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The False Child
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
April 20, 2026
Holy cow this book hits hard
This book has both Kid’s POV and Adult POV. Normally when that happing, I Healy favor the kids. But this time it was different.
That’s not to say that kids POV wasn’t interested. It was great incredibly well written. It’s just the adult side of the store was just that amazing!
Good thing to because you spend much more time with the adult thing you do with the kids. Now this book features heavy on what I would call parent of fear. It doesn’t mean you have to be here to appreciate it, but it definitely shows that the author is a parent.
This book takes the classic possession story and does a very unique and fresh way. It’s creepy, suspenseful and you really feel for the characters!
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book. Start to finish in one day, but this book was impossible to put down! I loved every second I spoke with the characters, and I only wish the book was longer!
This book has both Kid’s POV and Adult POV. Normally when that happing, I Healy favor the kids. But this time it was different.
That’s not to say that kids POV wasn’t interested. It was great incredibly well written. It’s just the adult side of the store was just that amazing!
Good thing to because you spend much more time with the adult thing you do with the kids. Now this book features heavy on what I would call parent of fear. It doesn’t mean you have to be here to appreciate it, but it definitely shows that the author is a parent.
This book takes the classic possession story and does a very unique and fresh way. It’s creepy, suspenseful and you really feel for the characters!
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book. Start to finish in one day, but this book was impossible to put down! I loved every second I spoke with the characters, and I only wish the book was longer!
April 30, 2026
When you say “haunted abandoned orphanage”… I’m already sold.
I just finished an ARC of The False Child by L.M. Kaplin, and this one seriously delivered on the creepy and emotional vibes.
Small town? Check.
Dark history? Check.
Unsettling folklore? Check.
And the horror entity is not your typical one. I’ll let you find that one out on your own because discovering it really makes the story.
The author did a great job of describing the atmospheres, which significantly elevated the overall feel of the story.
What really stood out though was the characters. Every single one felt real and relatable. Yeah, even the ones you don’t expect.
If you’re into eerie, atmospheric horror and dark folklore, then I definitely recommend this one.
I just finished an ARC of The False Child by L.M. Kaplin, and this one seriously delivered on the creepy and emotional vibes.
Small town? Check.
Dark history? Check.
Unsettling folklore? Check.
And the horror entity is not your typical one. I’ll let you find that one out on your own because discovering it really makes the story.
The author did a great job of describing the atmospheres, which significantly elevated the overall feel of the story.
What really stood out though was the characters. Every single one felt real and relatable. Yeah, even the ones you don’t expect.
If you’re into eerie, atmospheric horror and dark folklore, then I definitely recommend this one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
An abandoned orphanage at the edge of town.
A series of reports of missing children going back years.
A smell of decay in the air.
When Ethan finds himself drawn into the abandoned orphanage at the edge of the town to retrieve a lost ball, he finds something else instead. Something not entirely human.
The False Child is a folk horror that takes you deep into the legend of the changeling. With morally grey characters (including the creature, whose POV forms a large part of the story), the story takes the reader in unexpected ways, down dark paths that cut through the forest.
With some genuinely creepy moments, this story is visually stunning, with incredible attention to detail, and gorgeous world building.
Some aspects of the plot are deeply uncomfortable, and some are in a strange way, quite nostalgic. The darkness and the coming-of-age wholesomeness blend really well. I would have really liked to have seen some of the characters more developed, with backstory to increase their reader-relationships, but for the most part the pacing a one tension are expertly developed with the backstory we get.
The ending? Well that caught me off-guard, and left me with a sinking feeling, which is something that I actually like in my horror books: leave me with the unexpected!
If you like myths and legend, fantasy, folk horror, and quiet horror which develops into something viscerally uncomfortable, you’ll be in great company with The False Child.
A series of reports of missing children going back years.
A smell of decay in the air.
When Ethan finds himself drawn into the abandoned orphanage at the edge of the town to retrieve a lost ball, he finds something else instead. Something not entirely human.
The False Child is a folk horror that takes you deep into the legend of the changeling. With morally grey characters (including the creature, whose POV forms a large part of the story), the story takes the reader in unexpected ways, down dark paths that cut through the forest.
With some genuinely creepy moments, this story is visually stunning, with incredible attention to detail, and gorgeous world building.
Some aspects of the plot are deeply uncomfortable, and some are in a strange way, quite nostalgic. The darkness and the coming-of-age wholesomeness blend really well. I would have really liked to have seen some of the characters more developed, with backstory to increase their reader-relationships, but for the most part the pacing a one tension are expertly developed with the backstory we get.
