SOLVED. Either Adult or YA novel about children who run from their stepfather. [s]

[Jennifer]

It was either horror or suspense. YA or Adult. It was about 2 siblings that had to run from the stepfather (Or at least I think it was their stepfather). I remember the description on the back of the book describing how the mother had come into their room one night, leaned down and whispered one word in one of the children's ear. RUN.
I read it in paperback form between 2002-2004.
Thanks in advance!

[Ayshe]

The Absence of Nectar?

[Ann aka Iftcan]

The Night of the Hunter (one of the scariest things I ever read, more so since it was based on a real person.)

[Jennifer]

Ayshe wrote: "The Absence of Nectar?"

The Absence of Nectar! That's it!! Thank you!!