Vesper Wright leaves home at 18, no longer able to handle the religious upbringing set by her family. She puts everything behind her and tries to enjoy a normal life. Then one day she comes home to find a wedding invitation for her closest friend and her old flame. Vesper heads home. No family is ever normal, but hers harbors some dark secrets that could bring about the end of her. What length will she have to go through to come to terms with the facts that surround her very life?

This was an interesting read, slow at first with a lot of back and forth from Vesper about her life. Even as she reaches her family home, the drama slowly builds. This is not an action packed thriller, it's more of a fantasy/family dynamic exploration. Religion plays a large part into the main concept of this book. I personally was not a huge fan of this book but I did finish it pretty quickly.

Thank you Netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my review.

"Black Sheep" by Rachel Harrison is a spellbinding horror novel that delves deep into the twisted dynamics of family and the unsettling secrets that lie beneath the surface. Vesper Wright, a young woman with a past she's tried to escape, receives an unexpected wedding invitation from her enigmatic family, prompting her to return to the stifling community she left behind. Harrison masterfully weaves a tale of suspense and unease, skillfully capturing the tension between Vesper's desire for answers and her fear of the dark truths hidden within her family's history. With sharp wit and a chilling narrative, "Black Sheep" explores the boundaries of faith, the complexities of familial bonds, and the haunting power of the past. This fiery, irreverent horror novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats until its bone-chilling conclusion.

Ok so this definitely was not what I was expecting, and unfortunately not in a good way. This book made me sooooo uncomfortable and it was not enjoyable for me. I was one of the people who loved The Return despite all the bad reviews (which I personally never understood) though I hadn’t picked up another Rachel Harrison book since because none of them had a premise I was interested in, until this one. But this definitely was not what I expected it to be and to be honest this book made me immensely uncomfortable in a way that I didn’t like. It was also really really depraved. It wasn’t the kind of cult book I was expecting and it took me by surprise. But I also couldn’t put it down because I wanted to see where the story was going but when I saw the direction the story was going in, I was shocked and pretty uncomfortable.

Rachel Harrison has a fantastic writing style though, and something that I also noticed from The Return is that her writing is just compulsively readable. It’s not overly wordy or flowery and it draws you in easily. As someone who gets distracted easily while reading, her books are easy to maintain focus on. This book is full of surprises pretty early on. When you find out what kind of religion/cult her family is in, my jaw actually dropped because I was not expecting that. That’s when I knew this book was going to be extremely twisted and messed up. This book is much darker than you’d expect. Basically every character is twisted and crazy and evil.

This isn’t the kind of horror I am comfortable reading and this book wasn’t for me. But, Rachel Harrison has a talent for writing stories that you just can’t put down, and even though nothing much happens at the beginning, you’re still never bored because you want to see what happens next. Like The Return, this book was a really quick read. Her books go by super fast! I preferred The Return, which had a body horror trope. This genuinely was really terrifying though, filled with twisted and messed up people. I am willing to read another one of Rachel Harrison’s books if another premise catches my eye, with different subject matter than this book had, because she has a fantastic writing style and her books always keep you guessing. 3 stars because the writing was not bad at all but I really just did not like this storyline at all. I feel like I need to cleanse my brain now.

Thank you to Netgalley for sending me an advanced copy in return for my honest review.

Black Sheep by Rachel Harrison stands out among contemporary authors for its exceptional ability to capture the essence of humanity within the horror genre. Harrison skillfully weaves a tale that simultaneously captivates and unsettles readers, taking them on an emotional rollercoaster ride.

In this gripping novel, Harrison skillfully tugs at the heartstrings of her audience, drawing them in with a warmth that is both comforting and inviting. However, just as the reader begins to feel a sense of security, Harrison masterfully shatters this illusion, leaving them vulnerable and exposed.

With each turn of the page, Harrison's writing becomes increasingly intense, as she fearlessly delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche. She fearlessly explores the depths of fear, despair, and the unknown, leaving readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.

Black Sheep is a testament to Harrison's exceptional storytelling prowess. Her ability to create vivid and relatable characters adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, allowing readers to form a genuine connection with the story. As the plot unfolds, the reader becomes emotionally invested, experiencing the characters' triumphs and tragedies as if they were their own.

