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Wise Creatures
I always thought that hauntings began with houses. They don't, of course.
It's people, isn't it? It starts with people.
Former child psychic Daisy hasn't thought about her past for a long time. She was only six, after all. The 'wise creatures' in the walls of the house, whispering secrets to her, are long gone. Her parents, dead in a mysterious accident, are forgotten. Some surfaces are better left unscratched. Daisy has left those things behind.
And now, ten years on, she has a happy, normal life. But she does wonder, sometimes, about the blank spaces in her memories. The fear when she encounters certain textures, scents. It can be hard to feel safe in a world that's full of fears you can't explain. Thank God for Nina, her trusting, sweet foster sister and best friend. So when something seems to upturn in Nina's life Daisy is shaken. Nina has some secret she is guarding, that she won't share with Daisy. And then Nina begins to speak of murmurs in the walls, of cold spots. She claims it isn't her. It's something else. A malevolent force.
And Daisy knows that something's up. And that the wise creatures, locked away for so long, are back. And this time they want both Nina, and Daisy ...
It's people, isn't it? It starts with people.
Former child psychic Daisy hasn't thought about her past for a long time. She was only six, after all. The 'wise creatures' in the walls of the house, whispering secrets to her, are long gone. Her parents, dead in a mysterious accident, are forgotten. Some surfaces are better left unscratched. Daisy has left those things behind.
And now, ten years on, she has a happy, normal life. But she does wonder, sometimes, about the blank spaces in her memories. The fear when she encounters certain textures, scents. It can be hard to feel safe in a world that's full of fears you can't explain. Thank God for Nina, her trusting, sweet foster sister and best friend. So when something seems to upturn in Nina's life Daisy is shaken. Nina has some secret she is guarding, that she won't share with Daisy. And then Nina begins to speak of murmurs in the walls, of cold spots. She claims it isn't her. It's something else. A malevolent force.
And Daisy knows that something's up. And that the wise creatures, locked away for so long, are back. And this time they want both Nina, and Daisy ...
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2023
7 people are currently reading
581 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
October 17, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Insta Book Tours.
Wise Creatures is the first book by Deirdre Sullivan that I've had the pleasure to read, and I can't wait to go through her back list of books after reading this one!
We follow Daisy, who lives with her aunt and cousin Nina, and refers to herself as her cousins sister. We get snippets of Daisy's life before she went to live with them as a young child, and these cleverly woven snippets keep you hooked. Daisy had a unique ability as a child, which she shut off within herself but seems to be clawing its way to the surface again after Nina begins acting strangely and claims the house is haunted. There were a few twists in this book I didn't see coming, and when they happened, it opened my eyes to a different viewpoint and understanding of both Daisy and Nina.
This is such a creepy read that had me slinking deeper under the covers and jumping at any noise. The way the book is written is very unique, and I've never read one set out like this before. This is the perfect read for spooky season, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves spooky, creepy, or dark haunting reads.
Wise Creatures is the first book by Deirdre Sullivan that I've had the pleasure to read, and I can't wait to go through her back list of books after reading this one!
We follow Daisy, who lives with her aunt and cousin Nina, and refers to herself as her cousins sister. We get snippets of Daisy's life before she went to live with them as a young child, and these cleverly woven snippets keep you hooked. Daisy had a unique ability as a child, which she shut off within herself but seems to be clawing its way to the surface again after Nina begins acting strangely and claims the house is haunted. There were a few twists in this book I didn't see coming, and when they happened, it opened my eyes to a different viewpoint and understanding of both Daisy and Nina.
This is such a creepy read that had me slinking deeper under the covers and jumping at any noise. The way the book is written is very unique, and I've never read one set out like this before. This is the perfect read for spooky season, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves spooky, creepy, or dark haunting reads.
October 11, 2023
This was good, I enjoyed the Irish setting and the more poetic style of writing. I liked that the story slowly unravels itself, letting you piece together what happened in Daisy's past, and how events might repeat in the future.
However while this was a really interesting paranormal mystery, I felt like I was missing some pieces towards the end and felt that this really needs a sequel to wrap the story up better. I really liked the bond between Daisy and Nina, so the ending was a little disappointing for me.
However while this was a really interesting paranormal mystery, I felt like I was missing some pieces towards the end and felt that this really needs a sequel to wrap the story up better. I really liked the bond between Daisy and Nina, so the ending was a little disappointing for me.
September 18, 2023
— 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 —
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Wise Creatures
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: N/A
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): Deirdre Sullivan
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: YA Horror
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭: Physical Book
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: 28th September 2023
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝: 13th September 2023
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★
”People surprise you in bad ways and then you think never again. I never want to feel like this again. But instead of making you stronger, it kind of makes you more frightened.”
