• Booklist Reviews : Booklist Reviews 2020 December #1
  *Starred Review* In the year 2027, the Wilde family are the black sheep of Maple Street, a Long Island community. Effusive Gertie is a real-estate agent with a big personality; her husband, Arlo, is a former celebrity in recovery from a heroin addiction. Their quirky children, Julia and Larry, fit in better, running with the "Rat Pack" of local kids. The subtle conflict between the Wildes and the other families—led by slightly unhinged professor Rhea Schroeder—explodes when a sinkhole erupts in the neighborhood. Shelly Schroeder disappears down the sinkhole, and Rhea blames Arlo Wilde. Rhea's insanity fuels the events thereafter as the Wildes become even more ostracized, leading to violence and a shocking conclusion. The reader is given some clues to the outcome through news articles and book chapters from the future that allude to the "Maple Street Murders." These extra documents add to the rippling tension throughout. Distinguished horror writer Langan (Audrey's Door, 2009) knows how to make that tension pop off the page. A creepy standout for readers who want an extra kick to their suburban dramas. Copyright 2020 Booklist Reviews.

Sarah Langan, a Columbia MFA graduate and three-time recipient of the Bram Stoker Award, is the author of three novels including The Keeper. She grew up on Long Island and she currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband and daughters. Find out more at SarahLangan.com.