝑏𝑜𝑢𝑡 ℎ𝑖𝑚, 𝑎 𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑙𝑦 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑖𝑠ℎ 𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑖𝑛 𝑠𝑢𝑏𝑢𝑟𝑏𝑎𝑛 𝑀𝑎𝑟𝑦𝑙𝑎𝑛𝑑? 𝐴𝑛𝑑 𝑤ℎ𝑦 𝑠𝑢𝑐ℎ 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑦? 𝐻𝑎𝑑𝑛'𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑖𝑐 𝐶ℎ𝑢𝑟𝑐ℎ 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑛𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑙𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑜𝑛 𝑎𝑏𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ℎ𝑢𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑢𝑝 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑏𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑠?
I love a good religious horror book and was so excited to receive an early copy to review!
This book starts out feeling like a typical religious crime story but quickly shifts into folk horror. I loved how this book felt very similar to The Wicker Man. The creepy island setting really added to the atmosphere of the book, and there were actually a few scenes that I found genuinely creepy. The mystery of the island and the random diary entries kept me engaged throughout the book. Where the book lost me was with the characters. I don’t particularly mind romance in a horror book. I think if it is done well, it can be a fun little treat amongst the tension and spooky bits. But the romance in this book felt uncomfortably forced. I just have a hard time believing someone would be down to sleep with anyone after being chased by a creepy, corpse-like entity? I mean... it hasn’t happened to me personally, but I don’t know. I don’t think that’s the first thing I’d wanna do.
Overall, this book had some solid spooky moments, but it wasn’t for me. The romance felt like the driving force of the book, and I prefer romance to stay on the sidelines in my horror books if it has to make an appearance. If you enjoy romance and crime/mystery horror, I think you’d appreciate this one. Special thanks to DAW for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
I love a good religious horror book and was so excited to receive an early copy to review!
This book starts out feeling like a typical religious crime story but quickly shifts into folk horror. I loved how this book felt very similar to The Wicker Man. The creepy island setting really added to the atmosphere of the book, and there were actually a few scenes that I found genuinely creepy. The mystery of the island and the random diary entries kept me engaged throughout the book. Where the book lost me was with the characters. I don’t particularly mind romance in a horror book. I think if it is done well, it can be a fun little treat amongst the tension and spooky bits. But the romance in this book felt uncomfortably forced. I just have a hard time believing someone would be down to sleep with anyone after being chased by a creepy, corpse-like entity? I mean... it hasn’t happened to me personally, but I don’t know. I don’t think that’s the first thing I’d wanna do.
Overall, this book had some solid spooky moments, but it wasn’t for me. The romance felt like the driving force of the book, and I prefer romance to stay on the sidelines in my horror books if it has to make an appearance. If you enjoy romance and crime/mystery horror, I think you’d appreciate this one. Special thanks to DAW for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
August 30, 2026
I received this book as an audio book ARC from NetGalley, thanks to all.
This audiobook was narrated by a single narrator. She was clear and easy to understand even at a higher speed. Personally I found her voice enjoyable and think she did a good job on all 3 of the POV’s the story is told from.
The book starts out as a possible missing person investigation between constable Miriam and Father Ryan working separately looking for a missing priest. The setting is a small and essentially unknown island with a small population who aren’t super excited about a police investigation to say the least. There’s folk horror, religious horror, supernatural elements , romance and of course the mystery of what these islanders have to hide. Overall I enjoyed this story and found it interesting. It had a lot of things I like- a cut off island and folk and religious horror elements. I gave this 3/5 stars. My only notes would be that I feel like there’s just so many different elements it’s overwhelming- by the time you got to the end of the book It feels like you’re reading a different book than you started reading. If you like religious or folk horror I would recommend it.
This audiobook was narrated by a single narrator. She was clear and easy to understand even at a higher speed. Personally I found her voice enjoyable and think she did a good job on all 3 of the POV’s the story is told from.
The book starts out as a possible missing person investigation between constable Miriam and Father Ryan working separately looking for a missing priest. The setting is a small and essentially unknown island with a small population who aren’t super excited about a police investigation to say the least. There’s folk horror, religious horror, supernatural elements , romance and of course the mystery of what these islanders have to hide. Overall I enjoyed this story and found it interesting. It had a lot of things I like- a cut off island and folk and religious horror elements. I gave this 3/5 stars. My only notes would be that I feel like there’s just so many different elements it’s overwhelming- by the time you got to the end of the book It feels like you’re reading a different book than you started reading. If you like religious or folk horror I would recommend it.
