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You Shouldn't Have Answered: Some Numbers Should Never Be Dialed...
When brothers Jace and Theo throw an unplanned Halloween party while their parents are away, the worst they expect is a trashed house or a noise complaint.
They’re wrong.
It starts as a joke.
A stupid game.
Random phone calls. Say something creepy. Hang up. Laugh.
Harmless…
Until one number answers.
The voice on the other end doesn’t yell.
Doesn’t hang up.
He
“I’ve been waiting.”
What begins as a prank spirals into something far more dangerous. Every call pulls them deeper into a nightmare they can’t escape.
One by one, people start disappearing.
A friend. A girlfriend.
Bodies left behind like messages.
Now the house isn’t a party.
It’s a trap.
And the caller isn’t playing games.
He’s hunting.
No one leaves.
Not until he gets what he wants.
And all he wants… is an apology.
They shouldn’t have called.
They shouldn’t have answered.
Now—they’ll pay for both.
Because on Halloween… some calls don’t need an invitation.
And you shouldn’t have answered.
They’re wrong.
It starts as a joke.
A stupid game.
Random phone calls. Say something creepy. Hang up. Laugh.
Harmless…
Until one number answers.
The voice on the other end doesn’t yell.
Doesn’t hang up.
He
“I’ve been waiting.”
What begins as a prank spirals into something far more dangerous. Every call pulls them deeper into a nightmare they can’t escape.
One by one, people start disappearing.
A friend. A girlfriend.
Bodies left behind like messages.
Now the house isn’t a party.
It’s a trap.
And the caller isn’t playing games.
He’s hunting.
No one leaves.
Not until he gets what he wants.
And all he wants… is an apology.
They shouldn’t have called.
They shouldn’t have answered.
Now—they’ll pay for both.
Because on Halloween… some calls don’t need an invitation.
And you shouldn’t have answered.
223 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2026
About the author
C.K. Smith
10 books57 followersAuthor also writes as Dina Ezzeddine
C.K. Smith is a Canadian writer and the celebrated author of The Haunting of Aberdeen Manor series, a chilling collection that promises to leave readers breathless with suspense and captivated by dark romance. Blending spine-tingling horror with irresistible spicy romance, C.K. Smith creates stories that haunt the mind and stir the soul.
Her latest work, The Aberdeen Manor trilogy, is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling. Each book in the series is crafted to send shivers down your spine, perfect for horror enthusiasts who crave a touch of the forbidden in their reads. From eerie halls to forbidden desires, this series is an unmissable journey into the depths of fear and passion.
Drawing inspiration from literary legends like Stephen King, C.K. Smith has a unique gift for weaving intricate tales that explore the shadows of human emotion. Her work is a testament to her love for storytelling, delivering an experience that lingers long after the final page.
When she isn’t crafting her next haunting narrative, C.K. Smith enjoys immersing herself in the beauty of Canadian landscapes and discovering the extraordinary in everyday life. With every story, she invites readers to step into her world of thrilling terror and sizzling romance—where the line between fear and desire blurs.
Discover the world of C.K. Smith, where every book is an unforgettable escape. Follow for updates on her latest releases and insights into her creative process. For fans of Stephen King, dark romance, and edge-of-your-seat suspense, this is an author you don’t want to miss!
C.K. Smith is a Canadian writer and the celebrated author of The Haunting of Aberdeen Manor series, a chilling collection that promises to leave readers breathless with suspense and captivated by dark romance. Blending spine-tingling horror with irresistible spicy romance, C.K. Smith creates stories that haunt the mind and stir the soul.
Her latest work, The Aberdeen Manor trilogy, is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling. Each book in the series is crafted to send shivers down your spine, perfect for horror enthusiasts who crave a touch of the forbidden in their reads. From eerie halls to forbidden desires, this series is an unmissable journey into the depths of fear and passion.
