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Knock Knock
"On a dark night, in an old house, at the top of a tall hill, Millie Carver woke with a start. She didn’t sleep much these days, but she didn’t seem to be much awake, either. For her, the days and nights passed in one long unending solitude, light and dark merging together til her entire world took on a sort of twilit glow, til time itself seemed to slow and stretch and her mind wandered."
Millie lives a lonely life in her big house all alone. When the strange occurrences begin, knockings that echo through the house, shadowy figures in her kitchen, and objects that move on their own, she really can't tell if she's experiencing reality or if her mind has finally given out on her.
Suzanne is worried about the strange goings-on in her mother's house. Guilt and a strained relationship have kept her at a distance for years, but something must be done, and so she calls on the local paranormal investigation team to have a look at the house..A story of ghostly happenings set against a Gothic backdrop of isolation and darkness, this novella explores the haunting of both a house and a lonely mind.
Millie lives a lonely life in her big house all alone. When the strange occurrences begin, knockings that echo through the house, shadowy figures in her kitchen, and objects that move on their own, she really can't tell if she's experiencing reality or if her mind has finally given out on her.
Suzanne is worried about the strange goings-on in her mother's house. Guilt and a strained relationship have kept her at a distance for years, but something must be done, and so she calls on the local paranormal investigation team to have a look at the house..A story of ghostly happenings set against a Gothic backdrop of isolation and darkness, this novella explores the haunting of both a house and a lonely mind.
- GenresHorror
173 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2021
4 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
About the author
Heather Daughrity
9 books94 followersHeather Daughrity is a writer of old-fashioned horror. She dreams of long candlelit passageways and things that go bump in the night. She writes in the quiet hours before sunrise. She released her first book, Knock Knock, just before her fortieth birthday, and has since released two short story collections, Tales My Grandmother Told Me and Echoes of the Dead. She is also the curating editor of the anthologies House of Haunts and Hospital of Haunts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 2, 2022
I really enjoyed this story, which was so well constructed and well written. Sometimes you read a novel and you don't connect with the characters and so the plot needs to be really good and creative to keep the reader's interest - with Knock Knock, I was able to connect with the characters (especially the family) and the plot was also intriguing.
I especially liked the first half of the book. I've read in other reviews, how they 'figured out' and 'guessed' about what ghost was the cause of all the haunting happenings, and for me, this was the best part of the story. I too was trying to 'figure out and guess' at what was happening. I think that was the whole point. How Miller has put this story together, using very clever techniques, to keep the reader involved, is so very well done. I found myself thinking - 'well it must be this' and then a few pages later 'well it can't be this it must be that', and then again later 'oh I see what's happening here', and it was so much fun.
I haven't read many 'ghost' stories but ones that I have read that come to mind are 'Hell House' by Matheson, 'The Turn of the Screw' by James, and 'The Shining' by King, and all of these were frightening in their own unique way. With Knock Knock, I didn't find myself frightened by the events that were happening (maybe 'creeped out') and that's not a bad thing because the story and the characters keep you enthralled until the end. If you are looking for a good, well plotted, modern ghost story, definitely give this one a go.
I especially liked the first half of the book. I've read in other reviews, how they 'figured out' and 'guessed' about what ghost was the cause of all the haunting happenings, and for me, this was the best part of the story. I too was trying to 'figure out and guess' at what was happening. I think that was the whole point. How Miller has put this story together, using very clever techniques, to keep the reader involved, is so very well done. I found myself thinking - 'well it must be this' and then a few pages later 'well it can't be this it must be that', and then again later 'oh I see what's happening here', and it was so much fun.
I haven't read many 'ghost' stories but ones that I have read that come to mind are 'Hell House' by Matheson, 'The Turn of the Screw' by James, and 'The Shining' by King, and all of these were frightening in their own unique way. With Knock Knock, I didn't find myself frightened by the events that were happening (maybe 'creeped out') and that's not a bad thing because the story and the characters keep you enthralled until the end. If you are looking for a good, well plotted, modern ghost story, definitely give this one a go.
June 7, 2022
Oh Lordy…that title…that font…that cover…
I have to admit that everything about Knock Knock is appealing right from the jump.
Billed as a gothic horror, this debut story by Heather Miller more than succeeds in fulfilling that promise. Add in the fact that the author is someone I respect and admire and we have a recipe for guaranteed literary satisfaction.
As writers, we are told to “write what you know”. It just so happens that Heather is very familiar with spooky tales, old houses, and the inherent sadness in watching one’s children growing older. This familiarity imbues her writing with an abundance of relatability and ethereal charm.
IMO, gothic tales should not simply stick to the setting…they should also be written in a prose that is, at the very least, evocative of the old classics. The writing in Knock Knock fits the bill, modern in sensibility while still being grand and occasionally baroque. No purple prose here…just solid and sometimes beautifully crafted sentences.