Did Not Finish
September 12, 2026I received an audiobook ARC through NetGalley for an honest review
DNF @ 42%
This book is clearly trying to evoke Midnight Mass, Apostle, The Wicker Man (1973), but ended up reading more like The Wicker Man (2006) by way of an apropos unworthy take on Agustina Bazterrica's The Unworthy.
I probably could have gotten through it if it wasn't for the buddy cop and priest/ FBI agent with a painfully clunky lead up to what was undoubtedly going to be an insufferable romance, but two involuntary eye rolls in as many minutes meant I had to drop this like it was hot.
The narration was fine.
DNF @ 42%
This book is clearly trying to evoke Midnight Mass, Apostle, The Wicker Man (1973), but ended up reading more like The Wicker Man (2006) by way of an apropos unworthy take on Agustina Bazterrica's The Unworthy.
I probably could have gotten through it if it wasn't for the buddy cop and priest/ FBI agent with a painfully clunky lead up to what was undoubtedly going to be an insufferable romance, but two involuntary eye rolls in as many minutes meant I had to drop this like it was hot.
The narration was fine.
September 1, 2026
Well, that was disappointing. For most of this book I thought it'd be a solid 4 star read, but it takes a turn that I did not appreciate.
This story follows Father Ryan, a priest, and Miriam, a cop, as they investigate a missing person situation on this remote Newfoundland island. It's got nice creepy, remote, Christian-but-culty vibes. The audiobook is especially nice because the narrator reads the islanders with an accent which enhances the experience. Initially Father Ryan and Miriam are at odds, separately investigating, but they also have sexual/romantic tension.
It's that tension that didn't work for me at all, and unfortunately it becomes increasingly key to the story. Initially I thought, well, I don't like it, but I'll ignore it. That's not possible by the end, so if you don't want to read a story that hinges on a romantic plot, don't read this one.
I did not buy Miriam and Father Ryan's chemistry or attraction at all. I liked Father Ryan, but Miriam is incredibly annoying. She's the stereotypical romantasy heroine oddly enough - stubborn, impulsive, mouthy. I'm supposed to believe she's also really smart and good at her job despite lots of evidence that she's *not.* Multiple times Father Ryan swoons over her supposed smarts, and I'm like, WHAT is he talking about? She's been incompetent from the get-go, not even trying to charm the islanders, not closing doors when she has secret conversations, etc. Girl. 😭 I could've lived with it if their relationship wasn't so significant.
There are a couple aspects of the ending I did really like despite everything - which I can't say since it would spoil it. Otherwise, it all played out exactly like I expected it to. The reveals don't feel very exciting when you've already seen it all coming. It's tricky. Of course Miriam and Father Ryan don't see it coming to the degree the *reader* sees it coming, but it felt like I was supposed to be surprised, too, and I wasn't. All the elements of the reveals were written such that it was really obvious those things were important. To be fair, it's just harder to surprise a well-read person. I try not to judge a book too harshly for that! Especially if the journey is still fun.
So this was just okay. Mostly pretty solid, and then your mileage will vary based on how you feel about the ending.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
This story follows Father Ryan, a priest, and Miriam, a cop, as they investigate a missing person situation on this remote Newfoundland island. It's got nice creepy, remote, Christian-but-culty vibes. The audiobook is especially nice because the narrator reads the islanders with an accent which enhances the experience. Initially Father Ryan and Miriam are at odds, separately investigating, but they also have sexual/romantic tension.
It's that tension that didn't work for me at all, and unfortunately it becomes increasingly key to the story. Initially I thought, well, I don't like it, but I'll ignore it. That's not possible by the end, so if you don't want to read a story that hinges on a romantic plot, don't read this one.
I did not buy Miriam and Father Ryan's chemistry or attraction at all. I liked Father Ryan, but Miriam is incredibly annoying. She's the stereotypical romantasy heroine oddly enough - stubborn, impulsive, mouthy. I'm supposed to believe she's also really smart and good at her job despite lots of evidence that she's *not.* Multiple times Father Ryan swoons over her supposed smarts, and I'm like, WHAT is he talking about? She's been incompetent from the get-go, not even trying to charm the islanders, not closing doors when she has secret conversations, etc. Girl. 😭 I could've lived with it if their relationship wasn't so significant.
There are a couple aspects of the ending I did really like despite everything - which I can't say since it would spoil it. Otherwise, it all played out exactly like I expected it to. The reveals don't feel very exciting when you've already seen it all coming. It's tricky. Of course Miriam and Father Ryan don't see it coming to the degree the *reader* sees it coming, but it felt like I was supposed to be surprised, too, and I wasn't. All the elements of the reveals were written such that it was really obvious those things were important. To be fair, it's just harder to surprise a well-read person. I try not to judge a book too harshly for that! Especially if the journey is still fun.