Drawing inspiration from literary legends like Stephen King, C.K. Smith has a unique gift for weaving intricate tales that explore the shadows of human emotion. Her work is a testament to her love for storytelling, delivering an experience that lingers long after the final page.
When she isn’t crafting her next haunting narrative, C.K. Smith enjoys immersing herself in the beauty of Canadian landscapes and discovering the extraordinary in everyday life. With every story, she invites readers to step into her world of thrilling terror and sizzling romance—where the line between fear and desire blurs.
Discover the world of C.K. Smith, where every book is an unforgettable escape. Follow for updates on her latest releases and insights into her creative process. For fans of Stephen King, dark romance, and edge-of-your-seat suspense, this is an author you don’t want to miss!
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 6, 2026
You Shouldn’t Have Answered is easily my favorite book from C.K. Smith so far. The tension and intensity here feel miles ahead of her previous work, pulling me in from the very first pages and never really letting go.
What stood out most was the nostalgic atmosphere. It strongly reminded me of those gritty, suspenseful films from the 1970s; movies like When a Stranger Calls and Black Christmas, where the fear builds slowly and every moment feels deliberate and grounded. Smith captures that same sense of unease and depth, which made the reading experience feel both fresh and familiar.
At first, it might seem like there aren’t any real twists since the story lays its cards out pretty openly. But as the narrative unfolds and more of the characters’ backstories come to light, your perception starts to shift in surprising ways. That’s where the real twist lives, not in sudden shock, but in how your understanding evolves.
The stakes feel genuinely high throughout, and the tension never drops. It’s gripping, immersive, and ultimately a really great read.
What stood out most was the nostalgic atmosphere. It strongly reminded me of those gritty, suspenseful films from the 1970s; movies like When a Stranger Calls and Black Christmas, where the fear builds slowly and every moment feels deliberate and grounded. Smith captures that same sense of unease and depth, which made the reading experience feel both fresh and familiar.
At first, it might seem like there aren’t any real twists since the story lays its cards out pretty openly. But as the narrative unfolds and more of the characters’ backstories come to light, your perception starts to shift in surprising ways. That’s where the real twist lives, not in sudden shock, but in how your understanding evolves.
The stakes feel genuinely high throughout, and the tension never drops. It’s gripping, immersive, and ultimately a really great read.
May 2, 2026
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Released April 2026
You Shouldn’t Have Answered by C.K. Smith
First—thank you for the ARC, and thanks to Insidestory for once again feeding my slightly concerning taste in entertainment. Nothing says comfort read quite like the vibe of don’t bother hiding, you’re probably dead anyway.
This book landed at the perfect time. I’d been dragging myself through heavier reads, the kind that leave emotional rubble everywhere, and I needed something sharp, fun, bloody, and a little unwell. Something to wake up the dark little teenage slasher gremlin still living in my chest rent-free.
And this did exactly that.
I devoured this book with zero dignity. Absolute gremlin behavior. No breaks, no patience, no self-control. Just straight through like I was possessed by sugar and bad decisions.
What I love about Smith’s writing is the confidence. Thirteen high schoolers at a party getting hunted down? Treated like casual business. As it should be. No unnecessary overexplaining, no pages of tortured inner monologues, no emotional TED Talks while someone is holding a knife. Just tension, movement, chaos, and that delicious old-school slasher energy.
It feels like a lost 90s horror movie in the best way—fast, fun, reckless, and fully aware of what it is.
But underneath the blood and panic, there’s something meaner. Darker. Something that slips in quietly while you’re busy enjoying the chase. At first it feels small, almost background noise… until you realize it’s actually the spine of the whole story.
I’m not saying more. I’m not here to ruin your fun.
I gave this four little heart stars because I’ve read other Smith books that crawled under my skin a little deeper. Also, the chase scenes? Listen. For a moment I felt like I was trapped in a prank while stuck in JoyRide😉. Stressful. Rude. Slightly disrespectful to my nervous system.
So if you’re one of those beautifully unhinged people who finds comfort in a killer chasing teenagers while you sit under a blanket with snacks, this book is for you.
