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The Devouring
Under the glow of fairy lights in a Belfast suburb, a group of women gather, wine in hand, for what should be a harmless autumn evening of ghost stories - but some stories aren’t told… they’re unleashed.
Suspenseful, twist-driven, and unflinching, The Devouring is a psychological horror that grips from its first line and refuses to let go.
A haunting supernatural thriller that will remain with you long after the final page.
Suspenseful, twist-driven, and unflinching, The Devouring is a psychological horror that grips from its first line and refuses to let go.
A haunting supernatural thriller that will remain with you long after the final page.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2025
17 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 22, 2025
3.5 rounded up!
Gotta say I loved the way this opened and the first story told I really liked how unsettling it was. I had a feeling about how things would go within the overall story itself and it somewhat went down that road but I was still surprised with what happened and liked how each story told was different and had different themes within them.
Gotta say I loved the way this opened and the first story told I really liked how unsettling it was. I had a feeling about how things would go within the overall story itself and it somewhat went down that road but I was still surprised with what happened and liked how each story told was different and had different themes within them.
November 29, 2025
The Devouring, R.S. Cunningham
𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝑻𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒔 𝑨𝒓𝒆𝒏'𝒕 𝑻𝒐𝒍𝒅. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒚'𝒓𝒆 𝑼𝒏𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒅.
CALLING ALL HORROR LOVERS!- THIS ONE IS FOR US!
Excuse me bc i absolutely would NOT finish this book until my husband came home ( and i LOVED THAT! it is honestly SPINE TINGLING) the creepiest of the creepy I was so impressed! And the TENSION!? Hello!? Immaculate! This story begins in a quiet suburb: a circle of women gather beneath the shimmer of fairy lights for a night filled with ghost tales and expensive wine. However, what begins as playful entertainment swiftly devolves into something more ominous, deeply unsettling, and truly unforgettable. I throughly enjoyed this, tension building throughout and omg the last few pages genuinely had me whispering wtfwtf wtf!
Suspenseful, twist-driven, and unflinching, this was a psychological horror that grips from its first line and refuses to let go.
A haunting supernatural thriller that will remain with you long after the final page.
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#crimsonpeak #matchyourmugmonday #orange #halloween #spooky #thrillerandhorrorbooklover #horror #horrorbookstagram
𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝑻𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒔 𝑨𝒓𝒆𝒏'𝒕 𝑻𝒐𝒍𝒅. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒚'𝒓𝒆 𝑼𝒏𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒅.
CALLING ALL HORROR LOVERS!- THIS ONE IS FOR US!
Excuse me bc i absolutely would NOT finish this book until my husband came home ( and i LOVED THAT! it is honestly SPINE TINGLING) the creepiest of the creepy I was so impressed! And the TENSION!? Hello!? Immaculate! This story begins in a quiet suburb: a circle of women gather beneath the shimmer of fairy lights for a night filled with ghost tales and expensive wine. However, what begins as playful entertainment swiftly devolves into something more ominous, deeply unsettling, and truly unforgettable. I throughly enjoyed this, tension building throughout and omg the last few pages genuinely had me whispering wtfwtf wtf!
Suspenseful, twist-driven, and unflinching, this was a psychological horror that grips from its first line and refuses to let go.
A haunting supernatural thriller that will remain with you long after the final page.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
#crimsonpeak #matchyourmugmonday #orange #halloween #spooky #thrillerandhorrorbooklover #horror #horrorbookstagram
October 31, 2025
Can I just start this review with saying I am scared of my own shadow but I don’t let anything deter me away from a good plotline and this was exactly that!
This was written beautifully, the stories are described so vividly I felt as though I was one of characters. I haven’t been this immersed in a book for a long time and at this point I think I would read anything written by this author. My heart was in my mouth for the majority of the story. I absolutely loved how original this story was. It was unlike anything I’ve read before. I didn’t know what was going to happen from one chapter to the next. I read it front to back in a couple of hours as I couldn’t put it down and I’ve thought about it a lot since I finished it too.
If you’re a fan of unimaginable plot twist you will love this book.
The characters were so relatable and I love how we got a pov from all of them throughout the book.
I honestly think I would do a reread of this book probably more than once. For me it was a really enjoyable experience even if I was too scared to sleep without the light afterwards!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Publication date - 20th October 2025
This was written beautifully, the stories are described so vividly I felt as though I was one of characters. I haven’t been this immersed in a book for a long time and at this point I think I would read anything written by this author. My heart was in my mouth for the majority of the story. I absolutely loved how original this story was. It was unlike anything I’ve read before. I didn’t know what was going to happen from one chapter to the next. I read it front to back in a couple of hours as I couldn’t put it down and I’ve thought about it a lot since I finished it too.
If you’re a fan of unimaginable plot twist you will love this book.
The characters were so relatable and I love how we got a pov from all of them throughout the book.