So this was just okay. Mostly pretty solid, and then your mileage will vary based on how you feel about the ending.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
September 22, 2026
This one was a strange and eerie tale of a dark and mysterious remote island. The even more strange inhabitants have a mysterious way of treating guests and are obviously hiding something. There’s a dark religious trope weaved through the story and you get bits and pieces of the history of the island as the main characters try to solve the disappearance of a priest. There’s a lot going on as the story progresses and the narrator does a good job keeping the story moving. As the new priest and the investigator sent to solve the disappearance get closer to the truth, the darkness of that truth slowly drags the reader under to the horrible truth. I really enjoyed this story and love a good eerie island story! I thought the narrator did a good job and pacing was perfect. Many thanks to NetGalley and publisher for gifting me an ALC of this title in exchange for my honest review.
September 5, 2026
3.5 stars for me.
A Island that almost no one knows about it,a missing priest and Father Shane Ryan and Constable Miriam Rideout have a mystery to resolve.
I will not lie,it was scary at times,I was not sure what was happening,is it true is there some logic explanation to events what ocurred?A really enjoyable read,it made me question everything,and the forbidden romance didn't go in the way of being creep out by this Island and the secrets.I liked it to almost to the end,one of the sisters go without any punishment and I really hoped someone will just shake her good.Still I listen to this audio every spare moment,it was hard to put it down.Hope to read more by this author.
Thank you netgalley and RBmedia for audio book,my review is honest and my own.
A Island that almost no one knows about it,a missing priest and Father Shane Ryan and Constable Miriam Rideout have a mystery to resolve.
I will not lie,it was scary at times,I was not sure what was happening,is it true is there some logic explanation to events what ocurred?A really enjoyable read,it made me question everything,and the forbidden romance didn't go in the way of being creep out by this Island and the secrets.I liked it to almost to the end,one of the sisters go without any punishment and I really hoped someone will just shake her good.Still I listen to this audio every spare moment,it was hard to put it down.Hope to read more by this author.
Thank you netgalley and RBmedia for audio book,my review is honest and my own.
September 29, 2026
4.5 stars rounded up. I’m such a sucker for weird religious horror, and this starting out as a police procedural added another layer to my enjoyment. This was dark and creepy and unsettling and I enjoyed how mysterious everything was up until the very end. This was kind of the perfect combination of things for me.
TW: religious mania, body horror, confinement, death of a loved one
TW: religious mania, body horror, confinement, death of a loved one
September 8, 2026
DNF 45%
September 27, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for the ARC audiobook of We Are for the Dark!
An isolated town. A missing priest. An ancient, hungry darkness.
More like an atmospheric setting and location, a crush on a (different and not-so-missing) priest, and an interestingly unpredictable plot pulls you right in. We Are For the Dark is a great combination of cult religious-themed horror, a side of unexpected romance, and a cryptic twist that unfolds into a satisfying ending.
When I first saw the title and cover for this book, I honestly did not know what to expect. I was drawn to it because the church on the cover reminds me of the beloved comic series and television show Preacher, so I knew I had to check it out. Let me tell you, I am so glad that I did because this story was nothing like I thought it would be. The plotting was clever and just the right pace that you think you might understand what is going on but then find out that you most likely don’t. There was a sense of cozy to it with descriptions of places and things and that added to the overall addicting nature of this story. I found myself both comfortable and uncomfortable at the same time with twisty, eerie events occurring and slow-burn romance I did not think I would want but ended up needing. We Are for the Dark is a beautiful and tragic love story written alongside something dark and ancient which all pulled me in right away.
I listened to the audiobook version of this and thought that it was done perfectly. The characters’ voices matched well, the pronunciation was easy to listen to, and emphasis was placed in just the right places.
The story begins with a mysterious call from Cardinal Jacobs, requesting that our co-protagonist, Father Shane Ryan, meets with him. Within the meeting, we find out that Father Ryan has a past life as an FBI analyst and these skills are in need to help locate and find out what happened to a fellow priest. During this same time, we meet our other co-protagonist, Constable Miriam Rideout of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, who gets a call from the same priest asking for help who is currently on a remote Newfoundland island. Denied for a request to check on this call from her superior officer, Miriam decides to take vacation and investigate on her own, seemingly drawn to the mystery unfolding right in front of her. Miriam and Father Ryan come together and form an unlikely alliance when they find themselves interested in the same thing and curious about the strange locals and isolated island.
Mild Spoilers Below
This story was great because you were unsure what was going on through most of it.
Is it a monster?
What’s up with these people that live here?
