Razor sharp and suspenseful, Nat Cassidy is quickly becoming one of my all time favorite authors. Nestlings is the second novel I've read by him, but I am a firm autobuy/read-anything fan for life now.

Horror can be difficult to write because there is a need to be able to build tension effectively. Nat has this ability down in spades. Not only is the suspense built in ways that harken to the King of Horror (Stephen!), Nat seems to be building his own particular brand.

I could not put this book down and I eagerly await what comes next.

Horrifying, bleakly funny, touching. Enjoyed my time with this one.

Thank you to the publisher and to the author for this copy in exchange for an honest review.

The Deptford is known for celebrities, exquisite architecture, and views of Central Park. Despite its high profile, it remains somewhat of a mystery, as its residents are extremely protective of their privacy within its walls. However, for Reid and Ana, the Deptford represents a new start and presents a financial opportunity they can't possibly turn down.

Cassidy sets the tone of the novel in the very first sentence of the novel. "We don't belong here." Ana feels that something is off while touring the apartment and that feeling only grows stronger as they are settling in. Oh, not for Ried though. Reid is completely charmed by the Deptford and its odd residents, leaving Ana alone with that creeping sense of unease. The dread multiplies with each little oddity as Ana insists that something is wrong with the Deptford and something is wrong with Charlie.

Cassidy has thoughtfully created characters with authenticity, and the worries and dilemmas they face are utterly relatable. Ana's paranoia parallels that of Polanski's Rosemary but what Cassidy has created here is its own being. Ana is not only haunted by the occurrences of the Deptford, but also by the trauma of Charlie's birth, the night she and Reid don't talk about, and by the changes in her own body. Ensnared by their circumstances, the atmospheric horror surges forward until Ana is caught up in uncertainty about the meaning and purpose of her life as well as the environmental apprehension.

I can't really say anything else about the plot without giving things away but it definitely takes an even weirder turn than I initially expected. If you want a break for something unusual with relatable characters, creeping dread, and an epilogue that is the epitome of a sad smile, then Nestlings should be the next pick off your TBR.

Nestlings is horror at its best. Ana and Reid’s problems are so real that you become involved in their lives and don’t notice the dangers as they slowly pile up. I was thoroughly creeped out the entire time: haunted building, haunted people - both the main characters and everyone else, in different ways. The conclusion is shocking, horrific and haunting. I was provided an ARC of this book by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

This was such a fun and wild ride of a horror. The description of Rosemary's Baby meets Salom's Lot is absolutely perfect. Nat Cassidy writes horror so viscerally and really makes you feel everything the characters are feeling. As a woman who just had a baby, I particularly enjoyed the postpartum discussions and just that element to the story. I was definitely sad at parts at the ending, but I understand why Cassidy chose to end it the way he did.

The author's note really made this book that much better. I love when authors get personal and discuss how a particular came to fruition and what it means to them.

I will continue to pick up this author!

I enjoyed this more than I thought I would!

This biggest issue I had with the book was the pacing of it all and I kind of wish the ending had played out a bit differently. HOWEVER, I did love how creepy the descriptions of the creatures were and just the sense of dread surrounding the whole plot. Kind of reminded me of how I felt reading Lock Every Door by Riley Sager, in the way that the building they lived in felt like its own character.

Also, if you are looking for huge Salem’s Lot vibes, look no further because you have found them here!

This kind of horror slowly gets under your skin, gives you goosebumps, and makes you look twice at the shadows when you take the dog out at night. Ana and Reid are recovering from the traumatic birth of their daughter, Charlie. Ana is now wheelchair-bound, which has impacted her along with the expected postpartum slump, and she's not feeling bonded to her daughter as much as she'd like to. They are both overtired, overworked, and living in a teeny apartment. So when the call comes to live in the Deptford building, they jump at the chance. But where are all the other tenants? Why don't delivery men bring food to their door? What about all of those rumors of people who jump? Inch by inch, moment by moment, Ana feels that things are very wrong in the building, even as Reid falls more and more under its spell. Their daughter is initially restless and irritable in the building, with small bite marks and excessive screaming. But then, she seems just at home. This story is such well-written horror, weaving a story with such incredible imagery and evocative language that I didn't want to put it down. I loved it. I wanted more. But at the same time, I wanted to be sure it wasn't real. It seeped into my real world and got in the nooks and crannies of my day, as every good horror book does.

