No Rest for the Wicked

by Rachel Louise Adams

With an expert hand, Rachel Louise Adams’s debut No Rest for the Wicked reads like an edge of your seat, heart-pounding scary movie.

In one Halloween obsessed Midwestern town, everyone’s on red alert after a local politician goes missing. Little do they know it’s only the beginning.

It’s been close to twenty years since forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorne left her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin. The town is famous for its Halloween celebrations, but also its history of violent deaths linked to the holiday. To Dolores, it’s the place she fled, family, bad memories, and all. Until the FBI calls to tell her that her father--the former mayor turned US Senator--is missing under mysterious circumstances.

Some people count to ten to wake up from a nightmare. Dolores always counts the bones of her head sphenoid, frontal, lacrimal. But no matter how many times she counts them, it doesn’t change the fact that her father is missing, that his final words of warning to her were to trust no one, and that now, the rest of her family is giving Dolores a chilling welcome. With Halloween fast approaching, Dolores must face the past she left behind before it’s too late.

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Mystery Thriller, Horror, Halloween, Fiction, Suspense

336 pages, Hardcover

First published September 16, 2025

About the author

5 Things You Should Know About Me:

1) I don’t believe in rating books, so all the reviews I leave on Goodreads will be 5 stars. Happy birthday to all authors, I guess.

2) I’m the proud creature of two wonderful cats.

3) I don’t believe in choosing between a great plot and great characters. Readers deserve both. But if I had to choose, I’d choose characters.

4) Don’t open a book of mine until you’ve checked the content warnings on The Story Graph.

5) Storytelling is magical. I sincerely believe that creating makes us better humans. Part of that process is connecting with readers, so reach out to me. I’ll answer you, and I’ll be glad to hear from you.

Finally, as to the sort of books that I like--let's just say that if a talented author rips out my heart, stabs it, and hands it back, my response will be: ‘Thanks. I’m your number one fan’.


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachellouis...

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...

Reviews

[Jamie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, so this book is super good, but everyone should know that the cover is extremely misleading. You're probably thinking that this is a cozy mystery involving a nice pleasant woman who owns a lot of black cats or something, right?? And the cats are all quirky and cute and wander around doing endearing cat things, right?? Right?? Wrong. The cats in this book are feral cats who are being rounded up and murdered. And also one gets hit by a car. They're not a major plot point and there's nothing graphic, but holy shit I was so not prepared for the direction that the cat subplot took in this book.

Anyway, other than the cat-related awfulness, I really enjoyed this one. When I first requested it from NetGalley, I was under the impression that it was a supernatural mystery, probably because of the cover and the repeated mentions of Halloween. It turns out that there's actually nothing otherworldly about the events in this book, which I probably would have realized if I hadn't skimmed the blurb and loudly squealed “Ooh! Cats! Ooh! Halloween!” and immediately requested it. It's more of the ever-popular “estranged daughter returns home” trope meets a police procedural type deal, which is absolutely not a bad thing. It's dark and suspenseful and well-written and I definitely did not see the identity of the Big Bad coming. Some of it is a tad predictable – I daresay that most readers will figure out the twist regarding the 2003 Halloween party before any of the characters do – but I certainly didn't expect the present-day plotline to play out the way it did.

Also, this is not a cozy, no matter what the cute kitties on the cover tell you. Trigger warnings include: murder, sexual assault, cat death, kidnapping (of adults), and parental estrangement. There are also a few slightly gruesome scenes, and no one is running a food truck or a chocolate shop while rekindling feelings for their old high school boyfriend … or whatever it is that the kids these days are doing in cozy mysteries, I dunno. Pretty much all of the characters are broken people having broken people thoughts and doing broken people things, but in a not-overly-depressing sort of way.

It kind of feels like No Rest for the Wicked could be start of a new series, and if so I will happily read the next installment as soon as I can get my hands on it. I'm totally not going to be fooled if it has adorable puppies on the cover, though, because fool-me-once and all of that.

My overall rating: 4.35 stars, rounded down.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is September 16, 2025.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who says you can never go home again? Dolores Hawthorne is a forensic pathologist who has not stepped foot in her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin in almost twenty years. When she receives a phone call from the FBI informing her father is missing under suspicious circumstances. Correct me if I am wrong but most people who go missing do so under mysterious circumstances, but I digress.