This is the most spooktacular book to read during the autumn season (and all year round if you are a horror fan like me). Wise Creatures was an impeccably creepy account of a haunting and what happens if it’s the person you love who is haunted.
The word ‘haunted’ can be interpreted in two ways: firstly in an acutely physical sense, where there are ghosts doing the tormenting, but also in an emotional manner by a person experiencing the after effects of trauma. Deirdre Sullivan takes the word ‘haunted’ and powerfully applies all its interpretations to this young adult horror in a bid to make readers fearful, and almost reverential of the main character.
Our main character, Daisy, is a teenage Irish bisexual psychic, to sum up the basics. I mention the bisexuality not because this book has romance as romance is only implied very tentatively, but because I genuinely enjoyed the representation. A lot of YA’s explore the angst with discovering sexuality in coming-of-age novels but this is simply a non-negotiable fact about the main character and it was refreshing. It was nice for diversity to be acknowledged and yet to avoid melodrama in order to focus on the chilling horror elements of the story.
There is also non-binary representation in one of the side characters, Megan, which is explored a little bit more emotionally but ultimately the non-binary arc is sacrificed for the arc of the main character. I love the inclusion and there is warm reassurance and validation stemming from the main character to the side character, but in essence, it’s not Megan’s story.
One of the main thematic explorations is the dysfunctional family dynamics with Daisy living with her aunt and cousin, who feels close enough for her to consider them as her mother and her sister in their roles, but was consistently reminded of being the cuckoo in the nest. This was displayed through tender scenes of support, tense scenes of exasperation, and eye watering scenes of desperation. But this dysfunctional dynamic was also laid bare with the intrusive thoughts that plague the main character throughout the novel. I found it intriguing that it was almost impossible to work out what was an intrusive thought, and what was a psychic thought.
I loved the dark and unapologetic Irish humour overlaying the severity of the hauntings. I loved that the chapters were short and easily put me on edge. I loved the mirror scene which had me internally screaming. I really loved being haunted by this novel.
—Kayleigh🤍
♡Booksta
♡Twitter
♡Threads
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Wise Creatures
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: N/A
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): Deirdre Sullivan
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: YA Horror
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭: Physical Book
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: 28th September 2023
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝: 13th September 2023
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★
”People surprise you in bad ways and then you think never again. I never want to feel like this again. But instead of making you stronger, it kind of makes you more frightened.”
This is the most spooktacular book to read during the autumn season (and all year round if you are a horror fan like me). Wise Creatures was an impeccably creepy account of a haunting and what happens if it’s the person you love who is haunted.
The word ‘haunted’ can be interpreted in two ways: firstly in an acutely physical sense, where there are ghosts doing the tormenting, but also in an emotional manner by a person experiencing the after effects of trauma. Deirdre Sullivan takes the word ‘haunted’ and powerfully applies all its interpretations to this young adult horror in a bid to make readers fearful, and almost reverential of the main character.
Our main character, Daisy, is a teenage Irish bisexual psychic, to sum up the basics. I mention the bisexuality not because this book has romance as romance is only implied very tentatively, but because I genuinely enjoyed the representation. A lot of YA’s explore the angst with discovering sexuality in coming-of-age novels but this is simply a non-negotiable fact about the main character and it was refreshing. It was nice for diversity to be acknowledged and yet to avoid melodrama in order to focus on the chilling horror elements of the story.
There is also non-binary representation in one of the side characters, Megan, which is explored a little bit more emotionally but ultimately the non-binary arc is sacrificed for the arc of the main character. I love the inclusion and there is warm reassurance and validation stemming from the main character to the side character, but in essence, it’s not Megan’s story.
One of the main thematic explorations is the dysfunctional family dynamics with Daisy living with her aunt and cousin, who feels close enough for her to consider them as her mother and her sister in their roles, but was consistently reminded of being the cuckoo in the nest. This was displayed through tender scenes of support, tense scenes of exasperation, and eye watering scenes of desperation. But this dysfunctional dynamic was also laid bare with the intrusive thoughts that plague the main character throughout the novel. I found it intriguing that it was almost impossible to work out what was an intrusive thought, and what was a psychic thought.
I loved the dark and unapologetic Irish humour overlaying the severity of the hauntings. I loved that the chapters were short and easily put me on edge. I loved the mirror scene which had me internally screaming. I really loved being haunted by this novel.