The ending? Well that caught me off-guard, and left me with a sinking feeling, which is something that I actually like in my horror books: leave me with the unexpected!
If you like myths and legend, fantasy, folk horror, and quiet horror which develops into something viscerally uncomfortable, you’ll be in great company with The False Child.
May 7, 2026
*Given an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This book delves deep into the folklore of changelings, set in the small town of Fairfield. This is the first story that I’ve read based on these humanoid creatures and they’re certainly creepy but intriguing. The concept of a supernatural being wearing the skin of a loved one and stealing their memories is highly unsettling.
I enjoyed following the beginning of the child disappearances through local news articles, which gave clear insight into the town history. There are quite a few characters to follow but they are all distinctive with their own stories. I liked the close sibling bond that Ethan and Julie shared and following their developing friendships with the other children. The opposite displays of grief spilling out of Gene and Eliza were really gripping.
The fate that befalls Fairfield is devastating yet satisfying. This book is well written, has a good pace and makes you feel sympathetic towards the characters.
This book delves deep into the folklore of changelings, set in the small town of Fairfield. This is the first story that I’ve read based on these humanoid creatures and they’re certainly creepy but intriguing. The concept of a supernatural being wearing the skin of a loved one and stealing their memories is highly unsettling.
I enjoyed following the beginning of the child disappearances through local news articles, which gave clear insight into the town history. There are quite a few characters to follow but they are all distinctive with their own stories. I liked the close sibling bond that Ethan and Julie shared and following their developing friendships with the other children. The opposite displays of grief spilling out of Gene and Eliza were really gripping.
The fate that befalls Fairfield is devastating yet satisfying. This book is well written, has a good pace and makes you feel sympathetic towards the characters.
April 11, 2026
Thank you to LM Kaplin for the ARC!
The False Child is a fast-paced, folklore-inspired horror story about a small town, a haunted orphanage, and a changeling who steals a boy’s life, setting off a chain of disappearances.
I loved the eerie folklore elements and the smooth transitions between multiple POVs. The epistolary sections added great atmosphere and backstory. It’s very plot-driven and moves quickly, though I did wish for a bit more character development. The changeling’s morally gray perspective was a standout.
Overall, a fun and creepy read. If you enjoy fast-paced horror with folklore elements, this is one to check out when it releases May 7.
The False Child is a fast-paced, folklore-inspired horror story about a small town, a haunted orphanage, and a changeling who steals a boy’s life, setting off a chain of disappearances.
I loved the eerie folklore elements and the smooth transitions between multiple POVs. The epistolary sections added great atmosphere and backstory. It’s very plot-driven and moves quickly, though I did wish for a bit more character development. The changeling’s morally gray perspective was a standout.
Overall, a fun and creepy read. If you enjoy fast-paced horror with folklore elements, this is one to check out when it releases May 7.
April 12, 2026
Review of NetGalley ARC book
I’d like to thank NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book. It was a fantastic read. You can’t go wrong with coming of age horror, or horror involving creepy abandoned places. The characters were likable, and portrayed as actual teenagers.
I’d like to thank NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book. It was a fantastic read. You can’t go wrong with coming of age horror, or horror involving creepy abandoned places. The characters were likable, and portrayed as actual teenagers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My latest read was an ARC of The False Child, by LM Kaplin, a coming-of-age horror, set for release on May 7, 2026. It’s a story about a town situated in the shadows of an orphanage, Fairfield Children’s Home, that was closed down due to nefarious activities. While the orphanage itself is no longer the problem, the lingering “inhabitants” that just won’t leave the town’s children alone, is. Enter thirteen-year-old Ethan, his sister, Julie, along with friends and classmates, Maggie, Noah, and Connor. Several more characters round out the town and make the story a bit more interesting. Children go missing over time, accusations are thrown in the wrong direction, and you wonder if the town’s residents will ever uncover the truth – or will they even want to.
Some thoughts:
Chapter 9, holy heck! That’s all I’m gonna say about that. When you read it for yourself, you’ll know.
I’ve got mixed emotions about Finley, an underlying hatred, but also a sense of understanding. You’ll see what I mean.
And children, there’s a lesson to be learned among these pages, so pay attention. LISTEN TO ADULTS!!! Oh, and don’t try impress other kids with acts of bravery. Either they like you for who you are, or they don’t. Live with it, key word being “live”.
Things I liked about this book:
The author has a way of drawing me into a story with his detailed descriptions of characters, events, and scenes. This makes my reading experience that much better because I don’t have to tap into my overactive imagination to fill in any blanks. Also, creeping me out and scaring the crap out of me with his stories is an added bonus.