Harrison's writing style is both eloquent and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the eerie and unsettling world she has crafted. Her attention to detail and atmospheric descriptions transport readers into the heart of the story, immersing them in a chilling and unforgettable experience.

In Black Sheep, Harrison fearlessly explores the boundaries of horror, pushing the genre to new heights. With each twist and turn, she challenges conventional expectations, leaving readers breathless and craving more. This novel is a testament to her talent and a must-read for any fan of the horror genre.

Prepare to be enthralled, disturbed, and ultimately captivated by Rachel Harrison's Black Sheep. This remarkable novel will leave an indelible mark on your soul, long after you've turned the final page.

Thanks to Netgalley and Berkley for the advanced copy of this book. Below is my honest review.

Hello, fellow readers. I have to admit something. I've turned down ARCs of Rachel Harrison before. I know, I know. You're seeing that and thinking, "What's wrong with him? He should have jumped at the chance!" I know that now, and I'm here to make amends.

I picked up Black Sheep because it seemed like it would be a fun horror cult story. And it was. I mean, it was fun for me. It wasn't really fun for Vesper. It was brutal for her. It was so fun, in fact, that I read it in two sittings. I would have read it in one sitting, had I not started it at 1:30am or so after finishing another ARC and not being ready to sleep yet. I read 26%, felt myself crashing, and called it a night. Then, the following evening, I picked it back up and tore through the rest, reading until 3am. It was dang near impossible to put down.

Did I guess one of the big reveals? Yeah, but I'm not entirely sure it was supposed to be a shock to us as the reader. I think we're supposed to know about it and be watching for her to pick up on the clues that lead her to the revelation (see what I did there? Apocalypse pun!).

The author knew just how to end each chapter to make me say, "Okay, fine, I'll read ONE more" deep into the night. She plotted it almost perfectly, really made you feel connected to some of the characters.

I own my past mistakes - Rachel Harrison, please forgive me! I promise I'll make it right by reading your entire back catalogue as soon as humanly possible.

Absolutely and highly recommended to any and all horror/horror adjacent/urban fantasy fans. This was a total diamond of a story! Five stars!

Comedy-horror is one of my favorite genres of films, and this super fun book played like a film in my imagination — and it answers the burning question: What would you do if you found out you're literally Satan spawn? If you're our narrator Vesper, you burn the world down! Vesper is a heroine for the ages. Simultaneously tough and vulnerable, snarky and sassy, I want to hang out with this girl, even though it might be dangerous and messy. (Hello, lamb's blood!). Angsty, darkly funny, and with pages that turn themselves, this is an excellent read for Spooky Season.

I'll be featuring this book in my podcast The Library of Lost Time (https://strongsenseofplace.com/library) on September 15.

I’m not sure what I was expecting but this wasn’t it. Maybe it just wasn’t for me. Thanks to the publisher and netgalley for this copy for read and review

Black Sheep by Rachel Harrison is a riveting horror novel that intricately weaves together a tapestry of complex characters, unexpected plot twists, and a delicate exploration of dark themes. Protagonist Vesper Wright's journey back to her enigmatic family and their toxic past grips readers with its suspenseful narrative. The book's well-developed characters, led by the relatable Vesper, harbor their own secrets and motivations, while the skillfully crafted plot keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating each revelation.

Harrison's deft handling of themes such as family secrets, abuse, and redemption sets this novel apart, as she navigates these dark waters with sensitivity and nuance. The prose is evocative, inducing a palpable sense of dread, while the seamless interplay between darkness and comedy adds depth to the story. As the novel concludes with a haunting yet open-ended finale, Black Sheep firmly establishes itself as a masterpiece in the horror genre, inviting readers to confront their own demons and explore the intricate complexities of family ties and personal transformation.

Wow. This book is spook-tastic. And I thought my family was dysfunctional.....ha! I loved the twists and did not expect the ending. Truly did not see that coming. I thought it was going to go a totally different way. I love it when a book surprises me. It's the perfect book for your spooky season tbr.