And the peeling wallpaper on the cover…right on the money!
Clocking in at a respectable 168 pages, most readers can certainly finish Knock Knock in one sitting. I should have done so as well, but my own writing tends to keep me rather busy. Ergo, my lengthy time spent reading this story is by no means an indictment against the tale itself. It’s just me having too many plates spinning at any given time.
While many authors stick to a single POV for the short story format, there are actually three (well, technically four) POV’s within Knock Knock. The first, and most prevalent, is that of Millie Carver, an elderly woman living in her family’s ancient home. It is primarily through her eyes that the events of this tale unfold. As a widower, Millie’s time is spent within the aging walls of the Carver House, a Victorian-style residence built near the turn of the 20th century. It’s the only home she’s ever known, where both she and her own children were born and raised.
We tag along with Millie as she wanders the corridors of both her house and memory, sharing in her confusion and exhaustion as her golden years become a blur, the hours and days blending together.
The other two significant characters, Suzanne and Mitch, are Millie’s adult children. They get far less page time than Millie, but their inclusion is both informative and important. With tales like these, where we spend a significant amount of time in one person’s headspace (and where much of those moments inform the plot), it’s almost imperative to get opposing viewpoints of certain events or perceptions.
We also get very limited viewpoints from the paranormal investigative team that is spending time in the Millie’s home, searching for evidence of the supernatural.
Those additional viewpoints help to add a bit of mystery to the narrative. And I don’t mean as in a “whodunit” so much as muddying the water a bit, so not everything that transpires is clear-cut and expected. They function much the same as an “unreliable narrator” concept.
Where the story succeeds the most, however, is in the spot-on portrayal of the slow decline of Millie’s mental and physical capacities, and in her mounting melancholy over decisions she made in the past. Heather Miller is not old by any means, but the way in which she captures the essence of Millie’s waning years points to her being an “old soul”, with a keen grasp on the various concerns and foibles that we will all face as we slide into antiquity.
There is a lot of sadness to be found in Knock Knock, a pensive sorrow that permeates nearly every page. But it really reinforces something that I’ve believed for quite some time: the most lingering and powerful of hauntings are the ones we create for ourselves. And that sadness is what elevates this story to from entertaining to exceptional. Plus, by going down that road, Heather took a slightly different approach with her tale. It’s haunting and spooky, but not in the traditional sense.
In fact, much of what transpires in this haunted house story, at least initially, could easily be chalked up to the forgetfulness of old age. Is it the house that’s haunted, or the person? It’s only when the inexplicable events start happening more frequently, and when Millie’s daughter starts having her own concerns, where we realize that there’s more going on than simply age and an overactive imagination.
Another reviewer mentioned the movie The Others as being similar in vibe to Knock Knock, and I find that comparison to be spot-on.
The nitpicks that I have are few and far between. Some of the chapter formatting gets a little wonky, and there are some repetitive words/phrases that could have been swapped out through editing. And…that’s really it. Mrs. Miller has a firm grasp on the rules of fiction writing AND the requirements of compelling narrative, walking that tightrope with very few stumbles.
If you’re looking for a haunted house tale that’s short & sweet, and also incredibly well-written, then look no further than Knock Knock!
I have to admit that everything about Knock Knock is appealing right from the jump.
Billed as a gothic horror, this debut story by Heather Miller more than succeeds in fulfilling that promise. Add in the fact that the author is someone I respect and admire and we have a recipe for guaranteed literary satisfaction.
As writers, we are told to “write what you know”. It just so happens that Heather is very familiar with spooky tales, old houses, and the inherent sadness in watching one’s children growing older. This familiarity imbues her writing with an abundance of relatability and ethereal charm.
IMO, gothic tales should not simply stick to the setting…they should also be written in a prose that is, at the very least, evocative of the old classics. The writing in Knock Knock fits the bill, modern in sensibility while still being grand and occasionally baroque. No purple prose here…just solid and sometimes beautifully crafted sentences.
And the peeling wallpaper on the cover…right on the money!
Clocking in at a respectable 168 pages, most readers can certainly finish Knock Knock in one sitting. I should have done so as well, but my own writing tends to keep me rather busy. Ergo, my lengthy time spent reading this story is by no means an indictment against the tale itself. It’s just me having too many plates spinning at any given time.
While many authors stick to a single POV for the short story format, there are actually three (well, technically four) POV’s within Knock Knock. The first, and most prevalent, is that of Millie Carver, an elderly woman living in her family’s ancient home. It is primarily through her eyes that the events of this tale unfold. As a widower, Millie’s time is spent within the aging walls of the Carver House, a Victorian-style residence built near the turn of the 20th century. It’s the only home she’s ever known, where both she and her own children were born and raised.
We tag along with Millie as she wanders the corridors of both her house and memory, sharing in her confusion and exhaustion as her golden years become a blur, the hours and days blending together.