I went into this with no expectations. I had not, and still haven’t, read MARY by Cassidy, but I had heard really good things about it so I was hoping for a good story.
Wow, did I get a good story. Nestlings starts off slow, but it’s not a slow story. Sounds confusing? I swear it makes sense to me - nothing really happens right away, but behind the character building, you can feel this sort of tension building very slowly. Once the ROSEMARY’S BABY-like events start kicking off, you realize that it was actually there all along just waiting for the right moment. It’s an intense one, and the punches are fully felt every time. The feeling of unease is so well done with this.
There’s a lot of comparisons out there as to what NESTLINGS is like, and I think most of them are correct, however they’re also wrong. This is its own thing, and Cassidy played it oh so well.

A wonderfully written tale of dread that made me shiver with fright many a times. It was invigorating, unsettling. It's the kind of book that you need to keep the lights on for. Will surely not forget this one for a long time.

Ana and Reid are on the hunt for a lucky break. They score an affordable housing jackpot in the fancy Deptford building. Central Park views, swanky architecture – the dream, right? Until weird stuff starts happening. Ana's dealing with post-birth struggles, and the author dives deep into her messy, real-life feelings. Then there's Reid, brushing off oddities as "New York things." But when the baby gets needle-like bite marks, it's not your typical city quirk!

The story keeps you guessing – is it just NYC being its bizarre self, or is there some spooky business going on? The vibe gets real eerie real fast, especially in the posh Deptford building."Nestlings" is a wild ride blending parenthood struggles, city chaos, and a mystery that keeps you on the edge. If you're up for a supernatural rollercoaster with a splash of urban glam, dive in!

Nat Cassidy's Nestlings is a chilling and atmospheric horror novel that takes readers on a descent into the depths of paranoia and dread. Set in a prestigious New York City apartment building known as The Deptford, the story follows Claire, a young woman struggling with postpartum depression and the unsettling behavior of her newborn son, Charlie.

As Claire grapples with her anxieties and the increasing strangeness surrounding her baby, she also becomes suspicious of the other residents of The Deptford. They seem to hold a dark secret, their watchful eyes and whispered conversations hinting at something sinister lurking beneath the surface.

Cassidy masterfully builds suspense through his evocative prose and unsettling imagery. The descriptions of The Deptford's decaying interior and the disturbing behavior of the residents create a palpable sense of unease. The reader is constantly on edge, unsure of what to trust and who to believe.

One of the most effective elements of the novel is the exploration of postpartum depression and its psychological effects. Claire's anxieties and paranoia are vividly portrayed, making her struggles relatable and deeply unsettling. The question of whether the horrors she experiences are real or a manifestation of her mental state adds another layer of complexity to the narrative.

Nestlings is not just a horror story; it is also a commentary on the anxieties of modern parenthood and the challenges of navigating motherhood in a society that often fails to provide adequate support. Claire's isolating experience raises questions about the societal expectations placed on mothers and the lack of understanding surrounding postpartum depression.

Here are some of the things I loved about the novel:

The atmosphere: Cassidy creates a masterfully chilling and suspenseful atmosphere that will leave you feeling on edge.
The exploration of postpartum depression: The novel's portrayal of postpartum depression is both honest and heartbreaking, raising important questions about societal expectations and the need for support.
The characters: The characters are well-developed and complex, each with their own dark secrets and motivations.
The pacing: The pacing is excellent, keeping the reader engaged from beginning to end.
The ending: The ending is satisfying and leaves the reader with something to think about.
Overall, Nestlings is a captivating and disturbing novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. It is a must-read for fans of psychological horror and anyone who has ever questioned the dark corners of their own minds.