I honestly think I would do a reread of this book probably more than once. For me it was a really enjoyable experience even if I was too scared to sleep without the light afterwards!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Publication date - 20th October 2025
October 31, 2025
‘’Because, because that’s when my grip on reality started to disappear. It’s when I lost all understanding of what’s real and what isn’t. It’s the last thing I remember clearly’’
The Devouring is a captivating paranormal soft horror that brings to mind those spooky campfire stories we loved as kids. It follows Murieann, a young cleaner who gets invited to her boss’s home for dinner with friends. The evening starts off simply with good food and a light breezy chatter, but Ruth’s hints of unease slowly build up, leading to a fantastic twist that catches you off guard.
From the very first page, I was hooked! I truly admired the character development, the layout, and the storytelling style, it is some of the best I've seen in a while. I enjoyed how each character shared their story, giving us a glimpse into their thoughts at the start of every chapter, all while keeping Murieann at the heart of it. The story moves swiftly and keeps you engaged from beginning to end. I was eagerly awaiting a twist, and I wasn’t disappointed, the build-up reached a crescendo, leaving me shocked to my core.
I couldn't put the book down; I finished it in just three hours! The author’s keen attention to detail and storytelling talent make me hopeful that someday this book will be adapted into a film or TV series. It's honestly one of the best horror books I've read in a long time, and I felt a little sad when I finished because I wasn’t ready for it to be over.
The Devouring is a captivating paranormal soft horror that brings to mind those spooky campfire stories we loved as kids. It follows Murieann, a young cleaner who gets invited to her boss’s home for dinner with friends. The evening starts off simply with good food and a light breezy chatter, but Ruth’s hints of unease slowly build up, leading to a fantastic twist that catches you off guard.
From the very first page, I was hooked! I truly admired the character development, the layout, and the storytelling style, it is some of the best I've seen in a while. I enjoyed how each character shared their story, giving us a glimpse into their thoughts at the start of every chapter, all while keeping Murieann at the heart of it. The story moves swiftly and keeps you engaged from beginning to end. I was eagerly awaiting a twist, and I wasn’t disappointed, the build-up reached a crescendo, leaving me shocked to my core.
I couldn't put the book down; I finished it in just three hours! The author’s keen attention to detail and storytelling talent make me hopeful that someday this book will be adapted into a film or TV series. It's honestly one of the best horror books I've read in a long time, and I felt a little sad when I finished because I wasn’t ready for it to be over.
October 31, 2025
This book is a rollercoaster of a read. This book truly has a way of getting under your skin. It's dark and scary, making you question every little sound you hear late at night and giving you the eerie feeling that someone might be standing behind you, breathing on your neck.
The story begins with an adult version of ghost stories around a campfire, but with a twist. We meet a group of friends who gather for good wine, good food, and to share the deepest, darkest, and scariest events that have happened in their lives. The only odd one out in this group is M, the cleaner for the host Joanna. Poor M is so unimportant that Joanna can't even pronounce her name correctly. Yet, for some mysterious reason, she has been invited to this gathering, even though she doesn't really want to be there.
The characters, aside from M, are not particularly likable as they come across as quite pretentious and don't seem to genuinely like each other. It leaves you wondering if M was invited just to make up the numbers or if there's something more sinister at play. Regardless of your beliefs about ghosts or spirits, this book will definitely get under your skin. I would suggest not reading it in the dark, especially if you're alone.
I absolutely loved it and thought it was a fantastic read!
The story begins with an adult version of ghost stories around a campfire, but with a twist. We meet a group of friends who gather for good wine, good food, and to share the deepest, darkest, and scariest events that have happened in their lives. The only odd one out in this group is M, the cleaner for the host Joanna. Poor M is so unimportant that Joanna can't even pronounce her name correctly. Yet, for some mysterious reason, she has been invited to this gathering, even though she doesn't really want to be there.
The characters, aside from M, are not particularly likable as they come across as quite pretentious and don't seem to genuinely like each other. It leaves you wondering if M was invited just to make up the numbers or if there's something more sinister at play. Regardless of your beliefs about ghosts or spirits, this book will definitely get under your skin. I would suggest not reading it in the dark, especially if you're alone.
I absolutely loved it and thought it was a fantastic read!
October 31, 2025
This book had me hooked from the start. I love a good ghost story and this had quite a few in it. Based in Ireland a group of friends get together to tell ghost stories they’ve experienced. Only this time the cleaner of Joanne’s house is invited along. Which may seem strange at the time but it all makes sense at the end.
The worldbuilding in this book is incredible, the detail that has gone into setting the scene for the ‘gathering’ is extraordinary. I could imagine the dining room full of food and drink and everyone talking. I loved how the friends group was very realistic and they acted how most friend groups do by arguing, disagreeing or just talking about each other behind the other persons back.
I was on the edge of my seat for some of these stories and I am extremely glad I didn’t read them in the dark because I was freaked out. I don’t think I would have been able to stay in the house on my own if I had.
The twist at the end was so unexpected and I loved it. I had to go back and reread the book from a completely different perspective after learning the ending. The book has a completely different feel to it the second time around.
There was one story in it that I loved but also hated at the same time because there is a dog involved.