The other two significant characters, Suzanne and Mitch, are Millie’s adult children. They get far less page time than Millie, but their inclusion is both informative and important. With tales like these, where we spend a significant amount of time in one person’s headspace (and where much of those moments inform the plot), it’s almost imperative to get opposing viewpoints of certain events or perceptions.
We also get very limited viewpoints from the paranormal investigative team that is spending time in the Millie’s home, searching for evidence of the supernatural.
Those additional viewpoints help to add a bit of mystery to the narrative. And I don’t mean as in a “whodunit” so much as muddying the water a bit, so not everything that transpires is clear-cut and expected. They function much the same as an “unreliable narrator” concept.
Where the story succeeds the most, however, is in the spot-on portrayal of the slow decline of Millie’s mental and physical capacities, and in her mounting melancholy over decisions she made in the past. Heather Miller is not old by any means, but the way in which she captures the essence of Millie’s waning years points to her being an “old soul”, with a keen grasp on the various concerns and foibles that we will all face as we slide into antiquity.
There is a lot of sadness to be found in Knock Knock, a pensive sorrow that permeates nearly every page. But it really reinforces something that I’ve believed for quite some time: the most lingering and powerful of hauntings are the ones we create for ourselves. And that sadness is what elevates this story to from entertaining to exceptional. Plus, by going down that road, Heather took a slightly different approach with her tale. It’s haunting and spooky, but not in the traditional sense.
In fact, much of what transpires in this haunted house story, at least initially, could easily be chalked up to the forgetfulness of old age. Is it the house that’s haunted, or the person? It’s only when the inexplicable events start happening more frequently, and when Millie’s daughter starts having her own concerns, where we realize that there’s more going on than simply age and an overactive imagination.
Another reviewer mentioned the movie The Others as being similar in vibe to Knock Knock, and I find that comparison to be spot-on.
The nitpicks that I have are few and far between. Some of the chapter formatting gets a little wonky, and there are some repetitive words/phrases that could have been swapped out through editing. And…that’s really it. Mrs. Miller has a firm grasp on the rules of fiction writing AND the requirements of compelling narrative, walking that tightrope with very few stumbles.
If you’re looking for a haunted house tale that’s short & sweet, and also incredibly well-written, then look no further than Knock Knock!
June 28, 2021
This book grabbed at me from the first page and I could not put it down. I just had to know what the mystery was and I kind of figured it out.
And I’ll let you on in a little secret, but I actually had tears running down my face as the author, Heather Miller, tugged at my heart strings. Millie reminds me of my mother and the distant relationship I have with her so I know how Suzanne and Mitch feel toward their mother. That’s probably what got me…the estranged relationship I have with my own mother.
This novel had similarities to the Haunting of Hill House and Bly Manor (which I throughly enjoyed those shows). Anything to get my heart and mind racing, I’m all in.
I haven’t read a lot of gothic/horror/haunting novels and Heather Miller definitely made me a fan.
Definitely recommend and definitely will reread for years to come.
And I’ll let you on in a little secret, but I actually had tears running down my face as the author, Heather Miller, tugged at my heart strings. Millie reminds me of my mother and the distant relationship I have with her so I know how Suzanne and Mitch feel toward their mother. That’s probably what got me…the estranged relationship I have with my own mother.
This novel had similarities to the Haunting of Hill House and Bly Manor (which I throughly enjoyed those shows). Anything to get my heart and mind racing, I’m all in.
I haven’t read a lot of gothic/horror/haunting novels and Heather Miller definitely made me a fan.
Definitely recommend and definitely will reread for years to come.
August 5, 2021
With her debut novella, Miller gives us a combination haunted house/ghost story that is steeped in pure gothic vibes. It radiates chill and gloom from page one.
We meet Millie, an old woman who is living alone in her house. Her children have moved on with their lives and she feels forgotten, and then there's the odd things that's been happening around the house. Noises. Temperature changes. A feeling of not being alone.
As the story progresses with expert pacing and the intensity builds, I became fully invested in what was going to happen next. The big twist at the end was one I did not see coming, and it reshapes everything that came before it. It was very clever, and executed very well.
This is definitely recommended to anyone who is looking for a quick and spooky gothic ghost story.
We meet Millie, an old woman who is living alone in her house. Her children have moved on with their lives and she feels forgotten, and then there's the odd things that's been happening around the house. Noises. Temperature changes. A feeling of not being alone.
As the story progresses with expert pacing and the intensity builds, I became fully invested in what was going to happen next. The big twist at the end was one I did not see coming, and it reshapes everything that came before it. It was very clever, and executed very well.
This is definitely recommended to anyone who is looking for a quick and spooky gothic ghost story.