—Kayleigh🤍
♡Booksta
♡Threads
April 8, 2024
Review:
3.5 stars ⭐️
'𝕀 𝕒𝕝𝕨𝕒𝕪𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕙𝕒𝕦𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤 𝕓𝕖𝕘𝕒𝕟 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕤𝕖𝕤. 𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕠𝕗 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕤𝕖. 𝕀𝕥'𝕤 𝕡𝕖𝕠𝕡𝕝𝕖, 𝕚𝕤𝕟'𝕥 𝕚𝕥. 𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕓𝕖𝕘𝕚𝕟 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕡𝕖𝕠𝕡𝕝𝕖.'
Wise Creatures is unlike anything I have ever read before. The authors writing style was unique.The way the book was formatted caught my attention the moment I opened the book.
I won't say too much other than that this was a spooky and eerie read. Although I didn't read it this month, it's perfect to read in October.
The book kept me intrigued and entertained. There were times I gasped, times I got annoyed and times that I was curious to where the author was taking this book.
What I'm also trying to convey is that, yes, I did enjoy this book, but it also isn't a book that I'm going to think about often. It's not life changing. A good pallet cleanser, though!
So I do recommend this if you want a quick, short, weird (in a good way) read.
3.5 stars ⭐️
'𝕀 𝕒𝕝𝕨𝕒𝕪𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕙𝕒𝕦𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤 𝕓𝕖𝕘𝕒𝕟 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕤𝕖𝕤. 𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕠𝕗 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕤𝕖. 𝕀𝕥'𝕤 𝕡𝕖𝕠𝕡𝕝𝕖, 𝕚𝕤𝕟'𝕥 𝕚𝕥. 𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕓𝕖𝕘𝕚𝕟 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕡𝕖𝕠𝕡𝕝𝕖.'
Wise Creatures is unlike anything I have ever read before. The authors writing style was unique.The way the book was formatted caught my attention the moment I opened the book.
I won't say too much other than that this was a spooky and eerie read. Although I didn't read it this month, it's perfect to read in October.
The book kept me intrigued and entertained. There were times I gasped, times I got annoyed and times that I was curious to where the author was taking this book.
What I'm also trying to convey is that, yes, I did enjoy this book, but it also isn't a book that I'm going to think about often. It's not life changing. A good pallet cleanser, though!
So I do recommend this if you want a quick, short, weird (in a good way) read.
November 4, 2023
A story about a haunting like you have never experienced before. This book explores the way people are haunted and carry that with them, infecting others as well as infecting places.
Such a beautifully written book full of pain, love and grief.
Daisy moves in with her aunt Susan and cousin Nina after losing her parents. It is a new life and a new world for her as she is still carrying all the weight of this huge loss.
She seems to be adapting to this new life and has found a new sister in Nina. However, this will start to crumble when Nina gets sick and claims that she is haunted.
Deidre always manages to create such rich characters and has an undeniable talent to write about grief and the darkest corners of life.
Not your typical haunting story but one that will definitely stay with you.
Such a beautifully written book full of pain, love and grief.
Daisy moves in with her aunt Susan and cousin Nina after losing her parents. It is a new life and a new world for her as she is still carrying all the weight of this huge loss.
She seems to be adapting to this new life and has found a new sister in Nina. However, this will start to crumble when Nina gets sick and claims that she is haunted.
Deidre always manages to create such rich characters and has an undeniable talent to write about grief and the darkest corners of life.
Not your typical haunting story but one that will definitely stay with you.
October 4, 2023
This one has such the Halloween, spooky and creepy feel to it—it was a uniquely written one for me, and one like I've never read before. It took me a little at first to get into it, but then it had me...
Daisy and Nina's journey's are just—well they go through a lot, and it's just a big cauldron of mess and upheaval. I just very much enjoyed the atmosphere of this one, as it just felt like being sat, reading but like that loom of haunting over you.
It was one I paced myself with, but I'd say it is a quick read. A definite good shout to ring in Autumn! 🍁🖤
Daisy and Nina's journey's are just—well they go through a lot, and it's just a big cauldron of mess and upheaval. I just very much enjoyed the atmosphere of this one, as it just felt like being sat, reading but like that loom of haunting over you.
It was one I paced myself with, but I'd say it is a quick read. A definite good shout to ring in Autumn! 🍁🖤
July 25, 2023
A spiralling, claustrophobic narrative, imbued with all the slow inevitable horror of being sucked into a tarpit. The growing sense of wrongness and increasing paranoia make you question your interpretation of every word and gesture right to the very end. I still don’t know if I’m sorry for the protagonist or terrified of her. Possibly both. Definitely both. Maybe.
Deirdre Sullivan serves up her usual deft portrayal of modern Irish teenhood here, and her usual laugh out loud witty dialogue - but this modern wit and brightness is glazed over a deep, domestic and personal horror like toffee on a rotten Halloween apple. Bite in and you’re infected.
