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When the Night Comes Knocking
Not yet published
Expected 20 Oct 26In this Appalachian horror novel, two estranged siblings become trapped in a convenience store under attack by a monster from the mountains who feasts on guilty hearts.
Rattle, rattle in the dark…
The mountain’s bones seek out a heart.
Jane has not spoken to her brother Thomas since the accident that nearly killed them both. Their drive from college through the North Georgia mountains is uncomfortably silent, until they stop at a roadside convenience store, where a man stumbles in with a mutilated body, claiming to have been attacked by a monster.
At first, no one believes the man’s ravings, but when the next person to leave the store is brutally killed, they fear that local legend might be true:
There’s a beast in these mountains who feasts on guilty hearts… and someone among them has lured it out of hiding.
Jane and Thomas each harbor secrets, but so do the other patrons, and as the monster claims more hearts, the survivors turn on each other, desperate to save themselves by uncovering the guiltiest among them.
If the siblings can’t overcome the rift between them, they’ll surely become the monster’s next victims…or worse, become monsters themselves.
Rattle, rattle in the dark…
The mountain’s bones seek out a heart.
Jane has not spoken to her brother Thomas since the accident that nearly killed them both. Their drive from college through the North Georgia mountains is uncomfortably silent, until they stop at a roadside convenience store, where a man stumbles in with a mutilated body, claiming to have been attacked by a monster.
At first, no one believes the man’s ravings, but when the next person to leave the store is brutally killed, they fear that local legend might be true:
There’s a beast in these mountains who feasts on guilty hearts… and someone among them has lured it out of hiding.
Jane and Thomas each harbor secrets, but so do the other patrons, and as the monster claims more hearts, the survivors turn on each other, desperate to save themselves by uncovering the guiltiest among them.
If the siblings can’t overcome the rift between them, they’ll surely become the monster’s next victims…or worse, become monsters themselves.
304 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication October 20, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
April 18, 2026
Oh, this ate. It read like a horror movie, and a really good horror movie.
Reminded me a bit of Monster (2016), Splinter and Feast (just without the obvious humor from that).
One main setting really made this feel extra claustrophobic. It was super fast paced yet slow enough to build the anxiety and let the pressure and stakes boil. The writing was so immersive and well done that I was completely sucked in. Filled with unique characters, some of them a bit annoying but that's true to life :/, and a unique villain.
It was gory, it was scary. Just a really great read that had me on the edge of my seat.
Thank you to Berkley and netgalley for the arc.
Reminded me a bit of Monster (2016), Splinter and Feast (just without the obvious humor from that).
One main setting really made this feel extra claustrophobic. It was super fast paced yet slow enough to build the anxiety and let the pressure and stakes boil. The writing was so immersive and well done that I was completely sucked in. Filled with unique characters, some of them a bit annoying but that's true to life :/, and a unique villain.
It was gory, it was scary. Just a really great read that had me on the edge of my seat.
Thank you to Berkley and netgalley for the arc.
May 2, 2026
thank you to Berkley and netgalley for this digital ARC! ♡︎
3.5 rounded up! an Appalachian folk story type horror? signed up so fast. i absolutely love when a horror story reads like a movie! it’s nice getting consumed into the pages and the atmosphere provided. i also really love when a horror story hits the ground running, the action begins quick. not great prose, but the premise was so intriguing i didn’t mind the pieces that were lacking a little. this was an easy, fast-paced read that was hard to put down. there’s definitely a few themes in here that are cliche and oftentimes overdone, but despite that everything worked decently well for this book.
there might be many moments in the story that will just irritate you, the same way you may find yourself yelling at your tv screen as you watch characters make the worst possible decisions in a scary movie. if you care about deeper, more fleshed out characters + plot i wouldn’t recommend this. but if you want a good popcorn horror, this might be the one for you!
yes, there is a dog in this story and i can promise you that the dog is fine! i do not play about animal abuse or death in anything i consume. it was a cute addition that reminds us just how loyal and in tune our animal companions tend to be.
tw’s: death, body horror, animal death (not the dog), confinement, gore, mention of past rape, suicide, guns, car accident
3.5 rounded up! an Appalachian folk story type horror? signed up so fast. i absolutely love when a horror story reads like a movie! it’s nice getting consumed into the pages and the atmosphere provided. i also really love when a horror story hits the ground running, the action begins quick. not great prose, but the premise was so intriguing i didn’t mind the pieces that were lacking a little. this was an easy, fast-paced read that was hard to put down. there’s definitely a few themes in here that are cliche and oftentimes overdone, but despite that everything worked decently well for this book.
there might be many moments in the story that will just irritate you, the same way you may find yourself yelling at your tv screen as you watch characters make the worst possible decisions in a scary movie. if you care about deeper, more fleshed out characters + plot i wouldn’t recommend this. but if you want a good popcorn horror, this might be the one for you!
yes, there is a dog in this story and i can promise you that the dog is fine! i do not play about animal abuse or death in anything i consume. it was a cute addition that reminds us just how loyal and in tune our animal companions tend to be.
tw’s: death, body horror, animal death (not the dog), confinement, gore, mention of past rape, suicide, guns, car accident
April 19, 2026
It’s hard for me to articulate how much I freaking loved this book. It’s gory, it’s insane, it’s fast paced. It reads like a horror movie brought to life. There were so many moments where I was shouting at these characters and basically dragging my fingers down my face. The fact that this was a debut makes it that much better. I can’t wait to see what this author does next. Also, let’s all acknowledge that there’s a cutie patootie dog in this book (which always makes everything better). All in all, a fantastic debut that definitely gets into the Appalachian horror theme (cough cough dopplegangers anyone?) This will be out in October of 2026 and I definitely recommend adding it to your TBR immediately!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“When the Night Comes Knocking” by Katherine Daniel is basically what happens if Appalachian folklore, locked-room horror, and sibling trauma all get shoved into one gas station and told they’re not leaving until somebody deals with their guilt. And the major problem with that is that every person is holding onto some degree of guilt.
And honestly? It works way better than it has any right to.
The story starts fast. Jane and her brother Thomas are driving through the North Georgia mountains when they come across two deer on the side of the road, dead in a way that is very much not normal: hearts removed, bodies wrong, bad vibes everywhere. From page one, you know something hungry is out there.
Then things escalate quickly when they and a bunch of random strangers end up trapped inside a roadside country store while something outside starts picking people off. No rescue is coming, stepping outside is basically a death sentence, and the monster stalking them isn’t just hungry; it’s looking for someone with the guiltiest heart.
Which is a problem, because absolutely everyone here has issues.
The monster, called the Mimic, is easily the best part of the book. It comes from Appalachian legend and feels genuinely unique; it’s not just a “big scary forest creature,” but something ancient and personal. It’s described as the personification of the mountain’s bones, which is already horrifying, but then you learn it can take the form of anyone whose blood it tastes. It becomes a perfect doppelgänger, complete with memories, making trust basically impossible.
That idea alone made this so much creepier. Because once the Mimic can be anyone, suddenly every conversation becomes suspicious. Nobody feels safe, and the paranoia inside that tiny store gets so much worse.