Here are some additional thoughts and considerations:

The novel may be too dark and disturbing for some readers.
The graphic descriptions of violence and postpartum depression may be triggering for some readers.
The novel is relatively short, but the pacing is excellent, and the story is never dull.
If you are looking for a chilling and suspenseful read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, I highly recommend Nestlings.

Nat Cassidy's "Nestlings" is a captivating journey that transcends the typical horror genre, offering a narrative enriched with introspection and emotional depth. Cassidy's unique approach to storytelling adds layers of complexity, creating a novel that stands out in its ability to blend horror with poignant human experiences.

Reid and Anna's world shatters after the birth of their child, an event that leaves Anna paralyzed. Cassidy skillfully navigates the complexities of their relationship, exploring the profound impact of parenthood on their dynamic. The exploration of resentment, the ebb and flow of caregiving, and the strains on their relationship elevate "Nestlings" beyond conventional horror, infusing it with a rich emotional resonance.

The novel's exploration of the housing lottery sheds light on the harrowing realities of the U.S. housing crisis, offering a stark commentary on the horror faced by everyday people. While not reaching the terrifying levels of a traditional horror novel, Cassidy masterfully weaves a tale that feels eerily close to the bone, making the horror more visceral and relatable.

Overall, Nestlings stood out to me less as a horror novel and more of a commentary on society. One of my favorite parts of Cassidy's writing is the before and after portion where the author discusses some of his inspirations and personal limitations. They add a layer to the story that is seldom achieved by other authors. I found there to be parts that truly gripped you and you could feel your heart race with just a sprinkle of horrific details.

"Nestlings" is not just a horror novel; it's a haunting exploration of despair, desperation, and the unexpected horrors that can emerge from the most mundane aspects of life. Nat Cassidy's narrative prowess and ability to inject raw emotion into the genre make "Nestlings" a standout read, leaving readers with lingering chills and a newfound appreciation for the depths horror can reach.

Ana is struggling after the traumatic birth of her daughter leaves her mentally drained and physically disabled. When she and her husband Reid are chosen in an affordable housing lottery to live in the historic and swanky Deptford building in Manhattan, they take it as an opportunity for a fresh start despite Ana's reservations about living on one of the highest floors as a wheelchair user. When their infant daughter begins exhibiting strange behavior in their new home, Ana becomes increasingly concerned as she notices that the Debtford has many unexplained oddities.

I don't want to give away too much, but I can say that this skin-crawling, spine-tingling novel will have you squirming as you turn the pages to see the price that must be paid to live in one of the most desirable buildings in Manhattan.

The story also turns out to be an unexpected exploration of the meaning of motherhood, with post-partum depression, childhood parental relationships, and the angst of first-time motherhood playing a significant role in the plot.

This is the first book I've read by this author and absolutely loved it! It was gripping, socking at times, and I found myself not wanting to put it down! Pacing was a little slow at times but I didn't mind it. Modern horror novel at it's best!

I love Nat Cassidy. It started with Mary and continues with Nestlings. I felt like I was back in NYC, and as a former resident I GET IT! There's no way you'd pass up a housing opportunity like this. The characters were alive and believable and the plot! I won't spoil anything, but this book is a big, big hit for horror fans like myself.

An intriguing take on some well worn tropes, Nestling doesn't reinvent the wheel here, but once it gets rolling it's a fascinating ride. The way it builds tension is quite impressive, and from chapter one it's a book that gets its hooks into you.

WOW!!!! This is horror to a tee! I absolutely loved the creepy tension and atmosphere of the book. You get that creepy gut feeling that you know something isn't quite right and you just can't stop reading!!!

I have read many horror books that are honestly just lame. If you're looking for a creepy, shocking, dark, and just unpredictable horror then look no further. Seriously, it's that good! This book has the perfect vivid descriptions and you envision yourself right there in the story which adds a whole level of creepiness.