In anyone else’s hands the circular and interior nature of the narrative could have been repetitive, but Sullivan deftly keeps ramping up the personal stakes for the protagonist and the subtle horrors surrounding her until you can’t breath for tension. By the end you’ve no clear idea of what’s been lost or what’s been won, or even who the protagonist is anymore - something that is all the more unsettling for the fact that you find yourself so deeply planted within her untrustworthy and troubled mind.
Highly recommended.
Deirdre Sullivan serves up her usual deft portrayal of modern Irish teenhood here, and her usual laugh out loud witty dialogue - but this modern wit and brightness is glazed over a deep, domestic and personal horror like toffee on a rotten Halloween apple. Bite in and you’re infected.
In anyone else’s hands the circular and interior nature of the narrative could have been repetitive, but Sullivan deftly keeps ramping up the personal stakes for the protagonist and the subtle horrors surrounding her until you can’t breath for tension. By the end you’ve no clear idea of what’s been lost or what’s been won, or even who the protagonist is anymore - something that is all the more unsettling for the fact that you find yourself so deeply planted within her untrustworthy and troubled mind.
Highly recommended.
December 3, 2023
Slightly different from the other YA novels I have read from Deirdre Sullivan, yet she always manages to deliver an story that tackles those issues that are covered by a veil of silence and hidden away. Though at times the storyline felt a bit messy, and the ending made me a little bit sad, the novel is very engaging and Sullivan did a fantastic job in depicting an eerie atmosphere that really characterises Daisy's story.
October 2, 2024
this book will be rotating in my mind for a long time.
the language was interesting: it was a bit more informal than I generally like, with lots of short sentences and stream of consciousness style remarks. however, I really got into it as I went, and there were sudden moments of shock and beauty within the writing, which I loved.
I have read and loved several of Sullivan's books before, so I knew exactly the kind of freaky I was getting myself into. while the first half of the book was as chilling and mesmerising as I hoped, I found myself getting a bit bored later in the story - particularly with the house stuff. in the end, the last few chapters felt like they came out of nowhere, and the ending wasn't as conclusive as I would have liked.
despite this, the book really did stand up: it was original, and creepy, and full of feeling - a classic Sullivan story.
the language was interesting: it was a bit more informal than I generally like, with lots of short sentences and stream of consciousness style remarks. however, I really got into it as I went, and there were sudden moments of shock and beauty within the writing, which I loved.
I have read and loved several of Sullivan's books before, so I knew exactly the kind of freaky I was getting myself into. while the first half of the book was as chilling and mesmerising as I hoped, I found myself getting a bit bored later in the story - particularly with the house stuff. in the end, the last few chapters felt like they came out of nowhere, and the ending wasn't as conclusive as I would have liked.
despite this, the book really did stand up: it was original, and creepy, and full of feeling - a classic Sullivan story.
August 5, 2023
do you ever read a book and think “this wasn’t bad at all its just me?” like it’s not your cup of tea? cause this is exactly what this book felt like to me.. it was a decent story but i just wasn’t interested & felt really bored :/ also it wasn’t really what i expected it to be (but in a good way) so maybe that’s why i didn’t like it…
October 12, 2023
I don't know if this adult or YA, I know this is an excellent horror with hearbreaking moments and a gripping plot
Well written, great character development and storytelling.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Well written, great character development and storytelling.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
April 16, 2024
To be honest the best part of this book is the cover.
January 7, 2024
This book is gonna live rent-free in my head for a while
November 3, 2023
deirdre sullivan is the most underrated writer in ireland, i said what i said
January 2, 2024
This is a book about a girl, Daisy, who was a child psychic and now lives a relatively normal life with her aunt and her cousin until one day her cousin starts behaving oddly and Daisy begins to suspect she's being haunted.
I really enjoyed the main character and her cousin! Especially their deep bond that made them basically sisters. I love the idea that people are haunted rather than buildings and the horror/paranormal elements were done really well.
There were a few small plot twists that I was expecting and ended up really enjoyed!
The only thing I didn't really enjoy was the ending - I just don't think it was explained enough and I wasn't entirely sure what was going on.
Click here to read more
I really enjoyed the main character and her cousin! Especially their deep bond that made them basically sisters. I love the idea that people are haunted rather than buildings and the horror/paranormal elements were done really well.
There were a few small plot twists that I was expecting and ended up really enjoyed!
The only thing I didn't really enjoy was the ending - I just don't think it was explained enough and I wasn't entirely sure what was going on.
Click here to read more
October 18, 2023
"I always thought that hauntings began with houses. They don't, of course. It's people, isn't it? It starts with people."
- Wise Creatures.