And yes—it’s gory. Very gory. This book does not hold back with blood, body horror, and some really nasty deaths. It honestly reads like a horror movie in the best way; it’s fast-paced, dramatic, and the kind of book where you want to yell at the characters while reading (except for the dog, who is a good girl).
But what surprised me most is that underneath all the monster chaos, this is really a story about guilt.
Jane is carrying intense guilt over a past accident involving Thomas, one that permanently damaged their relationship and left both of them emotionally stuck. Their sibling dynamic is the emotional core of the story. Jane is constantly trying to smooth things over, while Thomas is walking around like resentment is a personality trait. He is not always easy to like. Sometimes he’s just kind of exhausting. But their relationship feels real, and the flashbacks help show how much pain they’ve both been carrying.
The book shifts a lot from pure horror into something more introspective, with different characters confronting the things they regret most. Sometimes that works really well because it gives the story emotional weight. Sometimes it slows the momentum a little, especially with some side character POVs that didn’t always feel necessary.
There’s also a small romance subplot that honestly could’ve been cut. In a story where everyone is trapped with a heart-eating mountain monster, I was not personally looking for romance.
The side characters are hit-or-miss too; some add tension, others mostly exist to get eaten. But the premise is strong enough that I didn’t mind too much.
Also, extremely important: the dog survives. Automatic bonus points.
The ending is probably my favorite part. It’s emotional, chaotic, and feels earned. There’s a big final confrontation with the Mimic that balances action with the book’s bigger message: guilt doesn’t disappear just because you ignore it. You have to face it, own it, and decide what kind of person you want to be after.
That said, the very last page gives you that perfect horror ending where evil maybe isn’t fully gone, and honestly, it fits. Some guilt never fully leaves. It just learns how to sit quietly beside you.
Overall, “When the Night Comes Knocking” is fast, bloody, creepy Appalachian horror with real emotional depth underneath. If you like locked-room horror, folklore monsters, doppelgängers, and stories where the real monster might also be your unresolved trauma, then this one is absolutely worth picking up.
“When the Night Comes Knocking” by Katherine Daniel is basically what happens if Appalachian folklore, locked-room horror, and sibling trauma all get shoved into one gas station and told they’re not leaving until somebody deals with their guilt. And the major problem with that is that every person is holding onto some degree of guilt.
And honestly? It works way better than it has any right to.
The story starts fast. Jane and her brother Thomas are driving through the North Georgia mountains when they come across two deer on the side of the road, dead in a way that is very much not normal: hearts removed, bodies wrong, bad vibes everywhere. From page one, you know something hungry is out there.
Then things escalate quickly when they and a bunch of random strangers end up trapped inside a roadside country store while something outside starts picking people off. No rescue is coming, stepping outside is basically a death sentence, and the monster stalking them isn’t just hungry; it’s looking for someone with the guiltiest heart.
Which is a problem, because absolutely everyone here has issues.
The monster, called the Mimic, is easily the best part of the book. It comes from Appalachian legend and feels genuinely unique; it’s not just a “big scary forest creature,” but something ancient and personal. It’s described as the personification of the mountain’s bones, which is already horrifying, but then you learn it can take the form of anyone whose blood it tastes. It becomes a perfect doppelgänger, complete with memories, making trust basically impossible.
That idea alone made this so much creepier. Because once the Mimic can be anyone, suddenly every conversation becomes suspicious. Nobody feels safe, and the paranoia inside that tiny store gets so much worse.
And yes—it’s gory. Very gory. This book does not hold back with blood, body horror, and some really nasty deaths. It honestly reads like a horror movie in the best way; it’s fast-paced, dramatic, and the kind of book where you want to yell at the characters while reading (except for the dog, who is a good girl).
But what surprised me most is that underneath all the monster chaos, this is really a story about guilt.
Jane is carrying intense guilt over a past accident involving Thomas, one that permanently damaged their relationship and left both of them emotionally stuck. Their sibling dynamic is the emotional core of the story. Jane is constantly trying to smooth things over, while Thomas is walking around like resentment is a personality trait. He is not always easy to like. Sometimes he’s just kind of exhausting. But their relationship feels real, and the flashbacks help show how much pain they’ve both been carrying.
The book shifts a lot from pure horror into something more introspective, with different characters confronting the things they regret most. Sometimes that works really well because it gives the story emotional weight. Sometimes it slows the momentum a little, especially with some side character POVs that didn’t always feel necessary.
There’s also a small romance subplot that honestly could’ve been cut. In a story where everyone is trapped with a heart-eating mountain monster, I was not personally looking for romance.
The side characters are hit-or-miss too; some add tension, others mostly exist to get eaten. But the premise is strong enough that I didn’t mind too much.
Also, extremely important: the dog survives. Automatic bonus points.
The ending is probably my favorite part. It’s emotional, chaotic, and feels earned. There’s a big final confrontation with the Mimic that balances action with the book’s bigger message: guilt doesn’t disappear just because you ignore it. You have to face it, own it, and decide what kind of person you want to be after.
That said, the very last page gives you that perfect horror ending where evil maybe isn’t fully gone, and honestly, it fits. Some guilt never fully leaves. It just learns how to sit quietly beside you.
Overall, “When the Night Comes Knocking” is fast, bloody, creepy Appalachian horror with real emotional depth underneath. If you like locked-room horror, folklore monsters, doppelgängers, and stories where the real monster might also be your unresolved trauma, then this one is absolutely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Estranged siblings get trapped together in a grocery store while an Appalachian monster kills people one by one. It's looking for the person among them with the guiltiest heart. The problem? Everyone has their secrets. Everyone carries pain. Will any of them survive?
What drew me to When the Night Comes Knocking: 1) banger cover!! Very eye-catching 2) I've been wanting to read more Appalachian horror, so this was a right book, right time kind of situation.
And I'm happy to report that it starts out with a bang rather than a whimper and hits the ground running. It's incredibly readable and because of this I finished When the Night Comes Knocking in one sitting.
Jane and Thomas have an intriguing dynamic. Jane walks on eggshells and tries to smooth things over. Thomas is always looking for a reason to snap and not just at Jane. Everyone gets his snippy, sarcastic, and flat-out rude replies. I was hoping there would be more depth as to why they were estranged but no, turns out that Thomas is just kind of an asshole. And by that I mean their backstory wasn't twisty or shocking. Jane was carrying too much guilt and it was actually Thomas who needed to pull his head out of his butt. I understand him to a point but he was painfully obnoxious to deal with.
Side characters were (mostly) fine but there were no real standouts. I don't feel like we needed the romantic connection. Felt a bit forced given the claustrophobic set-up. Trying to not spoil too much, but everyone's seemingly collective choice of what to tell the cop? Wild. It felt incredibly unrealistic to me but what do I know, I've never been terrorized by an Appalachian monster.
This was written in 3rd person, present tense with flashbacks included. And we mostly get the pov of the siblings Jane and Thomas. Which is good! But randomly throughout we'd get a scene from the pov of a side character and I usually felt like it should have been left out, mostly because it spoiled things. If we'd kept to our main characters, certain plot beats might have had more weight.
When the Night Comes Knocking is very accessible. I feel like anyone would be able to pick up this book and read it. Sentences weren't crafted the best, though. Maybe another round of edits was needed. Or maybe this was a debut author problem and Katherine Daniel's next book won't have as many of these issues. Either way, I didn't love the prose. The premise is what kept me reading.
