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The House on Sunflower Lane
The little farmhouse on Sunflower Lane was peaceful when Shannon and Marc moved in—quiet, ordinary, even charming. But when they brought their newborn daughter home from the hospital, something changed.
It started with footsteps in the dead of night. Then Marc, once kind and devoted, began to change. He became cold and distant, spending all day “working” in the spare room down the hall until eventually, he stopped coming out at night, too. By the time their marriage collapsed, Shannon could feel the house’s attention closing in on her daughter.
Desperate for answers, she uncovers the story of Fern Carlisle, a mother who lived in the same house sixty years ago. Neighbors still whisper about what happened to her little girl . . . and how Fern herself never walked out again.
Now, Shannon is alone on Sunflower Lane with a little girl of her own, and every day, the echoes of the past grow louder.
Because this house doesn’t let go of its history.
It waits for someone new to live it.
It started with footsteps in the dead of night. Then Marc, once kind and devoted, began to change. He became cold and distant, spending all day “working” in the spare room down the hall until eventually, he stopped coming out at night, too. By the time their marriage collapsed, Shannon could feel the house’s attention closing in on her daughter.
Desperate for answers, she uncovers the story of Fern Carlisle, a mother who lived in the same house sixty years ago. Neighbors still whisper about what happened to her little girl . . . and how Fern herself never walked out again.
Now, Shannon is alone on Sunflower Lane with a little girl of her own, and every day, the echoes of the past grow louder.
Because this house doesn’t let go of its history.
It waits for someone new to live it.
ebook
Published March 3, 2026
61 people are currently reading
6058 people want to read
About the author
Gwenna McAllis
4 books91 followersGwenna McAllis is the author of The Compound Duology, a supernatural suspense series steeped in folklore, demons, and family secrets. She writes atmospheric fiction set in the American South, blending mystery, horror, and emotional depth.
A lifelong lover of scary stories, Gwenna grew up reading the Jeffrey series by Kathryn Tucker Windham and checking out anything spooky she could find at her small-town Alabama library (often against her mother’s wishes). She studied creative writing at the University of South Alabama and now lives in the Tennessee Valley with her husband, two young children, and an elderly rescue dog who’s seen too much.
When she’s not writing, she’s likely drinking coffee, dodging laundry, or daydreaming about a cabin in the woods where no one needs snacks.
You can follow Gwenna on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook: @gwennamcallis.
A lifelong lover of scary stories, Gwenna grew up reading the Jeffrey series by Kathryn Tucker Windham and checking out anything spooky she could find at her small-town Alabama library (often against her mother’s wishes). She studied creative writing at the University of South Alabama and now lives in the Tennessee Valley with her husband, two young children, and an elderly rescue dog who’s seen too much.
When she’s not writing, she’s likely drinking coffee, dodging laundry, or daydreaming about a cabin in the woods where no one needs snacks.
You can follow Gwenna on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook: @gwennamcallis.
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January 29, 2026Dear Reader,
This book isn't for everyone.
If you're looking for a gory splatterfest, this isn't it. Something warm and cozy and feel-good? This isn't that either.
THE HOUSE ON SUNFLOWER LANE is a slow-burn, atmospheric ghost story rooted in motherhood, in grief, and in the way some places seem to hold onto pain long after the living have tried to move on.
This is horror for readers who love the eerie, emotional, female-driven suspense of Jennifer McMahon and Simone St. James. It's a dual-timeline story that follows Shannon Reed in the 2020s and Fern Carlisle in the 1960s.
In this book, you’ll find:
- a haunted North Alabama farmhouse with a long memory
- mothers and daughters stuck in a cyclical haunting
- marriage falling apart/single mom survival
- secrets lost in time
- small child saying horrifying things
- "seen on the baby monitor" horror
If you love Southern Gothic settings, emotional suspense, and stories that slowly creep under your skin instead of jumping out at you, I hope you’ll feel at home here.
Thank you so much for reading. It's an honor to share my stories with you.
Warmly,
Gwenna McAllis
This book isn't for everyone.
If you're looking for a gory splatterfest, this isn't it. Something warm and cozy and feel-good? This isn't that either.
THE HOUSE ON SUNFLOWER LANE is a slow-burn, atmospheric ghost story rooted in motherhood, in grief, and in the way some places seem to hold onto pain long after the living have tried to move on.
This is horror for readers who love the eerie, emotional, female-driven suspense of Jennifer McMahon and Simone St. James. It's a dual-timeline story that follows Shannon Reed in the 2020s and Fern Carlisle in the 1960s.
In this book, you’ll find:
- a haunted North Alabama farmhouse with a long memory
- mothers and daughters stuck in a cyclical haunting
- marriage falling apart/single mom survival
- secrets lost in time
- small child saying horrifying things
- "seen on the baby monitor" horror
If you love Southern Gothic settings, emotional suspense, and stories that slowly creep under your skin instead of jumping out at you, I hope you’ll feel at home here.
Thank you so much for reading. It's an honor to share my stories with you.
Warmly,
Gwenna McAllis
February 16, 2026
Holy 5 star read! This book was deliciously good. The suspense was palpable. I had to read certain sections under my covers! If you are a lover of horror this book will thrill you; if you are a parent it will absolutely terrify you. The ambiance is dark even when the sun is shining. The characters are strong and well developed. I was heartened by the good people in this book who stepped up to help a single mother in need. The fear she must have felt being responsible for such a sweet child while dealing with things completely out of her control. I can’t recommend this creepy book enough! I need a sequel, stat.
Thank you to NetGally for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGally for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Read
May 10, 2026THE HOUSE ON SUNFLOWER LANE is the first book I've read by Gwenna McAllis. We start with a young couple, expecting their first child, looking for a home to grow in. Right from the start, you get the creeping dread of something other present, watching things unfold. The novel is shown in two main timelines, although the majority is in the present. Later, we get a taste of some characters in the far past, which adds further to the malice surrounding the area.
I was absolutely drawn in from the very beginning. Distinct chapters--not long, rambling ones--kept the pace moving forward nicely, and the characters felt real--emotionally and "stuck" in the situation unfolding. Part of this is set in the COVID outbreak, and the reality of that brought the isolation factor into focus. Afterwards, it was easy to feel the characters plight--so much had changed and was out of their control.
"There's an awful lot we don't understand about this old world . . . I reckon hauntings are one of those mysteries."