The worldbuilding in this book is incredible, the detail that has gone into setting the scene for the ‘gathering’ is extraordinary. I could imagine the dining room full of food and drink and everyone talking. I loved how the friends group was very realistic and they acted how most friend groups do by arguing, disagreeing or just talking about each other behind the other persons back.
I was on the edge of my seat for some of these stories and I am extremely glad I didn’t read them in the dark because I was freaked out. I don’t think I would have been able to stay in the house on my own if I had.
The twist at the end was so unexpected and I loved it. I had to go back and reread the book from a completely different perspective after learning the ending. The book has a completely different feel to it the second time around.
There was one story in it that I loved but also hated at the same time because there is a dog involved.
October 31, 2025
I ATE UP The Devouring (no pun intended). This book was incredible - I read it in one setting and was completely sucked in. I honestly loved this book. I don't think I've read a horror since my days of reading Goosebumps at school, and reading The Devouring has given me the bug to read more!
Muireanne is a fantastic character, and I felt like we really got to experience her state of mind, which was even more impactful given that the story was told in first person. First person narrative is something that would usually put me off - but it was executed perfectly in this case, and I can't imagine the story being told in any other way.
The stories within the story were the exact right level of spooky, and I liked that they erred more towards a psychological thriller in nature.
It's the perfect soft horror, that even readers who aren't horror fans would enjoy! I would recommend that everybody give this book a go - you won't regret it.
Five stars!
Muireanne is a fantastic character, and I felt like we really got to experience her state of mind, which was even more impactful given that the story was told in first person. First person narrative is something that would usually put me off - but it was executed perfectly in this case, and I can't imagine the story being told in any other way.
The stories within the story were the exact right level of spooky, and I liked that they erred more towards a psychological thriller in nature.
It's the perfect soft horror, that even readers who aren't horror fans would enjoy! I would recommend that everybody give this book a go - you won't regret it.
Five stars!
January 10, 2026
Wow. I just finished this 300 plus page book in one day..but it was impossible to put down. This book slowly unfolds the story of the gathering of women to share thier tragic and terrifying tales. Fine wine and delicious foods are shared, but underneath all of the sparkle lies the darkness that these women are desperate to cover up. The stories that they share actually scared me. Look over your shoulder type of scared. The slow crawling scares that slowly build with each story explode into full terror for the climactic ending. Overall, I want to recommend this book to any horror lover. If you scare easily though, maybe save this one for the pros🤣
December 29, 2025
thoroughly enjoyable and unique experience but to me in a way the ending was somewhat predictable, didn’t change the fact it was great though
November 7, 2025
Brilliant and Haunting; I can’t believe this is Ruth S. Cunningham’s debut novel!
I’m not usually a fan of the horror genre, but The Devouring completely pulled me in from the first page. I finished it in only two sittings (something I almost never do) which speaks to just how gripping Ruth S. Cunningham’s writing is. For a debut novel, this feels polished, confident and deeply unsettling in the best possible way.
What impressed me most is how Cunningham manages to sustain tension across a single night. The entire story unfolds over the course of just a few hours, yet she layers dread and suspense so effectively that it feels both expansive and claustrophobic at the same time. The confined setting of a dinner party, where a group of middle-aged women gather together to share their own haunting stories, makes the tension all the more claustrophobic, yet Cunningham manages to keep the pacing taut, with each chapter tightening the sense of unease until the plot twist is revealed at the end.
Cunningham also captures the dynamics of long friendships really well – including the tenderness but also the undercurrent of secrets that bind and divide them. That emotional realism makes the supernatural elements even more chilling because the reader feels deeply invested in these women and the fates their stories seem to foreshadow.
Throughout the whole novel, I was eagerly trying to guess how this novel would end by picking out the clues along the way and piecing together possible outcomes. But, despite my best efforts, I was unable to predict the final twist – and when it came, it was both shocking and perfectly fitting.
Overall, The Devouring is a truly brilliant debut that exceeded every expectation. It’s a haunting, tightly crafted story that horror fans will adore, but even readers who, like me, don’t usually gravitate toward the genre should give it a chance. I can’t wait to see what Ruth S. Cunningham writes next!
I’m not usually a fan of the horror genre, but The Devouring completely pulled me in from the first page. I finished it in only two sittings (something I almost never do) which speaks to just how gripping Ruth S. Cunningham’s writing is. For a debut novel, this feels polished, confident and deeply unsettling in the best possible way.
What impressed me most is how Cunningham manages to sustain tension across a single night. The entire story unfolds over the course of just a few hours, yet she layers dread and suspense so effectively that it feels both expansive and claustrophobic at the same time. The confined setting of a dinner party, where a group of middle-aged women gather together to share their own haunting stories, makes the tension all the more claustrophobic, yet Cunningham manages to keep the pacing taut, with each chapter tightening the sense of unease until the plot twist is revealed at the end.
Cunningham also captures the dynamics of long friendships really well – including the tenderness but also the undercurrent of secrets that bind and divide them. That emotional realism makes the supernatural elements even more chilling because the reader feels deeply invested in these women and the fates their stories seem to foreshadow.