[AD: thanks to Hotkey Books for an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review]
SYNOPSIS:
"Former child psychic Daisy hasn't thought about her past for a long time. She was only six, after all. The 'wise creatures' in the walls of the house, whispering secrets to her, are long gone. Her parents, dead in a mysterious accident, are forgotten. Some surfaces are better left unscratched. Daisy has left those things behind.
And now, ten years on, she has a happy, normal life. But she does wonder, sometimes, about the blank spaces in her memories. The fear when she encounters certain textures, scents. It can be hard to feel safe in a world that's full of fears you can't explain. Thank God for Nina, her trusting, sweet foster sister and best friend. So when something seems to upturn in Nina's life Daisy is shaken. Nina has some secret she is guarding, that she won't share with Daisy. And then Nina begins to speak of murmurs in the walls, of cold spots. She claims it isn't her. It's something else. A malevolent force."
MY THOUGHTS:
👻 The story and the writing are perfectly creepy, exactly what I love in horror.
👻 Sullivan's writing style carries you through this story with a looming feeling of darkness and fear.
👻 Perfect spooky season/autumn read or for any horror fan all year round.
👻 Daisy and Nina are wonderful and complex characters to read, despite the chaos they are going through together, I was gripped to find out what was happening to Nina and consequently Daisy.
👻 This book touches on themes of trauma, and family relationships and please check trigger warnings. Despite being YA, it's a disturbingly dark read.
👻 With twists that made my jaw drop I suggest you go in knowing no more than this!
👻 A unique yet bingeable story which I highly recommend for lovers of horror, hauntings or dark and disturbing reads.
- Wise Creatures.
[AD: thanks to Hotkey Books for an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review]
SYNOPSIS:
"Former child psychic Daisy hasn't thought about her past for a long time. She was only six, after all. The 'wise creatures' in the walls of the house, whispering secrets to her, are long gone. Her parents, dead in a mysterious accident, are forgotten. Some surfaces are better left unscratched. Daisy has left those things behind.
And now, ten years on, she has a happy, normal life. But she does wonder, sometimes, about the blank spaces in her memories. The fear when she encounters certain textures, scents. It can be hard to feel safe in a world that's full of fears you can't explain. Thank God for Nina, her trusting, sweet foster sister and best friend. So when something seems to upturn in Nina's life Daisy is shaken. Nina has some secret she is guarding, that she won't share with Daisy. And then Nina begins to speak of murmurs in the walls, of cold spots. She claims it isn't her. It's something else. A malevolent force."
MY THOUGHTS:
👻 The story and the writing are perfectly creepy, exactly what I love in horror.
👻 Sullivan's writing style carries you through this story with a looming feeling of darkness and fear.
👻 Perfect spooky season/autumn read or for any horror fan all year round.
👻 Daisy and Nina are wonderful and complex characters to read, despite the chaos they are going through together, I was gripped to find out what was happening to Nina and consequently Daisy.
👻 This book touches on themes of trauma, and family relationships and please check trigger warnings. Despite being YA, it's a disturbingly dark read.
👻 With twists that made my jaw drop I suggest you go in knowing no more than this!
👻 A unique yet bingeable story which I highly recommend for lovers of horror, hauntings or dark and disturbing reads.
October 5, 2023
A hauntingly brilliant book, a must read for this spooky season.
A former child psychic, Daisy has never been exactly ‘normal’, not with the creatures whispering in her ear. But life now seems to be just that – normal. Until something happens to Nina, her adoptive sister. It started with keeping secrets and a change in behaviour. It escalated to things misplaced, objects are thrown, and a dark, oppressive black mould begins to grow. Now the creatures Daisy thought were only childhood memories are back, and they seem to want Daisy and her family.
I was thoroughly engrossed and found I couldn’t put this book down. The author does a fantastic job at crafting a brilliantly creepy atmosphere whilst pulling you into the haunting story of Daisy and Nina. There were many gasp-out-loud moments, shocking revelations, and some touching scenes.
This was a beautifully written story. I really enjoyed the writing style and the choice to format the book the way they did (you’ll have to read it to see!) I think the formatting really added to the reading experience. In made some parts of the story that more tragic and sad.
There was some nice representation in the story too. Daisy being bisexual (this is only mentioned in passing but it’s still great to see it) and Megan being Non-Binary. Megan’s story is partly told within the book and it shows some of the struggles that Non-Binary people can go through.
Daisy was a great MC, a troubled teen trying to balance personal problems and school life – very relatable (without the paranormal hauntings). I really felt for her throughout the book, especially towards the end as the tensions heightened and things were revealed. I’m holding out hope for her. I also loved the relationship between Daisy and Nina. I’d only known them through one book but I could feel their sisterly bond instantly. Similarly with Daisy and Megan with their heart-to-hearts.