Things I didn’t like about this book:
My sense of fear is altered to include creepy homes that look like orphanages, earthy scents (what will become of my love of Patchouli?!?), tangles of roots and vines, forests (which are hard to avoid since there’s one behind my home), and children…or things that seem to be children.
For these reasons, and to avoid the threat of surrounding my home with vines and roots by the author himself, I give this book a 9 out of 10, rounded to a 5 out of 5. Get the book, now!
Some thoughts:
Chapter 9, holy heck! That’s all I’m gonna say about that. When you read it for yourself, you’ll know.
I’ve got mixed emotions about Finley, an underlying hatred, but also a sense of understanding. You’ll see what I mean.
And children, there’s a lesson to be learned among these pages, so pay attention. LISTEN TO ADULTS!!! Oh, and don’t try impress other kids with acts of bravery. Either they like you for who you are, or they don’t. Live with it, key word being “live”.
Things I liked about this book:
The author has a way of drawing me into a story with his detailed descriptions of characters, events, and scenes. This makes my reading experience that much better because I don’t have to tap into my overactive imagination to fill in any blanks. Also, creeping me out and scaring the crap out of me with his stories is an added bonus.
Things I didn’t like about this book:
My sense of fear is altered to include creepy homes that look like orphanages, earthy scents (what will become of my love of Patchouli?!?), tangles of roots and vines, forests (which are hard to avoid since there’s one behind my home), and children…or things that seem to be children.
For these reasons, and to avoid the threat of surrounding my home with vines and roots by the author himself, I give this book a 9 out of 10, rounded to a 5 out of 5. Get the book, now!
May 7, 2026
For a long while, I thought this would turn out to be a YA coming-of-age book, the focus being so much on kids, sports, bullying, young friendships, and teenage crushes. Boy, was I wrong! After the first third, the story has so many deeply uncomfortable moments - mostly sexually embarrassing ones, all of which are integral to the plot, mind - that there's just no way this is anything but a book meant for adults.
The tale soon transforms from coming-of-age horror to horrifying dark fantasy: the themes of fae and changelings suddenly crop up and are marvelously well done, to the point that it's easy to forget that what's actually happening all along is happening to children! Kaplin includes quite a few surprises even for experienced readers of the relevant folklore, unapologetically violating some well-established rules of the genre in order to show what it means to take changelings seriously.
The result is a creepy, cringey, and troubling feat of storytelling, touching on several YA small town horror tropes: there's the witch lady of the town, suspected of killing the missing children; the haunted orphanage, where awful things were revealed to have happened in the past; the clueless sheriff and his teenage son who's a well-known bully; the grieving father who's lost his daughters and dreams of getting his revenge; and, of course, there's a 13-year-old boy who's deeply misunderstood and has a crush on the girl he grew up with (no, not his sister! Though, in fact... well, better not go there lol - IYKYK!). But all of these familiar elements soon drop out in favor of an incredible turn of events noone could see coming!
The book is an easy recommendation from me, as it kept my interest throughout. Moreover, it ended on a thought-provoking note, encouraging readers to ponder the outcome and judge for themselves if this was indeed the right way to bring the story to a close. I myself felt divided on the issue. That said, it made perfect sense of the book's title!
The tale soon transforms from coming-of-age horror to horrifying dark fantasy: the themes of fae and changelings suddenly crop up and are marvelously well done, to the point that it's easy to forget that what's actually happening all along is happening to children! Kaplin includes quite a few surprises even for experienced readers of the relevant folklore, unapologetically violating some well-established rules of the genre in order to show what it means to take changelings seriously.
The result is a creepy, cringey, and troubling feat of storytelling, touching on several YA small town horror tropes: there's the witch lady of the town, suspected of killing the missing children; the haunted orphanage, where awful things were revealed to have happened in the past; the clueless sheriff and his teenage son who's a well-known bully; the grieving father who's lost his daughters and dreams of getting his revenge; and, of course, there's a 13-year-old boy who's deeply misunderstood and has a crush on the girl he grew up with (no, not his sister! Though, in fact... well, better not go there lol - IYKYK!). But all of these familiar elements soon drop out in favor of an incredible turn of events noone could see coming!
The book is an easy recommendation from me, as it kept my interest throughout. Moreover, it ended on a thought-provoking note, encouraging readers to ponder the outcome and judge for themselves if this was indeed the right way to bring the story to a close. I myself felt divided on the issue. That said, it made perfect sense of the book's title!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you've been looking for a sign to get back into reading, this is it. I just finished The False Child by LM Kaplin, and honestly, I’m still thinking about it.