Throughout the whole novel, I was eagerly trying to guess how this novel would end by picking out the clues along the way and piecing together possible outcomes. But, despite my best efforts, I was unable to predict the final twist – and when it came, it was both shocking and perfectly fitting.
Overall, The Devouring is a truly brilliant debut that exceeded every expectation. It’s a haunting, tightly crafted story that horror fans will adore, but even readers who, like me, don’t usually gravitate toward the genre should give it a chance. I can’t wait to see what Ruth S. Cunningham writes next!
October 31, 2025
When a middle class Belfast woman hosts a dinner party, pretentiously calling it a gathering, and invites not only her perfect middle class friends but also her simple cleaner, more than a few eyebrows are raised. Not in the least from the cleaner herself, who has no idea why she gets asked to attend, but isn’t brave enough to decline.
It’s all a bit weird, especially when the guests all take turns to tell creepy ghost stories. And some of them are behaving really odd. There is tension in the air, and the hostess is overly chipper for someone whose sister is supposedly gravely ill.
The stories they tell are very interesting but also unsettling. The cleaner copes by drinking more than she should and eating her body weight in posh food she wouldn’t be able to afford to buy for herself. She is relieved to be told she doesn’t need to contribute a story, just listen to the ramblings of the other women.
When the night finally comes to end, and one of the nicer guests offers her a lift home, she is glad to make her escape.
What happens next takes this collection of ghost stories to a whole other dimension!
I don’t normally read horror-like books so wouldn’t have picked this up if it hadn’t been an ARC read. I am glad I did though. It was a very good read and you would never know that it’s the authors first book!
The stories are varied and draw you in. They aren’t so scary to me that they will keep me up at night, but if they were filmed that would probably a whole other experience!
The twist at the end is unexpected and therefore really good and well thought out.
I would totally recommend this book for fans of paranormal, occult or ghostly books.
I received this book as an ARC but the review is my own opinion and non-biased
It’s all a bit weird, especially when the guests all take turns to tell creepy ghost stories. And some of them are behaving really odd. There is tension in the air, and the hostess is overly chipper for someone whose sister is supposedly gravely ill.
The stories they tell are very interesting but also unsettling. The cleaner copes by drinking more than she should and eating her body weight in posh food she wouldn’t be able to afford to buy for herself. She is relieved to be told she doesn’t need to contribute a story, just listen to the ramblings of the other women.
When the night finally comes to end, and one of the nicer guests offers her a lift home, she is glad to make her escape.
What happens next takes this collection of ghost stories to a whole other dimension!
I don’t normally read horror-like books so wouldn’t have picked this up if it hadn’t been an ARC read. I am glad I did though. It was a very good read and you would never know that it’s the authors first book!
The stories are varied and draw you in. They aren’t so scary to me that they will keep me up at night, but if they were filmed that would probably a whole other experience!
The twist at the end is unexpected and therefore really good and well thought out.
I would totally recommend this book for fans of paranormal, occult or ghostly books.
I received this book as an ARC but the review is my own opinion and non-biased
November 3, 2025
The Devouring is one of those rare books that completely consumes you fitting, given the title. Set in a quiet Belfast suburb, the story begins innocently enough: a group of women gather under the glow of fairy lights for an evening of ghost stories and wine. But what starts as lighthearted fun quickly spirals into something darker, more sinister, and utterly unforgettable. By the end of the first chapter, I was hooked and by the last page, I was genuinely shaken.
What makes The Devouring so effective is how real it feels. The characters are authentic, flawed, and deeply human. Their friendships, secrets, and vulnerabilities unfold naturally, making the horror that follows all the more chilling. When the supernatural begins to seep into their world, it doesn’t feel forced it feels inevitable, as though the darkness has simply been waiting for an invitation.
The tension builds beautifully. Each chapter tightens the grip, blending psychological unease with spine-tingling suspense. The author masterfully blurs the line between what’s real and imagined, leaving both the characters and the reader questioning everything. The atmosphere from the flicker of candlelight to the quiet dread in every whispered word is crafted so vividly that it feels cinematic.
Beyond the scares, the novel explores themes of guilt, repression, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive. It’s not just about the ghosts that haunt us, but the truths we try to bury. The ending left me breathless not just because of its twist, but because of the emotional weight behind it.
The Devouring is haunting, intelligent, and impossible to forget. It’s the kind of horror that lingers not in your nightmares, but in your thoughts long after the final page is turned.
What makes The Devouring so effective is how real it feels. The characters are authentic, flawed, and deeply human. Their friendships, secrets, and vulnerabilities unfold naturally, making the horror that follows all the more chilling. When the supernatural begins to seep into their world, it doesn’t feel forced it feels inevitable, as though the darkness has simply been waiting for an invitation.
The tension builds beautifully. Each chapter tightens the grip, blending psychological unease with spine-tingling suspense. The author masterfully blurs the line between what’s real and imagined, leaving both the characters and the reader questioning everything. The atmosphere from the flicker of candlelight to the quiet dread in every whispered word is crafted so vividly that it feels cinematic.
