Unspeakable Things by Jess Lourey is a bone chilling, riveting novel, based on deeply buried family secrets, and a town where monsters walk hand in hand with the young. It surprised me that despite this book being a dark and harrowing read there were also tender moments filled with gentle humour, these moments balance the darkness of this book perfectly. Jess Lourey writing is beautiful almost poetic and although this is a disturbing story, the author leaves a lot to the reader’s imagination, only alluding to certain events, which I found far more disconcerting than having it all laid out for me.

The story begins in a small Minnesota town in the 1980s young boys are being abducted, and then returned, but on their return, the boy's behaviour has greatly changed, their moody, violent and withdrawn, and young Cassie wants to know why. The adults of the town should be protecting their children, but as we know evil takes many forms, and many of the book's adult characters prove that appearances can be deceptive.

Unspeakable Things is narrated by 12-year-old Cassie a young girl growing up in Minnesota, at first her life appears simple, she lives on a rambling farm with her parents and sister, but as we the reader delve deeper into Cassie’s life she hints at a life, that’s far darker and more horrifying, a life where monsters are real and not just a figment of a child’s overactive imagination. Cassie is a character who will break your heart into a million pieces, perfectly depicted, there’s an air of vulnerability about her, but alongside that there is a young girl who appears much older, and wise beyond her years.

Cassie’s narration of events sent shivers down my spine, followed by a growing sense of dread as the story unfolded,. As the reader you can’t help but feel Cassie’s emotional turmoil as she tries to make sense of her world, confusion, fear, and heartbreak, I’m sure I experienced everyone of these emotions alongside Cassie. The town Cassie lives in is fundamental to the plot, it feels claustrophobic, surrounded by a darkness that feels overwhelming at times, some of the residents are creepy and others downright frightening, but it’s these elements and Jess Lourey’s skills in writing a dramatic story that make this such an incredible and gripping book. If you are looking for a fast-paced read then this book probably isn’t for you, but if like me you enjoy a read that has depth, mystery, suspense and has an unforgettable protagonist then I would highly recommend you treat yourself to a copy of Unspeakable Things.

This review maybe altered slightly and edited prior to publication on my blog

In Unspeakable Things, middle-schooler Cassie lives with her older sister and parents in small town Minnesota in 1983. There are serious, scary issues at home and she’s trying to figure out how to deal with that without much help. Then boys start disappearing and coming back changed. Reading this book, my heart hurt for the kids that come home and those that don’t, for those who are believed and those who aren’t.

I very much enjoyed Cassie’s voice as she attempts to investigate the attacks, while simultaneously trying to make sense of her home life and remain safe herself. Utilizing a middle schooler as the main character was perfect for this plot. Cassie’s point-of-view illustrates well the fear and confusion experienced by the whole community when something like this occurs, as well as the fact kids often know and are affected by more than you may think. A sense of foreboding permeates the entire novel. The subject matter addressed is not light or easy but the author does a fantastic job portraying this community and the stomach-churning anxiety the events create while also keeping a pace that has you soaring quickly through the novel. Unspeakable Things is about serious issues but it doesn’t preach. This book is a coming of age novel and a mystery, plus high suspense and tension from page one.

Content Warnings: <spoiler> sexual assault; homophobic language </spoiler>

Thank you to the publisher, author, and Netgalley for the ARC. The opinions in this review are honest and my own. #UnspeakableThings #mystery #suspense

Such a unique and engaging story. So well written and beautifully layered. It’s a sad story but told in such a way that it wasn’t to depressing and gruesome. Jess Lourey’s writing is beautiful. Can’t wait to read whatever she comes up with next.

This was such an amazing title! This book was so compelling and intense and I could not put it down. The author does a great job of pulling in the reader until the very end. This one will stick with you long after you are through.

I received a digital advanced copy from the author via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Although the readers are warned that this book is dark and one where children get hurt, it’s also based the author's, Jess, childhood and family secret. Although Jess wrote this as a fiction novel, I sense I’ll dive into an emotional roller coaster. Getting a chance to have a glimpse of one of my favorite authors’ personal life will be awe-stricken. Because it reminds us readers that in the end, authors are human too.

With that said....'Unspeakable Things' dives into the world of Cassie, a young girl living in a rural part of a small Minnesota town. While Cassie daydreams about how to get her boy crush to date her, she also struggles with having to keep a family secret to herself (because family matters are to be kept in the home) all the while boys are being harmed around town.

Be forewarned that the novel is written in more a 12 year old narrative that can get a bit childish (because duh).

Normally while reading any of Jess's novels, I dive right now and cannot escape the story. However, with this novel, I had mixed feelings and therefore it's a bit difficult for me to write a review. Some points of the novel it felt like the chapters were dragging and other chapters I couldn't stop reading. I felt anger towards Cassie's family and their dynamic of living (seriously, if I could jump through the book and kick her dad in the balls, I would). Her sister reminds me of my relationship I use to have with my sisters; distant but yet close.

I wish the character development went a bit deeper into who they were (i.e. the villain, the sheriff, the mom, the aunt, the dad). Some of those characters probably would have helped to get a clear insight into Cassie and her life.

Would I re-read this novel again? I'm not really sure. However, I hope this novel left some grief for Jess. It's not easy to try and communicate about your childhood trauma and I applaud her. As I always, keep writing, your stories are beautiful.

This story touches on subject matters otherwise not spoken about. The storyline is gentle and transitions smoothly yet bold and uncomfortable at times.
I found myself being challenged to always be aware of what's going and to be available to people who may need help.
Jess Lourey does a great job of drawing the reader in and keeping your attention. I'm a fan of her work.