What are they eating and how are they sustaining themselves with no fishing ports or boats?
Why are these weird flowers everywhere, and what do you mean they’re native to this rinky-dink island?
I asked myself so many questions as I proceeded through, bouncing from the idea of werewolves, to cannibals, to some conundrum with time and space. I loved the dynamic of Miriam’s persona and how well her and Father Ryan played off each other. I did not go into this thinking there would be a romance that budded, but it flourished into one that had me weeping for them in the end. It was such a great slow-burn and I loved how it ran parallel to the actual plot without overstepping or overshadowing the actual events. Father Ryan was very easily my favorite character, and I had a crush on him from the beginning with his secret past and crooked smirks.
The twist in the story and the pace at which it all unfolded was perfect for me. I thought that McNeil did an awesome job at revealing just enough at just the right times to keep you invested and curious but also gave different aspects of the story a chance to breathe on their own before coming together in one satisfying ending.
An isolated town. A missing priest. An ancient, hungry darkness.
More like an atmospheric setting and location, a crush on a (different and not-so-missing) priest, and an interestingly unpredictable plot pulls you right in. We Are For the Dark is a great combination of cult religious-themed horror, a side of unexpected romance, and a cryptic twist that unfolds into a satisfying ending.
When I first saw the title and cover for this book, I honestly did not know what to expect. I was drawn to it because the church on the cover reminds me of the beloved comic series and television show Preacher, so I knew I had to check it out. Let me tell you, I am so glad that I did because this story was nothing like I thought it would be. The plotting was clever and just the right pace that you think you might understand what is going on but then find out that you most likely don’t. There was a sense of cozy to it with descriptions of places and things and that added to the overall addicting nature of this story. I found myself both comfortable and uncomfortable at the same time with twisty, eerie events occurring and slow-burn romance I did not think I would want but ended up needing. We Are for the Dark is a beautiful and tragic love story written alongside something dark and ancient which all pulled me in right away.
I listened to the audiobook version of this and thought that it was done perfectly. The characters’ voices matched well, the pronunciation was easy to listen to, and emphasis was placed in just the right places.
The story begins with a mysterious call from Cardinal Jacobs, requesting that our co-protagonist, Father Shane Ryan, meets with him. Within the meeting, we find out that Father Ryan has a past life as an FBI analyst and these skills are in need to help locate and find out what happened to a fellow priest. During this same time, we meet our other co-protagonist, Constable Miriam Rideout of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, who gets a call from the same priest asking for help who is currently on a remote Newfoundland island. Denied for a request to check on this call from her superior officer, Miriam decides to take vacation and investigate on her own, seemingly drawn to the mystery unfolding right in front of her. Miriam and Father Ryan come together and form an unlikely alliance when they find themselves interested in the same thing and curious about the strange locals and isolated island.
Mild Spoilers Below
This story was great because you were unsure what was going on through most of it.
Is it a monster?
What’s up with these people that live here?
What are they eating and how are they sustaining themselves with no fishing ports or boats?
Why are these weird flowers everywhere, and what do you mean they’re native to this rinky-dink island?
I asked myself so many questions as I proceeded through, bouncing from the idea of werewolves, to cannibals, to some conundrum with time and space. I loved the dynamic of Miriam’s persona and how well her and Father Ryan played off each other. I did not go into this thinking there would be a romance that budded, but it flourished into one that had me weeping for them in the end. It was such a great slow-burn and I loved how it ran parallel to the actual plot without overstepping or overshadowing the actual events. Father Ryan was very easily my favorite character, and I had a crush on him from the beginning with his secret past and crooked smirks.
The twist in the story and the pace at which it all unfolded was perfect for me. I thought that McNeil did an awesome job at revealing just enough at just the right times to keep you invested and curious but also gave different aspects of the story a chance to breathe on their own before coming together in one satisfying ending.
September 19, 2026
We Are for the Dark starts out feeling more like a mystery than a horror novel. Miriam Rideout arrives on the isolated Bale Island to investigate a disappearance, and between the creepy location, strange townspeople, and all the secrets floating around, I was fully expecting a cultish religious mystery. The island immediately has that feeling of a place where everyone knows something you don't. There are enough odd details and suspicious characters to keep you wondering where the story is headed, but it was so slow to get started.
The atmosphere is the best part of the book. Bale Island is isolated, weird, and full of people who appear to know more than they are saying. There's a constant feeling that something is off. The island itself almost feels like another character, with its isolation and history adding to the sense that Miriam has wandered into a place she most definitely should have stayed away from. The townspeople did nothing to help that feeling. There's just enough weirdness in the way everyone behaves to make you wary.