Just maybe tell your kids not to prank call anyone. Some lessons arrive with a body count.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Released April 2026
You Shouldn’t Have Answered by C.K. Smith
First—thank you for the ARC, and thanks to Insidestory for once again feeding my slightly concerning taste in entertainment. Nothing says comfort read quite like the vibe of don’t bother hiding, you’re probably dead anyway.
This book landed at the perfect time. I’d been dragging myself through heavier reads, the kind that leave emotional rubble everywhere, and I needed something sharp, fun, bloody, and a little unwell. Something to wake up the dark little teenage slasher gremlin still living in my chest rent-free.
And this did exactly that.
I devoured this book with zero dignity. Absolute gremlin behavior. No breaks, no patience, no self-control. Just straight through like I was possessed by sugar and bad decisions.
What I love about Smith’s writing is the confidence. Thirteen high schoolers at a party getting hunted down? Treated like casual business. As it should be. No unnecessary overexplaining, no pages of tortured inner monologues, no emotional TED Talks while someone is holding a knife. Just tension, movement, chaos, and that delicious old-school slasher energy.
It feels like a lost 90s horror movie in the best way—fast, fun, reckless, and fully aware of what it is.
But underneath the blood and panic, there’s something meaner. Darker. Something that slips in quietly while you’re busy enjoying the chase. At first it feels small, almost background noise… until you realize it’s actually the spine of the whole story.
I’m not saying more. I’m not here to ruin your fun.
I gave this four little heart stars because I’ve read other Smith books that crawled under my skin a little deeper. Also, the chase scenes? Listen. For a moment I felt like I was trapped in a prank while stuck in JoyRide😉. Stressful. Rude. Slightly disrespectful to my nervous system.
So if you’re one of those beautifully unhinged people who finds comfort in a killer chasing teenagers while you sit under a blanket with snacks, this book is for you.
Just maybe tell your kids not to prank call anyone. Some lessons arrive with a body count.
May 4, 2026
"You Shouldn’t Have Answered" is a fast-paced thriller that takes a familiar setup and gradually turns it into something far more unsettling. The story follows Jace and his older brother Theo as they prepare for a massive Halloween party while their parents are away. Their younger sister Ashley, sharp and unusually perceptive, is less enthusiastic and seems to sense that things could go wrong. At the same time, unsettling news begins circulating about a dangerous figure in the area, adding an undercurrent of tension beneath what should be a carefree night. As the party draws closer, small details and character interactions hint that the situation may not stay under control for long.
The novel’s biggest strength lies in its atmosphere and pacing. It starts off light and grounded, with believable dialogue and realistic sibling dynamics, before gradually building a sense of unease. The characters feel natural, especially in the way they interact, argue, and joke with each other. Ashley stands out in particular, bringing a more thoughtful and observant perspective that contrasts nicely with the impulsive energy of the others. The writing keeps the story moving quickly, making it easy to stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed by unnecessary detail.
While the premise draws on familiar elements of teen thrillers, the execution keeps it compelling enough to hold your attention. Some side characters don’t get much depth, but they serve their purpose in supporting the overall atmosphere of the story. The shifts in tone—from casual and humorous to tense—can feel a bit sharp at times, but they also contribute to the unpredictability of the narrative.
Overall, You Shouldn’t Have Answered is an engaging, easy-to-read thriller that builds tension effectively without relying on heavy exposition. It’s a solid choice for readers who enjoy suspenseful stories with a modern, character-driven feel and a steady sense that something isn’t quite right.
Thanks to the author for the ARC copy of the novel.
The novel’s biggest strength lies in its atmosphere and pacing. It starts off light and grounded, with believable dialogue and realistic sibling dynamics, before gradually building a sense of unease. The characters feel natural, especially in the way they interact, argue, and joke with each other. Ashley stands out in particular, bringing a more thoughtful and observant perspective that contrasts nicely with the impulsive energy of the others. The writing keeps the story moving quickly, making it easy to stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed by unnecessary detail.