I'd recommend this to fans of locked room/”bottle episode” horror (takes place in primarily one location), estranged siblings, and quick romps. Especially recommend if you need a less bleak version of The Mist (I've only seen the movie) while still giving us a handful of deaths.
Potentially avoid it if you really care about prose or deep character work. This book is plot focused.
3.5 stars. Rounding up because I was never bored. Sometimes frustrated but overall it was a “no thoughts, head empty” kind of romp.
Thank you to Netgalley, Berkley, and Katherine Daniel for the arc.
What drew me to When the Night Comes Knocking: 1) banger cover!! Very eye-catching 2) I've been wanting to read more Appalachian horror, so this was a right book, right time kind of situation.
And I'm happy to report that it starts out with a bang rather than a whimper and hits the ground running. It's incredibly readable and because of this I finished When the Night Comes Knocking in one sitting.
Jane and Thomas have an intriguing dynamic. Jane walks on eggshells and tries to smooth things over. Thomas is always looking for a reason to snap and not just at Jane. Everyone gets his snippy, sarcastic, and flat-out rude replies. I was hoping there would be more depth as to why they were estranged but no, turns out that Thomas is just kind of an asshole. And by that I mean their backstory wasn't twisty or shocking. Jane was carrying too much guilt and it was actually Thomas who needed to pull his head out of his butt. I understand him to a point but he was painfully obnoxious to deal with.
Side characters were (mostly) fine but there were no real standouts. I don't feel like we needed the romantic connection. Felt a bit forced given the claustrophobic set-up. Trying to not spoil too much, but everyone's seemingly collective choice of what to tell the cop? Wild. It felt incredibly unrealistic to me but what do I know, I've never been terrorized by an Appalachian monster.
This was written in 3rd person, present tense with flashbacks included. And we mostly get the pov of the siblings Jane and Thomas. Which is good! But randomly throughout we'd get a scene from the pov of a side character and I usually felt like it should have been left out, mostly because it spoiled things. If we'd kept to our main characters, certain plot beats might have had more weight.
When the Night Comes Knocking is very accessible. I feel like anyone would be able to pick up this book and read it. Sentences weren't crafted the best, though. Maybe another round of edits was needed. Or maybe this was a debut author problem and Katherine Daniel's next book won't have as many of these issues. Either way, I didn't love the prose. The premise is what kept me reading.
I'd recommend this to fans of locked room/”bottle episode” horror (takes place in primarily one location), estranged siblings, and quick romps. Especially recommend if you need a less bleak version of The Mist (I've only seen the movie) while still giving us a handful of deaths.
Potentially avoid it if you really care about prose or deep character work. This book is plot focused.
3.5 stars. Rounding up because I was never bored. Sometimes frustrated but overall it was a “no thoughts, head empty” kind of romp.
Thank you to Netgalley, Berkley, and Katherine Daniel for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A group of survivors fights to stay alive in this deeply emotional horror novel set deep in the Appalachian Mountains. Siblings Thomas and Jane struggle to reconnect as they travel together to meet their family for Thanksgiving. A quick stop at a convenience store quickly spirals into a nightmare when a man is mauled by a monster. The siblings discover they are being stalked by a supernatural creature, one that isn’t easily killed and is insatiably hungry. They strategize with the other survivors to escape, but begin realizing they each have secrets that could threaten their survival. The creature is waiting to get in, the survivors begin turning on each other, and there’s no help arriving. Who will survive the night?
This is an action-packed story that carries with it all the dread you’d expect from an Appalachian folk creature. It felt like a cross between Jeepers Creepers (2001) and Splinter (2008), bursting with suspense and tension. Each of the survivors carries hope, regret, and guilt, adding to the emotional realization that they might not live to see morning. The pressure of staying alive while maintaining their humanity grows as the night progresses. The creature waits and learns while the group does its best to stay alive.
Wow! This was not a book I expected to enjoy as much as I did! As a fan of road trips gone wrong, urban legend monsters, and body horror similar to The Thing, I really liked it. It was a fast-paced story that added an extra layer of complexity by sharing the survivors’ inner turmoil as they fight for their lives. The story expanded on their emotional battles, which was a nice change from how these stories usually go. Overall, this was a great creature and body horror story that any reader looking for a good thrill can enjoy.
For readers who enjoy Appalachian Mountain horror, the Splinter movie (2008) or cryptic creature stories
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This is an advance reader copy (ARC) and may contain errors or changes before final publication. My review is voluntary and reflects my personal thoughts.
This is an action-packed story that carries with it all the dread you’d expect from an Appalachian folk creature. It felt like a cross between Jeepers Creepers (2001) and Splinter (2008), bursting with suspense and tension. Each of the survivors carries hope, regret, and guilt, adding to the emotional realization that they might not live to see morning. The pressure of staying alive while maintaining their humanity grows as the night progresses. The creature waits and learns while the group does its best to stay alive.
Wow! This was not a book I expected to enjoy as much as I did! As a fan of road trips gone wrong, urban legend monsters, and body horror similar to The Thing, I really liked it. It was a fast-paced story that added an extra layer of complexity by sharing the survivors’ inner turmoil as they fight for their lives. The story expanded on their emotional battles, which was a nice change from how these stories usually go. Overall, this was a great creature and body horror story that any reader looking for a good thrill can enjoy.
For readers who enjoy Appalachian Mountain horror, the Splinter movie (2008) or cryptic creature stories
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This is an advance reader copy (ARC) and may contain errors or changes before final publication. My review is voluntary and reflects my personal thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As always a huge thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review this book!
When the Night Comes Knocking is a spooky tale set in the Appalachian Mountains of Georgia. The story centers around two siblings, Jane and Thomas, who are on a road trip to meet their family for Thanksgiving. Tension hangs thick between them; they haven’t spoken much since a recent car accident. Thomas blames Jane for the crash and the injuries that now threaten his future baseball career. Jane already carries that blame heavily, weighed down by shame, guilt, and secrets of her own.
After coming across a deer that appears to have died in a horrifically violent manner, they stop at a local market for supplies. Both siblings can tell something isn’t right; Thomas sees…something…in the restroom, while Jane feels as though something in the woods is watching them. As they’re checking out, injured locals stumble into the store screaming about a monster in the woods. At first dismissive, the siblings and the other patrons soon realize monsters are very real.
One thing I love about reading is how subjective it is, fifty people can read the same book and come away with their own theories . Guilt and secrets are heavy themes throughout this story, with every character hiding their own secrets, which them super relatable. The monster feeds on guilt, and to me, it felt like a physical manifestation of the guilt we all carry.
I loved this book. It was a fast, fun read. Katherine Daniel did a great job creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that made me feel trapped alongside the characters. The tension built wonderfully, constantly making me question what was real and what wasn’t. And the monster genuinely scared the crap out of me.
My only complaint is the sexual assault flashback. I felt like it was glossed over and never fully addressed. Since sexual assault can cause deep feelings of guilt and shame in survivors, I think it either needed to be explored more thoughtfully or left out of the story altogether.
Still a solid read, 4 out of 5 stars!