His final words to her were to trust no one, which doesn't make coming home feel very inviting. Her family members are giving her a cold reception, and the townspeople aren't that chummy either. But Dolores is determined to get to the bottom of what happened to her father and not one single creepy Halloween obsessed townsperson is going to get in her way or will they????

I thought the author did a great job of depicting the small town feel of this book. Little Horton, is where everyone either knows everyone, has dated everyone or is related to everyone. The author also does a great job of creating atmosphere and tension! The town has a dark, eerie, and creepy vibe with its Halloween obsession and cats running about.

This book is packed full of secrets and lies and a few twists as well. As the plot unfolds readers get glimpses into the past and the reason Dolores left town and stayed away for so long. This was a very well-crafted debut novel, and I look forward to reading more books by Rachel Louise Adams.

Thank you to St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.


Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖

[Matt Milu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grab yourself a pumpkin spice latte and plug in your plastic jack o’lantern and sit back and enjoy how this mystery (set the week of Halloween) unfolds! I promise you that you won’t predict the big plot twist! 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! I would have given it 5 Stars if two of the characters didn’t get away with committing a terrible crime! Thank you NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the Advanced Readers Copy (ARC).

[Nikki Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

No Rest For The Wicked is Rachel Louise Adams’s debut novel. One I highly enjoyed! It’s a slow burn thriller that I couldn’t put down.

First, can we just take a moment for that cover!!!! I freaking love it!!! I think this book will be flying off the shelves come this Halloween! 😻

It’s been almost twenty years since Dolores Hawthorne left home. She’s a successful pathologist out of LA. One day she gets a call saying her father is missing. The very father that she has been estranged from.

Some bad things happened back then, causing Dolores to flee her hometown in the first place. Your job is to figure out what and just who was responsible. And, where the heck is her father?

I finished this in two days and ate it right up! Can’t wait to see what she has coming out next!!! If you’re looking for a creepy read this coming spooky season, add No Rest For The Wicked to your TBR!!!

Thank you to Rachel Louise Adams, Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the opportunity.
Pub Date - 9/16/25
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was okay. It took a very long time for threads to come together, and I found myself frustrated at times by not having enough context and feeling confused. The storyline was good however, and it was a fairly easy read.

Thank you to Net Galley and Minotaur Books for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Heathers_readss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly think a little piece of my soul died at the ending of this book 😓😓 I am stunned that this is a debut, the writing is phenomenal, the plot so well thought out with such character depth / development and completely unexpected twists.

I need a book two just so I can see how Delores is doing after everything that happens, I need to make sure my girl is okay and happy 🥺🥺

The vibes were immaculate, small town that is absurdly obsessed with Halloween, two legacy family’s feuding in the midst of a murder mystery / serial killer spree .. what more can you actually ask for?!

This book is the thriller of your dreams and you seriously need to read it. If anybody is as emotionally invested as me with these characters and needs to form a support group please reach out to me 😂

Thank you for the gifted copy!! And seriously add this to your tbr shelf for the release date which is: September 16th 2025 💛

[Dennis · Rating 4 out of 5]

If there's one book you need to read this Fall or Halloween season, it's Rachel Louise Adams' debut thriller, NO REST FOR THE WICKED. With its haunting cover and intriguing synopsis, I knew that I needed to dive in.

In Halloween-obsessed Little Horton, a local politician vanishes, setting the town on edge. Forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorne returns after twenty years when her father—the former mayor turned senator—disappears under mysterious circumstances. As Halloween nears, she must confront her past and a family who may not be trustworthy.

I chose to stick with the audiobook route and I am so happy I did because it's a 5 out of 5 narration! I listened to it in record speed and I am not a speed audiobook listener as it takes me time to pay attention. This book hooked me right from the beginning. The mystery is very unique and it gave me adult Halloweentown vibes without the magic (IDK IDK IDK but the town is obsessed with Halloween). I thought Dolores was a great protagonist—flawed and relatable that readers can feel close to. I also really enjoyed our secondary characters very much and could see them having their own book within Adams' universe if she chooses to do that. Speaking of which, I cannot wait to see what Rachel Louise Adams has in store next for readers. I hope she stays within this realm of thrillers, that's for sure.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

*3.5 Stars*

Dolores Hawthorne has not been home in twenty years, determined never to return to the Halloween-obsessed town of Little Horton, Wisconsin. Yet when the FBI calls to notify her that her father, a former U.S. Senator, is missing, Dolores finds herself compelled to go back for answers. Upon her arrival, she faces a chilly welcome from her family—and receives a letter from her father, warning her not to trust anyone. Teaming up with two FBI agents, Dolores begins searching for the truth. But as their investigation deepens, bodies begin to pile up. With Halloween fast approaching, Dolores must grapple with her past before time runs out.