Beyond the scares, the novel explores themes of guilt, repression, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive. It’s not just about the ghosts that haunt us, but the truths we try to bury. The ending left me breathless not just because of its twist, but because of the emotional weight behind it.
The Devouring is haunting, intelligent, and impossible to forget. It’s the kind of horror that lingers not in your nightmares, but in your thoughts long after the final page is turned.
December 28, 2025
Hugest of thanks to the lovely R.S Cunningham who contacted me via Instagram, and kindly sent me a copy of her debut novel, 'The Devouring'
It was self published on Halloween 2025, and is availble in e-book format via Amazon, is on Amazon Kindle , and paperback from the author's website-link below.
In this portmanteau horror, a unnamed cleaner, only known by her initial, 'M', is invited by one of her clients to attend an evening soiree, a telling of tales by women only who are known to her boss, but not to M.
Unable to think of a way out, we see her getting herself ready, anxious over what to bring to a house which is a million miles away from her impoverished flat.
The women, LA, Sarah, Ada, Lydia, Eleanor, Ameera and Joanna, have not held a tale telling evening for some time, ostensibly related to Joanna's sister, Ada, being hospitalised, so they are taking the opportunity to relish food, wine and company.
The women are seen through M's eyes, all privilege and educated, which allows her the sense of anonymity to sit back, listen to the stories and feel like she is a part of something, if even only on the outskirts of these tales.
There is some sensation of resistance amongst the women, a tension felt by M, who, like the reader, has no idea what lays ahead of her.
In turn, each woman relays their tale, then this is bridged by a return to 'The Gathering'.
There are things that M notices, little asides which are barbed, noises, shadows and things moving which all add to the feeling of tension and mounting worry for M's safety.
The gathering is led into by a prologue which shows a woman locked away in a mental health institution, for many years, wanting to relay one last tale to her doctor, so there is this feeling of a tale within a tale, but who is the principal narrator?
Each story relates to the way women are regarded in a modern Irish societal framework, with the use of dialect betraying their very middle class standing. They deal with motherhood, sexuality, femininity and oppression as a mode of telling truly horrifying stories of loss, grief and pure horror.
The point of these stories appears to be a cathartic release yet as the stories are told, there is an increase in the feeling of dread, and the opposite of catharsis happens as these women become more agitated and upset, almost as if they are trapped by this evening than M who is actually nothing to do with this at all.
There is such a sense of foreboding and creepiness as horror piles on horror and yet M cannot bring herself to go until there is an answer, a resolution as she goes past the point at which she can leave and catch the last bus home.
Each woman peels off a layer of herself with the tale, leaving them raw and bleeding yet they all seem to have heard these stories before-if so, what are they performing for?
Why does Joanna, M's boss, make excuse after excuse to stop her leaving?
The biggest monster in this tale, is , to me, the classism by which they treeat M and each other so appallingly, it is meant to be a female narrative evening based on empowerment and freedom yet the constraints in which they are bound by solidarity through the horror of what they explore, paradoxically brings them all down.
I am trying not to give away too much, and hope I have done this terrific novel justice in my thoughts, these are tales rooted in folklore, witchcraft, the horror that women bear by dint of being born female and subjection to patriarchal institutions which would keep them quiet and docile.
The devouring is both literal and metaphorical in places, about how desires can consume and destroy you .
Highly recommended, please go and search out Ruth, she is pretty active on the Instagram and loves hearing from readers!
This would be perfect for those who love programmes such as Inside No 9, and the old Amicus movies, my favourite is 'Asylum' where Robert Powell is a new doctor at an insane asylum who has to interview the 5 patients there and work out which one is the dr he has come to replace...terrific stuff!
It was self published on Halloween 2025, and is availble in e-book format via Amazon, is on Amazon Kindle , and paperback from the author's website-link below.
In this portmanteau horror, a unnamed cleaner, only known by her initial, 'M', is invited by one of her clients to attend an evening soiree, a telling of tales by women only who are known to her boss, but not to M.
Unable to think of a way out, we see her getting herself ready, anxious over what to bring to a house which is a million miles away from her impoverished flat.
The women, LA, Sarah, Ada, Lydia, Eleanor, Ameera and Joanna, have not held a tale telling evening for some time, ostensibly related to Joanna's sister, Ada, being hospitalised, so they are taking the opportunity to relish food, wine and company.
The women are seen through M's eyes, all privilege and educated, which allows her the sense of anonymity to sit back, listen to the stories and feel like she is a part of something, if even only on the outskirts of these tales.
There is some sensation of resistance amongst the women, a tension felt by M, who, like the reader, has no idea what lays ahead of her.
In turn, each woman relays their tale, then this is bridged by a return to 'The Gathering'.
There are things that M notices, little asides which are barbed, noises, shadows and things moving which all add to the feeling of tension and mounting worry for M's safety.
The gathering is led into by a prologue which shows a woman locked away in a mental health institution, for many years, wanting to relay one last tale to her doctor, so there is this feeling of a tale within a tale, but who is the principal narrator?