Eventually, the story shifts from mystery into horror, and there are some genuinely creepy moments. Miriam being followed by something she can't see was unsettling, especially because you don't know exactly what it is or what it wants. The scenes in the cave were another highlight. There's something about being trapped with no idea what might be lurking in the dark with you that works every time. These moments weren't exactly terrifying, but they did create some good tension and gave the story a much darker feel as things started to unravel.
While I enjoyed the atmosphere and the mystery, I never found myself particularly invested in the characters. The blossoming romance between the two just felt contrived. I don't mind romance in horror, but it felt stilted and out of place here. Instead of adding to the story, it pulled me out of it, especially when there was a perfectly good mystery and increasingly creepy island to keep me interested. In the end, it is very integral to the story, but it was annoying along the way.
Overall, We Are for the Dark wasn't a bad read by any means. I liked the setting, the strange townspeople, and the gradual reveal of what was really going on. It didn't completely blow me away, but the unsettling island and its people, along with a few genuinely creepy moments, made it a decent read.
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The atmosphere is the best part of the book. Bale Island is isolated, weird, and full of people who appear to know more than they are saying. There's a constant feeling that something is off. The island itself almost feels like another character, with its isolation and history adding to the sense that Miriam has wandered into a place she most definitely should have stayed away from. The townspeople did nothing to help that feeling. There's just enough weirdness in the way everyone behaves to make you wary.
Eventually, the story shifts from mystery into horror, and there are some genuinely creepy moments. Miriam being followed by something she can't see was unsettling, especially because you don't know exactly what it is or what it wants. The scenes in the cave were another highlight. There's something about being trapped with no idea what might be lurking in the dark with you that works every time. These moments weren't exactly terrifying, but they did create some good tension and gave the story a much darker feel as things started to unravel.
While I enjoyed the atmosphere and the mystery, I never found myself particularly invested in the characters. The blossoming romance between the two just felt contrived. I don't mind romance in horror, but it felt stilted and out of place here. Instead of adding to the story, it pulled me out of it, especially when there was a perfectly good mystery and increasingly creepy island to keep me interested. In the end, it is very integral to the story, but it was annoying along the way.
Overall, We Are for the Dark wasn't a bad read by any means. I liked the setting, the strange townspeople, and the gradual reveal of what was really going on. It didn't completely blow me away, but the unsettling island and its people, along with a few genuinely creepy moments, made it a decent read.
Website | Twitter | Pinterest
September 5, 2026
I went into this with little information. I skimmed the synopsis, but the cover and title drew me in, I'm such a cover junkie.
I loved the premise to this one so much. I mean, what's not to love about an isolated island no one seems to know about, a missing priest, an isolated village full of creepy old people, and something dark lurking in the shadows.
The overall story was intriguing and had a modern day Gothic feel to it with its setting and cast of characters. I found them oddly endearing while still thinking they were creepy and untrustworthy.
I'm not opposed to romance in horror books, but the spicy scenes always pull me out of the element, and this one did just that. Plus, the only marginally taboo nature of the relationship was a little meh to me. But the growing relationship between the two I didn't mind at all. I liked their chemistry, but the insta-love felt a little out of place in this novel.
Everything else about the story I really enjoyed. I especially found the journal entries to be very intriguing and added to the mystique of the story. And I loved the reveal at the end. It was unique and like something I haven't read lately.
Cassandra Campbell does a fantastic job narrating this one. She delivers a dynamic performance that brings so much emotion and atmosphere to the story. She made each character distinctly different and it was so easy to distinguish between them all. I especially loved that her narrator voice was also so different from her character voices. It made it feel like a fully immersive listening experience.
I received an advanced listening copy from Netgalley and am leaving this review voluntarily
I loved the premise to this one so much. I mean, what's not to love about an isolated island no one seems to know about, a missing priest, an isolated village full of creepy old people, and something dark lurking in the shadows.
The overall story was intriguing and had a modern day Gothic feel to it with its setting and cast of characters. I found them oddly endearing while still thinking they were creepy and untrustworthy.
I'm not opposed to romance in horror books, but the spicy scenes always pull me out of the element, and this one did just that. Plus, the only marginally taboo nature of the relationship was a little meh to me. But the growing relationship between the two I didn't mind at all. I liked their chemistry, but the insta-love felt a little out of place in this novel.
Everything else about the story I really enjoyed. I especially found the journal entries to be very intriguing and added to the mystique of the story. And I loved the reveal at the end. It was unique and like something I haven't read lately.
