endless_tbr_list's reviews
331 reviews

As a definite 'weenie' when it comes to horror on film, I cannot express how much I love that this book exists! Filled with plot summaries, discussions of historical significance, and party talking points, this novel is a pretty substantive crash course on 25 of the most important horror movies in history. There's spoilers abound, but that's what makes it perfect - readers get a rundown on the horrific stories, learning about every plot twist and jump scare, without needing to actually watch a second of the film. Emily C. Hughes' wonderfully amusing writing, paired with Cassidy Brown's delightful narration, helps to take away most, if not all, fear one might experience listening to these summaries. For fellow horror *readers* like myself, each chapter ends with a list of suggested books that cover similar or related topics to the previously discussed movie, which is such a thoughtful touch. Horror can certainly be a divisive genre, so I really appreciate Hughes' efforts to share their love for the gruesome and terrifying via literature as well as film. 

To wrap up and avoid any possible spoilers I'll just finish by saying, if you're not in the mood to attempt another (likely doomed) horror movie night, but still want to know what happens in the Exorcist or the Blair Witch Project, then this just might be the book for you! It's fun, it's funny, and it's informative - what more could you ask for!

Thank you to Tantor Audio and NetGalley for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

Meadowbrook has been many things throughout the years, a hotel, a psychiatric facility, even a casino, but no matter what it's called or how it's styled, the truth cannot remain hidden for long.

The disorienting sense of jumping time with each chapter - or even within a chapter - added a wonderfully unsettling feeling to the story, and worked perfectly to build suspense while also giving hints about Meadowbrook's purpose throughout the years. Filled with both charred ruins and opulent lobbies, darkened staircases and ornate fountains, this labyrinthine building is the embodiment of a liminal space. Eerie, surreal, and a character all in itself.

When it came to the end of the book I honestly wished it would have continued, if only to delve further into the side characters. There were a handful of loose threads I'd have loved to pull on to learn a bit more about the time-hopping and it's rules. Yet perhaps that's part of the joy of a horror novel like this, you don't get all of the answers, which means there's always a bit of mystery that survives and keeps you thinking.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to Cassandra L. Thompson, Quill & Crow Publishing House, and Book Sirens.