One thing about me is I never eat while I'm reading. Usually, I’m too focused or I don't want to get my device messy. But the flow of this narrative was so smooth and addictive that I found myself mindlessly grabbing snacks with one hand while my eyes were glued to the screen with the other. If a book can make me break my "no food" rule, you know the pacing is top-tier.
The story is just great. Kaplin has this way of making you feel deeply for the characters, which makes the stakes feel so much higher. There’s a specific sequence involving an abandoned orphanage that absolutely wrecked me. It captures that raw, teenage desperation to fit in and impress a crush—that feeling of being thirteen and wanting to prove you're brave—only to have things go south in the most chilling way possible. It was haunting and genuinely heartbreaking to see such an innocent motivation lead into a total nightmare.
If you’ve been in a reading slump or you’re just starting to dip your toes into horror and supernatural thrillers, this is a perfect pick-me-up.
It’s the ultimate "staying in" book. You don’t need the TV; honestly, the imagery is so vivid that you’ll be playing the whole thing like a movie in your head anyway. My advice? Wait until nighttime, get cozy in bed with plenty of snacks and drinks, and just let yourself get sucked in. It’s way better than scrolling through Netflix for an hour.
The only downside? I am not satisfied with that ending. I finished the last page and immediately felt like I needed more. It felt like there was so much left to explore, which makes me strongly suspect (and hope!) that a sequel is in the works.
Definitely worth the read, but LM Kaplin, if you're reading this—I need book two ASAP!☺️
One thing about me is I never eat while I'm reading. Usually, I’m too focused or I don't want to get my device messy. But the flow of this narrative was so smooth and addictive that I found myself mindlessly grabbing snacks with one hand while my eyes were glued to the screen with the other. If a book can make me break my "no food" rule, you know the pacing is top-tier.
The story is just great. Kaplin has this way of making you feel deeply for the characters, which makes the stakes feel so much higher. There’s a specific sequence involving an abandoned orphanage that absolutely wrecked me. It captures that raw, teenage desperation to fit in and impress a crush—that feeling of being thirteen and wanting to prove you're brave—only to have things go south in the most chilling way possible. It was haunting and genuinely heartbreaking to see such an innocent motivation lead into a total nightmare.
If you’ve been in a reading slump or you’re just starting to dip your toes into horror and supernatural thrillers, this is a perfect pick-me-up.
It’s the ultimate "staying in" book. You don’t need the TV; honestly, the imagery is so vivid that you’ll be playing the whole thing like a movie in your head anyway. My advice? Wait until nighttime, get cozy in bed with plenty of snacks and drinks, and just let yourself get sucked in. It’s way better than scrolling through Netflix for an hour.
The only downside? I am not satisfied with that ending. I finished the last page and immediately felt like I needed more. It felt like there was so much left to explore, which makes me strongly suspect (and hope!) that a sequel is in the works.
Definitely worth the read, but LM Kaplin, if you're reading this—I need book two ASAP!☺️
Review of advance copy received from Author
My third read by LM Kaplin! Such a good human and someone I always see being kind and funny within the indie horror community. I enjoyed his other books so was looking forward to diving into this one. Kaplin nails that nostalgic Americana vibe that reminds me of my more carefree (aka totally feral) childhood. I enjoyed the story and the direction Kaplin ended up going with this one. I wasn’t sure which motif the book would encompass but it’s one I always can get down with. A solid mashup of coming of age with folk horror.
The book begins with 13yo Ethan. It’s the last day of school and dude is ready to go home and play video games. He has a 14yo sister, Julie, who pleads with him to accompany her to a pickup baseball game. Ethan, shockingly, manages to hit a home run straight into the super creepy, old abandoned children’s home on the hill and something within stirs. I actually have a 14yo daughter and 13yo son so putting on the Mrs. Danvers hat was super easy. Mine fight like crazy so while I couldn’t totally envision mine hanging out like the Danvers, I loved seeing the sibling bond, although I struggled a bit with their interactions in the last third of the book.
This one is very fast paced and accessible and there’s fungi and weird nature-y shit which is always fun. If that sounds like a jam then I’d always recommend Kaplin. His books have that small town horror vibe with fresh themes and amiable characters. I look forward to seeing more from Kaplin in the future.
The book begins with 13yo Ethan. It’s the last day of school and dude is ready to go home and play video games. He has a 14yo sister, Julie, who pleads with him to accompany her to a pickup baseball game. Ethan, shockingly, manages to hit a home run straight into the super creepy, old abandoned children’s home on the hill and something within stirs. I actually have a 14yo daughter and 13yo son so putting on the Mrs. Danvers hat was super easy. Mine fight like crazy so while I couldn’t totally envision mine hanging out like the Danvers, I loved seeing the sibling bond, although I struggled a bit with their interactions in the last third of the book.
