Book Review: Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman
As I nestled into my reading nook, I couldn’t help but feel a chill of anticipation when I picked up Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman. Having enjoyed some of his previous works, I was eager to see what eerie depths he would explore this time. With an 8-year-old protagonist and a malevolent being dubbed “Other Mommy,” I was promised a chilling ride—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
Malerman’s storytelling has always had a unique flair, and this book is a shining example. We follow young Bela, who begins her journey seeing Other Mommy as an intriguing figure, only for her to become increasingly sinister as the narrative unfolds. This gradual shift kept me on my toes, as Bela’s innocent perspective added layers of creepiness that lingered far beyond the pages. The horror imagery is vividly realized, amplifying the tension and dread with every chapter. I couldn’t help but appreciate the clever nods to Goblin, a town featured in Malerman’s earlier works, creating a sense of continuity and familiarity.
One of the most delightful surprises was experiencing the audiobook narrated by Delanie Nicole Gill. Her delivery perfectly encapsulates the innocence of an 8-year-old girl, making the uncanny elements of the story feel even more potent. Listening to her narration felt like peering through the vivid eyes of a child—a perspective that added a deeply unsettling yet fascinating dimension to the tale. The pacing was brisk, with Malerman diving straight into the action, and I appreciated how quickly we were introduced to the escalating horrors within Bela’s home.
The complexities of Bela’s family dynamics also struck a chord. As her parents grapple with fear and increasing desperation, the cracks in their marriage deepen, providing a rich backdrop to the supernatural occurrences. Their attempts to seek help only bring forth more feelings of helplessness, which Malerman crafts exquisitely. It’s in these human emotions where the real horror lies—not just in the presence of Other Mommy, but in the family’s struggle to stay intact as darkness creeps ever closer.
Among the characters, Granny Ruth stood out as my absolute favorite. Her wisdom and warmth became a safe harbor in this haunting tale, offering needed depth and light in an otherwise dark narrative. I found her relationship with Bela endearing, and it felt authentic—a welcome contrast to the sinister atmosphere enveloping their lives.
The exploration of occult elements added an engaging layer, too, making the narrative well-rounded and immersive. Every twist and turn intensified my investment in Bela’s story, as I eagerly turned the audiobook back on, losing track of time completely.
With its chilling premise, relatable themes of familial struggle, and exquisite narration, I can’t recommend Incidents Around the House enough to horror readers of all stripes. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Malerman or new to his work, this audiobook is a stellar entry point. It left me eagerly anticipating his next release, reinforcing my belief that he’s a master of eerie storytelling.
In reading this book, I not only felt the spine-tingling fear of Other Mommy but also the warmth of family and the complexities of human relationships—a blend that will linger in my thoughts long after the final word. Thank you, Del Rey, for bringing this gem into the world—I’m already counting down to Malerman’s next masterpiece!
Discover more about Incidents Around the House on GoodReads >>