If you’re reading a ghost story this spooky season, make it this one.
Thank you to Insta Book Tours, Hot Key Books, and Deirdre for the book in exchange for my honest review.
A former child psychic, Daisy has never been exactly ‘normal’, not with the creatures whispering in her ear. But life now seems to be just that – normal. Until something happens to Nina, her adoptive sister. It started with keeping secrets and a change in behaviour. It escalated to things misplaced, objects are thrown, and a dark, oppressive black mould begins to grow. Now the creatures Daisy thought were only childhood memories are back, and they seem to want Daisy and her family.
I was thoroughly engrossed and found I couldn’t put this book down. The author does a fantastic job at crafting a brilliantly creepy atmosphere whilst pulling you into the haunting story of Daisy and Nina. There were many gasp-out-loud moments, shocking revelations, and some touching scenes.
This was a beautifully written story. I really enjoyed the writing style and the choice to format the book the way they did (you’ll have to read it to see!) I think the formatting really added to the reading experience. In made some parts of the story that more tragic and sad.
There was some nice representation in the story too. Daisy being bisexual (this is only mentioned in passing but it’s still great to see it) and Megan being Non-Binary. Megan’s story is partly told within the book and it shows some of the struggles that Non-Binary people can go through.
Daisy was a great MC, a troubled teen trying to balance personal problems and school life – very relatable (without the paranormal hauntings). I really felt for her throughout the book, especially towards the end as the tensions heightened and things were revealed. I’m holding out hope for her. I also loved the relationship between Daisy and Nina. I’d only known them through one book but I could feel their sisterly bond instantly. Similarly with Daisy and Megan with their heart-to-hearts.
If you’re reading a ghost story this spooky season, make it this one.
Thank you to Insta Book Tours, Hot Key Books, and Deirdre for the book in exchange for my honest review.
February 21, 2024
It needs clearer content warnings
SPOILERS AHEAD
It needs clearer content warnings. I need to get some things off my chest so buckle in…
This book contains some seriously dark topics (some of which in such explicit detail I actually question their suitability for the young adult market…there were parts of this which upset me as a 28 year old woman with PTSD to the point I had to take breaks). Which is all quite sad really because on the one hand I’m glad to see trauma being explored in YA fiction…I just don’t know if I’m happy about the way things were alluded to but never really resolved. For example, the allusion that Daisy’s mother was forcing her into doing inappropriate things with adults for money. That felt a bit random and not necessarily ‘needed’ to be a part of her backstory, seen as it was mentioned once, then never brought up again. Having her be physically abused by her mother would have been enough. But on the other hand I felt Nina’s experience of being groomed by Mr Quigley the Geography teacher was handled fantastically and was a realistic depiction of how a victim can feel (forced into silence). But then again I also don’t know if I feel ok about the fact Daisy, who is also a victim, was forced to leave because of her ‘creatures’ at the end…it just feels a bit…ick? Victim blamey? I’m aware this book has been sensitive read but eek… most victims feel like they are the problem anyway irl so forcing her to leave in favour of the cousin by the aunt? Even though Nina campaigns to find her at the end? I just don’t know? I hope the author has a sequel planned to explain this…it might change my opinion of the ending in that case.
Story wise it was slow paced, with intriguing mystery though out. It kept my attention the entire way. Twists were good and not predictable. I wanted to know more about the Creatures. Leaving it vague makes me think the author has a sequel planned.
The authors voice conveyed things fast which I liked.
Please do not read this book if you are sensitive to topics of sexual abuse and physical abuse against children.
SPOILERS AHEAD
It needs clearer content warnings. I need to get some things off my chest so buckle in…
This book contains some seriously dark topics (some of which in such explicit detail I actually question their suitability for the young adult market…there were parts of this which upset me as a 28 year old woman with PTSD to the point I had to take breaks). Which is all quite sad really because on the one hand I’m glad to see trauma being explored in YA fiction…I just don’t know if I’m happy about the way things were alluded to but never really resolved. For example, the allusion that Daisy’s mother was forcing her into doing inappropriate things with adults for money. That felt a bit random and not necessarily ‘needed’ to be a part of her backstory, seen as it was mentioned once, then never brought up again. Having her be physically abused by her mother would have been enough. But on the other hand I felt Nina’s experience of being groomed by Mr Quigley the Geography teacher was handled fantastically and was a realistic depiction of how a victim can feel (forced into silence). But then again I also don’t know if I feel ok about the fact Daisy, who is also a victim, was forced to leave because of her ‘creatures’ at the end…it just feels a bit…ick? Victim blamey? I’m aware this book has been sensitive read but eek… most victims feel like they are the problem anyway irl so forcing her to leave in favour of the cousin by the aunt? Even though Nina campaigns to find her at the end? I just don’t know? I hope the author has a sequel planned to explain this…it might change my opinion of the ending in that case.