This one is very fast paced and accessible and there’s fungi and weird nature-y shit which is always fun. If that sounds like a jam then I’d always recommend Kaplin. His books have that small town horror vibe with fresh themes and amiable characters. I look forward to seeing more from Kaplin in the future.
May 13, 2026
Despite what the premise might suggest, The False Child is not a YA book, so let’s get that out of the way first. The story is primarily told from a child’s point of view, yes, but that perspective only sharpens the impact of the events when things take a turn into very dark territory.
Ethan, a year seven student on a summer break has convinced his parents along with his sister, that they’re old enough to look after themselves instead of being shipped off to summer camp. Ethan has struggled to fit in at high school, something most of us can relate to at some point in our lives, and his childhood friendship (and one-sided crush) on Maggie has been complicated by her hanging out with a couple of bullies/jocks in Noah and Connor who often target Ethan. So, when he joins a baseball game and hits a home run that sends the ball flying through a window of the abandoned orphanage overlooking the school, he sees an opportunity to win back some social capital.
This orphanage is no ordinary derelict building. Its history is riddled with missing children, dodgy paperwork, to name a few things which had resulted in it closing. Rumours have swirled around the place ever since, only heightening further when kids have mysteriously disappeared over the years. Trust between townsfolk has gone out the window, with accusations being thrown around as to who and what is behind it all. So, the setting in which Ethan finds himself isn’t exactly a cheery one.
Even so, he’s determined to get the ball and hopefully gain some merit in the eyes of the bullies and maybe regain Maggie’s attention. It seems like the perfect plan… until something happens in the orphanage that changes him forever.
Kaplin weaves together the familiar turbulence of adolescence (love interests, friendship drama, bullying) with a folklore-infused horror narrative that is sometimes uncomfortable but rich in storytelling. There were moments that genuinely blindsided me, and the story is stronger for its willingness to go there. His prose is descriptive and immersive, and he does a great job with the visualizations of the areas the story takes the reader to. It’s a dark, atmospheric read that horrifies and entertains in equal measure, and one I highly recommend.
I give it 4.7 angsty high-school students out of 5.
Ethan, a year seven student on a summer break has convinced his parents along with his sister, that they’re old enough to look after themselves instead of being shipped off to summer camp. Ethan has struggled to fit in at high school, something most of us can relate to at some point in our lives, and his childhood friendship (and one-sided crush) on Maggie has been complicated by her hanging out with a couple of bullies/jocks in Noah and Connor who often target Ethan. So, when he joins a baseball game and hits a home run that sends the ball flying through a window of the abandoned orphanage overlooking the school, he sees an opportunity to win back some social capital.
This orphanage is no ordinary derelict building. Its history is riddled with missing children, dodgy paperwork, to name a few things which had resulted in it closing. Rumours have swirled around the place ever since, only heightening further when kids have mysteriously disappeared over the years. Trust between townsfolk has gone out the window, with accusations being thrown around as to who and what is behind it all. So, the setting in which Ethan finds himself isn’t exactly a cheery one.
Even so, he’s determined to get the ball and hopefully gain some merit in the eyes of the bullies and maybe regain Maggie’s attention. It seems like the perfect plan… until something happens in the orphanage that changes him forever.
Kaplin weaves together the familiar turbulence of adolescence (love interests, friendship drama, bullying) with a folklore-infused horror narrative that is sometimes uncomfortable but rich in storytelling. There were moments that genuinely blindsided me, and the story is stronger for its willingness to go there. His prose is descriptive and immersive, and he does a great job with the visualizations of the areas the story takes the reader to. It’s a dark, atmospheric read that horrifies and entertains in equal measure, and one I highly recommend.
I give it 4.7 angsty high-school students out of 5.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The town has been plagued by children disappearing for years, ever since the Fairfield Children's Home was used as an orphanage. Since its closing, the town has fenced it off and children are told to never try to go inside.
Enter Ethan, a 13 year old more comfortable playing video games than interacting with his classmates. While (reluctantly) playing baseball, he hits a miraculous home run and the ball enters a window of the abandoned Orphanage. Deciding to prove himself to his friends by retrieving the ball, Ethan goes into the creepy building and things are forever changed, especially for him.
Several townspeople are still searching for their missing children. One of them has become the town drunk and the other is accused of being a witch. However, as the boy Ethan continues to change, maybe these people aren't so wrong about the things that are happening. "Secrets have a way of surfacing, and imposters can only hide in plain sight for so long."