Each story relates to the way women are regarded in a modern Irish societal framework, with the use of dialect betraying their very middle class standing. They deal with motherhood, sexuality, femininity and oppression as a mode of telling truly horrifying stories of loss, grief and pure horror.
The point of these stories appears to be a cathartic release yet as the stories are told, there is an increase in the feeling of dread, and the opposite of catharsis happens as these women become more agitated and upset, almost as if they are trapped by this evening than M who is actually nothing to do with this at all.
There is such a sense of foreboding and creepiness as horror piles on horror and yet M cannot bring herself to go until there is an answer, a resolution as she goes past the point at which she can leave and catch the last bus home.
Each woman peels off a layer of herself with the tale, leaving them raw and bleeding yet they all seem to have heard these stories before-if so, what are they performing for?
Why does Joanna, M's boss, make excuse after excuse to stop her leaving?
The biggest monster in this tale, is , to me, the classism by which they treeat M and each other so appallingly, it is meant to be a female narrative evening based on empowerment and freedom yet the constraints in which they are bound by solidarity through the horror of what they explore, paradoxically brings them all down.
I am trying not to give away too much, and hope I have done this terrific novel justice in my thoughts, these are tales rooted in folklore, witchcraft, the horror that women bear by dint of being born female and subjection to patriarchal institutions which would keep them quiet and docile.
The devouring is both literal and metaphorical in places, about how desires can consume and destroy you .
Highly recommended, please go and search out Ruth, she is pretty active on the Instagram and loves hearing from readers!
This would be perfect for those who love programmes such as Inside No 9, and the old Amicus movies, my favourite is 'Asylum' where Robert Powell is a new doctor at an insane asylum who has to interview the 5 patients there and work out which one is the dr he has come to replace...terrific stuff!
November 11, 2025
The longer I’ve been reading horror the simpler my main demands become for enjoying a book. Give me a well developed, well rounded human character and make me care about them. I say simpler, but I find myself reading so many stories that just don’t seem to care about that. Thankfully, right from the beginning, The Devouring presents a cast of well fleshed out, human, relatable characters, and seizes on these as a pathway for the reader to experience some of the most oddly believable, disturbing and genuinely creepy tales I’ve read in a while.
The stories are set mainly in modern, urban Northern Ireland, and confront issues like domestic abuse, class, power structures between couples, colleagues and friends. The thing is, each of the stories almost rings true. They’re not the kind of thing you might have heard from a mate over a drink about a friend of a friend.
They’re private. Inside stories. Where people are afraid to talk about what’s happening. This, to me, makes them far creepier. And the characters act, shock horror, like humans do. They react like I would, and we watch each of the stories reveal themselves about the women around the dinner party until the finale is at last revealed and the steady build is finalised. It’s a great read. I read it in three sittings and couldn’t wait to get stuck back in. It’s a hard recommend from me. I look forward to her follow up, whatever it may be!
The stories are set mainly in modern, urban Northern Ireland, and confront issues like domestic abuse, class, power structures between couples, colleagues and friends. The thing is, each of the stories almost rings true. They’re not the kind of thing you might have heard from a mate over a drink about a friend of a friend.
They’re private. Inside stories. Where people are afraid to talk about what’s happening. This, to me, makes them far creepier. And the characters act, shock horror, like humans do. They react like I would, and we watch each of the stories reveal themselves about the women around the dinner party until the finale is at last revealed and the steady build is finalised. It’s a great read. I read it in three sittings and couldn’t wait to get stuck back in. It’s a hard recommend from me. I look forward to her follow up, whatever it may be!
October 31, 2025
This story is so good!!
As a lover of all things Spooky, I read this book twice before writing the review this time, it's such a wonderfully written story.
The Devouring is a book about a group of ladies gathering to tell each other ghost stories. Intertwined spooky stories woven together in such a fantastic way invites the reader in and keeps them engaged and reading all day (like I did). The stories themselves are fantastical and the perfect read for fall.
OH MY GOODNESS the TWIST!!! The twist, my friends, I cannot. Ugh, I will not spoil it, but I absolutely love this story, and the plot change linking everything together even more is just so dang good, I cannot get over this!
I don’t have enough good things to say about this beautifully written piece, such a great spooky season read. I will say, if you’re easily spooked, don’t read this one after dark!
I cannot wait to see what else Ruth S. Cunningham writes, if she so chooses.
As a lover of all things Spooky, I read this book twice before writing the review this time, it's such a wonderfully written story.
The Devouring is a book about a group of ladies gathering to tell each other ghost stories. Intertwined spooky stories woven together in such a fantastic way invites the reader in and keeps them engaged and reading all day (like I did). The stories themselves are fantastical and the perfect read for fall.
OH MY GOODNESS the TWIST!!! The twist, my friends, I cannot. Ugh, I will not spoil it, but I absolutely love this story, and the plot change linking everything together even more is just so dang good, I cannot get over this!
I don’t have enough good things to say about this beautifully written piece, such a great spooky season read. I will say, if you’re easily spooked, don’t read this one after dark!
I cannot wait to see what else Ruth S. Cunningham writes, if she so chooses.