When I saw the cover of this book, I was under the impression that this would be a paranormal mystery. I quickly realized that this would not be the case. Not only was the small town of Little Horton obsessed with Halloween, but it also had a severe stray cat population. There are several references to these cats throughout this book, but not in the way I was expecting. However, I still enjoyed this debut mystery. I enjoyed delving into Delores’s past through the dual timelines and discovering how her past is connected to the FBI investigation. Although I found the ending to be surprising, several clues are given through different characters point of views.

If you are looking for a darker mystery with a Halloween theme, I would recommend No Rest for the Wicked.

No Rest for the Wicked is out September 16th.

Thank you to NetGalley, MacMillan Audio, and Minotaur Books for the opportunity to review No Rest for the Wicked. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Donne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one sounded like an excellent choice for my Halloween reading binge. A town that has a gruesome history, of more than 125yrs, for Halloween murders. Yeah, that sounds like my kind of Halloween story.

The book summary introduces the primary storyline of Dolores, a Los Angeles forensic pathologist (therefore an extremely busy one), who left home (WI) 18yrs ago and has never been back. After getting a call from the FBI about her missing father, Dolores flies back home. What the book summary doesn’t say is that Dolores’s father left a cryptic message for her. Dolores hasn’t seen or spoken to anyone in her family since she left. Other than some generic birthday cards, she’s had no contact with her family. Needless to say, her showing up is not received well from her remaining family, especially stepmother Charlotte, and her much younger half-siblings, Asher and Josie. Without revealing any spoilers, it was revealed pretty early that there is a reason why Dolores hasn’t been home in 18yrs and why she and Charlotte despise each other.

The summary also doesn’t mention the other MC’s Kate, a local police officer and the two FBI agents Wyatt and Paul. Kate, the only woman on the force, gets the typical misogynistic crap from her Chief and fellow officers, and all the crap assignments like cat duty. The small town of Little Horton is kind of overrun with stray cats and the police are tasked with rounding them up, which usually falls to Kate. Additionally, Kate went to high school with Dolores and absolutely despises Dolores. Once the town doctor and ME is murdered, Wyatt and Paul designate Dolores as the town’s temporary ME.

The story flips back and forth between Dolores, Kate, and the agents, Wyatt and Paul and the investigation starts to reveal that there was something being covered up by Dolores’s father, a US Senator and the former Mayor and Gregory Lawson, a dairy king and the richest man in town. The Hawthornes and the Lawsons used to be close friends back in the day, which is so typical for a Senator and a rich business owner. Dolores even used to date Jacob Lawson. There is a reason they no longer are, but no spoilers here.

It’s not long before the dead bodies/murders start piling up and I’ve narrowed down the killer to two suspects. Wow! Did I ever get that one wrong! I did not see that one coming! It’s deep into the second half that the storylines collide and it’s a flurry of really scary and intense scenes for Dolores and others. The finale was really emotional, and I don’t know if it’s just me, but there was sort of a cliffhanger that had me thinking that this could be the start of a new series. I hope so, I will definitely read that or any sequel.

The character development for most of the MCs and the killer was well done. The pacing was steady to fast and the storyline very interesting with an overall really creepy vibe to it. The writing was also well done; had me completely shocked. I do want to mention one trigger warning, especially since the publisher decided to bring the matter front and center on the cover, but it was horrible to discover the fate of the kitties. When I saw the cover, I thought I was looking at familiars for a coven of witches. Not! Enough said on that terrible matter. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.4 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

#NetGalley #MacmillanAudio #NoRestfortheWicked

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Rachel Louise Adams, and St. Martin's Press for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Always eager to tackle books by authors new to me, I gladly accepted this ARC by Rachel Louise Adams. A debut thriller provides readers an insight into the ideas Adams has to offer, presenting both a thrilling and resourceful piece that is sure to keep people reading well into the night. Delores Hawthorne is returning to her Wisconsin hometown after being away for decades. Her purpose is to assist with a missing person investigation surrounding her father. However, as people turn up dead, Delores learns that there may be more going on of a notably sinister nature. She will have to watch her back as Hallowe’en spirits stir.
Adams pens a great first book for readers to enjoy.

Forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorne has been away from her hometown for many years.
Little Horton, Wisconsin has a history of being one of America’s great Hallowe’en communities, but this is not why Delores has come back. Her father, a high-ranking politician, is missing and the FBI are seeking answers. Delores tries to find her father and determine what might have happened.

With a cryptic letter left for her, Delores tries to decipher what her father might be trying to tell her.
As Hallowe’en approaches, a number of violent murders turn the town to looking at past events or a similar nature. Delores is baffled and trying to solve things swiftly, permitting her to return to L.A.

With the pressure on, Delores works with the feds to shed light on the case, but can only wonder if she would have been better to stay away from Little Horton. Nothing is as it seems and Delores Hawthorne is soon in the hot seat to explain everything that has been taking place. A strong first novel by Rachel Louise Adams that has me hoping she has other ideas brewing.

I quite enjoy discovering new authors in genres familiar to me. Rachel Louise Adams delivers a strong debut novel that mixes a great thriller with something a little scarier. She keeps the reader on the edge of their seat as the mystery blossoms, with Hallowe’en serving as a great backdrop. Strong characters provide decent pathways for the the narrative to gain momentum. Plot points are sharp and keep twisting the reader in ways they might not have expected. I am eager to read more by Rachel Louise Adams in the future.

Kudos, Madam Adams, for a great debut!

Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/

[Cheryl Carey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do I have a great Halloween season read for you fellow thriller reader…that is if you are not extra squeamish.

♤  First off check out the cover art

♤  Next how about the title?

♤  Third how about some of these chapter names ?:
● Nightmare
● Once Upon October
● Masks
● Spider
● Black Tide Rising
● Alchemy
● The Girl Without A Face
● Trick or Treat
● Demons
● By The Pricking of My Thumbs
● Tragedies
● Nightmare
● Halloween Town
● Wolves
● Murky Waters
● Death Anatomy
● Once Upon an October 
● Operation Cats
● To The Bone
● Curiosity Killed the Cat
● Smoke
● Toxic
● Strays
● Midnight 
● Ghosts and Milk
● Halloween Monster

Not convinced yet?

♤How about placing the novel in a town that is known as a place to celebrate Halloween, where out of towners flock every October 31st to celebrate in a town that has had many unexplained murders?

♤  How about a town which is over run by cats?

♤  How about a book so twisted you could not possibly guess who done it?

♤  How about about a novel with a well developed protagonist?

♤  How about a protagonist who happens to be a forensic physician?

♤  Do you think you would enjoy a thriller that stirs in family drama, a dab of politics and power and men and women who abuse that power?

♤  Would you enjoy an author who's very first novel, a murder mystery keeps you engaged with her writing?

♤  Do you appreciate a dark thriller that is a slow burn?

♤♤♤ OK THEN ♤♤♤

Make sure to choose this book for your Halloween read as…

THERE IS NO REST FOR THE WICKED!

Thank you to Rachel Louise Adams and her publisher Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read this novel.  Thanks also goes to NetGalley for facilitating the advanced readers for this novel.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, captivating thriller. It has a likable, intelligent female protagonist, a small town setting, wit, a touch of humor, murder, mystery, suspense, secrets, lies, twists and turns, and an unexpected, satisfying conclusion. I especially liked the cats and the Halloween theme, and the heroine's unconventional method of dealing with stress. Many thanks to Ms. Adams, St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books, and NetGalley, who provided me with an advanced reader copy of this fantastic novel. This is my honest opinion.

[LaceyBanana Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delores left her Halloween obsessed hometown two decades ago so it stirs up a lot of drama, questions, and memories when she returns. She’s now a forensic pathologist and has to put her expertise to use when a politician goes missing and it opens up an entire investigation.