This was a well-written, creepy story involving folklore and changelings. There is also a lot of grief horror involved with the parents that have lost children. The descriptions of the beings involved are great and there are some truly eerie moments along the way. The ending was poignant and thought-provoking and will strick with me for a long time.
Enter Ethan, a 13 year old more comfortable playing video games than interacting with his classmates. While (reluctantly) playing baseball, he hits a miraculous home run and the ball enters a window of the abandoned Orphanage. Deciding to prove himself to his friends by retrieving the ball, Ethan goes into the creepy building and things are forever changed, especially for him.
Several townspeople are still searching for their missing children. One of them has become the town drunk and the other is accused of being a witch. However, as the boy Ethan continues to change, maybe these people aren't so wrong about the things that are happening. "Secrets have a way of surfacing, and imposters can only hide in plain sight for so long."
This was a well-written, creepy story involving folklore and changelings. There is also a lot of grief horror involved with the parents that have lost children. The descriptions of the beings involved are great and there are some truly eerie moments along the way. The ending was poignant and thought-provoking and will strick with me for a long time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
That summer was meant to be nothing more than scraped knees, long days, and harmless curiosity - until one wrong throw led a group of kids to the abandoned Fairfield Children’s Home. A place the town buried for a reason… and one that clearly isn’t empty.
When a child disappears, the past claws its way back to the surface, and what returns isn’t always what was taken. In Fairfield, some children don’t grow up… and the ones who come back? They’re not the same.
A haunted orphanage. Missing kids. And something that doesn’t give them back the same… yeah, this one had me hooked immediately.
This was a fast, devour-in-one-sitting kind of read. We mainly follow thirteen-year-old Ethan, who makes the mistake of going into the abandoned children’s home alone… and the boy who walks back out? Not quite right. Safe to say I was side-eyeing my own thirteen-year-old every time he grunted at me.
The changeling element was done so well - creepy, unsettling, and genuinely emotional. I actually felt for these characters, especially Ethan, Maggie and Julie, which made everything hit that much harder.
When a child disappears, the past claws its way back to the surface, and what returns isn’t always what was taken. In Fairfield, some children don’t grow up… and the ones who come back? They’re not the same.
A haunted orphanage. Missing kids. And something that doesn’t give them back the same… yeah, this one had me hooked immediately.
This was a fast, devour-in-one-sitting kind of read. We mainly follow thirteen-year-old Ethan, who makes the mistake of going into the abandoned children’s home alone… and the boy who walks back out? Not quite right. Safe to say I was side-eyeing my own thirteen-year-old every time he grunted at me.
The changeling element was done so well - creepy, unsettling, and genuinely emotional. I actually felt for these characters, especially Ethan, Maggie and Julie, which made everything hit that much harder.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The False Child leans all the way into that unease.
From the moment I stepped into this eerie, decaying house, I knew this wasn’t going to be a comfortable read. Kaplan builds a chilling atmosphere where nothing feels safe especially not the children. The tension creeps in quietly at first, like a shadow stretching across the walls, and then suddenly you realize you’re surrounded by it.
What really stood out to me was the psychological dread. This isn’t just horror it’s that slow, gnawing fear that something is deeply off… something pretending. The idea of identity, of what is real versus what is made to look real, is handled in a way that sticks with you long after you’ve finished.The imagery? Haunting.
The tone? Oppressive in the best way.
The payoff? Disturbing enough to make you sit in silence for a minute.If you love gothic horror with a modern psychological edge this is one to pick up.
⚠️ Go in expecting:
* Slow burn dread
* Unreliable perceptions
* A lingering sense of unease
From the moment I stepped into this eerie, decaying house, I knew this wasn’t going to be a comfortable read. Kaplan builds a chilling atmosphere where nothing feels safe especially not the children. The tension creeps in quietly at first, like a shadow stretching across the walls, and then suddenly you realize you’re surrounded by it.
What really stood out to me was the psychological dread. This isn’t just horror it’s that slow, gnawing fear that something is deeply off… something pretending. The idea of identity, of what is real versus what is made to look real, is handled in a way that sticks with you long after you’ve finished.The imagery? Haunting.
The tone? Oppressive in the best way.
The payoff? Disturbing enough to make you sit in silence for a minute.If you love gothic horror with a modern psychological edge this is one to pick up.
