3.5 ⭐️
I had really high hopes for this book and overall it was a decent read. I just had a hard time with the serial killer killing women for their hair???? it was just such an odd thing. I enjoyed the overall premise of the book I just feel some of the minor details could have been executed better.

thank you to the publishers and netgalley for this ARC!

**Prey** is a chilling and atmospheric dual-timeline psychological thriller that seamlessly intertwines the harrowing experiences of wartime London with the haunting echoes of the present day. This gripping novel explores the convergence of past and present as two women find themselves entangled in a ruthless killer’s deadly game.

The narrative alternates between two distinct periods: London during the Blitz in 1941 and London in 2019. In the earlier timeline, Harriet Yorke is an artist managing Calla House, a sanctuary for people from various walks of life, united in their struggle to survive the bombings and chaos of wartime London. Harriet’s life takes a dark turn when, during a late-night walk with her Cairn Terrier, George, she encounters a killer. This encounter sets off a chain of events that will profoundly affect not just Harriet, but everyone connected to Calla House.

Fast forward to 2019, and Calla House is now home to Libby, Harriet’s granddaughter, who lives amidst the paintings that capture the grim realities of Harriet’s wartime experiences. When a crumbling chimney pot prompts Libby to call in builders, seemingly benign repairs unravel a series of disturbing events. Libby begins to question whether the lingering shadows of Harriet’s past are more than just memories and if the house's structural issues are a harbinger of darker things to come.

**Prey** excels in its atmospheric tension, seamlessly blending historical and contemporary elements to create a deeply immersive reading experience. The novel’s dual timelines are expertly handled, with each era vividly portrayed and intricately connected through the legacy of Calla House and its inhabitants. The sense of foreboding is palpable, as the past’s horrors begin to resurface and impact the present.

Harriet and Libby are both well-drawn protagonists, each facing their own set of fears and challenges. Harriet’s bravery and resilience in the face of wartime danger contrast sharply with Libby’s modern-day struggle to confront the haunting legacies of her grandmother’s past. The psychological depth of their characters adds a layer of emotional intensity to the thriller’s suspense.

The novel’s suspense is heightened by unexpected twists and a plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The integration of historical details with the present-day narrative enriches the story, offering a layered and engaging experience. The eerie and unsettling atmosphere is effectively built up through evocative descriptions and a mounting sense of dread.

**Prey** is a compelling read for fans of psychological thrillers and historical suspense. Its ability to merge historical trauma with contemporary tension, coupled with well-developed characters and a gripping plot, makes it a standout in the genre. If you enjoyed Charlie Donlea’s *The Girl Who Was Taken* or Riley Sager’s *The Only One Left*, this novel promises to deliver the same level of suspense and intrigue, with a story that will linger long after the final page.