I really enjoyed this book about 60% of the time. The characters were great, the plot was interesting, and the last 20% had me flying from page to page! I struggled with the pacing in the first half of the book and was getting frustrated with each chapter ending on a huge question or twist but not actually leading to answers until the end. It took me a little bit to get invested since we didn’t know exactly what the issue was until further into the book but once that piece came together, it was so good! I wish we’d found out more a bit earlier so I could have felt invested sooner but the way it played out made me like the book overall regardless. Super fun and twisty!

Thank you so much to Netgalley, Rachel Louise Adams, and St Martin’s Press for providing this free E-ARC, this publishes on September 16th. This is my honest review!

[Dona's Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐.5

Pre-Read Notes:

I grabbed this one for the cover! There is a cat in this story, but definitely not central to the plot.

"Today, her body wasn’t allowed to quit. She might help her team catch a killer." p132

This book is sort of like a cross between a domestic thriller and a dual-era mystery. The combo was successful, and so was the use of two timelines. Sometimes the transitions are a little rough, but in general, I found it interesting to the story and the mystery.

The lead character, Dolores, was the perfect unlikeable lead. She has so many secrets that I think the choice to alternate perspectives is smart. It keeps the story moving when Dolores can't or won't address what comes next.

If you enjoy a twisty mystery that pushes into domestic thriller territory, I recommend this book for you. It quite reminds me of THE BELLES by Lacey N. Dunham, which is a mashup of dark academia, domestic thriller, and mystery, with a definite streak of girl power. I've realized I really like these genre mashups that all seem to rally around girl rage!

Content Notes: cheating, divorce, FBI, alcohol consumption, party pranks, gr*pe, roofies, unconsciousness, trauma memory,

Thank you to Rachel Louise Adams, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for an accessible digital arc of NO REST FOR THE WICKED. All views are mine.

[Brandi Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

No Rest for the Wicked was one insanely good suspense thriller debut, and I absolutely loved it!

Dolores is forced back to her hometown of Little Horton, a town obsessed with Halloween, when her father goes missing under suspicious circumstances. Not only does she have to go back to a town that she thought she'd never see again, but she also has to face the secrets that forced her away in the first place.

This book was a murder mystery/slow burn suspense thriller. There were secrets galore and two prominent feuding families. We get to take a look at what happened all those years ago through Dolores' memories of her last and final Halloween in Little Horton.

I really enjoyed this book and was shocked that it was the author's debut because of how well written it was. The cover is what drew me to this book, but the incredible story is what kept me turning the pages.

This isn't a supernatural thriller, but I think it will make a perfect book for the spooky fall months this year!

Expected Publication Date: September 16th, 2025.

Thank you to NetGalley, Minotaur Books, and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Casey Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Don't let the cats on the cover and the word Halloween in the blurb fool you! This is not a cute, cozy, Halloween mystery. I didn't know what I was getting into, I just saw cats and Halloween and said yes. It's completely different than the vibes it gives off, but different does not equate to bad, it was VERY good! Small town, family drama and secrets, lies and corruption! When Dolores gets a call from the FBI that her politician father has gone missing, she returns to her Halloween-obsessed hometown of Little Horton for the first time in almost 20 years. With a cold reception from her family and suspicions abound, Dolores is determined to discover what happened to her father and the truth of why. We get past portions, filling in the story of what happened to Dolores and why she has stayed away for so long, tying into the present-day mystery. It's not cozy and feel-good, it's deep and dark. It kept my interest the entire time and I wanted to know how it would play out! A strong debut, can't wait to see what Rachel Louise Adams has in store for us in the future.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC. Book releases 9/16/25.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now this is the perfect read for spooky season. I mean, who doesn’t love a dark thriller, especially one with cats on the cover? Don’t let the cover fool you, though, because this debut novel is far more twisted than it first appears.

The story follows Dolores, who returns to her hometown after getting a call that her father has gone missing. All he leaves behind is a cryptic note: “Trust no one.” With Halloween looming and a town full of buried secrets, Dolores races to uncover the truth while hoping her own secrets stay buried.

This book delivers on atmosphere and tension, with layers of family drama and small-town creepiness. That said, I do recommend checking trigger warnings before diving in as it gets darker than expected.

While I did enjoy the read overall, I found the pacing a bit uneven. One of the major reveals was telegraphed early on, and it took too long for the characters to catch up. Then, once the big twist hits, everything wraps up surprisingly fast. It felt like a long journey for a rather quick conclusion.