When the Night Comes Knocking is a spooky tale set in the Appalachian Mountains of Georgia. The story centers around two siblings, Jane and Thomas, who are on a road trip to meet their family for Thanksgiving. Tension hangs thick between them; they haven’t spoken much since a recent car accident. Thomas blames Jane for the crash and the injuries that now threaten his future baseball career. Jane already carries that blame heavily, weighed down by shame, guilt, and secrets of her own.
After coming across a deer that appears to have died in a horrifically violent manner, they stop at a local market for supplies. Both siblings can tell something isn’t right; Thomas sees…something…in the restroom, while Jane feels as though something in the woods is watching them. As they’re checking out, injured locals stumble into the store screaming about a monster in the woods. At first dismissive, the siblings and the other patrons soon realize monsters are very real.
One thing I love about reading is how subjective it is, fifty people can read the same book and come away with their own theories . Guilt and secrets are heavy themes throughout this story, with every character hiding their own secrets, which them super relatable. The monster feeds on guilt, and to me, it felt like a physical manifestation of the guilt we all carry.
I loved this book. It was a fast, fun read. Katherine Daniel did a great job creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that made me feel trapped alongside the characters. The tension built wonderfully, constantly making me question what was real and what wasn’t. And the monster genuinely scared the crap out of me.
My only complaint is the sexual assault flashback. I felt like it was glossed over and never fully addressed. Since sexual assault can cause deep feelings of guilt and shame in survivors, I think it either needed to be explored more thoughtfully or left out of the story altogether.
Still a solid read, 4 out of 5 stars!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
An Appalachian survival horror novel that is fast-paced, claustrophobic, brutal, and emotionally charged. It weaves together creature horror, Appalachian folklore, grief, guilt, and relentless survival tension into a story that feels both cinematic and deeply personal.
The atmosphere is one of the book’s greatest strengths. The North Georgia setting feels vividly alive with dark forests, deserted roads, endless mountains, and the unnerving sense that something ancient is lurking just beyond the trees. Katherine Daniel sustains a constant feeling of dread without ever sacrificing momentum. Every chapter ratchets the tension tighter. I could practically hear the hum of fluorescent lights and feel the cold mountain air pressing against the windows of that isolated convenience store.
What surprised me most was how emotionally invested I became in Jane and Thomas. Their sibling dynamic forms the heart of the novel. They are messy, angry, grieving, and completely believable, and their fractured relationship keeps the story grounded even as the horror escalates. The pacing is relentless, the deaths are vicious, and the growing paranoia among the trapped survivors becomes almost suffocating. It reads like the best kind of horror film, but with far more emotional depth than most creature features ever achieve.
That said, some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped, existing mainly to heighten the danger or serve as monster fodder. Still, that is fairly common in fast-moving survival horror and never distracted me too much. The prose remains atmospheric throughout, and the Mimic is genuinely terrifying, not only because of what it does, but because of what it symbolizes. A creature that feeds on guilt is such an effective concept for a story rooted in trauma and broken relationships. The horror lands on both a visceral and emotional level.
Overall, When the Night Comes Knocking is a tense, atmospheric, and emotionally raw horror novel that is impossible to put down. It succeeds because it fully commits to the story it wants to tell and delivers it with confidence and intensity.
The atmosphere is one of the book’s greatest strengths. The North Georgia setting feels vividly alive with dark forests, deserted roads, endless mountains, and the unnerving sense that something ancient is lurking just beyond the trees. Katherine Daniel sustains a constant feeling of dread without ever sacrificing momentum. Every chapter ratchets the tension tighter. I could practically hear the hum of fluorescent lights and feel the cold mountain air pressing against the windows of that isolated convenience store.
What surprised me most was how emotionally invested I became in Jane and Thomas. Their sibling dynamic forms the heart of the novel. They are messy, angry, grieving, and completely believable, and their fractured relationship keeps the story grounded even as the horror escalates. The pacing is relentless, the deaths are vicious, and the growing paranoia among the trapped survivors becomes almost suffocating. It reads like the best kind of horror film, but with far more emotional depth than most creature features ever achieve.
That said, some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped, existing mainly to heighten the danger or serve as monster fodder. Still, that is fairly common in fast-moving survival horror and never distracted me too much. The prose remains atmospheric throughout, and the Mimic is genuinely terrifying, not only because of what it does, but because of what it symbolizes. A creature that feeds on guilt is such an effective concept for a story rooted in trauma and broken relationships. The horror lands on both a visceral and emotional level.
Overall, When the Night Comes Knocking is a tense, atmospheric, and emotionally raw horror novel that is impossible to put down. It succeeds because it fully commits to the story it wants to tell and delivers it with confidence and intensity.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞, 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐤…
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧’𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐚 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭.
Two estranged siblings, Jane and Thomas, find themselves trapped in a roadside convenience store in the North Georgia mountains when something ancient and hungry comes calling. What starts as a tense, uncomfortable road trip turns into a full-blown nightmare when a man stumbles in with a mutilated body and a warning no one wants to believe. But when people start dying the second they step outside, it becomes clear this is not just a story. The mountain has a memory, and the Mimic has a hunger for not just blood but for something even juicier--guilt.
This is Appalachian horror at its absolute best. The atmosphere is thick, claustrophobic, and soaked in dread, the kind that arrives abruptly and then refuses to leave. The lore of the Mimic is what really hooked me. It is not just a monster lurking in the woods. It is something older, something that knows exactly what it is hunting and why. Watching it circle closer, feeding on the guilt each character is trying so hard to hide, felt suffocating in the best way. And the tension inside that store was palpable because once people realize the creature is choosing its victims, the real horror becomes the question of who deserves it.
What hooked me the most was how personal this story felt. The fractured relationship between Jane and Thomas is not just background noise; it is the emotional core of the story. This is not just a story about surviving the night; tt is about what we carry with us, what we bury, and what happens when we can no longer outrun it. The idea that guilt can take shape, hunt you down, and demand to be faced hit a little too close to home. This book had me not just thinking about the monster in the mountains but had me dwelling on the ones we create for ourselves. Many thanks to Berkley Publishing for this early copy that will publish October 20, 2026.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧’𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐚 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭.
Two estranged siblings, Jane and Thomas, find themselves trapped in a roadside convenience store in the North Georgia mountains when something ancient and hungry comes calling. What starts as a tense, uncomfortable road trip turns into a full-blown nightmare when a man stumbles in with a mutilated body and a warning no one wants to believe. But when people start dying the second they step outside, it becomes clear this is not just a story. The mountain has a memory, and the Mimic has a hunger for not just blood but for something even juicier--guilt.
This is Appalachian horror at its absolute best. The atmosphere is thick, claustrophobic, and soaked in dread, the kind that arrives abruptly and then refuses to leave. The lore of the Mimic is what really hooked me. It is not just a monster lurking in the woods. It is something older, something that knows exactly what it is hunting and why. Watching it circle closer, feeding on the guilt each character is trying so hard to hide, felt suffocating in the best way. And the tension inside that store was palpable because once people realize the creature is choosing its victims, the real horror becomes the question of who deserves it.