Cassandra Campbell does a fantastic job narrating this one. She delivers a dynamic performance that brings so much emotion and atmosphere to the story. She made each character distinctly different and it was so easy to distinguish between them all. I especially loved that her narrator voice was also so different from her character voices. It made it feel like a fully immersive listening experience.
I received an advanced listening copy from Netgalley and am leaving this review voluntarily
September 10, 2026
I knew going in that this *might* not be the book for me, but I was seeing so many promising reviews that I thought, **you know what, let’s go for it!** I’m a thriller fan, I like horror, I like supernatural…so this had a lot of things going for it. An isolated Newfoundland island, a missing priest, strange locals, and something ancient and evil lurking underneath it all? Sign me up!
I actually thought the setup was really spooky. When Constable Miriam Rideout heads to the island to investigate the disappearance and ends up working with Father Shane Ryan (a newly ordained priest who also happens to have a past as an FBI analyst) the mystery had me curious. The island itself was creepy, and there were definitely some moments where I thought, *okay, NOW we’re getting somewhere.*
But it just never quite grabbed me.
I’m not really into religion or romance, and both of those elements come into play here. I also found myself questioning some of the pieces along the way. Like…a priest being brought in to investigate because he used to be FBI? Okay, sure. 😂 There were just some things that didn’t completely fit for me. I also wasn’t exactly gung-ho for the girl-power narrative that runs through parts of the story.
This wasn’t a *bad* book. It had atmosphere, creepy moments, and a really interesting premise. I just never reached that point where I was fully invested and dying to know what happened next.
**I think this is simply one of those “it’s not you, it’s me” books.** 😂 I can absolutely see why other readers enjoyed it, but for me, the combination of elements just didn’t quite work.
I actually thought the setup was really spooky. When Constable Miriam Rideout heads to the island to investigate the disappearance and ends up working with Father Shane Ryan (a newly ordained priest who also happens to have a past as an FBI analyst) the mystery had me curious. The island itself was creepy, and there were definitely some moments where I thought, *okay, NOW we’re getting somewhere.*
But it just never quite grabbed me.
I’m not really into religion or romance, and both of those elements come into play here. I also found myself questioning some of the pieces along the way. Like…a priest being brought in to investigate because he used to be FBI? Okay, sure. 😂 There were just some things that didn’t completely fit for me. I also wasn’t exactly gung-ho for the girl-power narrative that runs through parts of the story.
This wasn’t a *bad* book. It had atmosphere, creepy moments, and a really interesting premise. I just never reached that point where I was fully invested and dying to know what happened next.
**I think this is simply one of those “it’s not you, it’s me” books.** 😂 I can absolutely see why other readers enjoyed it, but for me, the combination of elements just didn’t quite work.
September 15, 2026
⭐️ 1 / 5 stars
I received an ALC of We Are for the Dark by Gretchen McNeil, narrated by Cassandra Campbell, from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The premise sounded great: a missing priest, an isolated island cut off from the mainland, and something ancient and hungry lurking beneath it but the execution just didn’t work for me.
Cassandra Campbell’s narration was fine, no complaints there, but it couldn’t save a story that felt slow-paced and difficult to get into. I found myself struggling to stay engaged throughout, which is disappointing for a book marketed as horror.
My biggest issue was that the romance didn’t need to be there at all, and even setting that aside, it didn’t do anything to strengthen the story. The demon (or whatever entity was supposedly bound beneath the island) was barely present and never properly explained, which left the central horror element feeling completely underdeveloped despite being the whole point of the book.
Honestly, the only genuinely unsettling parts came from the human characters. The island’s unnerving, secretive residents were far creepier than anything supernatural in the story. I didn’t connect with most of the older side characters, and Connor and Anna were really the only ones I liked.
If you’re picking this up expecting a terrifying demon, a chilling remote-island setting, or rich folk horror lore, I’d say skip this one, it doesn’t deliver on any of those fronts.
I received an ALC of We Are for the Dark by Gretchen McNeil, narrated by Cassandra Campbell, from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The premise sounded great: a missing priest, an isolated island cut off from the mainland, and something ancient and hungry lurking beneath it but the execution just didn’t work for me.
Cassandra Campbell’s narration was fine, no complaints there, but it couldn’t save a story that felt slow-paced and difficult to get into. I found myself struggling to stay engaged throughout, which is disappointing for a book marketed as horror.
My biggest issue was that the romance didn’t need to be there at all, and even setting that aside, it didn’t do anything to strengthen the story. The demon (or whatever entity was supposedly bound beneath the island) was barely present and never properly explained, which left the central horror element feeling completely underdeveloped despite being the whole point of the book.
Honestly, the only genuinely unsettling parts came from the human characters. The island’s unnerving, secretive residents were far creepier than anything supernatural in the story. I didn’t connect with most of the older side characters, and Connor and Anna were really the only ones I liked.
If you’re picking this up expecting a terrifying demon, a chilling remote-island setting, or rich folk horror lore, I’d say skip this one, it doesn’t deliver on any of those fronts.
May 30, 2026
I love this!!!!
When I decided to check out this book, I had certain expectations. I expected a book with chilling setting, creepy characters, and a story that makes me guess till the end. And I'm thrilled to say that the story delivered what I hoped for!
Since the arrival of Father Shane Ryan and Constable Miriam to Bale Island; the story progressed without any delay. The secrets hidden by the island and its people were revealed one by one and I was shocked to read it.
Add to that, the chemistry between the lead characters also worked well for the story. I was also surprised to read how the relationship of the characters progressed, making it a believable transition from strangers to much more.
This was a book that I read within two days. The fast paced storytelling and the suspenseful storyline pushed me to continue reading. And I enjoyed every moment of it!
When I decided to check out this book, I had certain expectations. I expected a book with chilling setting, creepy characters, and a story that makes me guess till the end. And I'm thrilled to say that the story delivered what I hoped for!
Since the arrival of Father Shane Ryan and Constable Miriam to Bale Island; the story progressed without any delay. The secrets hidden by the island and its people were revealed one by one and I was shocked to read it.
Add to that, the chemistry between the lead characters also worked well for the story. I was also surprised to read how the relationship of the characters progressed, making it a believable transition from strangers to much more.
This was a book that I read within two days. The fast paced storytelling and the suspenseful storyline pushed me to continue reading. And I enjoyed every moment of it!
September 29, 2026
Constable Miriam is unappreciated as a woman in law enforcement. When she receives a mysterious call from a priest on Bale Island, begging for help, she is determined to investigate- even if it means going against her supervisor's orders.
Father Ryan is a priest determined to keep his past as an FBI agent a secret. He left that field behind after a tragic loss. When he receives orders from the Cardinal to look into a missing priest last known to be on Bale Island, his past is used for leverage to ensure he cooperates.
The two have no interest in working together, but the longer they are on the island, the stranger everything seems. The residents are friendly (a little too friendly), there are strange flowers growing wild, there are no vehicles, and the villagers are set on saying mass every day. Will Miriam and Father Ryan uncover the mysteries of Bale Island? And more importantly, will they survive the evil that resides there?
Sigh...I really wanted to like this more. And it was pretty solid for most of it. McNeil is so good at a slow build that eventually goes off the rails. But this one just didn't hit for me. I don't want to spoil anything so I'm just going to hide most of my complaints:
So overall, it was good, then it lost me. Some of the twists are really interesting. But the ending is just so underwhelming to me.
Father Ryan is a priest determined to keep his past as an FBI agent a secret. He left that field behind after a tragic loss. When he receives orders from the Cardinal to look into a missing priest last known to be on Bale Island, his past is used for leverage to ensure he cooperates.
The two have no interest in working together, but the longer they are on the island, the stranger everything seems. The residents are friendly (a little too friendly), there are strange flowers growing wild, there are no vehicles, and the villagers are set on saying mass every day. Will Miriam and Father Ryan uncover the mysteries of Bale Island? And more importantly, will they survive the evil that resides there?
Sigh...I really wanted to like this more. And it was pretty solid for most of it. McNeil is so good at a slow build that eventually goes off the rails. But this one just didn't hit for me. I don't want to spoil anything so I'm just going to hide most of my complaints:
So overall, it was good, then it lost me. Some of the twists are really interesting. But the ending is just so underwhelming to me.
August 30, 2026
I was duped by We Are for the Dark by Gretchen McNeil. The story features a heterosexual romance between two main characters. (SPOILER One is a priest, Father Shane Ryan). No lie, that definitely put me off! There is mystery, a cult (sort of), good vs. evil, stand by your man, religion, a monster and more. The excellent narration by Cassandra Campbell kept me listening to the very end. While this one didn’t work for me (ROMANCE), I will continue reading “horror”. ALC was provided by RB Media/Recorded Books via NetGalley. I received an audiobook listening copy for free and I am leaving this feedback voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2026
When I started this one, I wasn’t sure if I was going to like it. Jokes on me because I didn’t like it, I LOVED it. I don’t usually annotate horror, but this was an exception.
Miriam + Father Ryan are on a mission to find out what happened to the missing priest on Bale Island, though neither could imagine what would happen to them when they got their answer. I didn’t expect to be kicking my feet, reminiscent of how I felt watching Bones back in the day as they navigated the strange behavior of the church and each other. When one tie knots into another, their chances of leaving the island dwindle, and they’re running out of time. If you want culty religious horror with an incredibly well done romance subplot, well, you’ve found it.