While the premise draws on familiar elements of teen thrillers, the execution keeps it compelling enough to hold your attention. Some side characters don’t get much depth, but they serve their purpose in supporting the overall atmosphere of the story. The shifts in tone—from casual and humorous to tense—can feel a bit sharp at times, but they also contribute to the unpredictability of the narrative.
Overall, You Shouldn’t Have Answered is an engaging, easy-to-read thriller that builds tension effectively without relying on heavy exposition. It’s a solid choice for readers who enjoy suspenseful stories with a modern, character-driven feel and a steady sense that something isn’t quite right.
Thanks to the author for the ARC copy of the novel.
May 5, 2026
My review:
A heart-pounding nightmare you won’t be able to put down! I recently had the incredible opportunity to get a sneak peek of C.K. Smith's newest thriller, 'You Shouldn’t Have Answered', and I am still reeling from that ending! 😱 The plot: What starts as a typical night for siblings Jace, Theo, and Ashley turns into a desperate fight for survival after a "harmless" prank call goes horribly wrong. When the voice on the other end whispers, "I’ve been waiting," the party stops and the hunt begins. Why I loved it: * Constant tension: From the very first phone ring, the sense of dread is suffocating. I felt like I was trapped in that house right along with the characters. * The dynamic: The relationship between the siblings added a real emotional layer to the scares. * The villain: This is an intense psychological game of cat and mouse where every choice has a terrifying consequence. This was such a gripping introduction to this author’s work. C.K. Smith has a gift for taking everyday situations and turning them into nightmares! Mark your calendars, this one officially drops on May 10th.
#BookReview #CKSmith #ThrillerReader #bookrecommendations #booktok
A heart-pounding nightmare you won’t be able to put down! I recently had the incredible opportunity to get a sneak peek of C.K. Smith's newest thriller, 'You Shouldn’t Have Answered', and I am still reeling from that ending! 😱 The plot: What starts as a typical night for siblings Jace, Theo, and Ashley turns into a desperate fight for survival after a "harmless" prank call goes horribly wrong. When the voice on the other end whispers, "I’ve been waiting," the party stops and the hunt begins. Why I loved it: * Constant tension: From the very first phone ring, the sense of dread is suffocating. I felt like I was trapped in that house right along with the characters. * The dynamic: The relationship between the siblings added a real emotional layer to the scares. * The villain: This is an intense psychological game of cat and mouse where every choice has a terrifying consequence. This was such a gripping introduction to this author’s work. C.K. Smith has a gift for taking everyday situations and turning them into nightmares! Mark your calendars, this one officially drops on May 10th.
#BookReview #CKSmith #ThrillerReader #bookrecommendations #booktok
May 6, 2026
I really enjoyed You Shouldn't Have Answered by C.K. Smith for its great blend of horror and thriller elements. The present-tense narrative keeps the tension high, broken only by a few quick flashbacks. There is solid character development for the three main siblings - Theo, Jace, and Ashley - before the Halloween party begins, and I appreciated that the setup didn't drag, getting to the main event much faster than many other books. While the climax felt a little abrupt and the ultimate conclusion became obvious well before the final pages, the ending itself was still satisfying. Even with a predictable finale and a few small plot holes, nothing detracted from my overall enjoyment or stalled the story's momentum.
Want to see spoilers or trigger warnings? Check out: https://www.spoiltheplot.com/books/yo...
Want to see spoilers or trigger warnings? Check out: https://www.spoiltheplot.com/books/yo...
May 8, 2026
You Shouldn’t Have Answered by C.K. Smith
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟(4.5 rounded up)
This is a fast paced and intense thriller!!
Theo and his brother Jace are excited to have a big party once their parents leave for vacation. They think they are making a smart decision by getting a bouncer to check ids at the door, but things still get out of hand.
A harmless prank phone call starts off a chain of horrible events. Their 15 year old sister gets tossed into the horrors also.