Still, if you're into dark thrillers with a chilling backdrop, tangled family secrets, and an eerie seasonal vibe, this is absolutely worth picking up. 3.5 stars rounded up

Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for this arc

[hollyreadit · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a cutesy murder mystery this spooky season, look somewhere else, cause this book was DARK DARK, but so good!

I enjoyed all the creepy Halloween vibes in this one, the family drama, the trauma, the secrets, it was such a bingeable read. When I picked it up I had no idea how dark and disturbing this book was going to get so just be warned. However, because dark & disturbing is my middle name, I devoured it and I think it needs to be on everyone’s spooky season tbr!

🐈‍⬛🐈‍⬛🐈‍⬛🐈‍⬛/5

TW: cat death (does not go into detail, and is briefly mentioned), r@pe (also, not a lot of detail, but still mentioned throughout the book)

Thank you to @minotaur_books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. PUB DATE: 9/16

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the audio ARC. It hasn't affected the contents of my review.

So many thoughts, where to start. How about that cover? I love it, but questionable marketing. Not sure it conveys the tone of the story! Which is not horror, and is not cozy at all. There are definitely legions of cats in the story, but they are in the background. So, I am conflicted. (The town is overrun with stray cats, due to a local commercial series years before featuring kittens; everyone got a kitten after, and then everyone didn't keep or care for their kittens, so now cats are everywhere.) I also am conflicted because even though the cover doesn't really convey mystery/suspense, it is unique and sets itself apart from the crowd. So actually maybe it's genius, what do I know. I definitely read it because of the cover.

Okay but what about the story? I liked it! Our MC is Dolores, who left her infamous hometown eighteen years before and has never been back, and never exchanged more than an an unsigned birthday card with her family in the years since. (Her hometown is a famous Halloween tourist destination, but again, that's sort of background, not the focus.) Dolores is now a well-respected prominent forensic pathologist who often gives testimony at trial. The plot kicks off when she gets a call from the FBI saying that her father—the former mayor of her town and a former Senator—is missing. The reason that Dolores left is unraveled over the course of the novel, but you get hints right away. Pretty much right away after her unwelcome homecoming, there is a murder, and Dolores is sucked in to the investigation. The plot goes from there.

As with the cover, I am also conflicted about the fact that I figured out all but one part of the mystery, which is very unusual for me. I can't decide if I'm proud that I'm smart, or mad that it was too easy (I guessed a lot of it before I was even halfway through the book). Usually I err on the side of "this wasn't good if I could figure it out," but with this one for some reason I'm giving it more credit. Maybe it's because the book was also pretty thematically rich, and the only reason for reading it wasn't to find out what was going on and whodunnit, but to follow Dolores's emotional journey, and to see where it leads her.

All that said, this was really good, and I'll definitely read more from this author. I also kind of hope this isn't the last we see of Dolores.

[Erin Clemence · Rating 4 out of 5]

Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.

Expected publication date: Sept. 16, 2025

Dolores Hawthorne left her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin more than twenty years ago and is now a forensic pathologist in California. Although she vowed never to return, she receives a call one night from an FBI agent – her beloved father, the former mayor of Little Horton, has gone missing. When Dolores returns, she is given the icy greeting she expects from her stepmother and half-siblings, but what Dolores doesn’t expect is for two other men in Little Horton to be murdered within days of each other. In order to find her father, and uncover the murderer, Dolores must face the shadows and demons of her past, before more people are killed.

“No Rest for the Wicked” is a dynamite debut for the spooky season. Rachel Louise Adams delivers a haunting tale of murder and mayhem, set in the backdrop of the unofficial “Halloween town” of Wisconsin. Narrated by Dolores, as well as several other prominent characters, readers are immediately pulled in to the page-turning, goosebump-inducing plot.

Dolores has her reasons for avoiding her beloved father and her hometown, but readers don’t find out her secrets right away. Adams reveals the truth in increments, yet I was able to connect to Dolores immediately and my empathy for her only grew as her history was revealed. The characters in “Wicked” are complex, presenting as one thing on the surface but who are, in fact, quite different deep down, yet all are likable in their own ways.

