It is getting closer and closer to Halloween and what better way to celebrate, than to read a horror book. The Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman is a great story to read if you enjoy a good scare.

This novel holds a great deal of suspense, psychological drama, and mystery. The Incidents around the House centers on an unsettling possession story that involves an eight-year old girl named Bela. It is unknown why the “demon” specifically chooses Bela to possess, which makes it much more eerie as it is narrated by the eight-year old. The demon calls itself Bela’s “Other Mother,” which causes Bela to befriend the demon. The possession story isn’t the only focus of the book, it also involves a broken marriage between Bela’s parents which creates an intensity of emotions throughout the story.

One of the main key themes shown in the novel is character development. The mother of Bela, Sarah, shows massive growth in her character. Throughout the novel Sarah is shown to be an emotional wreck, when she doesn’t know how to keep her child from the “other mother.” We learn throughout Sarah’s journey the hardships and faults she goes through. Josh Malerman creates a well written cast including Sarah’s husband, neighbors, and a mysterious stranger who appears at pivotal moments, which are well-developed and enrich the overall narrative.

I believe that this book is a great read and really makes you not want to put the book down. It is rated 4.5/5 and already has come out with great feedback as it just came out June 25, 2024. I recommend listening to the audio book too as it makes the story feel immersive. If you are a big fan of thrills then I definitely recommend this book!