February 23, 2022
This was a fun and chilling read. I’m a big fan of paranormal fiction and Heather Miller’s book did not disappoint. I especially loved how “atmospheric” the book was, which is one of the book’s strengths. Another thing which I enjoyed a lot was the time of the year the story takes place. I thought that worked well with a storyline imbued with nostalgia. All in all, a creative and chilling tale that should keep you up late at night...with the lights on!
Jeffrey Miller, The Hatchet Man
Jeffrey Miller, The Hatchet Man
July 8, 2021
Millie lives alone in the family home she grew up in.
Since her children left and she wound up on a night schedule, strange things began happening in the house.
Shadowy figures, strange knocking sounds, footsteps and even doors opening and closing on their own make her feel unsafe and scared.
It isn't until Millie's daughter calls in a group of paranormal investigators that they find out who's haunting the old house.
Knock Knock is a great and emotional debut by Heather Miller who was nice enough to send me a signed copy.
I absolutely adored Miller and really liked the big haunted house vibes as her side of the story was told. The descriptive writing really brought the setting and creepy occurrences to life.
This was more of an emotional type ghost story with a great ending that I really liked. I also loved the paranormal investigators notes being included at the end. It added a really cool touch to top off the story.
I'm excited to read more of Heather's work in the future!
Since her children left and she wound up on a night schedule, strange things began happening in the house.
Shadowy figures, strange knocking sounds, footsteps and even doors opening and closing on their own make her feel unsafe and scared.
It isn't until Millie's daughter calls in a group of paranormal investigators that they find out who's haunting the old house.
Knock Knock is a great and emotional debut by Heather Miller who was nice enough to send me a signed copy.
I absolutely adored Miller and really liked the big haunted house vibes as her side of the story was told. The descriptive writing really brought the setting and creepy occurrences to life.
This was more of an emotional type ghost story with a great ending that I really liked. I also loved the paranormal investigators notes being included at the end. It added a really cool touch to top off the story.
I'm excited to read more of Heather's work in the future!
September 3, 2021
A spell-binding story about a family who exist in their own lonely worlds, haunted by memories of better days. Miller's descriptions and characters are easily believable and loveable and the house looms over them, bringing a mixture of comfort and fear in its wake.
August 7, 2022
I loved this book!! A good old fashioned ghost story with a sad twist. And boy did this book tug at my heart strings. It was fast paced but still impactful and didn’t leave you feeling cheated or like the story was too rushed. I would definitely recommend this one if you’re looking for a quick, ghostly read!
January 17, 2023
I loved this book so much. A genuinely good ghost story and a very quick read.
June 19, 2024
This is such an awesome ghost/haunting mystery story. I enjoyed the authors writing and found it to be a fun and spooky read! It has a very unique storyline and there’s even some heartwarming family drama wrapped into this as well.
The ending was great and tied it all together! It’s a short and fast read and I didn’t want to put it down until I read it all!
The ending was great and tied it all together! It’s a short and fast read and I didn’t want to put it down until I read it all!
August 5, 2022
This is an excellent modern ghost story. Beautifully written and the story kept me hooked. I did see where it was going towards the end but that did not change how I felt about it. Cannot wait to read more books by Heather!
December 23, 2021
Good story.
June 23, 2022
Il prologo rovina tutto, perchè spoilera praticamente l'intera trama.
Terribilmente prevedibile, ben prima di metà avevo capito dove andasse a parare, ma ho dovuto comunque leggere di come quella vecchietta maltrattasse i propri figli, soprattutto la figlia.
No grazie.
Terribilmente prevedibile, ben prima di metà avevo capito dove andasse a parare, ma ho dovuto comunque leggere di come quella vecchietta maltrattasse i propri figli, soprattutto la figlia.
No grazie.
August 3, 2021
Sometimes Ghosts Are Real
A page turning novella about the ghosts all families carry around, real and imagined. If you're a fan of movies like The Others and books with paranormal investigators, you'll enjoy this, but for me what sets it apart are the unseen ghosts we each have in our lives and how they effect our relationships. This is the heart of this novella.
A page turning novella about the ghosts all families carry around, real and imagined. If you're a fan of movies like The Others and books with paranormal investigators, you'll enjoy this, but for me what sets it apart are the unseen ghosts we each have in our lives and how they effect our relationships. This is the heart of this novella.
December 31, 2021
Miller packs a punch!
This is my first book of Miller's, and I'm pretty sure her first published as well, and it's a debut to jump on. Miller's writing is impeccable. The woman can write and the ride we go on is easy to follow and heart wrenching at times. Honestly, I just love her spin on a relatively popular genre. Her prose is beautiful, the characters are fleshed out, and their motivations are relatable. I love character over plot, but I don't think either is lacking in this novella. From Millie to Mitch, I wanted to know more about them immediately and was eager to follow along their journey.
Basically, if you haven't read this, go for it. Miller can only get better from here.
