Sinister, creepy, tense, and filled with unease, The Unseen brought all of your worst fears to life in one single story. But that wasn’t the only brilliant piece to this dynamite tale. You see, on top of every standard horror book element was a genuine dysfunctional family dynamic as well as an enigmatic past that oozed even more tension. Combined with a swelling level of dread, this book came together with complete and utter perfection. After all, each and every character—including the feral child—had a part to play in the escalating horror, which they did with a strange sense of realism despite the implausibility of the snowballing events. I mean, I certainly hope none of this could come about outside of fiction.
The only piece to this hair-raising tale that didn’t quite work for me was the conclusion. I can’t say exactly why without providing at least one spoiler, but to say I was conflicted would be the understatement of the year. Somewhat open-ended and with a potential sci-fi twist at the end, it certainly wasn’t what I was expecting as I was inhaling this novel. That being said, the epilogue was an out-and-out win and made me want to pat Ms. Ahlborn on the back by the last page. A clever addition to the story, it gave the whole thing the feel of an episode from the The Twilight Zone in all of truly mind-bending, spine-chilling glory. In other words, I adored it and would love to see what comes next for this family.
All said and done, from the multiple distinct POVs to the ominous atmosphere, I was mostly won over hook, line, and sinker. You see, not only was the eerie vibe of the book an utter slam dunk, but the entire arc of the storyline was well-plotted and smart. Intertwining the past and the present into one brilliant premise, I couldn’t be more impressed after finishing this novel. Ultimately, though, I was most blown away by the thrills and chills that all delivered in spades. I do need to say, however, that this is one book you’re going to want to read with the lights on. And, oh yeah, might I suggest to never foster a child who randomly shows up in your yard. I mean, that’s kind of obvious, right? Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Isla Hansen, a mother reeling from a devastating loss, is beside herself when a mysteriously orphaned child appears on the outskirts of the Hansens’ secluded Colorado property. Although strange and unexplainable, the child’s presence breathes new life into Isla. But as the child settles in, Isla’s husband, Luke, and their five children notice peculiarities that hint at something far beyond the ordinary—anomalies that challenge the very fabric of reality itself. The tension within the Hansen household grows, and with it, the sense that there is something very wrong with the new kid in the house.
Thank you to Ania Ahlborn and Gallery Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: August 19, 2025
Content warning: missing persons, miscarriage, kidnapping, violence, mention of: PTSD, stillbirth, suicide, depression