Story wise it was slow paced, with intriguing mystery though out. It kept my attention the entire way. Twists were good and not predictable. I wanted to know more about the Creatures. Leaving it vague makes me think the author has a sequel planned.
The authors voice conveyed things fast which I liked.
Please do not read this book if you are sensitive to topics of sexual abuse and physical abuse against children.
December 17, 2023
Actual rating: 4.5 / 5
The Details:
Narrated by Avena Mansergh-Wallace
Unabridged
A haunting and eery story, discussing the supernatural, trauma from childhood abuse and exploitation, grooming and pedophilla, relationship break down and anxiety and fear.
This was a hard read, but the way the characters engaged with eachother and expressed thoughts on the above topics felt real and raw.
Some of Daisy and Nina's choices irritated me, but overall, I feel like the story itself was powerful and chilling, with much more depth to it all than I was expecting.
Pick it up, give it a go & enjoy! >(^_^)<
Gén
The Details:
Narrated by Avena Mansergh-Wallace
Unabridged
A haunting and eery story, discussing the supernatural, trauma from childhood abuse and exploitation, grooming and pedophilla, relationship break down and anxiety and fear.
This was a hard read, but the way the characters engaged with eachother and expressed thoughts on the above topics felt real and raw.
Some of Daisy and Nina's choices irritated me, but overall, I feel like the story itself was powerful and chilling, with much more depth to it all than I was expecting.
Pick it up, give it a go & enjoy! >(^_^)<
Gén
November 2, 2025
A haunting tale for this time of the year feels right, doesn’t it?
I loved this book, every part of it. And I was surprised by the way the author writes. Letting you know that what you are reading it’s like a thought, like it’s creeping in, without having to tell. Just like when a thought comes to your mind. Intrusive thoughts. Voices in your head.
I also liked the end, but it felt a little bittersweet. I kinda wanted a closed, all wrapped up happy ending, and it wasn’t like that. Not everything was resolved and it was quite sad. But I’m not sure there was a better way to end the book.
Anyway, it was really good and I’m looking forward to read more from her.
I loved this book, every part of it. And I was surprised by the way the author writes. Letting you know that what you are reading it’s like a thought, like it’s creeping in, without having to tell. Just like when a thought comes to your mind. Intrusive thoughts. Voices in your head.
I also liked the end, but it felt a little bittersweet. I kinda wanted a closed, all wrapped up happy ending, and it wasn’t like that. Not everything was resolved and it was quite sad. But I’m not sure there was a better way to end the book.
Anyway, it was really good and I’m looking forward to read more from her.
August 21, 2024
I actually really enjoyed this book. It was an interesting writing style and I didn’t think I was going to like it, but it grew on me. I didn’t see the twist coming at all, so it was kind of a shocker.
The chapters did get repetitive at parts I can’t lie and say that the ending wasn’t disappointing, but still a pretty good book overall.
The chapters did get repetitive at parts I can’t lie and say that the ending wasn’t disappointing, but still a pretty good book overall.
October 12, 2025
I actually lived for the weirdness in this book; I loved how it got crazier and crazier. The spooky things that happened got me so excited to continue reading, as did the way this story was written, with the extra pieces of text in a "I-don't-know-who-or-what-this-is" way. For the whole book, I was SO curious what would happen, and when it would all make sense.
But the whole explanation about why all those creepy things happened was not at all what I imagined, and honestly, it felt like a weird explanation. It also felt like a flat explanation, which I kinda hated, and which made the ending like it lacked the big, surprising feeling of how an ending should make you feel. Also, some things weren't even explained at the end??
But the whole explanation about why all those creepy things happened was not at all what I imagined, and honestly, it felt like a weird explanation. It also felt like a flat explanation, which I kinda hated, and which made the ending like it lacked the big, surprising feeling of how an ending should make you feel. Also, some things weren't even explained at the end??
December 31, 2024
Content warnings: adult/minor relationship, child sexual abuse, sexual assault, death of a parent, self harm, emotional abuse, grief, car accident, death
Oof. No.
Like, this was weird and I was expecting weird based on the blurb. But I definitely didn't expect this to go where it went.
Oof. No.
Like, this was weird and I was expecting weird based on the blurb. But I definitely didn't expect this to go where it went.