November 2, 2025
Though I was unsure at first since it is not my usual genre, this book won me over. The story centres on women sharing ghost stories in a house; each tale is atmospheric, dark, and genuinely scary.
Each woman recounts a disturbing ghost story, prompting curiosity about why they have all gathered in the same room. As fear builds, you find yourself wishing to leave as their chilling tales unfold.
The stories evoke a sense of unease and suspense, compelling readers to continue even when they feel inclined to step away. Their captivating nature keeps the audience engaged, drawing them further into the narrative and prompting curiosity about what will unfold on the next page. Knowing I must finish the story. Then what a twist in the tail. The plot twist was both unforeseen and masterfully crafted. The conclusion demonstrated exceptional quality.
Make sure you read this book with the light on…
Each woman recounts a disturbing ghost story, prompting curiosity about why they have all gathered in the same room. As fear builds, you find yourself wishing to leave as their chilling tales unfold.
The stories evoke a sense of unease and suspense, compelling readers to continue even when they feel inclined to step away. Their captivating nature keeps the audience engaged, drawing them further into the narrative and prompting curiosity about what will unfold on the next page. Knowing I must finish the story. Then what a twist in the tail. The plot twist was both unforeseen and masterfully crafted. The conclusion demonstrated exceptional quality.
Make sure you read this book with the light on…
January 9, 2026
Thank you so much to Ruth for sending me a copy of her debut novel, The Devouring, for review!
I was hooked on the story from page one, the writing was really immersive and I loved the casual tone of the story which came from the element of friends telling ghost stories. I think that this made the story even scarier, as well as the setting of each story being an everyday environment that wouldn't be considered to be haunted.
My favourite story was definitely Eleanor's story, "The Grey". It really creeped me out, to the point I had to stop reading the book and read something a little lighter before I could go to sleep 😅
I would like to point out that there are some triggers which may be very disturbing to some readers - animal death, baby/child death, and miscarriage.
I think that this was a brilliant debut novel, and the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat. I'd definitely recommend The Devouring - it is available now on KU or to order on Amazon!
I was hooked on the story from page one, the writing was really immersive and I loved the casual tone of the story which came from the element of friends telling ghost stories. I think that this made the story even scarier, as well as the setting of each story being an everyday environment that wouldn't be considered to be haunted.
My favourite story was definitely Eleanor's story, "The Grey". It really creeped me out, to the point I had to stop reading the book and read something a little lighter before I could go to sleep 😅
I would like to point out that there are some triggers which may be very disturbing to some readers - animal death, baby/child death, and miscarriage.
I think that this was a brilliant debut novel, and the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat. I'd definitely recommend The Devouring - it is available now on KU or to order on Amazon!
January 12, 2026
This is a debut novel.
A DEBUT NOVEL, READERS.
What I mean is, the quality of the book, of the way it is written, of the time it probably took to think of each story, to get the ending to fit in these chilling pages, it promise more incredible books from the author.
I am desensitized to pretty much every topic at this point but I understand how someone would feel more comfortable sleeping with the light on after reading the book. Who knows what or who is hiding in the corner of your bedroom, under your bed waiting for the right opportunity to jump right?
A DEBUT NOVEL, READERS.
What I mean is, the quality of the book, of the way it is written, of the time it probably took to think of each story, to get the ending to fit in these chilling pages, it promise more incredible books from the author.
I am desensitized to pretty much every topic at this point but I understand how someone would feel more comfortable sleeping with the light on after reading the book. Who knows what or who is hiding in the corner of your bedroom, under your bed waiting for the right opportunity to jump right?
November 2, 2025
3.5⭐️
Surprisingly, this was a very easy read. I absolutely loved the story building and how it was a group of middle class friends having a gathering and the cleaner of the host being invited. I really enjoyed the fact that rather than it being one big paranormal story, it was a retelling of each guest's interactions with the 'other side' and I think this is what made it most enjoyable for me!
Surprisingly, this was a very easy read. I absolutely loved the story building and how it was a group of middle class friends having a gathering and the cleaner of the host being invited. I really enjoyed the fact that rather than it being one big paranormal story, it was a retelling of each guest's interactions with the 'other side' and I think this is what made it most enjoyable for me!
November 4, 2025
The Devouring is a gripping and atmospheric novel that completely pulled me in from the very first page. Although horror isn’t a genre I usually read, I found myself utterly absorbed by the story.. it’s a real page-turner that had me hooked throughout. The tension builds beautifully, the characters feel vivid and real, and the twists kept me guessing right to the end. Really enjoyable read!
January 5, 2026
3.75 - It’s normally a book I would pick up but this was this month’s book club read! I was really gripped right from the get go and couldn’t put it down. I thought it was really fast paced, although I was confused who was who, but I’m not sure it was that relevant to the plot. I was very surprised by the twist at the end and how M and Joanna ended up coming together at the end.
I also enjoyed the way the writer included the obviously classism not only between Joanna and M but also the group itself. The constant eye rolling between certain ‘friends’ and the fact that Joanna didn’t even hide she didn’t know who M was other than ‘the cleaner’ even to the degree that the friend first asked ‘are you the cleaner?’ before they entered the house!
