The Haunting by Natasha Preston

Release: September 26, 2023
Format: Ebook
Publisher: ‎ Delacorte Press
Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
Find it at: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

In its heyday, Piney Peaks and its beloved Christmas House were made famous by Sleighbells, a romantic holiday movie. 50 years later, the small town is ready for a new love story.

As a successful film liaison, Elisha Rowe has her heart set on one thing and one thing only: putting her hometown back on the map. So, when she gets the chance to secure a sequel to Sleighbells, she’s willing to do whatever it takes to make sure everything goes smoothly. Unfortunately, that includes claiming to have already secured permission to film at the historic Christmas house—permission she was very much denied by the gorgeous new owner.

Ves Hollins is only back in Piney Peaks long enough to sell the house he inherited from his great-aunt. The holidays have always been tough for Ves, and it’s not any easier when he’s distracted by memories of a Christmas long, long ago, and the undeniable charm of neighbor Elisha. Ready to return home to New York as quickly as possible, he has no plans to put down roots or fall in love. Even if Elisha unravels his hesitations like a bad Christmas sweater.

There’s no question the two are opposites in every way. Ves is unquestionably frosty. Elisha is brimming with warmth. He doesn’t do commitment. She never runs from a challenge. But as the two grow closer, they quickly realize that the growing spark between them may be just what the season calls for.

About the Author:

Natasha Preston is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Cellar, The Cabin, Awake, You Will Be Mine, The Lost, The Twin, The Lake, The Fear, and her latest, The Island. A UK native, she discovered her love of writing when she shared a story online—and hasn’t looked back. She enjoys writing romance, thrillers, gritty YA, and the occasional serial killer.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Facebook

The Haunting Review:

This book evoked nostalgic memories of the slasher movies I enjoyed during my formative years, such as “Scream” and “I Know What You Did Last Summer.”

The author has an exciting way of telling the story and brings something new in each chapter. Certain scenes had me on the edge of my seat, whether it was the heart-pounding chase through the eerie cornfield, the spine-tingling moments at Scream Fest, or the tense encounters at the movie theater. The author also skillfully escalates the thrills and body count while leaving readers guessing about the killer’s identity.

Moreover, I found Penny’s role in the story, as she collaborates with Nash to unravel the gruesome murders, particularly engaging. The author adeptly manipulates the dynamics within the group of characters, especially the complex relationships between Zayn, Penny, Adi, and Nash. You don’t know who to trust, as the author throws red herrings, and although some elements were somewhat foreseeable, surprising twists still caught me off guard.

However, certain aspects left me perplexed. Firstly, I couldn’t discern the reason behind the title “The Haunting,” as the story lacks supernatural or paranormal elements. It adheres to the classic “whodunit” formula of a serial killer story, which deviates from my initial expectations based on the book cover.

Also, while I thoroughly enjoyed the book from start to finish, the author concludes it rather abruptly, leaving me yearning for a more conclusive resolution. While I appreciate narratives that leave room for interpretation, this book ended too suddenly, and an epilogue would have provided a more satisfying closure.

Nevertheless, “The Haunting” offers an enjoyable reading experience, especially as the Halloween season approaches.