Overall, this novel never let go of my mind, even when I wasn't actively reading. It was the type of story I couldn't wait to pick up again, and am still thinking about the characters and Sunflower Lane after finishing it.
"Still, I've come to believe that some pain is so deep, so fierce, it never dies. It just seeps down into the earth and lingers there."
A solid 5-star read for me, and I can't wait to pick up more by this author.
Recommended!
I was absolutely drawn in from the very beginning. Distinct chapters--not long, rambling ones--kept the pace moving forward nicely, and the characters felt real--emotionally and "stuck" in the situation unfolding. Part of this is set in the COVID outbreak, and the reality of that brought the isolation factor into focus. Afterwards, it was easy to feel the characters plight--so much had changed and was out of their control.
"There's an awful lot we don't understand about this old world . . . I reckon hauntings are one of those mysteries."
Overall, this novel never let go of my mind, even when I wasn't actively reading. It was the type of story I couldn't wait to pick up again, and am still thinking about the characters and Sunflower Lane after finishing it.
"Still, I've come to believe that some pain is so deep, so fierce, it never dies. It just seeps down into the earth and lingers there."
A solid 5-star read for me, and I can't wait to pick up more by this author.
Recommended!
February 18, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC copy.
Wow what a ride this was! I was sucked into the story from the get go and finished this in one sitting. I needed to know what was going to happen next. I loved the supernatural elements and I loved that we’re following a mother in this story. It was a bit of a slow burn to start but when it started to ramp up it really got going. The suspense in this was so good I was turning pages like crazy. It could have went a million different ways and I still have no clue as to what really happened. I mean what an ending! The only reason it’s not a 5 star is because I wanted to be super scared and I wasn’t fully there but I had such a fun time with it. I would definitely recommend and would love to read more from this author.
Wow what a ride this was! I was sucked into the story from the get go and finished this in one sitting. I needed to know what was going to happen next. I loved the supernatural elements and I loved that we’re following a mother in this story. It was a bit of a slow burn to start but when it started to ramp up it really got going. The suspense in this was so good I was turning pages like crazy. It could have went a million different ways and I still have no clue as to what really happened. I mean what an ending! The only reason it’s not a 5 star is because I wanted to be super scared and I wasn’t fully there but I had such a fun time with it. I would definitely recommend and would love to read more from this author.
March 15, 2026
Format: E-Book
**Thank you to Gwenna McAllis and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I am honestly stunned. I went into this book expecting a horror driven, country home, paranormal activity type situation. It feels like those assumptions don’t even scratch the surface of this book. Shannon purchased the house on Sunflower Lane with her husband, while pregnant with their daughter. Once Hazel is born things take a drastic shift in the dynamic of Shannon’s life and progressively escalate from there.
This story perfectly represented an onion, showing deeper layers as the book carried on. Shannon was someone who never thought her life would morph into what it did. She quickly became a fighter, someone that was set on protecting and understanding the unexplainable around her. She expressed and held space for the worst fears of any mother. She showed how important it is to never stop fighting for the tiny person that calls you ‘mom’. I loved everything she represented.
As Shannon digs deeper into understanding the history around her, it becomes apparent that something has been taking what it wants for far too long. Families are abandoned, daughters are missing and mothers are left isolated. Gwenna McAllis captivated me with her ability to show over generations how easy it is to turn a blind eye to mothers and their pain. I loved the writing. I loved the feeling. I loved how it made me connect and relate in so many different ways with Shannon. I loved that we got glimpses into different generations through POV switches. I loved the found family aspect and that Shannon wasn’t the only one fighting for her daughter’s safety.
The ending was utterly devastating for me. The unsettling and anxiety inducing nature of this book was high and on parr for a good read. The final chapter pushed me over the edge.
**Thank you to Gwenna McAllis and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I am honestly stunned. I went into this book expecting a horror driven, country home, paranormal activity type situation. It feels like those assumptions don’t even scratch the surface of this book. Shannon purchased the house on Sunflower Lane with her husband, while pregnant with their daughter. Once Hazel is born things take a drastic shift in the dynamic of Shannon’s life and progressively escalate from there.
This story perfectly represented an onion, showing deeper layers as the book carried on. Shannon was someone who never thought her life would morph into what it did. She quickly became a fighter, someone that was set on protecting and understanding the unexplainable around her. She expressed and held space for the worst fears of any mother. She showed how important it is to never stop fighting for the tiny person that calls you ‘mom’. I loved everything she represented.
As Shannon digs deeper into understanding the history around her, it becomes apparent that something has been taking what it wants for far too long. Families are abandoned, daughters are missing and mothers are left isolated. Gwenna McAllis captivated me with her ability to show over generations how easy it is to turn a blind eye to mothers and their pain. I loved the writing. I loved the feeling. I loved how it made me connect and relate in so many different ways with Shannon. I loved that we got glimpses into different generations through POV switches. I loved the found family aspect and that Shannon wasn’t the only one fighting for her daughter’s safety.
The ending was utterly devastating for me. The unsettling and anxiety inducing nature of this book was high and on parr for a good read. The final chapter pushed me over the edge.
April 22, 2026
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. I stumbled across this book in a Facebook group and the cover really intrigued me. The reviews are really good so I thought I’d give it a shot. I’ll be honest, I have not had good luck with “haunted house” books in the past. I’ve caught myself rolling my eyes so often that I’d wonder why I continue to read them…BUT this one was really good! The storyline was very creepy but not gory so yes it was a horror but not incredibly scary if you’re looking for something like that. It was just enough “scare” for me! Honestly, all of the characters were very likable, which is also uncommon for me in these types of books. The only reason I knocked off one star was because I think it could have been about 50 pages shorter. There were a few times I felt like it was dragging a little and wondering when it would get to the end. But speaking of the end…it was really good!!!!! When I read the line “The house was awake”, I thought for sure it was going to take a nose dive but honestly it ended really good. I definitely recommend this one. It’s my first by this author but I’m definitely going to look into others by her.
March 7, 2026
This story felt so incredibly well-rounded and immersive layered with emotion, memory, and the quiet weight of the past. The dual timelines were seamlessly woven, pulling me back through generations of history while never losing the heartbeat of the present. It’s the kind of haunting that lingers… not just in shadows, but in real-life truths and human connection.