Holy hell I was not expecting that. This book is so dark and twisted and I freakin loved every second of it! Now I understand why everyone loves Rachel Harrison’s writing because it’s addictive. I devoured this book!

This book follows Vesper. She left home at eighteen and never looked back. Mostly because when she left the religious community she grew up in, she wasn’t allowed to return. When she receives an invitation to her cousin’s wedding on her families farm, she’s not sure if they changed their mind or if it’s a trap.

I seriously loved this book! All the spooky elements throughout and horror props around the house were a great addition. I loved Vesper so much. She was a strong-willed and interesting character. Her horror actress mother on the other hand, I wanted to smack the shit out of her. She was so cold and awful.

This book would be the perfect Halloween read! I highly recommend adding it to your spooky season tbr. Book releases September 12th!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the e-arc!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read a E-ARC of Black Sheep by Rachel Harrison!

I enjoyed reading this book. It is a horror book about a woman who escapes cult life and gets pulled back by her cousins wedding. I would suggest going into this book blind. Some of the reviews are giving away one of the biggest twists that I didn’t see coming. I literally had to reread what I had read to make sure I read it correctly lol.

This is my first book by Rachel Harrison and know I will definitely pick up some others that I had my eyes on.

Cults are something that fascinates me. It may be weird to say but they intrigue me and I'm always up to reading/watching something that talks about cults in any way. My first experience with one was with the Family of Charles Manson. That sealed my fate and I never looked back.

Harrison knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat with your mind racing. I lost sleep trying to finish this one because it was everything that I have ever wanted in a cult book. If you think you know what's going on, you really have no idea. I was shocked at the turn of every page and my eyes couldn't read the words fast enough. Everyone needs to read this book!

Black Sheep promised a devilishly delicious religious cult and it certainly delivered. Get your raw and bloody steak ready and come on this journey to the dark depths of Hell and back. You won't be disappointed.

Rachel Harrison has once again taken a horror subgenre/trope that we all know and love and given it her own spin full of all the emotions. BLACK SHEEP is a book I went into almost 100% blind. I think I read one 2-3 sentence synopsis. And I was hooked from the start! It had a few twists that really captivated me and one entire chapter caused me to hold my breath the whole way through. I loved the family dynamics at work, all the ups and downs. The religious community referenced in the synopsis was so much more intoxicating and interesting than I thought it would be. And the main character's mother? WOW! I could read an entire series just on her, her life, and all the choices and decisions she's made over time.

Saying much more about the plot would risk robbing you of the blind experience I had. I want you to read this and have all the "ooh!"s and "aah!"s that I did. I want you feverishly ripping through those final chapters with an almost insatiable thirst for the truth like I did.

BLACK SHEEP is destined to be a classic... perhaps even a cult classic!

I decided to read Black Sheep by Rachel Harrison on a whim. As usual, I went in blind and I just loved everything about it. The sarcasm and satire. The humor amidst the horror. Add this one to your list!

Thank you to Berkley Publishing and Netgalley for the electronic advanced copy.

First of all, thank you so much to Berkley for reaching out with an e-arc of this novel! Fall is my favorite time of the year, and this was the perfect book to get me started on my spooky season reads….I loved it so, SO much. I actually can’t remember the last book that I read quite this fast!

This is the story of Vesper, a 23 year old girl living on her own after leaving behind the religious confines of her cult-like family and community. This rigorous and stifling upbringing left her with some serious baggage, and a pretty cynical outlook on life. One night after an especially heinous shift at the mediocre restaurant she works at, she returns home to find a mysterious invitation waiting for her. The invitation is for a wedding, but not just any wedding. No, this is a wedding back home, a wedding for her cousin/childhood bestfriend, Rosie, and the only boy she’s ever loved, Brody. Vesper cannot believe that after she disappeared, instead of mourning her, Rosie and Brody got together, and are apparently soon to be wed. But more than that, she can’t believe that she was invited back, as everyone knows that once you leave the community, you can never return. And as much as she hates the idea of returning home, she hates the idea of not showing up, even more.