What hooked me the most was how personal this story felt. The fractured relationship between Jane and Thomas is not just background noise; it is the emotional core of the story. This is not just a story about surviving the night; tt is about what we carry with us, what we bury, and what happens when we can no longer outrun it. The idea that guilt can take shape, hunt you down, and demand to be faced hit a little too close to home. This book had me not just thinking about the monster in the mountains but had me dwelling on the ones we create for ourselves. Many thanks to Berkley Publishing for this early copy that will publish October 20, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC provided by NetGalley
WOW. This book completely surprised me in the best way possible and easily became one of my favorite horror reads of the year! From the very first chapter, I was hooked and honestly did not want to put it down.
The story follows siblings Jane and Thomas as they head to a family Thanksgiving gathering, only for a quick stop at a convenience store to spiral into absolute nightmare fuel. The pacing is fantastic, tense, fast-moving, and packed with dread right from the start. I loved that the horror element was introduced early, rather than making readers wait forever for the action to begin.
The Mimic was SUCH a creepy and effective monster. Every chapter left me needing to know who would survive, who could be trusted, and what was really happening. The isolation, paranoia, and emotional guilt woven throughout the story heightened the suspense. I kept telling myself, “Just one more chapter,” and suddenly hours had passed.
What really elevated this book for me was the emotional depth underneath all the horror. The complicated relationship between Jane and Thomas added so much heart to the story, and the way their shared trauma and guilt were slowly revealed throughout the book was incredibly well done. Katherine Daniel balanced emotional storytelling with genuine horror so perfectly.
And the twists? SO good. I genuinely did not predict the reveal surrounding the Mimic, and I loved how the story kept making me question everything and everyone.
This book felt like a thrilling roller coaster from beginning to end, creepy, emotional, addictive, and impossible to put down. Horror fans who love creature horror, tense survival situations, and nonstop suspense absolutely need to pick this one up.
Such an exciting and unforgettable horror read!
WOW. This book completely surprised me in the best way possible and easily became one of my favorite horror reads of the year! From the very first chapter, I was hooked and honestly did not want to put it down.
The story follows siblings Jane and Thomas as they head to a family Thanksgiving gathering, only for a quick stop at a convenience store to spiral into absolute nightmare fuel. The pacing is fantastic, tense, fast-moving, and packed with dread right from the start. I loved that the horror element was introduced early, rather than making readers wait forever for the action to begin.
The Mimic was SUCH a creepy and effective monster. Every chapter left me needing to know who would survive, who could be trusted, and what was really happening. The isolation, paranoia, and emotional guilt woven throughout the story heightened the suspense. I kept telling myself, “Just one more chapter,” and suddenly hours had passed.
What really elevated this book for me was the emotional depth underneath all the horror. The complicated relationship between Jane and Thomas added so much heart to the story, and the way their shared trauma and guilt were slowly revealed throughout the book was incredibly well done. Katherine Daniel balanced emotional storytelling with genuine horror so perfectly.
And the twists? SO good. I genuinely did not predict the reveal surrounding the Mimic, and I loved how the story kept making me question everything and everyone.
This book felt like a thrilling roller coaster from beginning to end, creepy, emotional, addictive, and impossible to put down. Horror fans who love creature horror, tense survival situations, and nonstop suspense absolutely need to pick this one up.
Such an exciting and unforgettable horror read!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5/5
Oh boy do I feel unsettled after finishing this. It's making me think I really don't read enough horror because when it's good, it's good! What I really appreciated and had fun with when reading this was how entwined the horror was between both physical and psychological. Each character in the story had their secrets, their grief and guilt and emotional wounds. As that all unraveled as the story progressed was enticing. I just wanted to know more about everyone. The dynamics were interesting too. There's a good mix between trust and distrust between the group as they are all barricaded together against the monster. The terror and the gruesome deaths were well written, too. And as for the monster, it was delightfully spooky. Ever since the start with the deer, the atmosphere was eerie and you could just feel the goosebump feeling. The pacing was quite good, too, it wasn't too fast or too slow, and the slower moments were full of characterization. The theme of guilty hearts was so captivating. And of course the central dynamic, the relationship between the brother and sister. Bonus points for the wonderful dog! I did find the emotional resolution between the siblings and the ending itself slightly underwhelming which is why I didn't give it a full five out of five, but it was still super thrilling.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read the book in exchange for a review!
Oh boy do I feel unsettled after finishing this. It's making me think I really don't read enough horror because when it's good, it's good! What I really appreciated and had fun with when reading this was how entwined the horror was between both physical and psychological. Each character in the story had their secrets, their grief and guilt and emotional wounds. As that all unraveled as the story progressed was enticing. I just wanted to know more about everyone. The dynamics were interesting too. There's a good mix between trust and distrust between the group as they are all barricaded together against the monster. The terror and the gruesome deaths were well written, too. And as for the monster, it was delightfully spooky. Ever since the start with the deer, the atmosphere was eerie and you could just feel the goosebump feeling. The pacing was quite good, too, it wasn't too fast or too slow, and the slower moments were full of characterization. The theme of guilty hearts was so captivating. And of course the central dynamic, the relationship between the brother and sister. Bonus points for the wonderful dog! I did find the emotional resolution between the siblings and the ending itself slightly underwhelming which is why I didn't give it a full five out of five, but it was still super thrilling.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read the book in exchange for a review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First and foremost, I want to say this is a wonderful debut. The world was fleshed out, each of the characters had their own motivations, and the stakes always felt real. It takes legitimate talent to write a novel that takes place almost entirely in one location without making the story feel cramped. The writing is accessible and fast-paced so you’ll never be bored.
I only have two real critiques, one being that I feel the manuscript could've used another pass to fix some awkward language. There were a few instances of repetitive words (e.g., using “cast” in two different forms in back-to-back sentences) or just generally odd phrasing (e.g., “Jane’s ears flinch”) that took me out of the story. These may have stuck out more because Katherine has an otherwise solid command of language.
The other critique was there are places where the readers have to accept absurd things. Oddly, this is never regarding the actual horror aspect.
Neither of these issues are dealbreakers, and I’ll absolutely be recommending When the Night Comes Knocking to others once it’s available for purchase. I look forward to Katherine’s future works.
I only have two real critiques, one being that I feel the manuscript could've used another pass to fix some awkward language. There were a few instances of repetitive words (e.g., using “cast” in two different forms in back-to-back sentences) or just generally odd phrasing (e.g., “Jane’s ears flinch”) that took me out of the story. These may have stuck out more because Katherine has an otherwise solid command of language.
The other critique was there are places where the readers have to accept absurd things. Oddly, this is never regarding the actual horror aspect.
Neither of these issues are dealbreakers, and I’ll absolutely be recommending When the Night Comes Knocking to others once it’s available for purchase. I look forward to Katherine’s future works.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 stars rounded up
When the Night Comes Knocking follows two siblings heading to visiting family for the holidays as their road trip takes an unexpected and horrifying turn. The siblings, Jane and Thomas, are not currently on the best of terms, with both of them harboring secrets that are deadlier than the other could imagine.
This book was AMAZING. As an avid horror fan and reader, there have been very few books to ever scare me to a point where I need to look at something funny before going to sleep. This is one of those few. The first few nights of reading this before bed had me turning on something light and funny to fall asleep to, which hasn't happened in years. The author has an amazing ability to capture the eerie feeling of being watched and hunted. They're also able to tell this story without graphic gore. There's an intense feeling of dread throughout every page that builds and builds til the very end.
