By: Gianna Liantonio
During Halloween, everyone will be wearing masks. How will they find a killer who can blend in?
A small town in the middle of nowhere faces tragedy a year later when a high school student is found dead. A year prior, the town fell victim to a serial killer, Jackson Whitmore; however, after his arrest, they thought they were safe. Now, murders are happening again and they’re trying to figure out if this is a copycat following in Jackson’s footsteps or has a new killer emerged.
Penny starts to play detective when she sees a pattern forming of always finding the victims first. She feels the killer is targeting her in some way and she will do anything to make sure the killer doesn’t get to her next.
Nash Whitmore, Jackson’s son, along with his sister Grace, becomes shunned by the people of their town. They assume that if their father is a killer, they will follow in his footsteps. Penny used to date Nash, but after Jackson’s arrest, she was forbidden from seeing him. That does not stop her of course and she tries to rekindle their relationship—albeit just a friendship, just wanting him in her life again.
Now, Penny and her friends work together to try to put together clues of who is killing—whether its truly a copycat or someone new with a grudge.
The story from beginning to end had me hooked and the ending did not disappoint. However, like all Natasha Preston books, they always end on a cliffhanger. The plot twist was very unexpected–or not if you’re good at sleuthing. I definitely did not see it coming, and it was worth it.
I loved the dynamic between the characters throughout the story. The dialogue felt genuine and not forced. I liked Penny and Zayn as a detective duo, and how their friends Adi and Omar just followed along. They felt like a real friend group with joking and teasing one another.
Preston uses horror movie references throughout the book, such as alluding to the Scream franchise. The characters even go to a movie marathon in the book. It was also noted that Jackson wore a mask when he killed–just like the ghost face mask. Penny swears she keeps seeing it wherever she goes, causing her to become paranoid.
This book had me hooked until the very end and my only complaint is that I wish there was more.
The Haunting takes place during Halloween, which is perfect if you want a spooky read during the fall. The town hosts various festivals and activities for people to participate in.
Preston’s books are always a great read, and I get so excited when she releases new ones. I know I will never be disappointed when a new book hits the shelves.
The Party by Natasha Preston will be released December 3, 2024, and I am so excited for when it comes out!
If you are into a thriller with shocking twists, Natasha Preston’s books are the right ones for you.