Miriam + Father Ryan are on a mission to find out what happened to the missing priest on Bale Island, though neither could imagine what would happen to them when they got their answer. I didn’t expect to be kicking my feet, reminiscent of how I felt watching Bones back in the day as they navigated the strange behavior of the church and each other. When one tie knots into another, their chances of leaving the island dwindle, and they’re running out of time. If you want culty religious horror with an incredibly well done romance subplot, well, you’ve found it.
September 1, 2026
What could go wrong on a remote island? It doesn’t help that I read this one while on vacation in a cabin on a somewhat remote island. I was ok. Everything was ok. We Are For the Dark follows a former FBI agent-turned-priest as he plunges into a new role. But not so new territory. It is an investigation after all. This is where the horror is woven in. And it’s that eerie, creepy undertone type—not blatantly in your face. It builds slowly, almost atmospheric in some ways. The end was quite interesting, though that led to some more questions, which are intentional.
Thank you to Astra Publishing/DAW Books for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to Astra Publishing/DAW Books for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 7, 2026
ARC review
I wanted to love this, and I can’t explain why I didn’t, but it really didn’t grab me. I felt it was slow. So…very…slow. The constant reminders of Father Ryan’s vows, even though he was lusting after Miriam, was a constant process to get over as the author seemed to want to drive it home with ridiculous force. Yes we know. He is a priest, even if he was an FBI agent before, and that comes with vows, vows he very happily broke. The intimate scenes seemed the only thing that was rushed in this book. Even scenes with the monsters on the island went slower than our very few spicy scenes.
Overall I feel like it could have been a better story if the author didn’t want to force their points onto us. Women in law enforcement get the short end of the stick….yes we know…. Say it once and move on not the constant digs in every scene how Miriam is not treated the same as “the boys”.
The paranormal horror was nothing out of the ordinary, simple monsters that didn’t scare you or creep you out, but were written rather well in a horror sense. Just kind of meh.
I wanted to love this, and I can’t explain why I didn’t, but it really didn’t grab me. I felt it was slow. So…very…slow. The constant reminders of Father Ryan’s vows, even though he was lusting after Miriam, was a constant process to get over as the author seemed to want to drive it home with ridiculous force. Yes we know. He is a priest, even if he was an FBI agent before, and that comes with vows, vows he very happily broke. The intimate scenes seemed the only thing that was rushed in this book. Even scenes with the monsters on the island went slower than our very few spicy scenes.
Overall I feel like it could have been a better story if the author didn’t want to force their points onto us. Women in law enforcement get the short end of the stick….yes we know…. Say it once and move on not the constant digs in every scene how Miriam is not treated the same as “the boys”.
The paranormal horror was nothing out of the ordinary, simple monsters that didn’t scare you or creep you out, but were written rather well in a horror sense. Just kind of meh.
Did Not Finish
August 21, 2026DNF 16%
After not getting along with McNeil's adult debut but liking certain aspects of it, I decided to give her second adult novel a try. But I could tell very early on that the major issue I had with They Fear Not Men in the Woods persists. I see no change in the writing quality in this new release, which is good if you enjoyed McNeil's pervious novel, but for me it’s the same adolescent, quasi-pithy tone I loathed. This will unfortunately be the last time I pick up a novel from McNeil.
After not getting along with McNeil's adult debut but liking certain aspects of it, I decided to give her second adult novel a try. But I could tell very early on that the major issue I had with They Fear Not Men in the Woods persists. I see no change in the writing quality in this new release, which is good if you enjoyed McNeil's pervious novel, but for me it’s the same adolescent, quasi-pithy tone I loathed. This will unfortunately be the last time I pick up a novel from McNeil.
October 1, 2026
A missing priest, a mysterious sinister island that doesn’t exist on any map, a reluctant duo of newly ordained priest and tenacious cop and not so welcoming islanders what’s not to love.
The dread and creepiness of the isolated island mixed with the locals who are definitely keeping secrets, make for a creepy read. The banter between the cop and priest made for some fun relief within the darkness.
I love the mix as well of the two POVs and the snippets from the sinner. The attention to detail and historical references particularly about the church made for an immersive read.
The dread and creepiness of the isolated island mixed with the locals who are definitely keeping secrets, make for a creepy read. The banter between the cop and priest made for some fun relief within the darkness.
I love the mix as well of the two POVs and the snippets from the sinner. The attention to detail and historical references particularly about the church made for an immersive read.
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