The murders, and the disappearance of Dolores’ father, are the biggest components, of course, and Adams builds tension with well-developed twists and turns. Trying to guess the outcome was so much fun, especially with the small-town Halloween vibes that Little Horton gave off. Some of the ending I was able to speculate but others were completely unexpected, making “Wicked” one-hundred percent enjoyable.

I wasn’t sure what to expect with “Wicked”, but the premise of Adams’ novel pulled me in (and I’m always game to read a spooky novel in the fall) and I am so glad I did. I hope Adams stays in this genre, as I am always looking for new horror authors to enjoy and Adams seems to be just what I’m looking for!

[Heather~ Nature.books.and.coffee · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic debut. If you love books that read like a fun scary movie, you'll definitely want to grab this one. It is a slow burn, but completely had me pulled in from the beginning. The writing was great and the plot was creepy. Perfect for a great fall, spooky season read!

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.

[Trisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

A missing father, a long estranged daughter is called back home to the small town. It's Halloween, this town's favorite day of the year - the day they go all out and celebrate - but it's also the day that horrible tragedy befalls the town almost every year.

Delores hasn't been back to town in a very long time - about 20 years. Her father's new wife and kids have grown while she's been gone. But she couldn't face it - her last Halloween there and all the things that happened after. But her father is missing and, being a forensic pathologist, she'd like to assist in any way she can with the FBI investigation.

This was such an interesting mystery. The cover threw me off - I thought this would be much more slasher horror or even fantasy paranormal - but it's not at all. It's a very grounded mystery - one that kept me absolutely guessing until the very end. I loved the twists, the interesting town drama, and the secrets that had to slowly unravel to show everyone's true intentions. This is a perfect Halloween season read! I loved it!

A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t download this book fast enough. Look at that cover! 🙀

Home is where the heart is. For some, maybe, but for Dolores it has been 20 years since she left her small hometown in Wisconsin. If it hadn’t been for a call from the FBI informing her that her father is missing, it could’ve been 20 more before she returned. The small town feel was real, but it wasn’t warm and fuzzy. Maybe the way this town bonded over their enthusiasm for Halloween could stand out as a small town feeling, but it wasn’t warm, it was creepy. Dolores’ reception home was cold, at best.

The character development was fantastic and the suspense kept the pages briskly turning. Why did Dolores leave anyway? Luckily, the narrative peeks into the past. For a debut novel, it’s a good, dark thriller. And the cats! Great Halloween fodder. Recommended.

Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for an early copy.

[Bbecca_marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook/Book Review 📖🍂🐈‍⬛
thank you so much partner @minotaur_books @macmillan.audio for the gifted ARC + ALC!

No Rest for the Wicked
Rachel Louise Adams
Narrated by Jeremy Carlisle Parker

About the book 👇🏽

In one Halloween obsessed Midwestern town, everyone’s on red alert after a local politician goes missing. Little do they know it’s only the beginning.

It’s been close to twenty years since forensic pathologist Dolores Hawthorne left her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin. The town is famous for its Halloween celebrations, but also its history of violent deaths linked to the holiday. To Dolores, it’s the place she fled, family, bad memories, and all. Until the FBI calls to tell her that her father--the former mayor turned US Senator--is missing under mysterious circumstances.

Some people count to ten to wake up from a nightmare. Dolores always counts the bones of her head instead: sphenoid, frontal, lacrimal. But no matter how many times she counts them, it doesn’t change the fact that her father is missing, that his final words of warning to her were to trust no one, and that now, the rest of her family is giving Dolores a chilling welcome. With Halloween fast approaching, Dolores must face the past she left behind before it’s too late.

🍂 My thoughts:

Oh man! This is a book you’ll want to read this spooky season. I had a hard time putting it down so when I saw that Macmillan Audio offered the audiobook I knew I needed to request it! I split up my time equally between physical read and audiobook listen and I can’t decide which is my favorite. If you choose either option, you will not be disappointed. The narrator was wonderful and kept me engaged without any issue. With the small town mystery, twists, and undeniable eerie atmosphere you’ll end up bingeing this without even realizing you’re doing it. Also the multiple POVs added a layer to this thriller that was just too good and will truly have you on the edge of your seat. Plus I loved that the added stray cats that pop up around characters throughout the story have significance. I just loved this book so much and definitely need a finished copy to keep forever. Let’s just say this is a debut you need to read in 2025 and it hits shelves 9/16/25… just in time for spooky season.