This is my first book of Miller's, and I'm pretty sure her first published as well, and it's a debut to jump on. Miller's writing is impeccable. The woman can write and the ride we go on is easy to follow and heart wrenching at times. Honestly, I just love her spin on a relatively popular genre. Her prose is beautiful, the characters are fleshed out, and their motivations are relatable. I love character over plot, but I don't think either is lacking in this novella. From Millie to Mitch, I wanted to know more about them immediately and was eager to follow along their journey.
Basically, if you haven't read this, go for it. Miller can only get better from here.
Read
July 20, 2021A lonely widow lives in a big, old house atop a hill outside of town, a house suspected as haunted. Certainly, the aging matriarch is haunted, and not only by longing for her departed loved ones and for her estranged, grown children. Her house seems to develop an unknown agenda of its own, with a persnickety furnace and lights that turn on of their own volition. Most frightening of all, though, are they knocks that resound at the strangest times, causing the widow to retreat.
At its heart, “Knock Knock” by Heather Miller is an exploration of family love. Though estranged from her own children, the protagonist, Millie, exudes care for her grown son and daughter. Family can be difficult, indeed. The book has an interesting premise, reads easily (though my print version’s small font gave my myopic eyes trouble), and provokes thought.
Fans of classic ghost stories such as “The Haunting of Hill House” or “The Others” will enjoy this book.
At its heart, “Knock Knock” by Heather Miller is an exploration of family love. Though estranged from her own children, the protagonist, Millie, exudes care for her grown son and daughter. Family can be difficult, indeed. The book has an interesting premise, reads easily (though my print version’s small font gave my myopic eyes trouble), and provokes thought.
Fans of classic ghost stories such as “The Haunting of Hill House” or “The Others” will enjoy this book.
October 7, 2021
I have had this book for several months now. I was debating reading it because its not my preferred genre. But seeing as I am related to the author (by marriage) and its the spooky time of year, I thought I might give it a go.
The story is one of love, loss and disfunction. Millie Carver lives alone in the house she grew up in and raised her own children in. She starts to hear things, voices, music and knocking. Shadowy figures and lights coming on by themselves, even items being moved about her house. Is she losing it, or is the house haunted?
Millie and her husband Arthur had two children, Mitch and Suzanne. Her relationship with her kids was strained. Mitch went off to be a busy doctor and Suzanne was just a huge disappointment. No grandchildren, no one to leave a legacy. As a mother, I think this is one of all our fears. That our kids will grow up and never have a relationship with us. I know that I myself have a strained relationship with my own mother, a result of the same thing that happened to Suzanne in the book (you'll have to read it to find out what I'm talking about). But I could also feel the love between Millie and Arthur. I feel very much like that with my own husband and have often wondered what I will be like if he's goes first. The thoughts of being without him are often too much for me to handle.
When Millie's daughter calls in a local paranormal research team they aren't sure if or what they'll find in this big, old house. And yet they do find something. More than Suzanne was ready for, I think. Without giving too much away, I figured out part of the ending. But was surprised by the final ending for sure. I felt sad in a way with how it ended. I did like the paranormal notes at the end, a neat way of tying things up.
All in all its a good read for the spooky season. Its a novella so its a quick read, I was able to read it in one sitting. If you enjoy the paranormal, ghost stories and surprise endings then this book is surely one you should pick up.
The story is one of love, loss and disfunction. Millie Carver lives alone in the house she grew up in and raised her own children in. She starts to hear things, voices, music and knocking. Shadowy figures and lights coming on by themselves, even items being moved about her house. Is she losing it, or is the house haunted?
Millie and her husband Arthur had two children, Mitch and Suzanne. Her relationship with her kids was strained. Mitch went off to be a busy doctor and Suzanne was just a huge disappointment. No grandchildren, no one to leave a legacy. As a mother, I think this is one of all our fears. That our kids will grow up and never have a relationship with us. I know that I myself have a strained relationship with my own mother, a result of the same thing that happened to Suzanne in the book (you'll have to read it to find out what I'm talking about). But I could also feel the love between Millie and Arthur. I feel very much like that with my own husband and have often wondered what I will be like if he's goes first. The thoughts of being without him are often too much for me to handle.
When Millie's daughter calls in a local paranormal research team they aren't sure if or what they'll find in this big, old house. And yet they do find something. More than Suzanne was ready for, I think. Without giving too much away, I figured out part of the ending. But was surprised by the final ending for sure. I felt sad in a way with how it ended. I did like the paranormal notes at the end, a neat way of tying things up.
All in all its a good read for the spooky season. Its a novella so its a quick read, I was able to read it in one sitting. If you enjoy the paranormal, ghost stories and surprise endings then this book is surely one you should pick up.
July 10, 2021
A slow story that threads it's needle with acute precision, Heather Miller weaves a haunted house story and a story of family and how they dissolve with age. Catching tones of subtle gothic horrors, Miller shines in her debut.