The story keeps you on the edge of your seat, eager to know what's coming around the next corner. If you're a fan of folk horror, this is the book for you. I'd highly recommend this one for fans of The Mist, the YouTuber Wendigoon, people on AppalachiaTok, and people like me who fear going to new grocery stores outside of their hometown.
I look forward to buying a physical copy of this one and recommending it to everyone I know! Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When the Night Comes Knocking follows two siblings heading to visiting family for the holidays as their road trip takes an unexpected and horrifying turn. The siblings, Jane and Thomas, are not currently on the best of terms, with both of them harboring secrets that are deadlier than the other could imagine.
This book was AMAZING. As an avid horror fan and reader, there have been very few books to ever scare me to a point where I need to look at something funny before going to sleep. This is one of those few. The first few nights of reading this before bed had me turning on something light and funny to fall asleep to, which hasn't happened in years. The author has an amazing ability to capture the eerie feeling of being watched and hunted. They're also able to tell this story without graphic gore. There's an intense feeling of dread throughout every page that builds and builds til the very end.
The story keeps you on the edge of your seat, eager to know what's coming around the next corner. If you're a fan of folk horror, this is the book for you. I'd highly recommend this one for fans of The Mist, the YouTuber Wendigoon, people on AppalachiaTok, and people like me who fear going to new grocery stores outside of their hometown.
I look forward to buying a physical copy of this one and recommending it to everyone I know! Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2026
Jane's biggest problem right now is surviving a road trip up into the Appalachian Mountains with her brother who hates her guts. It doesn’t make it any better that their destination is what is sure to be another dysfunctional family get together for Thanksgiving. Her last moment of peace before a guaranteed crappy weekend is a quick stop at a convenience store before they get to the cabin, but she quickly realizes that something is hunting her? Them? Everyone? And now has to fight to survive the night.
THIS BOOK HAD ME SATTTTT! I have been dying for a goooood and creepy horror book and Katherine Daniel does more than just deliver. This book is set on an obscure mountain in a small town and the Appalachian Mountain lore abounds (IYKYK). I’m not sure how many Appalachian Mountain story rabbit holes I’ve gone down, but I never leave them without being covered in goosebumps. SAME VIBES. Katherine does an excellent job with immersing the reader in the story. It literally felt like I was watching a horror movie because I could see everything so vividly. It felt like something you would hear around a campfire that would have you sleeping with a nightlight for the next month. It was perfect, truly no notes.
Thank you, Katherine Daniel and Berkley Publishing Group for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
THIS BOOK HAD ME SATTTTT! I have been dying for a goooood and creepy horror book and Katherine Daniel does more than just deliver. This book is set on an obscure mountain in a small town and the Appalachian Mountain lore abounds (IYKYK). I’m not sure how many Appalachian Mountain story rabbit holes I’ve gone down, but I never leave them without being covered in goosebumps. SAME VIBES. Katherine does an excellent job with immersing the reader in the story. It literally felt like I was watching a horror movie because I could see everything so vividly. It felt like something you would hear around a campfire that would have you sleeping with a nightlight for the next month. It was perfect, truly no notes.
Thank you, Katherine Daniel and Berkley Publishing Group for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
May 7, 2026
I’m for sure closing my blinds and double checking the doors and maybe watching some cute cat videos to distract myself after reading this book.
Right from the start, the sibling tension between Jane and Thomas already puts you a little on edge. Their strained relation certainly could use some sort of heartfelt discussion or better yet some terrifying creature that’ll hunt them at night!
Yes it’s action packed and gory and terrifies me a little (Appalachian folklore is scary outright) and they’re practically in a fishbowl at night, but I found myself really thinking. Every character is unique in their guilt and grief that has been bottled up way too long; it shouldn’t take a monster to own up to it and face the repercussions yet even in reality we do not confess our regrets until faced with death. I found some of the characters outright selfish in that regard, particularly one I won’t name, but perhaps it makes the character mirror reality.
Overall, this was a one sitting read since I couldn’t put it down as if some spell were cast and very enjoyable despite my apprehension in turning the lights off at night. Not to mention there is a very loyal and cute dog throughout!
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC!
Right from the start, the sibling tension between Jane and Thomas already puts you a little on edge. Their strained relation certainly could use some sort of heartfelt discussion or better yet some terrifying creature that’ll hunt them at night!
Yes it’s action packed and gory and terrifies me a little (Appalachian folklore is scary outright) and they’re practically in a fishbowl at night, but I found myself really thinking. Every character is unique in their guilt and grief that has been bottled up way too long; it shouldn’t take a monster to own up to it and face the repercussions yet even in reality we do not confess our regrets until faced with death. I found some of the characters outright selfish in that regard, particularly one I won’t name, but perhaps it makes the character mirror reality.
Overall, this was a one sitting read since I couldn’t put it down as if some spell were cast and very enjoyable despite my apprehension in turning the lights off at night. Not to mention there is a very loyal and cute dog throughout!
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
* Thank you NetGalley & Berkley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review *
When the Night Comes Knocking is a thrilling Appalachian horror novel that finds a group of strangers locked in a gas station on Thanksgiving eve, with a monster prowling just beyond the doors. A monster that knows who you truly are, a monster that feasts on guilty hearts. And everyone's heart here is guilty.
Alright, this one got me. I love a good locked-door thriller, I love a ragtag group of strangers having to band together to fight off some unknown creature, and I love gas stations.
While I had a really fun time with this one, it IS horror, and can be quite heavy at times. I have included a list of trigger warnings hidden in the spoiler tag below for those who want to be prepared going in. And I'll say this: don't worry, the dog survives.
I am impartial to several themes of this book, but despite that, I still think it was a great read. I definitely recommend this story to any horror fans.
Trigger warnings:
When the Night Comes Knocking is a thrilling Appalachian horror novel that finds a group of strangers locked in a gas station on Thanksgiving eve, with a monster prowling just beyond the doors. A monster that knows who you truly are, a monster that feasts on guilty hearts. And everyone's heart here is guilty.
Alright, this one got me. I love a good locked-door thriller, I love a ragtag group of strangers having to band together to fight off some unknown creature, and I love gas stations.
While I had a really fun time with this one, it IS horror, and can be quite heavy at times. I have included a list of trigger warnings hidden in the spoiler tag below for those who want to be prepared going in. And I'll say this: don't worry, the dog survives.
I am impartial to several themes of this book, but despite that, I still think it was a great read. I definitely recommend this story to any horror fans.
Trigger warnings:
May 5, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkeley Publishing Group for the E-ARC!!
“When the Night Comes Knocking” by Katherine Daniel was an amazing, fast paced read. It’s like Stephen Kings’s “The Mist” and Appalachian folk lore had a baby.
Rivaling siblings Jane and Thomas set out to meet their family for Thanksgiving deep in the Northern Georgia mountains. But when they stop at a small country grocery store, they get trapped inside with a small group of people by an Appalachian monster, the Mimic. It wants the heart of the guilty. But when everyone’s got guilt in their hearts, no one knows who it’s truly after. And no one knows who, or what, to trust.