I swear you will not be able to put this book down!!! This was my first book by Nat Cassidy and it for sure will not be my last. If he isn't on your radar and you're. a horror fan than definitely get on Cassidy's train. I can't wait to see what creepy book he comes out with next!!!

5/5 stars

Thank you so much to netgalley and Tor Nightfire for my arc in exchange for an honest review.

Pub date: 10/31/23.
Published to GR: 12/3/23

Among the gothic revival buildings of New York City is the illustrious Deptford. A building with a rich history that no one quites knows, and a eerie sense of foreboding. For a young couple with a new baby, winning a lottery for a spot in this gorgeous building in the heart of Manhattan should be a dream come true. If that's the case, why does it feel so wrong? From the very beginning, everything about the building fills the reader with a sense of foreboding and unease. And the more you read the more the paranoia builds, for the charaters and for the reader.

I read this book in spurts over a holiday and when I wasn't reading the book I was thinking about what was going to happen in the book and trying to piece together the story in my mind before I returned to reading. While I have not read anything from Nat Cassidy previously, I very much look forward to any future books. Any horror book that can linger in my mind and in my dreams is well worth the read, and Nestlings is that type of horror. Even when the book was over I felt restless and like it wasn't resolved. This nagging tickles at the back of my mind kept saying, "the book may be over but the story keeps playing out in my mind."

5/5 Stars.

I'm from New York, so I'm always excited to see a book set in my home city. And while Nestlings largely takes place in a singular isolated building, Cassidy still manages to capture so many little details of the city. The unique people, the small stores tucked into corners, even the Mitzvah tanks that drive around, so much heart is put into the setting. To no surprise, however, the real star of the setting is the building itself.

Each element, from the individual apartments and the strange dark hallways to the courtyard and the gargoyles clinging to the stone walls, is unsettling in its own way while still feeling cohesive enough to become a single terrifying entity.

Cassidy absolutely nails the horror elements. Enough details are layered in to make you entirely aware that something is wrong, while still remaining subtle to create a slow build to the eventual reveal. The combination of physical alterations to the building and psychological horror to the minds of the characters is perfectly balanced. Even as the characters realize that something is wrong, they are slowly being influenced to keep them from leaving too soon. I love the way that Cassidy takes a classic monster and creates something so incredibly unique through the inspiration of Jewish mythology. I can probably count on one hand the amount of times I've read books with Judaic mythology mixed in, and this is probably my favorite one so far.

The horror is, by itself, amazing, but the element that makes this book truly special is the themes woven throughout. I, personally, identify as more culturally Jewish than religiously, and I love how much soul and heart clearly went into the creation of the characters' Jewish identity. It's nuanced and personal, and understands how much further Judaism expands past just religion.

The two main themes of the book, disability and motherhood, are equally as complex and explored to a much further extent. Our main character, Ana, is a woman whose recent childbirth left her largely paralyzed from the waist down. Throughout the entire book, she struggles to figure out what to do and who she is now that everything has changed. There is no single answer, no clear epiphany at the end that solves everything. Motherhood isn't easy, disability can't be solved by a single pill and some exercises, and Cassidy never shies away from the darkest parts of both. But he also allows the beauty of both to shine through in the form of Ana, who never stops fighting. She faces terrifying physical monsters while battling the demons of her own mind, and is forced to make choices that left me reeling.

Despite the monsters and the mythology, Nestlings is, at its core, a human story. And I will forever be grateful that I made the choice to read it.

4.5* rounded up didn't like as much as "Mary" but it was so well put together that I had to round up.

I don't think I could really summarize it better than the synopsis already says "combination of Rosemary's Baby and Salems Lot" sign me up! Now I've seen/read enough stuff that compares itself to Rosemarys baby to be cautious but this isn't a replication or a sad attempt to reinvent the wheel, this just carries the vibes of those stories through this one and made something really unique and special. The afterward actually made me cry, great read.