Deeply chilling, richly atmospheric, and carried by strong character development that made every moment land with impact. I was completely absorbed and I can’t stop thinking about how stunning this would be on screen.
Congratulations on such a moving, multi-layered, unforgettable story. I absolutely loved it.
Deeply chilling, richly atmospheric, and carried by strong character development that made every moment land with impact. I was completely absorbed and I can’t stop thinking about how stunning this would be on screen.
Congratulations on such a moving, multi-layered, unforgettable story. I absolutely loved it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wow! I had trouble putting this one down! The suspense was palpable and I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happened next. All of the mothers in this story were wonderful and their characters were so well thought out and well written. The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because I wish the climax of the story lasted a little bit longer. I wanted more out of the ending. Other than that, the ending was extremely satisfying with a slight twist that leaves you thinking.
March 6, 2026
This was a terrifying read.
You can’t look away- but you are terrified of what happens next.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 def hit my top 5 reads for this year.
You can’t look away- but you are terrified of what happens next.
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 def hit my top 5 reads for this year.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Absolutely loved this book, it was spooky, unsettling, made me feel extremely uneasy about memories of my little sister speaking to something we couldn't see 😂. It's heartbreaking and really easy to get lost in the story and the characters, so many scenes had my heart racing and my mind screaming for them to get out of there but of course it's not that simple. The ending left me with so many questions and I can't wait to read more from Gwenna 🥰.
February 3, 2026
This is a powerful story about motherhood with a supernatural twist. Through a dual timeline readers get to know Shannon, a young mother from the 2020s, and Fern, a young mother from the 1960s. I found it very moving that the house is not the only tie between the two women, but also the shared experience of raising young children and the trials that come with motherhood. Both Shannon and Fern work to overcome difficult real-life circumstances and face a paranormal threat at the same time.
Details about previous events at the house were slowly revealed over the course of the book, providing plenty of gasp-inducing moments. It was easy and just plain fun to become absorbed in this story!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Details about previous events at the house were slowly revealed over the course of the book, providing plenty of gasp-inducing moments. It was easy and just plain fun to become absorbed in this story!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Enjoyed every page! I found the storyline entertaining...like an adult ghost story told around a campfire. Very well written. The author is an amazing storyteller.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Netgalley Arc Reader!
Now that is a damn good book!! Loved the eery settings, the back and forth characters was great as I loved both womens stories, super creepy! My heart did break for both of them ( the husbands ) but both very strong characters. Never will I ever buy a baby camera monitor again!! Super suspenseful and overall great story definitely need more like this. amazing author.
Now that is a damn good book!! Loved the eery settings, the back and forth characters was great as I loved both womens stories, super creepy! My heart did break for both of them ( the husbands ) but both very strong characters. Never will I ever buy a baby camera monitor again!! Super suspenseful and overall great story definitely need more like this. amazing author.
March 29, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
Please note this is a 3.5.
I found this was a really well done slow burn horror story. I think that there’s a certain genre that has passed out of vogue in recent years in horror circles, and that is the long-form ghost story where it’s not all cut and dried.
I love it when we have a ghost who is not fully defined, with things that don’t quite make sense. I do feel it went on a little too long in part, and I think it could have been slightly pared down, but I did enjoy it. I loved the time changes between Shannon and Fern’s stories, and the parallels between them.
The atmosphere in some of the scenes was great, with some of them giving me genuine spine crawls. I really enjoyed the way that it built up to the climax, although the ending would have been nicer to have clearer cut.
One of my bigger criticisms is what we find out the actual presence in the house is, which I felt was a bit too cheap. It left me a little bit cold and I felt that we should have had a name and story for what it ended up being.
The characters, however, were fantastic. I found them very believable and interesting, and they were written in a way that actually felt a bit more cohesive than some ghost stories can be. I feel like the dialogue could have been a bit better, and it did feel a bit young adult sometimes, but it was a fun ride.
Please note this is a 3.5.
I found this was a really well done slow burn horror story. I think that there’s a certain genre that has passed out of vogue in recent years in horror circles, and that is the long-form ghost story where it’s not all cut and dried.
I love it when we have a ghost who is not fully defined, with things that don’t quite make sense. I do feel it went on a little too long in part, and I think it could have been slightly pared down, but I did enjoy it. I loved the time changes between Shannon and Fern’s stories, and the parallels between them.
The atmosphere in some of the scenes was great, with some of them giving me genuine spine crawls. I really enjoyed the way that it built up to the climax, although the ending would have been nicer to have clearer cut.
One of my bigger criticisms is what we find out the actual presence in the house is, which I felt was a bit too cheap. It left me a little bit cold and I felt that we should have had a name and story for what it ended up being.
The characters, however, were fantastic. I found them very believable and interesting, and they were written in a way that actually felt a bit more cohesive than some ghost stories can be. I feel like the dialogue could have been a bit better, and it did feel a bit young adult sometimes, but it was a fun ride.
February 25, 2026
Could not put it down! A tale of love conquering all and the strength of a mother’s protection. Also a tale of the heartwarming kindness of strangers. Don’t be fooled by that description though, also dark and spellbindingly eerie! Thank you @netgalley for the ARC 🙏
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you #NetGalley and #OracleHawkPress for the ARC Copy in exchange for my honest review of this book.
Thank you #GwennaMcAllis for this book!!!!
I wish I could give this book ten stars!!!
I dont want to say much so I dont give anything away but READ THIS BOOK! A Candid and Enthusiastic Book Review
My honest review of this book? Hmmm, let me try to articulate the sheer excitement and profound impact this story had on me.
Without a shred of doubt, this is the ABSOLUTE BEST BOOK I’VE READ OF 2026! I do not make that statement lightly. From the moment I picked it up, I was completely swept away, utterly captivated by the world the author created and the deeply complex characters who inhabit it. The pacing was flawless, the prose was exquisite, and the plot—oh, the plot was a masterclass in suspense, emotion, and intelligent design.
I have already, and quite literally, told every single one of my friends about this book. My enthusiasm has reached a fever pitch, and I’ve even warned them that they may need to take a “sick day” from work on March 3rd. It's a genuine public service announcement: clear your schedule, disconnect from the world, and prepare to be consumed by these pages. It is the kind of book that demands your undivided attention, and I guarantee you won't want to be interrupted once you start.