⚠️ Go in expecting:
* Slow burn dread
* Unreliable perceptions
* A lingering sense of unease
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
You may never know what you will find hiding and lurking inside the old abandoned orphanage, that has been boarded up since before you were even born. All the locals know the horror stories of what happened inside that house many years ago, its been 15 years does the threat still live inside? Follow along with Ethan and see if he's brave enough to go inside the creepy place to impress a girl he likes. Will he do it? Will he come out changed? What happens when you go inside that building, are you allowed to leave?
The book was a great book. I gave it 4 stars as it had so much more potential that could have made the book even better. In my opinion it was rather short, but still a good read. You can finish it in one sitting. Can we expect a second book?
The book was a great book. I gave it 4 stars as it had so much more potential that could have made the book even better. In my opinion it was rather short, but still a good read. You can finish it in one sitting. Can we expect a second book?
Review of advance copy received from Author
Who doesn’t love a creepy changeling story?!
The False Child by LM Kaplin is set in a small town with a history of missing children, kids who seem to simply vanish without a trace. The tension builds beautifully as the story unfolds, blending grief, fear, and unease. You feel the desperation of a father still searching for his daughters years later, the involvement of the so-called “witch” in the woods, the uneasy presence of a "haunted", dilapidated orphanage, and the growing dread tied to a quiet, unsettling boy who may be more dangerous than he seems.
Kaplin does a fantastic job creating an eerie atmosphere and leaving you in suspense!
The False Child by LM Kaplin is set in a small town with a history of missing children, kids who seem to simply vanish without a trace. The tension builds beautifully as the story unfolds, blending grief, fear, and unease. You feel the desperation of a father still searching for his daughters years later, the involvement of the so-called “witch” in the woods, the uneasy presence of a "haunted", dilapidated orphanage, and the growing dread tied to a quiet, unsettling boy who may be more dangerous than he seems.
Kaplin does a fantastic job creating an eerie atmosphere and leaving you in suspense!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was fortunate enough to get an ARC of The False Child by LM Kaplin. This was a great, coming of age horror about a town under the shadow of an abandoned orphanage, that seems to have something to do with a rash of child disappearances.
The characters are fun and believable, the setting is well described and disturbing, and this was a really nerve wracking story as a whole. I always love Kaplin’s stories, but this one was really awesome. Plus look at that freaking cover! That’s enough to heebie your jeebies by itself!
If you want to be completely creeped out and maybe never trust a little kid again, this is a read for you!
Thanks to Netgalley and LM Kaplin for the ARC!
The characters are fun and believable, the setting is well described and disturbing, and this was a really nerve wracking story as a whole. I always love Kaplin’s stories, but this one was really awesome. Plus look at that freaking cover! That’s enough to heebie your jeebies by itself!
If you want to be completely creeped out and maybe never trust a little kid again, this is a read for you!
Thanks to Netgalley and LM Kaplin for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The false child is a fast paced horror book that keeps you engaged throughout.
The abandoned orhpanage that towers over the town, is enough of a menace to keep kids away. But something stirs, its needs urgent and won't be denied. Taking the shape of a town boy, it'll take what it needs without being seen.
The story in itself was great with a good level of creapiness, and the last 20% was unexpected and spectacular: there was a storyline there worthy of its own book.
The author did use some uncomfortable themes i wasn't sure of, but hey it's horror - nothing's off the table.
Honestly, if you're looking for a good sinister read, this is a really good one.
The abandoned orhpanage that towers over the town, is enough of a menace to keep kids away. But something stirs, its needs urgent and won't be denied. Taking the shape of a town boy, it'll take what it needs without being seen.
The story in itself was great with a good level of creapiness, and the last 20% was unexpected and spectacular: there was a storyline there worthy of its own book.
The author did use some uncomfortable themes i wasn't sure of, but hey it's horror - nothing's off the table.
Honestly, if you're looking for a good sinister read, this is a really good one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I wasn't sure where this story was going at first. I thought ok this is another small town horror story. Which I love. But absolutely not I was so wrong. There was so much more. The characters in this story were so well developed. It's a little sci-fi, a little horror, and a little mysterious all wound together like the roots of a tree.
It's like the movies It and Weapons had a baby.
A few scenes that creeped me out...
The hungry eyes watching them from the shadows, waiting for their chance.
The child remained motionless, as if he was nothing more than a mannequin.
It's like the movies It and Weapons had a baby.
A few scenes that creeped me out...
The hungry eyes watching them from the shadows, waiting for their chance.
The child remained motionless, as if he was nothing more than a mannequin.
May 17, 2026
When bullied 13 year old Ethan is asked to play base ball by his older sister Julie. NO ONE expects him to hit a home run.. but he does. Sending the ball straight through an abandoned orphanage open window.