Happy reading 📖 🎃🍂🐈‍⬛

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

New author for me and a fun first book to be introduced by. I loved the unraveling of the secrets between the Hawthornes and Winslow. I was actually even a little surprised. I would definitely read another book by this author.

Thank you to NetGalley for this arc!

[Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who said monsters aren’t real? Sometimes, they’re the people you know best. Especially at Halloween.

Okay-how is this a debut novel? It is so good. I chose this book because it’s a thriller set in a Midwest town at Halloween. And I loved it because it was a thriller set in a Midwest town at Halloween. The characters are great. The writing is great. This book took many twists and when I thought I had it all figured out-nope that was just part. I cannot recommend this book enough. I’d give it 6 stars if I could.

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC. All opinions stated are my own.

[Jillian · Rating 3 out of 5]

An aloof forensic pathologist is forced to return to her Wisconsin hometown upon news that her estranged father has gone missing. The town is omega obsessed with Halloween, which is a cool vibe except for all the cat killing, which isn’t a focal point of the plot but was still jarring and settled me at 3-stars. This isn’t a cozy, small-town mystery - it’s a dark, fast-paced thriller with a large body count that jives with the whole summerween trend. If good ole boys clubs give you the ick, expect to be gagging a lot throughout this. Many thanks to Minotaur and NetGalley for the ARC.

[Megan Mersino · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ I typically stick to fantasy and romance, so I wasn’t sure what to expect with my first mystery—but I seriously could not put this book down. Every time I thought I had it all figured out, I realized I knew nothing. And honestly, that’s what made it so much fun. The story kept me on my toes from start to finish.

Doloras was such a brilliantly written character. Her emotions felt raw and real, and since she didn’t have all the answers either, it was easy to feel just as lost as she did. The cast of characters was so distinct, each personality adding something unique to the story. And the eerie, haunting atmosphere? Perfection. I already know I’ll be rereading this around Halloween.

I’m still in shock that this was Rachel Louise Adams’s debut. The moment I finished, I immediately went to buy her other books—because I need more!

Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the ARC—my thoughts are entirely my own.

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a great mystery-- I can't believe it's a debut! So rarely does a twist truly surprise me anymore, but this one was really shocking!

Dolores, a forensic pathologist in California, has been estranged from her father, Alexander; stepmom, Charlotte; and two half siblings since age 18. She left her hometown of Little Horton, Wisconsin and never looked back. Little Horton is famous for its Halloween celebrations--and violence that has occurred over the years on that date--but for Dolores, it's just a holiday that she studiously avoids since she left.

But then she receives a call from the FBI: her father has gone missing. She reluctantly returns to Little Horton to investigate with two agents.

This book is spell binding! It effortlessly draws you into the claustrophobic and judgmental town of Little Horton, with its relentless focus on Halloween--and secrets and lies. Everyone in Little Horton reveres Alexander as their former mayor and Senator. For Dolores' family, especially the formidable and scary Charlotte, nothing matters more than appearances.

Adams weaves a taut and dark tale, as the bodies pile up, and Dolores looks into her father's life and disappearance, while slowly remembering more and more about why she left Little Horton so long ago. This story is dramatic and well-written, filled with plenty of suspense. It keeps you guessing, while also featuring nuanced, flawed characters. I would love a sequel!

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Minotaur Books in return for an unbiased review.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Put a cat(preferably black, grey or fluffy) on your book cover and there is a 90% chance I will buy it just for that. Add some sort of mystery/thriller/horror element to the story and you've got me. Tell me there's a town that is obsessed with Halloween? Show me where the spare bedroom is because I'm moving in, bestie.

All silliness aside, this was a great story. I loved the highly emotional plot, the trauma, and the mystery. I only have two actual gripes. One being I wish there was a heavier Halloween presence in the book. The synopsis totes this Halloween-obsessed town and we didn’t get very much of that vibe in the story. Two, I would have liked to have gotten more of a backstory on the cats and maybe a bit more of them. For a book with black cats all over the cover there weren't enough cats in the story. Just little nitpicky things, nothing story ruining.

If you are building your spooky season TBR and you enjoy mystery/thrillers then this is the book for you!

⛧Thank you to @netgalley and @macmillan.audio for the ALC. I purchased the physical book on my own.