A deep wave of sadness washed over me when I reached the final chapter and realized the story was over. That feeling of emptiness when a truly great reading experience concludes is a rare one, and it speaks volumes about the quality of this work. It’s one of those rare, magical books you immediately want to start reading over again, just to savor the brilliance a second time and pick up on the subtle clues and foreshadowing you missed in your initial, breathless rush to the end.
I am desperately trying to keep this review vague because I absolutely do not want to risk giving anything away. This book is best experienced going in blind, letting the twists and turns unfold naturally and completely blow you away. Trust me on this: READ THIS BOOK! It is a masterpiece, a triumph of storytelling, and it will be the book everyone is talking about this year. Do yourself a favor and experience it. You can thank me later.
#horror #mystery #thriller
Thank you #GwennaMcAllis for this book!!!!
I wish I could give this book ten stars!!!
I dont want to say much so I dont give anything away but READ THIS BOOK! A Candid and Enthusiastic Book Review
My honest review of this book? Hmmm, let me try to articulate the sheer excitement and profound impact this story had on me.
Without a shred of doubt, this is the ABSOLUTE BEST BOOK I’VE READ OF 2026! I do not make that statement lightly. From the moment I picked it up, I was completely swept away, utterly captivated by the world the author created and the deeply complex characters who inhabit it. The pacing was flawless, the prose was exquisite, and the plot—oh, the plot was a masterclass in suspense, emotion, and intelligent design.
I have already, and quite literally, told every single one of my friends about this book. My enthusiasm has reached a fever pitch, and I’ve even warned them that they may need to take a “sick day” from work on March 3rd. It's a genuine public service announcement: clear your schedule, disconnect from the world, and prepare to be consumed by these pages. It is the kind of book that demands your undivided attention, and I guarantee you won't want to be interrupted once you start.
A deep wave of sadness washed over me when I reached the final chapter and realized the story was over. That feeling of emptiness when a truly great reading experience concludes is a rare one, and it speaks volumes about the quality of this work. It’s one of those rare, magical books you immediately want to start reading over again, just to savor the brilliance a second time and pick up on the subtle clues and foreshadowing you missed in your initial, breathless rush to the end.
I am desperately trying to keep this review vague because I absolutely do not want to risk giving anything away. This book is best experienced going in blind, letting the twists and turns unfold naturally and completely blow you away. Trust me on this: READ THIS BOOK! It is a masterpiece, a triumph of storytelling, and it will be the book everyone is talking about this year. Do yourself a favor and experience it. You can thank me later.
#horror #mystery #thriller
April 18, 2026
My Rating: ★★★★☆
The House on Sunflower Lane by Gwenna McAllis is a domestic psychological horror that blends creeping supernatural tension, maternal vulnerability, and the slow unraveling of a once-stable relationship into a story that feels both intimate and deeply unsettling. Set within the confines of an isolated farmhouse, the narrative leans into themes of isolation, possession, and the lingering weight of past tragedies that refuse to stay buried.
Where this novel shines most clearly is in its atmospheric intensity paired with emotional grounding. The shift in Marc’s behaviour, combined with Shannon’s growing sense of unease, is handled with a quiet restraint that makes the horror feel more personal and invasive. Rather than relying on overt scares, the story builds tension through subtle changes, allowing the dread to settle in gradually. The connection between Shannon and her daughter adds a strong emotional core, heightening the stakes and making the threat feel far more immediate.
The pacing leans into a slower, more deliberate build, which largely works in the book’s favour. The gradual uncovering of Fern Carlisle’s story adds depth and reinforces the cyclical nature of the house’s influence. While some readers may find the progression a touch drawn out, and a little more exploration into the house’s origins could have added further clarity, the steady escalation of tension keeps the narrative engaging throughout.
Because of this balance between psychological tension, emotional vulnerability, and an ever-present sense of unease, the reading experience feels immersive and quietly haunting. The parallels between past and present are effectively woven, allowing the story to resonate beyond its immediate events.
I would recommend The House on Sunflower Lane to readers who enjoy slow-burn horror, haunted house narratives, and emotionally driven stories centred around motherhood and isolation. Those who prefer atmosphere and psychological tension over fast-paced scares will likely find this especially compelling.
Overall, this is a chilling, emotionally grounded, and atmospheric read that successfully builds tension through subtlety and restraint; resulting in a haunting story that lingers well after the final page.
The House on Sunflower Lane by Gwenna McAllis is a domestic psychological horror that blends creeping supernatural tension, maternal vulnerability, and the slow unraveling of a once-stable relationship into a story that feels both intimate and deeply unsettling. Set within the confines of an isolated farmhouse, the narrative leans into themes of isolation, possession, and the lingering weight of past tragedies that refuse to stay buried.
Where this novel shines most clearly is in its atmospheric intensity paired with emotional grounding. The shift in Marc’s behaviour, combined with Shannon’s growing sense of unease, is handled with a quiet restraint that makes the horror feel more personal and invasive. Rather than relying on overt scares, the story builds tension through subtle changes, allowing the dread to settle in gradually. The connection between Shannon and her daughter adds a strong emotional core, heightening the stakes and making the threat feel far more immediate.
The pacing leans into a slower, more deliberate build, which largely works in the book’s favour. The gradual uncovering of Fern Carlisle’s story adds depth and reinforces the cyclical nature of the house’s influence. While some readers may find the progression a touch drawn out, and a little more exploration into the house’s origins could have added further clarity, the steady escalation of tension keeps the narrative engaging throughout.
Because of this balance between psychological tension, emotional vulnerability, and an ever-present sense of unease, the reading experience feels immersive and quietly haunting. The parallels between past and present are effectively woven, allowing the story to resonate beyond its immediate events.
I would recommend The House on Sunflower Lane to readers who enjoy slow-burn horror, haunted house narratives, and emotionally driven stories centred around motherhood and isolation. Those who prefer atmosphere and psychological tension over fast-paced scares will likely find this especially compelling.
Overall, this is a chilling, emotionally grounded, and atmospheric read that successfully builds tension through subtlety and restraint; resulting in a haunting story that lingers well after the final page.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a great read this was ! So grateful to the author and Netgalley for another amazing ARC.
Marc and Shannon are expecting a baby, and with tight finances, they purchase a small farmhouse on land in Alabama. Baby Hazel is born (during the Covid pandemic), and little by little, things begin to unravel. A sinister gloom settles over the house… and what starts as stress and isolation slowly turns into something much darker.