The story lasts with you. Taking the view an elderly mother and then her children, we see that soft divide that comes between generations. We see a bittersweet tale that unfolds before us.
The story is done fantastically well. Not to give anything away, but there were moments where I related and recognized things that were happening and it broke my heart. Well plotted, evenly paced, we're given way to family drama moreso than haunts. But the haunts soon give way to be as much a part of that drama than let on.
I will say, the only reasons for the 4 stars was because I felt there was a bit more needed. Especially for one of the characters at the end to really be rounded out. Maybe that's on me wanting more from the book because I didn't want it to end, or because I felt the impact would've been all the greater had we had more. But all the same it's a strong debut, and I look forward to seeing more from Heather Miller
The story lasts with you. Taking the view an elderly mother and then her children, we see that soft divide that comes between generations. We see a bittersweet tale that unfolds before us.
The story is done fantastically well. Not to give anything away, but there were moments where I related and recognized things that were happening and it broke my heart. Well plotted, evenly paced, we're given way to family drama moreso than haunts. But the haunts soon give way to be as much a part of that drama than let on.
I will say, the only reasons for the 4 stars was because I felt there was a bit more needed. Especially for one of the characters at the end to really be rounded out. Maybe that's on me wanting more from the book because I didn't want it to end, or because I felt the impact would've been all the greater had we had more. But all the same it's a strong debut, and I look forward to seeing more from Heather Miller
September 6, 2021
Heather Miller’s debut Knock, Knock was the perfect read as autumn begins to decend. It’s a great read at any time of the year, but it hit a chord with me during this fall season. With overtones of an ancient (haunted) house, paranormal investigators, shadowy figures, disembodied voices, the history (and secrets) of the Carver family, and the “knock-knock”-ing of the title, that and more; you have all the makings of a spooky-creepy read. I loved it. The way Heather writes keeps the action and story moving along for a fast-paced read. Love her description as well; she paints beautiful images. Loved her story, and I’m sure you will too; it’s perfect for anyone wanting a haunting read.
December 20, 2021
There's a good premise to the book, a spooky atmosphere, a good enough hook at the beginning.
However, some things turned me off right from the start - for instance, in the prologue there's a lot of head-hopping so I got lost in POV. Then in Chapters 2 and 3 there is a big chunk of backstory/info-dump which made me disinterested in what would happen next.
Still, I like the writing style and the Gothic ambience.
However, some things turned me off right from the start - for instance, in the prologue there's a lot of head-hopping so I got lost in POV. Then in Chapters 2 and 3 there is a big chunk of backstory/info-dump which made me disinterested in what would happen next.
Still, I like the writing style and the Gothic ambience.
November 25, 2022
Fans of Darcey Coates, Jennifer McMahon, and Felix Blackwell - rejoice - another cozy horror is about to grace your bookshelves, chill your spine, and warm your heart.
Knock Knock by Heather Miller introduces readers to a small cast of characters in early chapters sprinkled with suspense and strange happenings. Opening with a paranormal investigation is a creative touch which has readers questioning every bump in the night from the first page.
Miller leads the reader to believe one truth about the characters and their unsettling situation. My mind was made up about the course of this ghost tale. However, after turning a few more pages, all those notions were tossed out. The careful plotting, unusual events, and true to character actions orchestrated by Miller flipped the script in a pleasant way.
By the end of the novella, clever use of circumstances result in a hair raising and satisfying conclusion. While not quite Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House - Miller’s freshman novella serves as an inviting entry into her other fiction.
Knock Knock by Heather Miller is available on Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Knock-Heather-...
Heather Miller writes old-fashioned horror, influenced by old Gothic stories she grew up reading, and terrifying tales heard at her grandmother’s knee. She dreams of long candlelit passages and things that go bump in the night.
Her first novella, KNOCK KNOCK, released in 2021. Her second book, TALES MY GRANDMOTHER TOLD ME, arrived in 2022. Miller has penned short stories and poetry featured in various magazines and anthologies.
She lives in a century-old house (likely haunted) in a tiny town in Oklahoma. Find her online at https://heathermillerhorror.com
Knock Knock by Heather Miller introduces readers to a small cast of characters in early chapters sprinkled with suspense and strange happenings. Opening with a paranormal investigation is a creative touch which has readers questioning every bump in the night from the first page.
Miller leads the reader to believe one truth about the characters and their unsettling situation. My mind was made up about the course of this ghost tale. However, after turning a few more pages, all those notions were tossed out. The careful plotting, unusual events, and true to character actions orchestrated by Miller flipped the script in a pleasant way.
By the end of the novella, clever use of circumstances result in a hair raising and satisfying conclusion. While not quite Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House - Miller’s freshman novella serves as an inviting entry into her other fiction.
Knock Knock by Heather Miller is available on Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Knock-Heather-...