Overall an enjoyable read and a great debut novel!
I also enjoyed the way the writer included the obviously classism not only between Joanna and M but also the group itself. The constant eye rolling between certain ‘friends’ and the fact that Joanna didn’t even hide she didn’t know who M was other than ‘the cleaner’ even to the degree that the friend first asked ‘are you the cleaner?’ before they entered the house!
Overall an enjoyable read and a great debut novel!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2026
I came across this book by chance as a recommendation and was interested in reading it. Set in Belfast this is an eerie tale and so very well put together. I was hooked from the first part and honestly really enjoyed the plot build up and how it developed. I guessed to an extent sowm if how it panned out but honestly really enjoyed the read and would recommend you pick it up and give it a go!
January 20, 2026
This is almost a collection of short horror stories wrapped together by friends gathering around to tell their own personal paranormal experiences. The stories get spookier as the tales continue, with the last one being a banger! The overall plot of the story was great as well. And the ending? Chef's kiss
January 23, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
Trigger Warnings:
Spirits/haunting
Mental health
Injuries
Sleep paralysis
Miscarriage
Explicit language
Sexual content
Possession
Scary stories within a scary story! What a treat! "The Devouring" is unexpected and haunting with many twists and turns. If you scare easily, you might want to read this one with all the lights on.
🌶
Trigger Warnings:
Spirits/haunting
Mental health
Injuries
Sleep paralysis
Miscarriage
Explicit language
Sexual content
Possession
Scary stories within a scary story! What a treat! "The Devouring" is unexpected and haunting with many twists and turns. If you scare easily, you might want to read this one with all the lights on.
November 28, 2025
Let me be corny and say that I devoured this book, like seriously what a freaking read!
Loved the characters and the way it was written, reading about each character’s experience made everything more creepy and interesting.
The twist was well done and I seriously cannot recommend this enough!
Loved the characters and the way it was written, reading about each character’s experience made everything more creepy and interesting.
The twist was well done and I seriously cannot recommend this enough!
January 2, 2026
Summary: At a cosy ghost-story gathering, a night of wine and laughter turns dark when untold secrets are unleashed.
Review: Several chilling stories within one story, all set at a gathering. Genuinely creepy - definitely not one to read at night, that’s for sure. A brilliant, haunting book.
Review: Several chilling stories within one story, all set at a gathering. Genuinely creepy - definitely not one to read at night, that’s for sure. A brilliant, haunting book.
January 4, 2026
“Under the glow of fairy lights in a Belfast suburb, a group of women gather, wine in hand, for what should be a harmless autumn evening of ghost stories - but some stories aren’t told… they’re unleashed. “
I was very lucky to receive a gifted copy of this book from Ruth, the author, and I am truly grateful for the chance to read such an excellent debut novel. The Devouring is a mix of short stories combined with a larger narrative intertwined and it’s genuinely the first book in a long while that’s made me turn on all the lights while I’m alone. The characters and their friendships were painted perfectly, the WTF moments were plenty, the goosebumps I got from some of the writing were uncomfortable but so fun, and the twist was just ✨chefs kiss✨.
This is my first 5 star book, and my first book of 2026 and I will be on the look out for anything new coming from R.S Cunningham in the future.
I was very lucky to receive a gifted copy of this book from Ruth, the author, and I am truly grateful for the chance to read such an excellent debut novel. The Devouring is a mix of short stories combined with a larger narrative intertwined and it’s genuinely the first book in a long while that’s made me turn on all the lights while I’m alone. The characters and their friendships were painted perfectly, the WTF moments were plenty, the goosebumps I got from some of the writing were uncomfortable but so fun, and the twist was just ✨chefs kiss✨.
This is my first 5 star book, and my first book of 2026 and I will be on the look out for anything new coming from R.S Cunningham in the future.
November 5, 2025
Ladies' night will never be the same again. This book is gripping, funny, frightening, and unexpected in equal measure. A must-read!
January 10, 2026
Really enjoyed this book. Different from anything I have previously read and found it impossible to put down
December 29, 2025
Both the storyline and the writing style make this book easy to devour. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started, but I was completely hooked from the very first page. The prologue alone pulled me right in.
I also really enjoyed how the book weaves stories within the story, without complicating things. These added an extra layer to the reading experience and made everything feel even more unsettling. Each one felt super scary and they slowly added to the overall atmosphere and pulled me even further into the darkness of the main story.
This is an impressive debut horror, delivering creepiness and lingering unease. I’m very much looking forward to seeing what comes next from Ruth Cunningham.
A super easy read that I couldn’t put down!
I also really enjoyed how the book weaves stories within the story, without complicating things. These added an extra layer to the reading experience and made everything feel even more unsettling. Each one felt super scary and they slowly added to the overall atmosphere and pulled me even further into the darkness of the main story.
This is an impressive debut horror, delivering creepiness and lingering unease. I’m very much looking forward to seeing what comes next from Ruth Cunningham.
A super easy read that I couldn’t put down!
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