I loved this book! It was a fun, fast paced read that kept me wanting to stay up all hours of the night devouring every word. I loved the main plot twist, but it kind of came out of nowhere, and the ending felt a bit rushed and anticlimactic. For these reasons, my rating of “When the Night Comes Knocking” is 4 stars.
This Appalachian horror story is coming out just in time(October ‘26) to be this year’s great spooky season read. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves Appalachian folklore!
“When the Night Comes Knocking” by Katherine Daniel was an amazing, fast paced read. It’s like Stephen Kings’s “The Mist” and Appalachian folk lore had a baby.
Rivaling siblings Jane and Thomas set out to meet their family for Thanksgiving deep in the Northern Georgia mountains. But when they stop at a small country grocery store, they get trapped inside with a small group of people by an Appalachian monster, the Mimic. It wants the heart of the guilty. But when everyone’s got guilt in their hearts, no one knows who it’s truly after. And no one knows who, or what, to trust.
I loved this book! It was a fun, fast paced read that kept me wanting to stay up all hours of the night devouring every word. I loved the main plot twist, but it kind of came out of nowhere, and the ending felt a bit rushed and anticlimactic. For these reasons, my rating of “When the Night Comes Knocking” is 4 stars.
This Appalachian horror story is coming out just in time(October ‘26) to be this year’s great spooky season read. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves Appalachian folklore!
May 17, 2026
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest opinion.
I love an Appalachia based horror story, and this is such a fun one. When the Night Comes Knocking took me pleasantly by surprise. Because what I was sure was going to be some take on big foot turned out to be something so much more unique, satisfying, and unsettling.
A pair of siblings, who have been fairly estranged as of recent, are headed to their family thanksgiving at a remote rental cabin in the Appalachian mountains. Along the way they stop at the last option for groceries to grab some last minute ingredients.
That stop turns out to be a biiiiigggg mistake. Because a strange and terrifying monster begins to pick off the small group of shoppers one by one.
Each of them have something in common: they’ve done something they regret. And that monster? It happens to be searching for the one with the guiltiest heart.
It kept me on the edge of my seat, and at one point I even thought that the dog might be the villain 🤣.
This would be such a fun A24 campy horror!
April 29, 2026
I received an advanced copy of this book at no charge, this is my honest review.
This is a book that feels like horror movies used to feel, it brings all the gore and all the suspense, but also brings all the feelings. There’s strained siblings, who have gone through something horrific, townies with so much history, a couple who is happily expecting and a guy who could not be as good as he seems right? Oh and a very very good girl 🐶.
What really stood out to me was how much we as humans are willing to fight to survive. How much we are able to overcome in order to live. Everyone in this book fought hard to stay alive, trying to survive a monster that wanted nothing more than bloodshed, while simultaneously fighting to not become monsters themselves. Because in the end, don’t we all have guilty hearts?
If the night comes knocking, don’t open the door. Don’t confess your guilt and definitely don’t let it take your heart.
This is a book that feels like horror movies used to feel, it brings all the gore and all the suspense, but also brings all the feelings. There’s strained siblings, who have gone through something horrific, townies with so much history, a couple who is happily expecting and a guy who could not be as good as he seems right? Oh and a very very good girl 🐶.
What really stood out to me was how much we as humans are willing to fight to survive. How much we are able to overcome in order to live. Everyone in this book fought hard to stay alive, trying to survive a monster that wanted nothing more than bloodshed, while simultaneously fighting to not become monsters themselves. Because in the end, don’t we all have guilty hearts?
If the night comes knocking, don’t open the door. Don’t confess your guilt and definitely don’t let it take your heart.
May 8, 2026
Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group and Net Galley for a copy of this Arc
3.5 rounded up for good reads
When the Knight Comes Knocking is fast passed horror perfect for fans of horror with a cast of characters isolated and trapped.
There is a monster in the woods and it’s coming for one of our cast. Who? Whoever deserves it the most. Everybody’s got a secret and one of them might cost everyone their life.
While I enjoyed this book quite a bit i think our cast was just a little too large, trimming it down by one or two would have helped is feel more like anyone could be the protagonist and I think that really could have worked her.
I also wish that Jane and Thomas really would have talked more as the story came to its conclusion but perhaps that me wanting things a bit too neat and tidy.
This book is perfect for fans of the movie splinter, How to survive a horror story by Mallory Arnold and how to sell a haunted house by Grady Hendrix
3.5 rounded up for good reads
When the Knight Comes Knocking is fast passed horror perfect for fans of horror with a cast of characters isolated and trapped.
There is a monster in the woods and it’s coming for one of our cast. Who? Whoever deserves it the most. Everybody’s got a secret and one of them might cost everyone their life.
While I enjoyed this book quite a bit i think our cast was just a little too large, trimming it down by one or two would have helped is feel more like anyone could be the protagonist and I think that really could have worked her.
I also wish that Jane and Thomas really would have talked more as the story came to its conclusion but perhaps that me wanting things a bit too neat and tidy.
This book is perfect for fans of the movie splinter, How to survive a horror story by Mallory Arnold and how to sell a haunted house by Grady Hendrix
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a fast-paced, entertaining horror read!
As pacey as it was, I appreciate that the story also took the time to build up the pressure-filled atmosphere while keeping the stakes high. It was so intriguing to see why the Appalachian monster had an interest in the unique, ragtag group of characters present in the story.
It was an easy read, and the writing was really immersive which I loved. I was really engaged while reading, and it had me on the edge of my seat a lot of the time. There were some aspects that were a bit predictable at the beginning, but I still enjoyed the reading experience. It was gory, scary, and heavy at times, which I found to be well done.
I would recommend this locked-room horror novel to those looking for a scary, fun read!
Thank you so much to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for allowing me to read the eARC!
April 25, 2026
An absolutely phenomenal debut—quietly terrifying with just the right amount of gore—but it doesn’t feel “gory” because it’s so beautifully written, if that makes sense?
I love the cover, the lyrical prose, the characters. Each feels real and flawed enough to enjoy this ride with them, even though some of the dialogue is awkward (Thomas, honestly: how can you even be doubting any part of Kimi’s folktale after what you’ve seen??), and the backstories give you just the right amount of info without feeling like they pull you out of the main story. The author also really puts you right into the setting.
My favorite part is how she formats each chapter—how the subheadings connect to the overall narrative and the epilogue is simply poetic.
Thanks so much to Berkley for making this book available to read and review through NetGalley and I look forward to more from this author.
I love the cover, the lyrical prose, the characters. Each feels real and flawed enough to enjoy this ride with them, even though some of the dialogue is awkward (Thomas, honestly: how can you even be doubting any part of Kimi’s folktale after what you’ve seen??), and the backstories give you just the right amount of info without feeling like they pull you out of the main story. The author also really puts you right into the setting.
My favorite part is how she formats each chapter—how the subheadings connect to the overall narrative and the epilogue is simply poetic.