Heather Miller writes old-fashioned horror, influenced by old Gothic stories she grew up reading, and terrifying tales heard at her grandmother’s knee. She dreams of long candlelit passages and things that go bump in the night.
Her first novella, KNOCK KNOCK, released in 2021. Her second book, TALES MY GRANDMOTHER TOLD ME, arrived in 2022. Miller has penned short stories and poetry featured in various magazines and anthologies.
She lives in a century-old house (likely haunted) in a tiny town in Oklahoma. Find her online at https://heathermillerhorror.com
October 5, 2022
Clear your calendar for the day and get comfortable, you won’t want to put this one down. I didn’t. I read it straight through. As in, “Shh! Not now!” phone-on-silent read it straight through.
Knock Knock is enthralling, and Heather Miller’s writing is amazing.
I’m going to come right out and admit this story had me creeped out from the beginning. Not scared creeped out, heebie-jeebies creeped out. Heather Miller and Knock Knock get under your skin and into your mind before you know it. Miller’s writing is flowing and evocative, and it effortlessly pulls you deeper into the story, both in spite of and because of the pervading dread and suspense. Dear God, what is happening to this poor old lady?
Miller’s characters live and breathe and become real. I was especially moved by Millie, frustrated by and with Suzanne, and terribly exasperated by Mitch. But the truly brilliant thing is how the character perspectives on events past and present vary in such a profoundly realistic way—and that is also an important aspect of the story, so pay attention.
As everything began to come together, I found myself even more creeped out; the implications are chilling. The pace quickens as you near the story’s incredible climax, and the conclusion definitively reveals the answer to any question you may still have.
Knock Knock checks all the boxes for a fantastic creepy read: supernatural horror, psychological horror, the perfect amount of character driven aspect, and engaging, entertaining characters. It’s a lot of story in a novella-sized package, an incredible read. This is a shelf-worthy, enthralling, and haunting tale, and I highly recommend it.
Knock Knock is enthralling, and Heather Miller’s writing is amazing.
I’m going to come right out and admit this story had me creeped out from the beginning. Not scared creeped out, heebie-jeebies creeped out. Heather Miller and Knock Knock get under your skin and into your mind before you know it. Miller’s writing is flowing and evocative, and it effortlessly pulls you deeper into the story, both in spite of and because of the pervading dread and suspense. Dear God, what is happening to this poor old lady?
Miller’s characters live and breathe and become real. I was especially moved by Millie, frustrated by and with Suzanne, and terribly exasperated by Mitch. But the truly brilliant thing is how the character perspectives on events past and present vary in such a profoundly realistic way—and that is also an important aspect of the story, so pay attention.
As everything began to come together, I found myself even more creeped out; the implications are chilling. The pace quickens as you near the story’s incredible climax, and the conclusion definitively reveals the answer to any question you may still have.
Knock Knock checks all the boxes for a fantastic creepy read: supernatural horror, psychological horror, the perfect amount of character driven aspect, and engaging, entertaining characters. It’s a lot of story in a novella-sized package, an incredible read. This is a shelf-worthy, enthralling, and haunting tale, and I highly recommend it.
February 24, 2022
Spoiler free.
Outside of my own novel, I had never read a book in digital format. And then just this week, I've read two. In both cases, the wonderful stories kept me glued to my computer screen and overrode any prejudice I had towards the e-book format. So kudos to you Heather! Your story and writing were so good, I greedily enjoyed every word in a foreign medium.
Knock Knock somehow manages to feel both nostalgic and modern. At its heart, I would call this a ghost story. It is one that can be enjoyed at any age. Heather builds a thick, tension filled atmosphere. Her prose is clean and masterful. There was no need for anything gory or explicit. And in a world where horror is often just that, this was a nice change of pace.
As an author, I was in awe of how skillfully Heather balances a multitude of characters. Whether it was in dialogue, or jumping between character scenes, I was never left feeling confused or struggling to keep track of events.
And probably what I loved most about this work, is how Heather incorporates documentation by a paranormal research team. I always felt King does this well, working in news articles and such that enrich the core story. It's no different here and it adds a different layer of fun to an already enjoyable experience.
Knock Knock is satisfyingly spooky! Well done.
Outside of my own novel, I had never read a book in digital format. And then just this week, I've read two. In both cases, the wonderful stories kept me glued to my computer screen and overrode any prejudice I had towards the e-book format. So kudos to you Heather! Your story and writing were so good, I greedily enjoyed every word in a foreign medium.
Knock Knock somehow manages to feel both nostalgic and modern. At its heart, I would call this a ghost story. It is one that can be enjoyed at any age. Heather builds a thick, tension filled atmosphere. Her prose is clean and masterful. There was no need for anything gory or explicit. And in a world where horror is often just that, this was a nice change of pace.
As an author, I was in awe of how skillfully Heather balances a multitude of characters. Whether it was in dialogue, or jumping between character scenes, I was never left feeling confused or struggling to keep track of events.
