Hear Him Calling by Carly Reagon

An unsettling, atmospheric and eerie story, set in an isolated house called the White Tower in north Wales.

A young family inherits a house in a bleak location, especially considering that winter is on its way. They see it as a new start and a good place to raise a family opposed to the stressful and busy life of London. However, they find the house to be less than homely with the possessions of the deceased relative everywhere as well as being cold and damp. The unwelcoming locals don't help either.

The story is told from the point of view of the husband, wife and a young woman who lived over a hundred years ago. Each has their own personal problems such as anxiety, abusive control issues and violence. Throughout, ghostly lights, voices and a few door slams make this rather a tense and spooky read, complete with first world problems just to make it relatable.

A strong, captivating start, quite well written with a good sense of place. Some of the characters are not too pleasant (in true horror or ghost story fashion) and there are a couple of disturbing features to increase the tension. Towards the end the book slows and becomes a little repetitive as if it has lost its way somewhat. Not a strong ending but the journey makes a creepy tale, perfect for these dark nights.

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Published by Little, Brown Book Group Uk, Sphere on 17 October 2024.
​Advance review copy supplied by the publisher.

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