After she arrives back in her isolated hometown of Virgil, her anxiety is immediate. She’s met with all of the same, almost as if she never left: her mother’s complete disdain and cold disinterest in her, her father’s absence, her Aunt Grace’s unwavering affection, Rosie’s warm and sugary BFFness, and the overwhelming feeling of wrongness. As Vesper is thrown back into the cult-like community that she escaped once before, new truths start to surface, and she’s forced to question everything she thought she knew about her family, and herself.

I’m so serious, this book was EVERYTHING!!!! It was dark and twisted, hilarious, and Vesper was just such a great main character. This was a perfect balance of horror, and examination of familial trauma and identity. Rachel Harrison’s writing is sharp and to the point, and just downright addicting. The atmosphere was perfectly set throughout the book! I literally felt like I was in Virgil, sitting on a porch swing in the middle of nowhere reading this (which was terrifying at times because uhh…..iykyk lol). I just enjoyed this so, so much and cannot wait to read more from this author! I’m hooked!

Vesper is estranged from her deeply religious family, living in the city and struggling through her 20s. She never planned to go back, but when she receives an invitation to her cousin's wedding, she feels compelled to attend. Coming home is more or less what she expects, until a huge family secret is revealed that sends Vesper spinning — can it be true? And what does it mean for her future?

Okay, so based on that synopsis you're like, "girl, where's the horror?" and I get it, I really do. But the thing is, I don't want to give away anything about this book because the surprises are what make it so fun to read!! Vesper is a great time and so is her icy scream queen mom, Constance. I absolutely love the descriptions of Constance's movies, memorabilia, and decor. What a house!

Anyway, there's a great twist pretty early in the story (~20% in) and it just gets better from there. Rachel Harrison's tone is light and fun despite the horror components, and that's a combo I can't get enough of lately. This is a PERFECT spooky season book and I highly recommend it when it hits the shelves in September!

Thank you to Rachel Harrison, Berkley, and NetGalley for my advance digital copy.

Vesper escaped from the strict religious community when she was raised in at 18 and never looked back. That is, until a wedding invitation shows up at her doorstep inviting her to her cousin/former BFF’s nuptials. And something tells Vesper she should go home. Just for the weekend. But when your family’s as…..unconventional…..as Vesper’s, even a quick visit can turn into a nightmare.

This was a great, quick read, with a couple of really fun twists thrown in for good measure. With the spooky season right around the corner, it was easy to sink into a book centered around a strange religious community and the “prodigal daughter” who returns home to find that nothing’s changed, but has some big secrets revealed to her.

I’m not going to give anything away, but this book was great in its delivery - it’s got all the makings of a good horror/thriller, but it also has some great dark humor in it to. The twists and lines are revealed sometimes casually, like an afterthought, almost making me laugh out loud as the characters chatter on like nothing’s wrong. It was brilliantly written stuff!

I can’t stress enough how fitting this book is for the fall season, especially as you’re curled up with a blanket or with your pumpkin spiced treat of choice. It’s a great choice for horror fans and dark humorists alike!

3.5 stars
Not the strongest writing but an extremely fun horror. It took a great turn about halfway through that I wasn't expecting and made me even more excited to keep reading. I definitely wouldn't recommend this unless you love horror; there were some highly gruesome parts that I know are just not for everybody.

I loved the cult classic style of Rachel Harrison's new book! So clever and spooky, perfect for the fall season!

Vesper has been working at a disgruntled server at Shortee’s. When a customer remarks that she’s a dead ringer for Constance Wright, the famous scream queen horror film actor, Vesper acts aloof, but the comment angers her. Bad things happen to the customer and Vesper is fired. Later that night, she feels like she’s being watched and then discovers a large-red envelope on her format. She knows right away it’s from her estranged family. She left her cultish family behind when she was eighteen and never looked back. But now, her ex-best friend and her ex-boyfriend are getting married and she’s been invited and takes the bait and returns home to the toxic family she’d sworn off. A family that harbors a lot of dark secrets. This is a dark and funny novel about fractured family’s, secrets with a twist on dysfunction as well as a focus on father-daughter relationships. An enjoyable horror novel indeed. Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and to NetGalley for the advanced review copy.