Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman (Pan Macmillan | Tor Nightfire)

Josh Malerman's "Incidents Around the House" is an engrossing horror novel narrated by eight-year-old Bela, whose life takes a dark turn with the arrival of a sinister entity called "Other Mommy." Initially friendly, Other Mommy becomes increasingly threatening as it repeatedly demands Bela to let it into her heart, endangering her family if she doesn't comply. This unfolds amidst the backdrop of her family's internal struggles, particularly the strain on her parents' marriage, intensifying the sense of vulnerability and fear.

Bela's journey is both terrifying and emotionally charged as she deals with complex family dynamics while facing the supernatural threat. Her character development is impressive, demonstrating a deep understanding of the world around her despite her young age. Supporting characters like Mommy, Daddo, and Grandma Ruth add depth to the story, each contributing to the tension and emotional conflict.

The novel explores themes of family, vulnerability, and the fragility of adult authority. It shows how societal issues like marital conflict can amplify feelings of insecurity, particularly in children. 

Malerman's writing style is masterful, using Bela's narrative voice to create immediacy and fear. The language is simple yet impactful, and the tone remains tense, making readers feel the dread that engulfs Bela's world.

Personally, I found the book to be deeply unsettling, evoking a sense of unease that lingered long after finishing it. The way Malerman weaves together the supernatural elements with real-world family struggles is both captivating and terrifying. One area for improvement could be in providing more resolution or closure, as the ending feels somewhat abrupt.

This novel distinguishes itself within the horror genre through its unique perspective and ability to evoke fear without relying on gore or explicit violence. It compares favorably to Malerman's previous works, like "Bird Box," in its ability to create a sense of claustrophobic terror. 

Overall, "Incidents Around the House" is a chilling tale that encourages readers to reflect on the fragility of family bonds and the resilience needed to confront the unknown.

4/5