October 2, 2023
Wise Creatures is the latest supernatural chiller from Deirdre Sullivan, but one that I feel has taken a darker turn than her previous YA novels.
This time around, our protoganist is Daisy, a teenager girl, who is being Haunted. She is hearing voices and visions but cannot tell anyone, especially not after what happened to her mum. She is worried for her friend Nina, as she knows that Nina is keeping secrets from her, but is she reveals what she knows to Nina, then everyone will know that she has been lying and the haunting are getting worse.
Daisy faces a lot of trauma in the novel, particularly around the topic of death of a loved one which may prove to be a trigger for some readers.
I was delighted to note the representation of LGBTQIA+ relationships in the novel, and for this is to treated as normal- not an exception.
A dark and chilling read, not for the faint hearted but a worth my addition to the YA world.
This time around, our protoganist is Daisy, a teenager girl, who is being Haunted. She is hearing voices and visions but cannot tell anyone, especially not after what happened to her mum. She is worried for her friend Nina, as she knows that Nina is keeping secrets from her, but is she reveals what she knows to Nina, then everyone will know that she has been lying and the haunting are getting worse.
Daisy faces a lot of trauma in the novel, particularly around the topic of death of a loved one which may prove to be a trigger for some readers.
I was delighted to note the representation of LGBTQIA+ relationships in the novel, and for this is to treated as normal- not an exception.
A dark and chilling read, not for the faint hearted but a worth my addition to the YA world.
March 5, 2024
3,5 ⭐️
read through it really quickly but i wanted more from the end.
read through it really quickly but i wanted more from the end.
October 4, 2023
Wise Creatures is a perfect read for the spooky season as it is a chilling supernatural story with gothic vibes.
I really enjoyed the story in this, I felt that it kept you on edge throughout the entire book.
I felt at times the writing style didn't flow as well as it could which took me out of the book a bit, however this didn't stop me from enjoying it.
The characters are incredible, I loved Daisy and Nina and their interactions together. I really felt for Daisy's character and everything she had been through.
I would definitely read more from this author.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bonnier Books UK for providing me with this ARC.
I really enjoyed the story in this, I felt that it kept you on edge throughout the entire book.
I felt at times the writing style didn't flow as well as it could which took me out of the book a bit, however this didn't stop me from enjoying it.
The characters are incredible, I loved Daisy and Nina and their interactions together. I really felt for Daisy's character and everything she had been through.
I would definitely read more from this author.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bonnier Books UK for providing me with this ARC.
February 22, 2024
"There is comfort in a place to hide."
I am severely disturbed.
**********
Half way through:
2nd time GR is screwing with me:
I HAVE NOT FINISHED READING THIS
1st time:
I don't know why GR is screwing with me, but I'm still only half way through this, as I was 5min ago when I posted an update
September 18, 2023
Wise Creatures is a wonderfully chilling story packed with eerie and gothic vibes, which makes it perfect for the ‘spooky season’ autumn months.
If anyone knows what it is to be haunted, it's Daisy. The ghosts of her troubled past are never far from her thoughts, but she has always done her best to shut these horrors away. To shut out the so-called wise creatures who used to whisper to her from the walls of the house, or did they? Was she a child psychic, or was this ‘gift’ foisted on her by her abusive mam? To live a normal life and not bring her beloved cousin Nina into the affray.
But now, something is happening in the house. Something dark. And it seems to be targeting Nina. But why would these wise creatures, locked away for so long, be back? What could they want?
Daisy is a powerful but fiercely sad girl, and her character is written exceptionally well. I was hooked from page one and inhaled this book in one day.
Covering themes of family trauma and family relationships, this YA read is rather dark at times. If you're buying the story for your child, you might want to have a sconce at it yourself first. 4⭐
Many thanks to the publisher for the opportunity to read this advance copy; as always, this is an honest review.
If anyone knows what it is to be haunted, it's Daisy. The ghosts of her troubled past are never far from her thoughts, but she has always done her best to shut these horrors away. To shut out the so-called wise creatures who used to whisper to her from the walls of the house, or did they? Was she a child psychic, or was this ‘gift’ foisted on her by her abusive mam? To live a normal life and not bring her beloved cousin Nina into the affray.
But now, something is happening in the house. Something dark. And it seems to be targeting Nina. But why would these wise creatures, locked away for so long, be back? What could they want?
Daisy is a powerful but fiercely sad girl, and her character is written exceptionally well. I was hooked from page one and inhaled this book in one day.
Covering themes of family trauma and family relationships, this YA read is rather dark at times. If you're buying the story for your child, you might want to have a sconce at it yourself first. 4⭐
Many thanks to the publisher for the opportunity to read this advance copy; as always, this is an honest review.
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