When the bullying doesn’t stop. He goes in to the orphanage to retrieve the ball. Then the unthinkable happens. Normal Ethan went in, but the same didn’t come out. Can the neighborhood figure out what’s going on before it’s too late.
My opinion: I felt like I read this before, Deja vu?.. the story has a coming of age and folklore quality to it. Which I appreciate. The characters work off each other. Bullying. Crushes. Siblings. It did have a few scene which I didn’t care for. So check your triggers. Other than that it was a decent story. I enjoyed it.
When the bullying doesn’t stop. He goes in to the orphanage to retrieve the ball. Then the unthinkable happens. Normal Ethan went in, but the same didn’t come out. Can the neighborhood figure out what’s going on before it’s too late.
My opinion: I felt like I read this before, Deja vu?.. the story has a coming of age and folklore quality to it. Which I appreciate. The characters work off each other. Bullying. Crushes. Siblings. It did have a few scene which I didn’t care for. So check your triggers. Other than that it was a decent story. I enjoyed it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
An abandoned orphanage. A town with a history of missing children. It been years since any children gone missing. The town thought they were safe till children started disappearing again. The disappearance seems to be linked to the abandoned orphanage. Will the town figure it out before more disappear?
This book was unpredictable and the conclusion was intense. I highly recommend if you love folklore horror.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m a big fan of LM Kaplin’s writing. From his cosmic horror, to his slasher/thriller and now folk horror. I never know what to expect and I’m always pleasantly surprised. This one was way darker than I anticipated but I loved every second of it. The characters, dialogue and world building were all wonderful. There were strong elements of both fairytale and grief. Overall this was a great read that kept me on my toes, and my new favorite of his!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you are looking for a book that has creepy kids and a lingering mystery over a town then this is the book for you. I was hooked on this story from page one and had to know everything that was hidden and unknown. I love how the story unfolds in a way, with the recalls to the past and the current events, leaves you with just enough but makes you keep reading because you have to know what is happening.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC read
The atmosphere is easily one of the strongest parts of the book. The abandoned orphanage setting is so vivid you can practically feel the cold air and silence pressing in. Once the story shifts to the changeling’s realm, it becomes even more haunting. Bleak, fragile, and filled with this quiet desperation that lingers throughout.
I appreciate the author for the ARC
The atmosphere is easily one of the strongest parts of the book. The abandoned orphanage setting is so vivid you can practically feel the cold air and silence pressing in. Once the story shifts to the changeling’s realm, it becomes even more haunting. Bleak, fragile, and filled with this quiet desperation that lingers throughout.
I appreciate the author for the ARC
April 29, 2026
I really enjoyed this read. The mystery and horror was very nostalgic. I enjoyed all the elements of this one and how the ending comes together. Spooky kids are one thing, but spooky kids who aren't your kids, are another. Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read this book, it was a quick fun read. I rated this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book does not pull any punches. I thought that it might sit in that YA realm, and maybe it does because there is a certain coming of age quality to it, but it certainly doesn't hold back.
Go into this eyes open if you have issues with things happening to children because they happen and they can get quite graphic.
This story, she's dark, and she'll leave you feeling hollow... At best.
Go into this eyes open if you have issues with things happening to children because they happen and they can get quite graphic.
This story, she's dark, and she'll leave you feeling hollow... At best.
May 7, 2026
Child
Ethan's life changes when he decides to retrieve the ball he hit through an old orphanage window. A window that has never been open before. No one goes into this building .Kids have disappeared in the town and were never found. There is something in the orphanage trying to find a way out. It just needs help.
Ethan's life changes when he decides to retrieve the ball he hit through an old orphanage window. A window that has never been open before. No one goes into this building .Kids have disappeared in the town and were never found. There is something in the orphanage trying to find a way out. It just needs help.
May 8, 2026
This is exactly what I’ve come to expect from Kaplin - something completely unique, full of twists, relatable characters, and will draw you in right from the first page. This one is a small town horror with a dark history, missing children, changeling folklore, and an interesting perspective from the characters. Plus lots of surprises! Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a great fairytale of a story. It’s a slow burn of mystery and creepiness. I really enjoyed it because this author is a spectacular story teller. He lures you in right away and once you start to read his books, you can’t put them down. I highly recommend reading this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*thank you Netgalley for a ARC for me to give a honest review*
4.5 stars
I really loved this story about children that are going missing. The was a different take on the folklore of changlings and i enjoyed it. There is alot of undertone of grief which gave the story a more darker tone.
4.5 stars
I really loved this story about children that are going missing. The was a different take on the folklore of changlings and i enjoyed it. There is alot of undertone of grief which gave the story a more darker tone.
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