My Darling Girl by Jennifer McMahon
Thriller/Horror
October 3, 2023- Gallery/Scout Press
ARC

Allison O’Connor survived her childhood, and her mother, barely. Now she’s married, with two girls, and the successful author of a children’s book. She’s mostly put her past behind her, and then her mother’s caretaker calls and informs her that Mavis is dying of cancer. And she wants to spend her last days with her daughter and her family. So Allison- despite her fears and better judgment- moves Mavis into her house.

Her mother is at times sweet, and lovely, but her personality turns on a dime she into another person entirely. The person that Allison remembers from her childhood. Then strange, FREAKY, things start happening. Just what did Allison let into her house?

I won’t spoil anything for you, but suffice it to say bad things are about to happen. This is very much a character-driven story, that slowly ratchets up the tension and foreboding until readers are left gripping their Kindles in anticipation. And that ending- wow. I don’t even know what to say.

If you are looking for a creepy Halloween read- look no further.

Grade- B

Under a Smokestrewn Sky by A. Deborah Baker
YA Fantasy
October 17, 2023- Tordotcom
ARC

Well, it’s back to the Up-and-Under and the finale of the series. Avery, Zeb, and the gang have been through some stuff, but hopefully, the Improbable Road will take them where they want to go and ultimately home.

I’ve enjoyed this series immensely. This author, the wonderful Seanan McGuire, is one of my favorites, and no matter what genre she’s writing in, or under what name, I always fall into her worlds and never want to come out. This series feels a little more young adult than her Wayward Children series, but the fantasy world is just as beautifully built and the characters are fully fleshed out.

Avery and Zib have been joined by a group of friends they’ve found along the way, and they’ve all grown and changed through their journey in the Up-and-Under. I think the ending will surprise readers and then leave them with a big smile on their faces.

Grade- B-