And probably what I loved most about this work, is how Heather incorporates documentation by a paranormal research team. I always felt King does this well, working in news articles and such that enrich the core story. It's no different here and it adds a different layer of fun to an already enjoyable experience.
Knock Knock is satisfyingly spooky! Well done.
June 10, 2022
Knock, knock.
Her house was haunted.
So one of the central protagonists realizes in this poignant and unique novella by emerging speculative author Heather Miller. But haunted by whom, or what? The story, told from multiple perspectives, deftly explores the fractures and attachments of one family, and how a single house binds them. The characterization is strong, particularly Millie - the old woman who seems to exist in a between place of house, memory, regret, and longing. Miller has done something difficult here - taken an old trope and reshaped and enriched it with tantalizing original ideas that suggest an afterlife which could be simultaneously hopeful, frightening, mundane, and content. She achieves a substantial emotional impact in very few pages. A strong debut effort - expect much more excellent work from this author!
Her house was haunted.
So one of the central protagonists realizes in this poignant and unique novella by emerging speculative author Heather Miller. But haunted by whom, or what? The story, told from multiple perspectives, deftly explores the fractures and attachments of one family, and how a single house binds them. The characterization is strong, particularly Millie - the old woman who seems to exist in a between place of house, memory, regret, and longing. Miller has done something difficult here - taken an old trope and reshaped and enriched it with tantalizing original ideas that suggest an afterlife which could be simultaneously hopeful, frightening, mundane, and content. She achieves a substantial emotional impact in very few pages. A strong debut effort - expect much more excellent work from this author!
October 22, 2022
An excellent read. It was fast paced, fun and creepy all wrapped together. The gothic vibes this story exuded was done exceptionally well; I really connected with Millie as a character and enjoyed going on the journey I did with her. I felt this story really pulls you into the setting and makes you feel like you're experiencing everything as Millie or the paranormal team does. I was not expecting it to go into the emotional route, but there are no complaints here. The segments with the paranormal investigators was well introduced and executed as well; normally, segments like this are filler, but this was done well. Miller delivers a beautifully written story that needs to be enjoyed by those who are fans of ghost stories, haunted houses and gothic tales. No spoilers here but that twist...my God.
January 28, 2023
Having recently stumbled upon this authors Instagram page and then finding her facebook page, which I believe she is way too personal on and rude to followers who dont seem “real” to her, I sought out the books she has published thus far. Ive already read her Tales My Grandmother Told Me and figured I might try out his book.
This book is your run of the mill ghost story. The prologue is a little clunky and you get a little lost with all the POV hopping. The next few chapters have a lot of backstory info that was kind of boring. I figured out the “twist” early on and wasnt too impressed. This author seems to think herself kin to Shirley Jackson as this story was very much like her writing. Overall, this one is a miss for me.
This book is your run of the mill ghost story. The prologue is a little clunky and you get a little lost with all the POV hopping. The next few chapters have a lot of backstory info that was kind of boring. I figured out the “twist” early on and wasnt too impressed. This author seems to think herself kin to Shirley Jackson as this story was very much like her writing. Overall, this one is a miss for me.
June 20, 2022
This is a cozy ghost story, perfect for people who like a good scare without the extremes in a lot of current horror fiction. Heather Miller is a fabulous writer, expertly setting scenes that are easy to visualize. I like that she keeps us guessing for so long! You think you know what's happening, but then she throws in a new detail that makes you back up and wonder if you're wrong. Great book for anyone who loves psychological thrillers and ghost stories!
July 29, 2022
This story was great. I was not the least bit ready for the emotional responses that it illicited from me as Heather touches on what some people may find a difficult subject. This is not my preferred genre of story either, so when I tell you I highly recommend you read this, I'm not kidding. This was one of the most well written stories I've read in a while. The ending had a fantastic twist that I didn't see coming, but really made me smile. This really is a must read.
December 19, 2022
Knock Knock offers a fun twist on ghost stories and the nature of ghosts part dysfunctional family story, part horror, part paranormal investigation and all a "you won't see time go by" kind of quick read.
The interesting structure really allows Miller's ability to give multiple characters a unique voice to really shine. The main characters are all heartbreaking and endearing in a way that makes them feel real and the dysfunctional family dynamic seemed all too plausible.
The interesting structure really allows Miller's ability to give multiple characters a unique voice to really shine. The main characters are all heartbreaking and endearing in a way that makes them feel real and the dysfunctional family dynamic seemed all too plausible.
November 11, 2024
Having grown up in a region of Oklahoma very close to the author, I was totally absorbed by the atmosphere of this book. Each story was like revisiting home, like receiving a warm hug and a whispered tale in my ear by my own Grammy. But there are chills here. Chills in abundance. If you love a old fashioned spooky tale brewed with a side cup of rural folklore, then look no further.
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