Shannon finds herself fighting not just for her family, but against a presence that has historically torn families apart — driving them away from each other or stealing their children entirely.
I’ll be honest — the first 25% flew by like a quick life update and I genuinely wondered what could possibly fill the remaining 75%. The answer? Quite a lot… and I loved the ride.
I do think the early tension could’ve been built a little more slowly to begin with . I hadn’t fully formed an attachment to their relationship yet, so the strain didn’t have the impact it could have. But once the story settled in I was absorbed.
The characters were incredibly likeable, and the multi-timeline element worked really well. . Learning about the wives across different time periods — each struggling with grief, abandonment, and guilt — added so much depth. I loved reading the letters and piecing together each woman’s story. The layered haunted house narrative really highlighted the resilience of these women and the weight of blame they carried for their families falling apart.
My only real criticism for me personall was the ending. When they attempt to end the cycle, it felt quite abrupt and, for me, a little anticlimactic. I also found myself unsure of what truly caused the haunting, which left me wanting a bit more clarity.
That said… I absolutely devoured this. 📖
Fast-paced, well written, layered, and full of compelling characters. I really enjoyed it overall and would definitely read more from this author! 🌻
Marc and Shannon are expecting a baby, and with tight finances, they purchase a small farmhouse on land in Alabama. Baby Hazel is born (during the Covid pandemic), and little by little, things begin to unravel. A sinister gloom settles over the house… and what starts as stress and isolation slowly turns into something much darker.
Shannon finds herself fighting not just for her family, but against a presence that has historically torn families apart — driving them away from each other or stealing their children entirely.
I’ll be honest — the first 25% flew by like a quick life update and I genuinely wondered what could possibly fill the remaining 75%. The answer? Quite a lot… and I loved the ride.
I do think the early tension could’ve been built a little more slowly to begin with . I hadn’t fully formed an attachment to their relationship yet, so the strain didn’t have the impact it could have. But once the story settled in I was absorbed.
The characters were incredibly likeable, and the multi-timeline element worked really well. . Learning about the wives across different time periods — each struggling with grief, abandonment, and guilt — added so much depth. I loved reading the letters and piecing together each woman’s story. The layered haunted house narrative really highlighted the resilience of these women and the weight of blame they carried for their families falling apart.
My only real criticism for me personall was the ending. When they attempt to end the cycle, it felt quite abrupt and, for me, a little anticlimactic. I also found myself unsure of what truly caused the haunting, which left me wanting a bit more clarity.
That said… I absolutely devoured this. 📖
Fast-paced, well written, layered, and full of compelling characters. I really enjoyed it overall and would definitely read more from this author! 🌻
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆📖⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ Kindly provided by NetGalley 𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆📖⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ
The House on Sunflower Lane is a tender, quietly powerful story about grief, second chances, and the unexpected ways a place can heal you. Gwenna McAllis delivers a heartfelt narrative that feels both intimate and comforting — like sitting on a sun-drenched porch with a cup of tea and memories you’re finally ready to unpack.
At its core, the novel explores what it means to return — to a home, to a past version of yourself, and to emotions you thought you had buried. The house itself becomes more than a setting; it’s almost a character, holding secrets, nostalgia, and the weight of unfinished conversations. McAllis writes with a softness that allows the emotional beats to unfold naturally rather than dramatically, which makes the story feel authentic and grounded.
The strength of the book lies in its emotional realism. The characters aren’t perfect, and their growth isn’t rushed. There’s a quiet resilience in the protagonist’s journey, especially in how she navigates loss while slowly allowing hope back into her life. The romantic elements (if you enjoy subtle, slow-burn connections) are handled with warmth and maturity, adding depth without overshadowing the main emotional arc.
If I had one small critique, it would be the pacing in the middle section, which leans more reflective than plot-driven. However, readers who appreciate character-driven fiction will likely see this as part of the book’s charm.
Overall, The House on Sunflower Lane is a gentle, emotional read perfect for fans of women’s fiction and stories about healing and rediscovering yourself. It’s not loud or dramatic — it’s soft, sincere, and quietly hopeful.
Perfect for: readers who love cozy settings, emotional depth, and stories about starting over. 🌻
The House on Sunflower Lane is a tender, quietly powerful story about grief, second chances, and the unexpected ways a place can heal you. Gwenna McAllis delivers a heartfelt narrative that feels both intimate and comforting — like sitting on a sun-drenched porch with a cup of tea and memories you’re finally ready to unpack.
At its core, the novel explores what it means to return — to a home, to a past version of yourself, and to emotions you thought you had buried. The house itself becomes more than a setting; it’s almost a character, holding secrets, nostalgia, and the weight of unfinished conversations. McAllis writes with a softness that allows the emotional beats to unfold naturally rather than dramatically, which makes the story feel authentic and grounded.
The strength of the book lies in its emotional realism. The characters aren’t perfect, and their growth isn’t rushed. There’s a quiet resilience in the protagonist’s journey, especially in how she navigates loss while slowly allowing hope back into her life. The romantic elements (if you enjoy subtle, slow-burn connections) are handled with warmth and maturity, adding depth without overshadowing the main emotional arc.
If I had one small critique, it would be the pacing in the middle section, which leans more reflective than plot-driven. However, readers who appreciate character-driven fiction will likely see this as part of the book’s charm.
Overall, The House on Sunflower Lane is a gentle, emotional read perfect for fans of women’s fiction and stories about healing and rediscovering yourself. It’s not loud or dramatic — it’s soft, sincere, and quietly hopeful.
Perfect for: readers who love cozy settings, emotional depth, and stories about starting over. 🌻
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Shannon and her husband, Marc, move into the house on Sunflower Lane while awaiting the birth of their daughter, Hazel. It has everything that they want in a home but after Hazel is born and the pandemic hits, Marc changes and becomes distant, cold and eventually abandons his family.
Now Shannon is left to care for Hazel all by herself in a home that is quickly turning out to not be quite the dream home after all. Whispers, noises, creaks, voices carrying through the wind are heard and ominous feelings felt in the home and the land.
Eventually, Hazel is found approaching a nearby forest in the middle of the night where a little girl disappeared decades ago and was never seen again. Shannon knows she needs to do something but is not quite sure what. She ends up calling the realtor who sold her the home, Tom, and he ends up getting her connected with his sister who is known to be helpful in similar situations to what Shannon is going through.
The three of them end up on quite the journey to help free Shannon and Hazel from whatever this unknowing force has connected to them at the house on Sunflower Lane.
I literally did not want to put this book down and had I been able to drop life long enough to read this book in one sitting, I most certainly would have! I loved the characters so much and really felt for them and their journey. The writing was descriptive enough to captivate me but not too much to overwhelm me. I plan on reading whatever else this author has or will write in the future! I highly recommend reading this book!
Thank you Oracle Hawk Press and Netgalley for this opportunity to read and review this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
Now Shannon is left to care for Hazel all by herself in a home that is quickly turning out to not be quite the dream home after all. Whispers, noises, creaks, voices carrying through the wind are heard and ominous feelings felt in the home and the land.
Eventually, Hazel is found approaching a nearby forest in the middle of the night where a little girl disappeared decades ago and was never seen again. Shannon knows she needs to do something but is not quite sure what. She ends up calling the realtor who sold her the home, Tom, and he ends up getting her connected with his sister who is known to be helpful in similar situations to what Shannon is going through.
The three of them end up on quite the journey to help free Shannon and Hazel from whatever this unknowing force has connected to them at the house on Sunflower Lane.
I literally did not want to put this book down and had I been able to drop life long enough to read this book in one sitting, I most certainly would have! I loved the characters so much and really felt for them and their journey. The writing was descriptive enough to captivate me but not too much to overwhelm me. I plan on reading whatever else this author has or will write in the future! I highly recommend reading this book!
Thank you Oracle Hawk Press and Netgalley for this opportunity to read and review this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Shannon and Marc, a young couple expecting their first child moves into...you guessed it...a house on Sunflower Lane. But this house has a violent, terrifying history that keeps repeating itself. After Marc ends up leaving his family, Shannon is left to take care of herself and her daughter in a house that wants to destroy them.
For the first 50% of the book, I felt extremely unsettled. This one was a slow burn in the best possible way. What helps with this is the novel alternates between Shannon's perspective and that of a former resident, Fern. Both women have such similar experiences even 60 years apart. McAllis draws these women in a way where we immediately sympathize with them and want them to overcome the terror of their experiences. We feel bad for them because they're seemingly helpless and dauntingly confused about why the house targets them.
It's the second half of the book that I had a little more difficulty with because instead of continuing the slow burn effect I felt in the first part, it felt more dragged out. I didn't think any part of the novel was bad. I still felt the concern I had throughout the rest of the book. This one just didn't do anything new with the "my house wants to hurt my family" trope. And that's okay because it was still an engaging story.
I will recommend this one because it is creepy, and it does develop characters that you care about. Check it out if you're interested in a slow-burn haunted house story.
*Thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing, and Gwenna McAllis for this eARC. This review contains my honest, authentic thoughts and opinions.*
For the first 50% of the book, I felt extremely unsettled. This one was a slow burn in the best possible way. What helps with this is the novel alternates between Shannon's perspective and that of a former resident, Fern. Both women have such similar experiences even 60 years apart. McAllis draws these women in a way where we immediately sympathize with them and want them to overcome the terror of their experiences. We feel bad for them because they're seemingly helpless and dauntingly confused about why the house targets them.
It's the second half of the book that I had a little more difficulty with because instead of continuing the slow burn effect I felt in the first part, it felt more dragged out. I didn't think any part of the novel was bad. I still felt the concern I had throughout the rest of the book. This one just didn't do anything new with the "my house wants to hurt my family" trope. And that's okay because it was still an engaging story.
I will recommend this one because it is creepy, and it does develop characters that you care about. Check it out if you're interested in a slow-burn haunted house story.
*Thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing, and Gwenna McAllis for this eARC. This review contains my honest, authentic thoughts and opinions.*
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book is binge-worthy in the truest sense. I planned to read a chapter or two and suddenly I had finished the whole thing 🤣
What makes this story hit so hard is how relatable the motherhood themes are. The exhaustion, the fierce protectiveness, and the way your entire world shifts when you bring a baby home all feel painfully real. That emotional honesty grounds the horror and makes it feel uncomfortably close to home. If you’re a mother, especially, some moments will sink right into your chest and stay there.
The atmosphere is spooky as heck. The house feels like a living, breathing presence—watchful, patient, and unsettling. The tension builds slowly and relentlessly, weaving the past and present together in a way that keeps you questioning what darkness is…
The spiritual element takes the story to another level. The supernatural experience feels intense and almost wild, adding a deeply personal and emotional layer to the story. It doesn’t just scare you—it pulls you in, making the danger feel intimate and like you need to question every little sound your real house makes.
There’s also a powerful exploration of marriage, isolation, and how women’s voices can be dismissed across generations. That emotional weight gives the horror depth and makes it linger long after the final page. Which, had me wanting a sequel…
If you love demonic stories with motherhood at the center, and chills that creep in quietly and refuse to let go, this is an absolute must-read. Sleep may be optional… but worth it. I can’t wait to read more by this author!
What makes this story hit so hard is how relatable the motherhood themes are. The exhaustion, the fierce protectiveness, and the way your entire world shifts when you bring a baby home all feel painfully real. That emotional honesty grounds the horror and makes it feel uncomfortably close to home. If you’re a mother, especially, some moments will sink right into your chest and stay there.
The atmosphere is spooky as heck. The house feels like a living, breathing presence—watchful, patient, and unsettling. The tension builds slowly and relentlessly, weaving the past and present together in a way that keeps you questioning what darkness is…
The spiritual element takes the story to another level. The supernatural experience feels intense and almost wild, adding a deeply personal and emotional layer to the story. It doesn’t just scare you—it pulls you in, making the danger feel intimate and like you need to question every little sound your real house makes.
There’s also a powerful exploration of marriage, isolation, and how women’s voices can be dismissed across generations. That emotional weight gives the horror depth and makes it linger long after the final page. Which, had me wanting a sequel…
If you love demonic stories with motherhood at the center, and chills that creep in quietly and refuse to let go, this is an absolute must-read. Sleep may be optional… but worth it. I can’t wait to read more by this author!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A mother's instinct is to protect her child at all costs, and her worst nightmare is to have her child disappear-not knowing where her child is, what is happening to her child, imagining her child calling for mommy. Calls that go unheard. The exhausting need to wait and wait, perhaps forever, for your child to somehow return to you.The House Sunflower Lane has a history that is unknown to buyers over the years. This story follows Fern in the 1060's, and Shannon in 2020. Both move into the house with high hopes and their loving husbands, and both see their loving husbands withdraw and then suddenly leave. The women are left alone with the house and a baby daughter....daughters who develop an odd fascination with surrounding woods...like the mythical Eldritch Forest that whispers to you in an attempt to pull you in amongst their dark twisted trees and mind-bending phenomena.The house and barn appear to have lives and motives of their own as well. These young mothers feel watched. Their children talk to entities that only they can see. I was hesitant to start this 400ish page book, but I had been wanting to read a good haunted house book, so I gave it a go. Well, I could not put it down! I was invested from the first sentence. Exquisite storytelling and effectively spooking and suspenseful. An excellent binge for the haunted house fan.Than you #netgalley for allowing me to read and review this mind-bending haunted house novel, #TheHouseOnSunflowerLane
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Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The House on Sunflower Lane is one of those rare novels that blends warmth and dread so seamlessly you hardly notice the shift—until you realise you’re holding your breath. Gwenna McAllis crafts a haunting, deeply human story that lingers long after the final page.
Shannon is a wonderfully sympathetic narrator, navigating new motherhood, a crumbling marriage, and the unsettling sense that her once‑charming farmhouse has turned its attention toward her baby. The early chapters capture that fragile, sleep‑deprived period of new parenthood with such tenderness, which makes the creeping unease all the more effective.
The dual timeline with Fern Carlisle adds a rich emotional layer. The echoes between their lives—two mothers, decades apart, both feeling the house closing in—are handled with real elegance. As Shannon uncovers Fern’s tragic story, the past and present begin to blur in a way that feels both chilling and heartbreakingly inevitable.
What I loved most is how the novel balances its supernatural tension with genuine warmth. This isn’t just a haunted‑house story; it’s a story about the fierce love of a mother, the weight of history, and the courage it takes to break a cycle that has claimed others before you.
Atmospheric, intimate, and quietly devastating, The House on Sunflower Lane is a beautifully written gothic mystery that wraps you in its embrace and refuses to let go.
with thanks to Gwenna McAllis, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Shannon is a wonderfully sympathetic narrator, navigating new motherhood, a crumbling marriage, and the unsettling sense that her once‑charming farmhouse has turned its attention toward her baby. The early chapters capture that fragile, sleep‑deprived period of new parenthood with such tenderness, which makes the creeping unease all the more effective.
The dual timeline with Fern Carlisle adds a rich emotional layer. The echoes between their lives—two mothers, decades apart, both feeling the house closing in—are handled with real elegance. As Shannon uncovers Fern’s tragic story, the past and present begin to blur in a way that feels both chilling and heartbreakingly inevitable.
What I loved most is how the novel balances its supernatural tension with genuine warmth. This isn’t just a haunted‑house story; it’s a story about the fierce love of a mother, the weight of history, and the courage it takes to break a cycle that has claimed others before you.
Atmospheric, intimate, and quietly devastating, The House on Sunflower Lane is a beautifully written gothic mystery that wraps you in its embrace and refuses to let go.
with thanks to Gwenna McAllis, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 stars)
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I actually really enjoyed The House on Sunflower Lane. It was exactly the level of scary I like in a book, unsettling, atmospheric, and just creepy enough to have me side-eyeing my dark hallway while reading late at night… with the lights off… and the closet open. If you know, you know.
I read a lot of scary books, and this one genuinely got under my skin in a way that doesn’t always happen anymore. That alone says a lot.
I especially loved that this was a ghost story woven through multiple timelines. I’m always a sucker for that structure when it’s done well — the slow reveals, the connections clicking into place, the way past and present echo each other. I was definitely the ideal audience for this one.
There were a few areas where I personally wished the ending had been tied up just a bit more neatly, or where certain threads could have landed a little stronger. Nothing major, just a few moments that left me wanting a touch more closure.
That tiny “something missing” is the only reason this wasn’t a full 5 stars for me… although I can’t quite put my finger on what that something is.
Overall, I would absolutely recommend this to anyone who loves a good ghost story, especially one layered across timelines with a strong atmospheric vibe.
Perfect for reading at night… if you’re brave enough
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I actually really enjoyed The House on Sunflower Lane. It was exactly the level of scary I like in a book, unsettling, atmospheric, and just creepy enough to have me side-eyeing my dark hallway while reading late at night… with the lights off… and the closet open. If you know, you know.
I read a lot of scary books, and this one genuinely got under my skin in a way that doesn’t always happen anymore. That alone says a lot.
I especially loved that this was a ghost story woven through multiple timelines. I’m always a sucker for that structure when it’s done well — the slow reveals, the connections clicking into place, the way past and present echo each other. I was definitely the ideal audience for this one.
There were a few areas where I personally wished the ending had been tied up just a bit more neatly, or where certain threads could have landed a little stronger. Nothing major, just a few moments that left me wanting a touch more closure.
That tiny “something missing” is the only reason this wasn’t a full 5 stars for me… although I can’t quite put my finger on what that something is.
Overall, I would absolutely recommend this to anyone who loves a good ghost story, especially one layered across timelines with a strong atmospheric vibe.
Perfect for reading at night… if you’re brave enough
April 21, 2026
A young family moves into a quiet farmhouse on Sunflower Lane, hoping for a peaceful beginning with their new baby. But soon after they settle in, Shannon starts to sense that something is not right. She hears footsteps at night, feels watched in her own home, and sees Marc, her husband ,grow distant in a way she cannot explain. Their marriage begins to strain under the weight of these changes, and Shannon becomes increasingly afraid that whatever is in the house has taken an interest in her daughter. Marc eventually left the marriage without further explanation.
Searching for answers, she looks into the history of the property and learns about Fern Carlisle, a woman who lived there sixty years earlier. Fern’s younger daughter went missing, and Fern remained in the house for the rest of her life, surrounded by rumors and unanswered questions. As Shannon uncovers more of Fern’s story, the past begins to press into her own world. Alone with her child, she starts to believe the house is not simply holding on to old memories. It may be trying to repeat them.
I liked this book a lot. The plot kept me engaged from the start, and the suspense builds slowly in a way that feels controlled and rewarding. I only wish there had been more insight into the men who once lived in the house. What truly drove them to leave their wives and children? A few chapters from their point of view could have added an even deeper layer to the mystery.
A 4.5 🌟
Searching for answers, she looks into the history of the property and learns about Fern Carlisle, a woman who lived there sixty years earlier. Fern’s younger daughter went missing, and Fern remained in the house for the rest of her life, surrounded by rumors and unanswered questions. As Shannon uncovers more of Fern’s story, the past begins to press into her own world. Alone with her child, she starts to believe the house is not simply holding on to old memories. It may be trying to repeat them.
I liked this book a lot. The plot kept me engaged from the start, and the suspense builds slowly in a way that feels controlled and rewarding. I only wish there had been more insight into the men who once lived in the house. What truly drove them to leave their wives and children? A few chapters from their point of view could have added an even deeper layer to the mystery.
A 4.5 🌟
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It’s been a long while since I’ve read a truly engaging horror novel. This is the kind of horror story that speaks to you. It may be a slow burn, but I understand why the author structured it this way—to build the characters and allow readers to fully grasp the history and consequences that led to the plot.
I love that, although the story arc isn’t entirely new—since many horror novels and movies have explored similar themes—it didn’t fail to create a sinister atmosphere. There were several spine-chilling scenes that caught me off guard while reading alone at night. It helped that the Good Samaritan complex was used as a tool to connect with readers—one so poignant it was hard to ignore.
In the end, it became somewhat predictable. I wish the ending had addressed the obvious questions about the supernatural entity haunting the land. But then again, this book capitalizes on human frailty and the role of women—not just in society, but in the generational trauma that can even stir supernatural forces. There is a lot to unpack in this novel, and I dare say I am impressed.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #VictoriaEditingNetGalleyCoop for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
I love that, although the story arc isn’t entirely new—since many horror novels and movies have explored similar themes—it didn’t fail to create a sinister atmosphere. There were several spine-chilling scenes that caught me off guard while reading alone at night. It helped that the Good Samaritan complex was used as a tool to connect with readers—one so poignant it was hard to ignore.
In the end, it became somewhat predictable. I wish the ending had addressed the obvious questions about the supernatural entity haunting the land. But then again, this book capitalizes on human frailty and the role of women—not just in society, but in the generational trauma that can even stir supernatural forces. There is a lot to unpack in this novel, and I dare say I am impressed.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #VictoriaEditingNetGalleyCoop for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
February 15, 2026
Creepy things hiding in closets, shadows on the baby monitor, unexplained noises at 2am? Immediately yes. Add haunted woods and a deep-rooted demonic history and I’m all in 🌻🚪
What’s more terrifying than something ancient embedded in the land itself claiming the soil, the woods, the history? It watches from the tree line, waits in the barn, and forces a mother into fierce, unwavering protection of her children.
This is a beautifully layered slow burn horror. The tension simmers, tightens, and coils until it has you completely in its grip. Every reveal is deliberate & every unraveling hits harder.
The dual POVs of Fern in the 1960s and Shannon in the present bleed past and present together, making the haunting feel inevitable… like it was always coming back.
Yes, it’s genuinely creepy (I was absolutely side-eyeing my bedroom shadows) but it’s also about women refusing to be dismissed, finding strength in vulnerability and standing their ground against something ancient and evil.
Atmospheric, unsettling, and ultimately empowering!
Thank you NetGalley & Oracle Hawk Press for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What’s more terrifying than something ancient embedded in the land itself claiming the soil, the woods, the history? It watches from the tree line, waits in the barn, and forces a mother into fierce, unwavering protection of her children.
This is a beautifully layered slow burn horror. The tension simmers, tightens, and coils until it has you completely in its grip. Every reveal is deliberate & every unraveling hits harder.
The dual POVs of Fern in the 1960s and Shannon in the present bleed past and present together, making the haunting feel inevitable… like it was always coming back.
Yes, it’s genuinely creepy (I was absolutely side-eyeing my bedroom shadows) but it’s also about women refusing to be dismissed, finding strength in vulnerability and standing their ground against something ancient and evil.
Atmospheric, unsettling, and ultimately empowering!
Thank you NetGalley & Oracle Hawk Press for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 27, 2026
First, I'd like to thank NetGalley, Oracle Hawk Press and Gwenna McAllis for the opportunity to read this early. I really enjoyed this one and appreciated the shift it took compared to most horror novels. This was also my first time reading Gwenna McAllis and most certainly won't be my last either. Now let us get to the review, shall we?
The House on Sunflower Lane is a highly atmospheric, slow-burn, paranormal horror story that heavily dips into grief while navigating the trials of being a mother. It is from a dual pov of two mother's alternating between the present and the past. This house carries a curse that affects the mother and their child that turns into a vicious cycle upon those who live in this house for years to come. It takes place in the south in a farmland type setting. The story was extremely well written, the characters were well drawn out and not a detail was missed while remaining at a steady pace that never got dull or boring, which can be hard to do with slow-burn intended novels. IMO anyway.
This is perfect for those who like The Conjuring or The Amityville Horror. Those two immediately came to mind when I was reading this one.
The House on Sunflower Lane is a highly atmospheric, slow-burn, paranormal horror story that heavily dips into grief while navigating the trials of being a mother. It is from a dual pov of two mother's alternating between the present and the past. This house carries a curse that affects the mother and their child that turns into a vicious cycle upon those who live in this house for years to come. It takes place in the south in a farmland type setting. The story was extremely well written, the characters were well drawn out and not a detail was missed while remaining at a steady pace that never got dull or boring, which can be hard to do with slow-burn intended novels. IMO anyway.
This is perfect for those who like The Conjuring or The Amityville Horror. Those two immediately came to mind when I was reading this one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The House on Sunflower Lane revolves around a little farmhouse on Sunflower Lane and the couple Shannon and Marc who loved their quiet and charming house. That all changed when they brought home their newborn daughter. Footsteps in the night, a distant husband, and negative attention towards the baby all lend to a very creepy and spooky feeling in this once peaceful house. Shannon, now on her own with her baby after Marc leaves her, starts to dig into the past of the house and it is not at all what she wanted to hear. Gwenna McAllis nailed it with this setting. It was spine tingling and anxiety inducing throughout the whole book. I enjoyed the plot and the characters. Whenever kids are involved, I’m even more invested in everyone making it out alive, which had me staying up way too late to see what happened. Check this book out next month! Thank you, Gwenna McAllis, Victory Editing NetGalley Cop-op, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
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