Thanks so much to Berkley for making this book available to read and review through NetGalley and I look forward to more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a good, creepy horror mystery! It all takes place in a short time frame, deep character development on everyone inside of the gas station, there is a monster outside going after those with guilty hearts and mimicing those they have devoured. Everyone has a secret-- you aren't going to guess most of them-- and this is a big time PAGE TURNER. It feels like an old Twilight Zone episode in that this is not just a monster novel, there is also an underlying theme and great characters, even though they are one dimensional at times they are amazing cariactures. Jump scares! Gore! It felt like a horror movie. Loved the setting, the pacing, and the overall creepiness. Horror fans, don't miss this one!
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC. Book to be published October 20, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC. Book to be published October 20, 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was quite a good and straight forward creature feature. If you like folklore style books based in Appalachia then this is the one for you. It doesn’t take long to get into the thick of the plot and it continues the pace throughout the entire book. There is quite an ensemble of characters and we get most of their backstories and that moves the plot forward in the second half of the book. The synopsis tells the reader a lot about the book so if you’re interested in the general premise then I suggest not reading the whole synopsis and just dive in. I didn’t realize this was a debut when I read it and I look forward to what this author has in store in the future. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you, NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for allowing me to read this book early. The opinion in this review is my own.
Thank you, NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for allowing me to read this book early. The opinion in this review is my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I had to read this debut Horror book and I was pleasantly surprised!
Get your copy on release date 10/20/2026 which is perfect for Spooky Season!
This book was the perfect blend of creepy, eerie, and unsettling. An unforgettable tale of Appalachian horror that will stick with me for a long time.
That roadside gas station stop during the road trip had me immediately saying NOPE while my heart was pounding. The creepy creature lurking throughout the story was terrifying, and as someone already afraid of the woods, this book had me completely on edge. The isolated atmosphere, fear-filled tension, and spooky vibes made this such a fast-paced and addictive read.
Perfect for readers wanting a creepy, claustrophobic horror story that keeps you turning the pages.
Thank you Berkley, and Netgalley for the ARC.
Get your copy on release date 10/20/2026 which is perfect for Spooky Season!
This book was the perfect blend of creepy, eerie, and unsettling. An unforgettable tale of Appalachian horror that will stick with me for a long time.
That roadside gas station stop during the road trip had me immediately saying NOPE while my heart was pounding. The creepy creature lurking throughout the story was terrifying, and as someone already afraid of the woods, this book had me completely on edge. The isolated atmosphere, fear-filled tension, and spooky vibes made this such a fast-paced and addictive read.
Perfect for readers wanting a creepy, claustrophobic horror story that keeps you turning the pages.
Thank you Berkley, and Netgalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to netgalley for the arc! When the Night Comes Knocking absolutely nailed the kind of eerie, compulsive atmosphere I love in a folk horror. The setting, tension, and creeping sense that something is deeply wrong kept me hooked from the very beginning. This book does such a great job balancing suspense with emotional depth, and I found myself flying through this because I needed to know what was happening next.
The imagery throughout was vivid and cinematic, and the dread builds so naturally that even quieter moments felt heavy with tension. I especially loved how the story played with fear, trust, and the danger of letting the wrong person in. It had that perfect “just one more chapter” energy.
A tense, creepy, highly addictive read that thriller/horror fans are going to devour. Definitely one of my favorite reads lately!
The imagery throughout was vivid and cinematic, and the dread builds so naturally that even quieter moments felt heavy with tension. I especially loved how the story played with fear, trust, and the danger of letting the wrong person in. It had that perfect “just one more chapter” energy.
A tense, creepy, highly addictive read that thriller/horror fans are going to devour. Definitely one of my favorite reads lately!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I had the honor of receiving an ARC from netgalley.
This book was a perfect amount of creepy, eerie and perfectly paced! The mysterious sibling relationship between Jane and Thomas had me thinking " what the heck happened between them?", for the majority of the book. This mystery added an extra layer to the story that I didn't know I needed! The characteristics that the creature could mimic and imitate the victims added another layer of eeriness. The fear-based tension between the characters made them being stuck in the same location together, made me want to keep turning the page more!! The description of the monster made it very simple for me to visualize. The ending of this book was exactly what I could have asked for!
This book was a perfect amount of creepy, eerie and perfectly paced! The mysterious sibling relationship between Jane and Thomas had me thinking " what the heck happened between them?", for the majority of the book. This mystery added an extra layer to the story that I didn't know I needed! The characteristics that the creature could mimic and imitate the victims added another layer of eeriness. The fear-based tension between the characters made them being stuck in the same location together, made me want to keep turning the page more!! The description of the monster made it very simple for me to visualize. The ending of this book was exactly what I could have asked for!
May 18, 2026
When the Night Comes Knocking: Katherine Daniel
Pub date: 10/20
Thank you so much to @berkleypub for this gifted ARC on @netgalley !
The way I DEVOURED this book and abandoned my tbr with no regrets. When the Night Comes Knocking by Katherine Daniel holds nothing back and the way it’s written is so addicting!
Set in the Appalachian Mountains, we find ourselves trapped in a convenience store with two estranged siblings while there is a monster trying to get in. Give me all the Appalachian horror, cryptid/creepy monster horror. I feel like this book would make an amazing movie, it was action packed and gory, perfect for the big screen!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had so much fun reading this and had to force myself to go to sleep last night because I couldn’t stop!
Pub date: 10/20
Thank you so much to @berkleypub for this gifted ARC on @netgalley !
The way I DEVOURED this book and abandoned my tbr with no regrets. When the Night Comes Knocking by Katherine Daniel holds nothing back and the way it’s written is so addicting!
Set in the Appalachian Mountains, we find ourselves trapped in a convenience store with two estranged siblings while there is a monster trying to get in. Give me all the Appalachian horror, cryptid/creepy monster horror. I feel like this book would make an amazing movie, it was action packed and gory, perfect for the big screen!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had so much fun reading this and had to force myself to go to sleep last night because I couldn’t stop!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This horror hits the ground running and maintains a fast pace all the way through to the end.
With a monster on the loose who feeds off guilty hearts, the tension starts early and continues to build as victims are claimed one by one. The monster itself and the mutilation it was capable of legitimately gave me the heebie-jeebies during my late night reads. While two main characters, siblings Jane and Thomas, are the focus of the story, I really enjoyed the use of third person narration to merge storylines and flashbacks of other characters throughout.
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the ARC.
With a monster on the loose who feeds off guilty hearts, the tension starts early and continues to build as victims are claimed one by one. The monster itself and the mutilation it was capable of legitimately gave me the heebie-jeebies during my late night reads. While two main characters, siblings Jane and Thomas, are the focus of the story, I really enjoyed the use of third person narration to merge storylines and flashbacks of other characters throughout.
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a fast-paced horror novel that reads like a movie. It hits the ground running when two siblings find themselves trapped in a convenience store with a group of strangers, deep in the mountains and far from anywhere. The problem is, something lurking in the woods wants in.
While this isn’t the first time I’ve encountered this type of monster, I really enjoyed the gradual unraveling of the characters’ pasts. It added depth and kept me invested beyond the immediate danger.
Overall, I’d give it 3.5 stars, rounded up; a strong debut from this author.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
While this isn’t the first time I’ve encountered this type of monster, I really enjoyed the gradual unraveling of the characters’ pasts. It added depth and kept me invested beyond the immediate danger.
Overall, I’d give it 3.5 stars, rounded up; a strong debut from this author.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
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