I was lucky to get an arc of this exciting book!! The tension didn’t let up at all! It’s a very engaging read!
**It’s out now and I highly recommend the read!!**
🫀🩸🅰️🫀🩸🅰️🫀
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟(4.5 rounded up)
This is a fast paced and intense thriller!!
Theo and his brother Jace are excited to have a big party once their parents leave for vacation. They think they are making a smart decision by getting a bouncer to check ids at the door, but things still get out of hand.
A harmless prank phone call starts off a chain of horrible events. Their 15 year old sister gets tossed into the horrors also.
I was lucky to get an arc of this exciting book!! The tension didn’t let up at all! It’s a very engaging read!
**It’s out now and I highly recommend the read!!**
🫀🩸🅰️🫀🩸🅰️🫀
May 4, 2026
This was so so good! It’s horror and thriller all wrapped in one! Two brothers are throwing an epic Halloween party and they have to look after their 15 year old sister!
It’s a big party so they hire a bouncer! One thing he’s not actually the bouncer he’s a serial killer who’s on the loose! This story was graphic but like in a good way all the blood and gore just made the story so so much better! What I didn’t think would happen is feeling bad for said serial killer when you find out the reasoning behind his spree! And he kept his promise to his little heart! I really enjoyed this!
It’s a big party so they hire a bouncer! One thing he’s not actually the bouncer he’s a serial killer who’s on the loose! This story was graphic but like in a good way all the blood and gore just made the story so so much better! What I didn’t think would happen is feeling bad for said serial killer when you find out the reasoning behind his spree! And he kept his promise to his little heart! I really enjoyed this!
May 17, 2026
Typical teenagers throw a Halloween party while their parents are away, the worst they expect is to get caught by their parents with a trashed house. little did they know, They’re dead wrong.
They play a game of prank phone calls, it starts off funny and then quickly becomes more sinister.
They call the wrong person!
One by one, people start disappearing, including their sister!
Not my favorite thriller this year, more in your face horror.
They play a game of prank phone calls, it starts off funny and then quickly becomes more sinister.
They call the wrong person!
One by one, people start disappearing, including their sister!
Not my favorite thriller this year, more in your face horror.
May 6, 2026
I'm glad I picked this one up. C.K. Smith has a way with killers. I have no idea how this guy pulled off what he did during a Halloween party but if slashers is what you like, it's what you'll get with this book. This would have made a killer 80's movie!
May 10, 2026
Wow!! This was a very good book!! It was a fast read and an enjoyable storyline! I’ve never read anything by this author before but I’ll definitely be looking for more great reads!! Definitely a must read!!
Amy
Amy
May 15, 2026
This book was wild! Edge of your seat, gripping your iPad kind of read. This was the absolute best slasher/nostalgic feeling book ever. I loved the blood and gore, the intensity. Pure chaos with bodies everywhere. This will definitely be a repeat offender on my To Read Again list.
May 17, 2026
I wanted to like this book. It had potential. A good storyline unfortunately buried in plot inconsistencies and bad AI generated text (at least delete all the em dashes chat gpt used).
If you enjoy a cheesy b grade horror movie and can overlook errors then this book is for you.
If you enjoy a cheesy b grade horror movie and can overlook errors then this book is for you.
May 8, 2026
That "hit".
Okay, besides that word being used way to much, this is a freaking great psychological thriller! I did not expect the ending and had no idea where this story was going.
Okay, besides that word being used way to much, this is a freaking great psychological thriller! I did not expect the ending and had no idea where this story was going.
May 10, 2026
Rounding down from 4.25 stars
Nice quick, engaging read. Once the pace picks up, it never slows down!
Nice quick, engaging read. Once the pace picks up, it never slows down!
May 15, 2026
Nostalgic feels, slasher vibes, suspense, and a page turner what more can you ask for in a Psychological Thriller?
Recommend reading for sure!
Recommend reading for sure!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews