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Nestlings
Nat Cassidy is at his razor-sharp best again with his horror novel Nestlings, which harnesses the creeping paranoia of Rosemary's Baby and the urban horror of 'Salem's Lot, set in an exclusive New York City residential building.
Ana and Reid need a break. The horrifically complicated birth of their first child has left Ana paralyzed, bitter, and struggling―with mobility, with her relationship with Reid, with resentment for her baby. Reid dismisses disturbing events and Ana’s deep unease and paranoia, but he can't explain the needle-like bite marks on their baby.
Ana and Reid need a break. The horrifically complicated birth of their first child has left Ana paralyzed, bitter, and struggling―with mobility, with her relationship with Reid, with resentment for her baby. Reid dismisses disturbing events and Ana’s deep unease and paranoia, but he can't explain the needle-like bite marks on their baby.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2023
About the author
Nat Cassidy
14 books1,921 followersNat Cassidy writes horror for the page, stage, and screen. His acclaimed novels, including
Mary: An Awakening of Terror
and
Nestlings
, have been featured in best-of lists from Esquire, Harper's Bazaar, NPR, the Chicago Review of Books, the NY Public Library, and more, and he was named one of the "writers shaping horror’s next golden age" by Esquire. His award-winning horror plays have been produced throughout New York City and across the United States. He won the NY Innovative Theatre Award for his one-man show about H. P. Lovecraft, another for his play about Caligula, and was commissioned by the Kennedy Center to write the libretto for a short opera (about the end of the world, of course). You've also likely seen Nat on your TV, playing various Bad Guys of the Week on shows such as Law & Order: SVU, Blue Bloods, Bull, Quantico, FBI, and many others ... but that's a topic for a different bio. He lives in New York City with his wife.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,452 reviews
April 17, 2023
I'm so excited for you all to read this book. Like the official summary says, this one is a little bit ROSEMARY'S BABY and a little bit 'SALEM'S LOT (and to those influences I'd also say a little THE SHINING, a little THE CHANGELING, a little AUDREY'S DOOR, a little NIGHTBITCH, a little BABY TEETH, a little THE TRIBE).
As with MARY, it's a very personal story, and I wrote an Afterword that goes into detail about where it came from, all the various themes that were at play while writing it, etc. Unlike MARY, this isn't a story I've been carrying with me for a long time. Quite the opposite--in many ways this book is explicitly about the past couple years.
I wanted to write about New York City, my adoptive home, and how it's changed during the pandemic. I also wanted to write about my own Judaism and the simmering atmosphere of antisemitism we've found ourselves in lately. The book is also about disability, about paraplegia and postpartum depression and identity and parenthood and, because it’s still a horror novel, Manhattan real estate.
More than anything, it's a book about change, about trying to find your home, and about ... well, you'll see. But I think it's really gonna scare your socks off your butt and I'm so grateful for your time and interest, you beautiful Goodreaders, you.
(Also, if you'd like to see a whole bunch of the books that helped influence NESTLINGS, look for my "NESTLINGS Influences" bookshelf label!)
As with MARY, it's a very personal story, and I wrote an Afterword that goes into detail about where it came from, all the various themes that were at play while writing it, etc. Unlike MARY, this isn't a story I've been carrying with me for a long time. Quite the opposite--in many ways this book is explicitly about the past couple years.
I wanted to write about New York City, my adoptive home, and how it's changed during the pandemic. I also wanted to write about my own Judaism and the simmering atmosphere of antisemitism we've found ourselves in lately. The book is also about disability, about paraplegia and postpartum depression and identity and parenthood and, because it’s still a horror novel, Manhattan real estate.
More than anything, it's a book about change, about trying to find your home, and about ... well, you'll see. But I think it's really gonna scare your socks off your butt and I'm so grateful for your time and interest, you beautiful Goodreaders, you.
(Also, if you'd like to see a whole bunch of the books that helped influence NESTLINGS, look for my "NESTLINGS Influences" bookshelf label!)
October 14, 2023
Gripping, shocking, creepy, and so hard to put down!!!! I was intrigued by the synopsis of the book and was completely blown away when I gave it a listen! I had a hard time putting this book aside as I was completely sucked in and fully invested in the well thought out page turner!
Ana and Reid have been under a lot of stress and life changes lately. Ana is wheelchair bound after the birth to their daughter, Charlie. Reid has taken on the role of caretaker for both his wife and his baby. They are over the moon when they win an apartment in the luxurious Deptford building. It boasts stunning architecture with views of Central Park. It is a dream location and comes at a great time in their lives. Sure, the other residents are a little odd, a little eccentric and a little mysterious, but you can't beat the views or the affordable housing.
Moving is hard enough.......
WOWZA! This is horror at its best. I loved the tension, the dread, the unease, the mounting sense that something isn't quite right, and the creepy tone of the book. I love books that have hair standing up on the back of my neck! Plus, the atmosphere! The Deptford is the perfect stage for this modern horror story that has an old time feel to it.
If you are looking to be amazed, spooked, shocked, and entertained then look no further!!! Seriously, it's that good! This book is well written, has vivid descriptions that put me right there in the action, and is perfectly paced. Nestlings played out like a movie in my mind which made sense as the author has a vast experience in the entertainment industry.
I listened to the audiobook and loved the narration! Very well done. The author's very personal and moving note is also a must.
Well written, shocking, gripping, entertaining and hard to put down!!! If Nat Cassidy is not on your radar, he needs to be!
4.5 stars
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Ana and Reid have been under a lot of stress and life changes lately. Ana is wheelchair bound after the birth to their daughter, Charlie. Reid has taken on the role of caretaker for both his wife and his baby. They are over the moon when they win an apartment in the luxurious Deptford building. It boasts stunning architecture with views of Central Park. It is a dream location and comes at a great time in their lives. Sure, the other residents are a little odd, a little eccentric and a little mysterious, but you can't beat the views or the affordable housing.
Moving is hard enough.......
WOWZA! This is horror at its best. I loved the tension, the dread, the unease, the mounting sense that something isn't quite right, and the creepy tone of the book. I love books that have hair standing up on the back of my neck! Plus, the atmosphere! The Deptford is the perfect stage for this modern horror story that has an old time feel to it.
If you are looking to be amazed, spooked, shocked, and entertained then look no further!!! Seriously, it's that good! This book is well written, has vivid descriptions that put me right there in the action, and is perfectly paced. Nestlings played out like a movie in my mind which made sense as the author has a vast experience in the entertainment industry.
I listened to the audiobook and loved the narration! Very well done. The author's very personal and moving note is also a must.
Well written, shocking, gripping, entertaining and hard to put down!!! If Nat Cassidy is not on your radar, he needs to be!
4.5 stars
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
August 25, 2024
‘I think Healing begins when you finally recognize there is no moving on. Only moving forward. You don’t actually leave anything behind. You carry it with you.’
Nestlings by Nat Cassidy is a chilling dive into the world of urban horror, where the familiar becomes terrifying, and your new dream apartment might just be your worst nightmare. Cassidy crafts a story that feels like a slow, creeping shadow, subtle at first, but soon, you’re fully enveloped in the darkness.
The story follows Ana and Reid, a couple trying to start over after a tragic event. They move into a historic, rent controlled New York City apartment that seems too good to be true. What starts as a promising new chapter quickly turns into a nightmare as they begin to encounter strange neighbours, odd noises, and an overwhelming sense that something is terribly wrong.
Cassidy excels at building tension. The atmosphere of the apartment, with its claustrophobic hallways and eerie history, becomes a character in itself. The horror is both psychological and supernatural, keeping you guessing as to what exactly is haunting Ana and Reid. Is it all in their heads, or is there something truly sinister at play?
The novel also explores themes of grief and trauma, adding depth to the horror elements. Ana’s struggles with her past are interwoven with the unfolding terror, making the story not just about what’s lurking in the dark, but also about the monsters we carry within us.
If you’re a fan of slow burn horror with a heavy dose of psychological dread, Nestlings is worth a read. It’s the kind of book that makes you look twice at the corners of your own home and question what might be hiding in the shadows. Just be prepared to sleep with the lights on.
I Highly Recommend.
Nestlings by Nat Cassidy is a chilling dive into the world of urban horror, where the familiar becomes terrifying, and your new dream apartment might just be your worst nightmare. Cassidy crafts a story that feels like a slow, creeping shadow, subtle at first, but soon, you’re fully enveloped in the darkness.
The story follows Ana and Reid, a couple trying to start over after a tragic event. They move into a historic, rent controlled New York City apartment that seems too good to be true. What starts as a promising new chapter quickly turns into a nightmare as they begin to encounter strange neighbours, odd noises, and an overwhelming sense that something is terribly wrong.
Cassidy excels at building tension. The atmosphere of the apartment, with its claustrophobic hallways and eerie history, becomes a character in itself. The horror is both psychological and supernatural, keeping you guessing as to what exactly is haunting Ana and Reid. Is it all in their heads, or is there something truly sinister at play?
The novel also explores themes of grief and trauma, adding depth to the horror elements. Ana’s struggles with her past are interwoven with the unfolding terror, making the story not just about what’s lurking in the dark, but also about the monsters we carry within us.
If you’re a fan of slow burn horror with a heavy dose of psychological dread, Nestlings is worth a read. It’s the kind of book that makes you look twice at the corners of your own home and question what might be hiding in the shadows. Just be prepared to sleep with the lights on.
I Highly Recommend.
August 9, 2024
In Nat Cassidy we trust 🫡
FRTC
FRTC
September 8, 2024
This is the last Tor Nightfire I request. We clearly do not vibe. I was promised Rosemary's Baby and that's not what I'm getting. I feel bad that I feel zero sympathy for Ana, but it is what it is. Surprise, surprise. Reid is dumb. Are the monsters the only interesting characters?
📚 Buddy read with Zana
🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio
📚 Buddy read with Zana
🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio
September 18, 2023
REVIEW TO COME
August 29, 2024
It Has its Good Moments.
Ana and Reid and baby Charlie are moving into a luxury apartment home. They won the house in a lottery.
Ana thinks the timing is terrible. She is paralyzed from giving birth to Charlie. After all the trouble she’s been going through to have a baby.
And she doesn’t want to be a complainer, but something is wrong with the house. Even Charlie has been able to feel it. She is screaming every night.
Reid is clueless about everything. Nothing appears to awaken him from his own sleep. He is not
bothered about anything concerning the apartment. The fact is he has no idea of what is going on.
It’s going on four stars. 💫💫💫💫
Ana and Reid and baby Charlie are moving into a luxury apartment home. They won the house in a lottery.
Ana thinks the timing is terrible. She is paralyzed from giving birth to Charlie. After all the trouble she’s been going through to have a baby.
And she doesn’t want to be a complainer, but something is wrong with the house. Even Charlie has been able to feel it. She is screaming every night.
Reid is clueless about everything. Nothing appears to awaken him from his own sleep. He is not
bothered about anything concerning the apartment. The fact is he has no idea of what is going on.
It’s going on four stars. 💫💫💫💫
September 30, 2023
Moving into a new place has always held a scary kind of fascination for me. I'm not an animist, but when it comes to new apartments, especially ones I saw and (hopefully) chose for myself (and wasn't forced to rent because I got nothing else) I believe in some kind of interaction between your new place and you and I usually feel super vulnerable in those first days before the place becomes your place. That vulnerability triggers all kinds of crazy thoughts, energies, sleepless nights, dreams – it's a phase of unrest and, for the lack of a better word in English, “unheimlichkeit”, which translates to eeriness, but is derived from the stem word “heim” which means “home” and “unheimlich” to“unhomely” etc.
It is this feeling that makes me appreciate the use of this trope in horror fiction, the peak being Ira Levin's Rosemary's Baby, which combines said angst with cults and misogynistic manipulation, creating a progressively threatening and paranoiac atmosphere resulting in devastating surrender. Exactly that atmosphere is something Nat Cassidy succeeds in capturing in his latest novel Nestlings, which strongly echoes Levin's masterpiece.
A young couple with baby miraculously find a great housing opportunity in New York City, she trying to recover from the aftereffects of the complications of birth, which left her paralyzed, and him slowly discovering a new world his neighbors in this gorgeous yet mysterious new building are letting him in on.
Cassidy's writing appeals to me – in this second book I've read by him, Mary being the first, I again thought that the characters he creates are his forte. Even though couples with children and the difficulties of parenthood isn't really my world, I was interested in what would happen to Ana and Reid and the story takes the reader towards an ending which is unexpected and makes you ponder. The supernatural element used here, even though Salem's Lot is being name dropped in the blurb, not your usual vampire and includes interesting notions from Judaism, refreshing the trope infinitely, creating its own myth.
My thanks to Libra FM via Otherland Bookshop for providing me an ALC.
It is this feeling that makes me appreciate the use of this trope in horror fiction, the peak being Ira Levin's Rosemary's Baby, which combines said angst with cults and misogynistic manipulation, creating a progressively threatening and paranoiac atmosphere resulting in devastating surrender. Exactly that atmosphere is something Nat Cassidy succeeds in capturing in his latest novel Nestlings, which strongly echoes Levin's masterpiece.
A young couple with baby miraculously find a great housing opportunity in New York City, she trying to recover from the aftereffects of the complications of birth, which left her paralyzed, and him slowly discovering a new world his neighbors in this gorgeous yet mysterious new building are letting him in on.
Cassidy's writing appeals to me – in this second book I've read by him, Mary being the first, I again thought that the characters he creates are his forte. Even though couples with children and the difficulties of parenthood isn't really my world, I was interested in what would happen to Ana and Reid and the story takes the reader towards an ending which is unexpected and makes you ponder. The supernatural element used here, even though Salem's Lot is being name dropped in the blurb, not your usual vampire and includes interesting notions from Judaism, refreshing the trope infinitely, creating its own myth.
My thanks to Libra FM via Otherland Bookshop for providing me an ALC.
June 4, 2024
We have had plenty of warnings about gargoyles over the years. Tales From The Darkside, Gremlins 2, and even The Hunchback of Notre Dame, to name a few. While these gothic-style architectural elements might speak to your personal design aesthetic, just make sure they were placed on the building to ward off the right folks. The second these stoic water spewing stone creatures were seen by Ana and Reid (a young family who moved into a historical Manhattan apartment that adorned them.) I knew something sinister was on the horizon.
First things first. The book’s selling point mentions similarities between Salem’s Lot and Rosemary’s Baby. I’d caution anyone using the blurb to pick this one up. With that being said, it does offer a more “modern” take on the sensibilities found in the inspired books, but IMHO, I’d recommend reading those two masterpieces before tackling this one.
What’s it about? Well, a young family wins a placement lottery for an old, historic apartment on the upper west side of New York. The couple has a newborn and must juggle creative jobs, friends, strange inhabitants, and other things that go bump in the night. It basically follows the plot of Ghostbusters 2. Replace Vigo with a similar antagonist, replace the ghost in the window with a different kind of baby snatcher, replace bathtub monsters with other similar entities, and replace Yanoish with another creepy “human” type helper, etc.
The book delves into themes such as postpartum depression, identity crisis, anxiety, recovering from a disability, relationship woes, and being overworked.
The characterizations grafted onto these themes, while traumatic, never really picked up steam for me. They were sort of used as fade-to-black moments at the end of each chapter. The problem is, those curtain closing moments, if explored, would have been much more fun and engaging. The flow just seemed a bit off to me. Also, it's really hard to root for either of the MC’s. They both have personalities that go from zero to a hundred in a split second and neither of them have any meaningful conversations, which left me scratching my head quite a bit. When the going gets tough, and certain elements are revealed, it’s just sort of accepted and the chapters fade. I wish more care would have been put into the characters and not steam rolled ahead with the plot. Clarity is not needed, but a little bit of heart goes a long way.
I guess this sounds like I did not enjoy it, but I did like some elements. It’s just getting harder for “modern” horror tales to appease my inner horror spirit these days. I enjoy a good nature vs. nurture story just like the next person, but this tale just does not add much to the convo. However, even though some elements may be plucked from your favorite horror stories or movies, it still manages to send a shiver or two down the spine. I’m looking at you, relator.
The last third is sort of “info-dumpy” and pretty much aligns with your preconceived notions. It’s not a stretch to say the ending was inspired by The Shining.
🎵| Soundtrack |🎵
❖ Van Morrison – Into The Mystic
❖ Grabbitz – Here With You Now
❖ Lo-Pro - Oblivion
❖ Blindside – About A Burning Fire
⭐ | Rating | ⭐
❖ 3 out of 5 ❖
First things first. The book’s selling point mentions similarities between Salem’s Lot and Rosemary’s Baby. I’d caution anyone using the blurb to pick this one up. With that being said, it does offer a more “modern” take on the sensibilities found in the inspired books, but IMHO, I’d recommend reading those two masterpieces before tackling this one.
What’s it about? Well, a young family wins a placement lottery for an old, historic apartment on the upper west side of New York. The couple has a newborn and must juggle creative jobs, friends, strange inhabitants, and other things that go bump in the night. It basically follows the plot of Ghostbusters 2. Replace Vigo with a similar antagonist, replace the ghost in the window with a different kind of baby snatcher, replace bathtub monsters with other similar entities, and replace Yanoish with another creepy “human” type helper, etc.
The book delves into themes such as postpartum depression, identity crisis, anxiety, recovering from a disability, relationship woes, and being overworked.
The characterizations grafted onto these themes, while traumatic, never really picked up steam for me. They were sort of used as fade-to-black moments at the end of each chapter. The problem is, those curtain closing moments, if explored, would have been much more fun and engaging. The flow just seemed a bit off to me. Also, it's really hard to root for either of the MC’s. They both have personalities that go from zero to a hundred in a split second and neither of them have any meaningful conversations, which left me scratching my head quite a bit. When the going gets tough, and certain elements are revealed, it’s just sort of accepted and the chapters fade. I wish more care would have been put into the characters and not steam rolled ahead with the plot. Clarity is not needed, but a little bit of heart goes a long way.
I guess this sounds like I did not enjoy it, but I did like some elements. It’s just getting harder for “modern” horror tales to appease my inner horror spirit these days. I enjoy a good nature vs. nurture story just like the next person, but this tale just does not add much to the convo. However, even though some elements may be plucked from your favorite horror stories or movies, it still manages to send a shiver or two down the spine. I’m looking at you, relator.
The last third is sort of “info-dumpy” and pretty much aligns with your preconceived notions. It’s not a stretch to say the ending was inspired by The Shining.
🎵| Soundtrack |🎵
❖ Van Morrison – Into The Mystic
❖ Grabbitz – Here With You Now
❖ Lo-Pro - Oblivion
❖ Blindside – About A Burning Fire
⭐ | Rating | ⭐
❖ 3 out of 5 ❖
November 15, 2023
All the stars for this. I can't believe Nat Cassidy is a new author. Already his books are this good and it's only gonna get better. His writing is empathetic and so thoughtful. I don't think I've ever been keen on reading acknowledgements and author's note this much😅 I got teary eyed. As someone with chronic pain, I appreciated the thoughts he put into writing a disabled character.
May 21, 2024
Nat Cassidy is a master of modern horror, Nestlings is a masterpiece. Once I started it, I’m glad I held off until I had a free day so I could devour the rest in one sitting. There are hints of Rosemary’s Baby, references to Salem’s Lot, but it is entirely a creepy story of its own. It is a story of parenthood, postpartum depression, and disability in and amongst the horror elements. The mystery builds up slowly but with plenty of truly horrific moments thrown in along the way to keep the reader engaged. This quote from, award winning writer, Ramsey Campbell aptly sums up my feelings: "Nat Cassidy is a master of creeping fear, of urban unease, of uncanny dread, and of outright horror. Nestlings is a triumph and a vision you won't soon forget."
A young couple are met with tragedy after the birth of their baby daughter, Charlie. Ana has been left paralysed from the waist down after complications from the birth. This has impacted her feelings towards her child as she mourns the life she had before losing the use of her legs. She loves Charlie, but postpartum depression is setting in. Her relationship with her husband Reid is also rocky. But he has some good news! They have been accepted for an apartment in a revered Manhattan building, the Deptford. Could this be the fresh start this family need? As soon as they move in, Ana has unsettling doubts and a creeping sense of paranoia. Something feels off, not only with the building, but with her own child….
5 Stars and have added to my favourites shelf!
A young couple are met with tragedy after the birth of their baby daughter, Charlie. Ana has been left paralysed from the waist down after complications from the birth. This has impacted her feelings towards her child as she mourns the life she had before losing the use of her legs. She loves Charlie, but postpartum depression is setting in. Her relationship with her husband Reid is also rocky. But he has some good news! They have been accepted for an apartment in a revered Manhattan building, the Deptford. Could this be the fresh start this family need? As soon as they move in, Ana has unsettling doubts and a creeping sense of paranoia. Something feels off, not only with the building, but with her own child….
5 Stars and have added to my favourites shelf!
October 5, 2023
Nat Cassidy's newest horror novel, NESTLINGS, is the best modern horror novel I've ever read in my life. Hear me out before you clap back, but I'm so excited for horror fans to read this book.
When Ana and her husband Reid win the NYC housing lottery, they're given the opportunity to move to the luxurious Deptford—a beautiful pre-war luxury apartment building with beautiful views of Central Park. Ana and Reid need this opportunity as they've been struggling with their own trauma recently. Ana has recently given birth after many failed attempts to their daughter Charlie. After giving birth, Ana was left paralyzed and is wheelchair bound and has resentment toward her husband and daughter due to her immobility. This new apartment is a fresh start for this family. However, when they move into the Deptford, Ana and Reid begin to notice that its residents are very peculiar in more ways than one. Things just aren't making sense, especially when they start noticing needle-like bite marks on their daughter.
THIS BOOK IS INCREDIBLE. A horror masterpiece—I said what I said! This story has it all: family drama, horror, psychological thriller, and suspense; and it's done so well and organically. I loved every character, the Greene family (Ana, Reid, Charlie) and all of the Deptford's unique residents. This book dives into many different types of storylines, but has many triggers, including parental trauma, child endangerment and abuse, postpartum depression, suicide ideation, ableism, antisemitism, racism, and sexism. That being said, they're necessary for the messaging that happens in this book. Also to note, this book has major Jewish representation, which I haven't seen in much modern horror lately (I can't say more, but IYKYK by the end what I mean). I really hope Nat ventures back into this universe in some capacity because my only regret is that it's over. Nat Cassidy, you are a genius.
When Ana and her husband Reid win the NYC housing lottery, they're given the opportunity to move to the luxurious Deptford—a beautiful pre-war luxury apartment building with beautiful views of Central Park. Ana and Reid need this opportunity as they've been struggling with their own trauma recently. Ana has recently given birth after many failed attempts to their daughter Charlie. After giving birth, Ana was left paralyzed and is wheelchair bound and has resentment toward her husband and daughter due to her immobility. This new apartment is a fresh start for this family. However, when they move into the Deptford, Ana and Reid begin to notice that its residents are very peculiar in more ways than one. Things just aren't making sense, especially when they start noticing needle-like bite marks on their daughter.
THIS BOOK IS INCREDIBLE. A horror masterpiece—I said what I said! This story has it all: family drama, horror, psychological thriller, and suspense; and it's done so well and organically. I loved every character, the Greene family (Ana, Reid, Charlie) and all of the Deptford's unique residents. This book dives into many different types of storylines, but has many triggers, including parental trauma, child endangerment and abuse, postpartum depression, suicide ideation, ableism, antisemitism, racism, and sexism. That being said, they're necessary for the messaging that happens in this book. Also to note, this book has major Jewish representation, which I haven't seen in much modern horror lately (I can't say more, but IYKYK by the end what I mean). I really hope Nat ventures back into this universe in some capacity because my only regret is that it's over. Nat Cassidy, you are a genius.
August 31, 2024
Just wow. What a rush. Nat Cassidy is a phenom.
November 4, 2023
Great idea, but not a fan of the pacing
I had recently finished reading another novel with a similar tone to "Rosemary's Baby" and loved it. Naturally, I was eager to dive into another one with a similar vibe. I found the concept and overall story intriguing. It even reminded me of American Horror Story: Hotel. However, the apartment residents weren't as fleshed out as I would have liked. Also, the pacing was off. The first half felt slow, while the second half felt a bit chaotic. This dampened my overall enjoyment of the book. Overall, an okay read.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Nat Cassidy, and Macmillan Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
I had recently finished reading another novel with a similar tone to "Rosemary's Baby" and loved it. Naturally, I was eager to dive into another one with a similar vibe. I found the concept and overall story intriguing. It even reminded me of American Horror Story: Hotel. However, the apartment residents weren't as fleshed out as I would have liked. Also, the pacing was off. The first half felt slow, while the second half felt a bit chaotic. This dampened my overall enjoyment of the book. Overall, an okay read.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Nat Cassidy, and Macmillan Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
September 6, 2024
Having really enjoyed Mary, by the same author, this was an unexpected flop for me. I really like the take this author puts on classic horror stories. So I'll continue to pick up their books. This one just didn't work in any way for me.
I learned, after reading, that this book is meant to be a retelling or reimagining of Rosemary's baby. Admittedly, I've never read the book or watched the film(s) for Rosemary's Baby. Maybe there is much to be gleamed from that material?
Without that knowledge, I felt it drew heavily from Lock Ever Door by Riley Sager. Especially with the gargoyles and NYC setting and mysterious but somehow also legendary vibes. But I've since been told that book is also a Rosemary's Baby reincarnate. So, who's to say?
[VERY MILD SPOILERS COMMENCES...]
What I can say, with no care to what it may or not be in-homage-too, is this...
1. What point did Frank serve? What singular point did he lend to the story?? Na Da.
2. Only one book has any recorded evidence of the buildings history? But, somehow, every single delivery driver in all of New York City knows it's bad news and refuses to enter? But our main characters have never heard a single ill-word/thought/superstition about the place? Um...?
3. Very heavy-handed. No subtlety. I knew every twist well before it happened.
4. Reid can suck a d*ck, then choke and die on it. What a useless sack of man-meat. A poor-man-with-a-guitar-and-a-dream just trying to show the world that scrawny white men deserve recognition too?? Noooooo, I'm full up, thank you!
5. I respect that Jewish take on vampires. But I wish it had been more focused on and further executed. I respect this author. Especially because of the work they did in Mary. But this just didn't hit the mark in any of the ways I had anticipated.
So sorry to break anyone's hearts. I will be picking up anything this author comes out with next. Because Mary was such an eye opening horror-read for me. Nestlings just flopped catastrophically for me, sad to say.
I learned, after reading, that this book is meant to be a retelling or reimagining of Rosemary's baby. Admittedly, I've never read the book or watched the film(s) for Rosemary's Baby. Maybe there is much to be gleamed from that material?
Without that knowledge, I felt it drew heavily from Lock Ever Door by Riley Sager. Especially with the gargoyles and NYC setting and mysterious but somehow also legendary vibes. But I've since been told that book is also a Rosemary's Baby reincarnate. So, who's to say?
[VERY MILD SPOILERS COMMENCES...]
What I can say, with no care to what it may or not be in-homage-too, is this...
1. What point did Frank serve? What singular point did he lend to the story?? Na Da.
2. Only one book has any recorded evidence of the buildings history? But, somehow, every single delivery driver in all of New York City knows it's bad news and refuses to enter? But our main characters have never heard a single ill-word/thought/superstition about the place? Um...?
3. Very heavy-handed. No subtlety. I knew every twist well before it happened.
4. Reid can suck a d*ck, then choke and die on it. What a useless sack of man-meat. A poor-man-with-a-guitar-and-a-dream just trying to show the world that scrawny white men deserve recognition too?? Noooooo, I'm full up, thank you!
5. I respect that Jewish take on vampires. But I wish it had been more focused on and further executed. I respect this author. Especially because of the work they did in Mary. But this just didn't hit the mark in any of the ways I had anticipated.
So sorry to break anyone's hearts. I will be picking up anything this author comes out with next. Because Mary was such an eye opening horror-read for me. Nestlings just flopped catastrophically for me, sad to say.
July 9, 2024
Rosemary's Baby meets Salem's Lot is a perfect description of this book. 🧛♂️
Reid and Ana just had a baby in which Ana became paralyzed during the birth. They live in a small apartment in Brooklyn with a racist landlord in which they would love to escape.
Luck appears to be on their side when they are notified they won the lottery for a penthouse in The Deptford, a grand old building in downtown Manhattan.
As soon as they look at their new apartment Ana has reservations. Something about this place just doesn't feel right. Feels too good to be true. Feels like they don't belong here.
And she's right.
Let the horrors begin!
I loved Nat Cassidy's debut horror novel, Mary: An Awakening of Terror, and he has yet again impressed me with his venture into the world of vampires with his latest novel, Nestlings. I thought he did an exceptional job with Ana's character and how a once athletic woman is now learning to navigate the world in a wheelchair. With a baby. It's obvious she's very depressed but her husband refuses to give into the negativity and only wants happiness for all of them. But at what price does one find happiness?
If you like things that creep, crawl, slither, and bite then this is a book to toss on your nightstand. Sweet dreams! 🕷4 stars!
Thanks to Overdrive for the loan.
Reid and Ana just had a baby in which Ana became paralyzed during the birth. They live in a small apartment in Brooklyn with a racist landlord in which they would love to escape.
Luck appears to be on their side when they are notified they won the lottery for a penthouse in The Deptford, a grand old building in downtown Manhattan.
As soon as they look at their new apartment Ana has reservations. Something about this place just doesn't feel right. Feels too good to be true. Feels like they don't belong here.
And she's right.
Let the horrors begin!
I loved Nat Cassidy's debut horror novel, Mary: An Awakening of Terror, and he has yet again impressed me with his venture into the world of vampires with his latest novel, Nestlings. I thought he did an exceptional job with Ana's character and how a once athletic woman is now learning to navigate the world in a wheelchair. With a baby. It's obvious she's very depressed but her husband refuses to give into the negativity and only wants happiness for all of them. But at what price does one find happiness?
If you like things that creep, crawl, slither, and bite then this is a book to toss on your nightstand. Sweet dreams! 🕷4 stars!
Thanks to Overdrive for the loan.
August 11, 2024
4.5– detailed review later!
November 7, 2023
Rosemary’s Baby meets Salem’s Lot
I recently read Mary: An Awakening of Terror and was impressed by the fantastic characters and unique plot, so I jumped at the chance to read Cassidy’s sophomore horror novel.
Post pandemic, Ana and Reid get their lucky break when they win an affordable housing lottery and are given the opportunity to move into The Deptford, an exclusive apartment building in NYC. They can’t believe their good luck, as the birth of their daughter Charlie left Ana paralyzed and in a wheelchair. She has been dealing with postpartum depression and struggling to learn how to care for a child without the use of her legs. They are also thrilled to be able to move out of Brooklyn and escape their anti-semitic landlord.
However, all is not what it seems at The Deptford. The residents are exhibiting odd behavior and strange events don’t appear to be Kosher. Are Reid and Ana just paranoid?
I listened to the audiobook which is read by Cassandra Campbell. She does a fantastic job, so I do recommend this format.
FOREWARNING: This book contains ALL of the triggers!
What I love about Nat Cassidy is that he is not afraid to tackle unique topics. This is one of the reasons why I loved his first book so much. A man writing about menopause and now a Jewish man taking on vampires?! However, the pace of this book is extremely slow and it doesn’t contain very memorable characters. Cassidy includes an author’s note at the end, where he explains the inspiration for the plot and describes how the process of writing it was cathartic in helping him heal from a series of traumatic events. I wish that I had read this first, as I might have been more invested in the plot. It also wasn’t as scary as I thought it would be.
Overall, I’m disappointed that this book didn’t wow me like his first. Unfortunately, I don’t think it will be very memorable. However, many other reviewers have loved it, so please check out their reviews as well.
2.5/5 stars rounded up
Publication date: 10/31/23
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC of Nestlings in exchange for an honest review.
I recently read Mary: An Awakening of Terror and was impressed by the fantastic characters and unique plot, so I jumped at the chance to read Cassidy’s sophomore horror novel.
Post pandemic, Ana and Reid get their lucky break when they win an affordable housing lottery and are given the opportunity to move into The Deptford, an exclusive apartment building in NYC. They can’t believe their good luck, as the birth of their daughter Charlie left Ana paralyzed and in a wheelchair. She has been dealing with postpartum depression and struggling to learn how to care for a child without the use of her legs. They are also thrilled to be able to move out of Brooklyn and escape their anti-semitic landlord.
However, all is not what it seems at The Deptford. The residents are exhibiting odd behavior and strange events don’t appear to be Kosher. Are Reid and Ana just paranoid?
I listened to the audiobook which is read by Cassandra Campbell. She does a fantastic job, so I do recommend this format.
FOREWARNING: This book contains ALL of the triggers!
What I love about Nat Cassidy is that he is not afraid to tackle unique topics. This is one of the reasons why I loved his first book so much. A man writing about menopause and now a Jewish man taking on vampires?! However, the pace of this book is extremely slow and it doesn’t contain very memorable characters. Cassidy includes an author’s note at the end, where he explains the inspiration for the plot and describes how the process of writing it was cathartic in helping him heal from a series of traumatic events. I wish that I had read this first, as I might have been more invested in the plot. It also wasn’t as scary as I thought it would be.
Overall, I’m disappointed that this book didn’t wow me like his first. Unfortunately, I don’t think it will be very memorable. However, many other reviewers have loved it, so please check out their reviews as well.
2.5/5 stars rounded up
Publication date: 10/31/23
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC of Nestlings in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2024
4.25 ⭐ rounded up. I loved this book. Kinda mad at myself for not reading this sooner. I pretty much stayed up multiple nights until 2 am reading, I absolutely got lost in it. In my opinion, very much worth the hype.
April 29, 2024
I could not have predicted how this story ended. NOT a happy ending yet one of the most satisfying conclusions I have ever read. "Nestlings" pierced me through the chest. Nat Cassidy is an icon 😭 I respect this author so much...he has a fan for life ✋
Thoughts along the way...(may be some spoilers)
◘ Wow...I don't think I've EVER read a mc in a wheelchair honestly.
◘ I hate that I'm getting "lock every door" vibes 😒 but if anyone can make that train wreck of a book work it's nat cassidy.
◘ Insect horror!!! 😭
◘ I love that I was instantly engaged, interested, hooked. Not having to force myself to continue or give it a chance. But just genuinely wanting to read.
◘ 17% Ohhh very creepy the other elevator in the second hidden lobby.
◘ 20% The part with the creepy neighbor lady 😳 SCARY!!!! this read JUST like a scene out of a horror film
◘ Omg also I just seen Nat Cassidy has a new release coming out this year?!!! Ahhhhh!!!!!!!
◘ 47% I'm starting to hate Reed. The choices he's making 🤦♀️
◘ 54% GASP Charlie is gone 😬
◘ The insect horror 😭 57% Scary foul gross
◘ Estries. vampires of jewish lore
◘ Godddd everything that went down with Reed at the end. Ana choosing what was best for her daughter, no matter how forced her hand was or unconventional the situation 😢
The last page....🤌
◘ How does he write the BEST afterwords 😭😭😭😭 I live how he credits different authors, professionals, sensitivity readers for their inspiration and corrections.
Thoughts along the way...(may be some spoilers)
◘ Wow...I don't think I've EVER read a mc in a wheelchair honestly.
◘ I hate that I'm getting "lock every door" vibes 😒 but if anyone can make that train wreck of a book work it's nat cassidy.
◘ Insect horror!!! 😭
◘ I love that I was instantly engaged, interested, hooked. Not having to force myself to continue or give it a chance. But just genuinely wanting to read.
◘ 17% Ohhh very creepy the other elevator in the second hidden lobby.
◘ 20% The part with the creepy neighbor lady 😳 SCARY!!!! this read JUST like a scene out of a horror film
◘ Omg also I just seen Nat Cassidy has a new release coming out this year?!!! Ahhhhh!!!!!!!
◘ 47% I'm starting to hate Reed. The choices he's making 🤦♀️
◘ 54% GASP Charlie is gone 😬
◘ The insect horror 😭 57% Scary foul gross
◘ Estries. vampires of jewish lore
◘ Godddd everything that went down with Reed at the end. Ana choosing what was best for her daughter, no matter how forced her hand was or unconventional the situation 😢
The last page....🤌
◘ How does he write the BEST afterwords 😭😭😭😭 I live how he credits different authors, professionals, sensitivity readers for their inspiration and corrections.
December 28, 2023
Nat Cassidy definitely knows how to spin a good horror yarn. The last third of this book was really excellent, and this would have been a four star read for me if I found at least one of the main characters sympathetic. As it is, I found both Reid and Ana to be unpleasant individuals (Reid much more so). So, I was ultimately uninvested in their fates which really detracts from the tension in a story like this. I definitely didn't like Nestlings as much as I liked Mary, but I also really look forward to seeing what Cassidy comes up with next.
February 19, 2024
I plan to dedicate my life to science, so that I may be the first to invent time travel, go back & stop myself from reading this
November 9, 2023
Their sleep was deep and pure. So much so that neither registered the noises from the baby monitor . . .
The squeal as the window slid open.
The possibility of someone opening a window and creeping into your baby's room is chilling enough, but when your baby's room is located on the 20th floor of a NYC apartment building, that thought is mind-bogglingly terrifying. Cassidy brings it with this nerve-racking, well done urban nightmare. You'll be up late turning the pages, then unable to sleep due to what you just read.
Thanks to Tor Nightfire and NetGalley for the read.
The squeal as the window slid open.
The possibility of someone opening a window and creeping into your baby's room is chilling enough, but when your baby's room is located on the 20th floor of a NYC apartment building, that thought is mind-bogglingly terrifying. Cassidy brings it with this nerve-racking, well done urban nightmare. You'll be up late turning the pages, then unable to sleep due to what you just read.
Thanks to Tor Nightfire and NetGalley for the read.
Read
November 11, 2023NESTLINGS by Nat Cassidy
Other Books I Enjoyed by This Author: MARY
Affiliate Link: https://bookshop.org/a/7576/978125026...
Release Date: October 31st, 2023
General Genre: Horror, Supernatural
Sub-Genre/Themes: New York City, Physically disabled MC, City Life, Apartment Complexes, New parents, Marriage, Neighbors, Racial tension, Jewish MCs, Antisemitism, Social commentary,
Writing Style: Multiple POVs, intimate, intricately plotted, suspenseful
What You Need to Know: I listened to the audiobook (NetGalley provided) and read my physical copy because I found the narrator’s voice (Cassandra Campbell) a bit annoying after a while. Specifically, sometimes her voice for Ana was light and delicate/sophisticated–almost soothing, at other times, it sounded almost “valley girl”--I tapped out during one scene where she had to repeat the word, “okay” and I just couldn’t hang with it anymore. So I don’t recommend the audiobook.
My Reading Experience: A couple, Ana and Reid win an affordable housing lottery for an apartment in an affluent apartment complex/highrise in New York City. They tour the apartment and decide to accept the offer to move in despite Ana’s misgivings about accessibility issues (she’s paralyzed from the waist down and in a wheelchair).
The comps to Rosemary’s Baby are valid. Both stories begin with a young, newly married couple moving into a desirable apartment complex with stars in their eyes at the prospect of having such a treasured address in the City. Ana has a lot of concerns and seems to notice off-putting, curious things about their new residence, while Reid is slightly less attuned to their surroundings.
I enjoyed the growing sense of dread and the carefully orchestrated progression of their life slowly spinning out of control. The author is keen to drop the reader breadcrumbs; revealing things going on behind the scenes that readers are privy to but the main characters are not through multiple POVs. In the middle, the pacing does meander a bit.
Nestlings and Rosemary’s Baby have almost the exact same page count of 300 and yet, the latter manages to escalate the dread, suspense, and terror throughout the entire length of the book with masterful precision causing the pages to fly by, while NESTLINGS suffers a little with several breaks in tension where the reader isn’t prompted by a hook to keep going-but I did because I had to know what would happen and because I did not want to miss out on any of Cassidy's imaginative/original, creepy scenes of terror.
I absolutely love his storytelling voice. I think it’s accessible and engaging. He’s great at authentic dialogue and characterization. I love his sense of humor that permeates through the atmosphere, lightening things up once in a while. I appreciated Cassidy’s authorial asides, peppering the plot with social commentary through the couple’s former landlord–I loved to hate him.
Other reviewers are mentioning some key elements about the plot that I think are best to protect for the sake of reader’s discovery so I’ll just say there are some intense scenes of body horror that are exhilarating.
Final Recommendation: Horror fans who crave those old, Paperbacks From Hell vibes will love this story. It feels like a horror book from the ‘80s or ‘90s. The setup, the build, the scares, and the body horror are classic. The visuals are extremely cinematic and at times, felt like those old school, black & white movies that take place in one setting–in this case, a creepy old apartment complex. Really a lot of fun.
Comps: I like the author’s comps that he included in his Goodreads “review” Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin, Salem’s Lot by Stephen King, The Changeling by Victor LaValle (yes!), Baby Teeth by Zoje Stage, and The Tribe by Bari Wood
Other Books I Enjoyed by This Author: MARY
Affiliate Link: https://bookshop.org/a/7576/978125026...
Release Date: October 31st, 2023
General Genre: Horror, Supernatural
Sub-Genre/Themes: New York City, Physically disabled MC, City Life, Apartment Complexes, New parents, Marriage, Neighbors, Racial tension, Jewish MCs, Antisemitism, Social commentary,
Writing Style: Multiple POVs, intimate, intricately plotted, suspenseful
What You Need to Know: I listened to the audiobook (NetGalley provided) and read my physical copy because I found the narrator’s voice (Cassandra Campbell) a bit annoying after a while. Specifically, sometimes her voice for Ana was light and delicate/sophisticated–almost soothing, at other times, it sounded almost “valley girl”--I tapped out during one scene where she had to repeat the word, “okay” and I just couldn’t hang with it anymore. So I don’t recommend the audiobook.
My Reading Experience: A couple, Ana and Reid win an affordable housing lottery for an apartment in an affluent apartment complex/highrise in New York City. They tour the apartment and decide to accept the offer to move in despite Ana’s misgivings about accessibility issues (she’s paralyzed from the waist down and in a wheelchair).
The comps to Rosemary’s Baby are valid. Both stories begin with a young, newly married couple moving into a desirable apartment complex with stars in their eyes at the prospect of having such a treasured address in the City. Ana has a lot of concerns and seems to notice off-putting, curious things about their new residence, while Reid is slightly less attuned to their surroundings.
I enjoyed the growing sense of dread and the carefully orchestrated progression of their life slowly spinning out of control. The author is keen to drop the reader breadcrumbs; revealing things going on behind the scenes that readers are privy to but the main characters are not through multiple POVs. In the middle, the pacing does meander a bit.
Nestlings and Rosemary’s Baby have almost the exact same page count of 300 and yet, the latter manages to escalate the dread, suspense, and terror throughout the entire length of the book with masterful precision causing the pages to fly by, while NESTLINGS suffers a little with several breaks in tension where the reader isn’t prompted by a hook to keep going-but I did because I had to know what would happen and because I did not want to miss out on any of Cassidy's imaginative/original, creepy scenes of terror.
I absolutely love his storytelling voice. I think it’s accessible and engaging. He’s great at authentic dialogue and characterization. I love his sense of humor that permeates through the atmosphere, lightening things up once in a while. I appreciated Cassidy’s authorial asides, peppering the plot with social commentary through the couple’s former landlord–I loved to hate him.
Other reviewers are mentioning some key elements about the plot that I think are best to protect for the sake of reader’s discovery so I’ll just say there are some intense scenes of body horror that are exhilarating.
Final Recommendation: Horror fans who crave those old, Paperbacks From Hell vibes will love this story. It feels like a horror book from the ‘80s or ‘90s. The setup, the build, the scares, and the body horror are classic. The visuals are extremely cinematic and at times, felt like those old school, black & white movies that take place in one setting–in this case, a creepy old apartment complex. Really a lot of fun.
Comps: I like the author’s comps that he included in his Goodreads “review” Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin, Salem’s Lot by Stephen King, The Changeling by Victor LaValle (yes!), Baby Teeth by Zoje Stage, and The Tribe by Bari Wood
October 15, 2023
Structurally this is almost perfectly done. I don't have any complaints about pacing or a disappointing final act or any of my usual horror quibbles. There is one turn in a character that I thought was totally earned and well set up, too. Just really smoothly done. I will complain about the title and the cover, neither of which fit the book at all and are baffling choices to me.
When it's constructed so well it's really just a question of whether this is your jam. It is not exactly my jam. There is a lot about it that I liked. Ana feels so fully drawn, a year in to a new life in a wheelchair and new motherhood. Her struggle and her frustration all feels earned. (The Author's note at the end helps explain how Cassidy got it so right: his wife was bedridden with chronic pain from an undiagnosed illness for several months.) Reid's own struggles to cope, to be caretaker, to try to keep everything together as he also loses steam and just doesn't want to do any of this anymore also ring true. All this was solid. The horror-y parts were where I felt more shrug, which is not the book's fault at all. Horror is so subjective. There are the things that get in your head and the things that don't, and here it didn't solidify for me.
If anything I felt like this book more than any I can think of is a real heir to King in the 80's and 90's. Cassidy has better characters and less of King's annoying mannerisms, but he taps into something that makes King's books tick here. On paper it sounds better for me than it did when it actually plays out, which is also how King novels often work for me. There's the few that really get under my skin and then there are all the rest of them.
The thing is I think a lot of people will love this. It is the right kind of horror novel for plenty of you. And if you eat up all that King then you are probably one of them and should enjoy yourself heartily.
When it's constructed so well it's really just a question of whether this is your jam. It is not exactly my jam. There is a lot about it that I liked. Ana feels so fully drawn, a year in to a new life in a wheelchair and new motherhood. Her struggle and her frustration all feels earned. (The Author's note at the end helps explain how Cassidy got it so right: his wife was bedridden with chronic pain from an undiagnosed illness for several months.) Reid's own struggles to cope, to be caretaker, to try to keep everything together as he also loses steam and just doesn't want to do any of this anymore also ring true. All this was solid. The horror-y parts were where I felt more shrug, which is not the book's fault at all. Horror is so subjective. There are the things that get in your head and the things that don't, and here it didn't solidify for me.
If anything I felt like this book more than any I can think of is a real heir to King in the 80's and 90's. Cassidy has better characters and less of King's annoying mannerisms, but he taps into something that makes King's books tick here. On paper it sounds better for me than it did when it actually plays out, which is also how King novels often work for me. There's the few that really get under my skin and then there are all the rest of them.
The thing is I think a lot of people will love this. It is the right kind of horror novel for plenty of you. And if you eat up all that King then you are probably one of them and should enjoy yourself heartily.
November 4, 2023
Now that was one wild ride! Nat Cassidy is most definitely going places within the horror genre.
Reid, Ana and their almost one year old baby daughter, Charlie win the affordable housing lottery. They move into the Deptford. An ancient historical building in New York. Beautiful as it is and facing Central Park. How lucky could they be? Wrong!
After moving in, Reid becomes quite comfortable. People in the building have been kind. He feels he is right where he belongs. However, Ana becomes the complete opposite. After being paralyzed after the birth of her daughter, she is in a state of depression. She still struggles with taking care of her daughter and a disability. But oh is she a fighter!!! For someone in a wheelchair, I think she does quite well for herself.
Soon, they notice differences in Charlie. Charlie has a small bite on her that raises questions and leaves Ana frantic. Where did they come from? Bed bugs? And why is her daughter’s window open at night?
On top of everything…. These people in the building are fucking weird!!! It’s like a crazy Rosemary’s Baby type story with some vampire stuff thrown in. Creepy right!
The only problem I had with this was how slow it started. It took a while before anything substantial really started to happen. I was slightly bored for about 100+ pages. However, once it took off….. it took off!
— One important thing I’d like to mention is the Author’s Note at the end. Excellent! Nat Cassidy elaborates on how the story came to life within his own personal struggles during and after the pandemic. Moving stuff! And I must say that this man and his family has definitely experienced lots of tragedy and turmoil. I hope there are amazing blessings headed his way! ❤️
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
—- Trigger warnings about babies, racism, and I’m probably missing a few
Reid, Ana and their almost one year old baby daughter, Charlie win the affordable housing lottery. They move into the Deptford. An ancient historical building in New York. Beautiful as it is and facing Central Park. How lucky could they be? Wrong!
After moving in, Reid becomes quite comfortable. People in the building have been kind. He feels he is right where he belongs. However, Ana becomes the complete opposite. After being paralyzed after the birth of her daughter, she is in a state of depression. She still struggles with taking care of her daughter and a disability. But oh is she a fighter!!! For someone in a wheelchair, I think she does quite well for herself.
Soon, they notice differences in Charlie. Charlie has a small bite on her that raises questions and leaves Ana frantic. Where did they come from? Bed bugs? And why is her daughter’s window open at night?
On top of everything…. These people in the building are fucking weird!!! It’s like a crazy Rosemary’s Baby type story with some vampire stuff thrown in. Creepy right!
The only problem I had with this was how slow it started. It took a while before anything substantial really started to happen. I was slightly bored for about 100+ pages. However, once it took off….. it took off!
— One important thing I’d like to mention is the Author’s Note at the end. Excellent! Nat Cassidy elaborates on how the story came to life within his own personal struggles during and after the pandemic. Moving stuff! And I must say that this man and his family has definitely experienced lots of tragedy and turmoil. I hope there are amazing blessings headed his way! ❤️
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
—- Trigger warnings about babies, racism, and I’m probably missing a few
January 10, 2024
5 stars
A horror tour de force, Nestlings is an all-consuming experience in terror: body horror, checked, psychological torment, checked, societal discrimination, checked, packaged in a narrative that's clearly old-school influenced, yet unapologetically modern.
Nestlings is impressively layered, not only does it contain monsters (very creatively re-imagined from the classic) and gore as expected from the genre, but also deep psychological anxiety rooted in emotional trauma and self-identity. Many horror stories choose to tackle one or the other, but Nat Cassidy somehow manages to incorporate both without overwhelming the reader. Some of the thematic overlaps in the second half of the book is quite mind-blowing (as someone who isn't overly familiar with Jewish culture and Judaism), and I don't think I've read stories that have interpreted the topic in such manner. Lastly, I'm a HUGE fan of its ending—not the typical 'all's well' conclusion.
Nat Cassidy has now solidified himself as one of my must-read horror authors; Mary was impressive in its own right, even if at times it felt like the plot kind of got away from the author's rein. But with Nestlings, I'm dumbfounded at how much message and commentary is packed into this story, yet it remains well-paced, gut-punchingly written, and still delivers the 'I'm creeped out but can't look away' atmosphere a good horror story possesses. I'm floored.
A horror tour de force, Nestlings is an all-consuming experience in terror: body horror, checked, psychological torment, checked, societal discrimination, checked, packaged in a narrative that's clearly old-school influenced, yet unapologetically modern.
Nestlings is impressively layered, not only does it contain monsters (very creatively re-imagined from the classic) and gore as expected from the genre, but also deep psychological anxiety rooted in emotional trauma and self-identity. Many horror stories choose to tackle one or the other, but Nat Cassidy somehow manages to incorporate both without overwhelming the reader. Some of the thematic overlaps in the second half of the book is quite mind-blowing (as someone who isn't overly familiar with Jewish culture and Judaism), and I don't think I've read stories that have interpreted the topic in such manner. Lastly, I'm a HUGE fan of its ending—not the typical 'all's well' conclusion.
Nat Cassidy has now solidified himself as one of my must-read horror authors; Mary was impressive in its own right, even if at times it felt like the plot kind of got away from the author's rein. But with Nestlings, I'm dumbfounded at how much message and commentary is packed into this story, yet it remains well-paced, gut-punchingly written, and still delivers the 'I'm creeped out but can't look away' atmosphere a good horror story possesses. I'm floored.
Shelved as 'dnf'
May 21, 2024DNF @ 58%
I placed this one "on hold" a couple of months ago with plans of coming back to it, but I just accidentally spoiled myself for the ending and it made me accept that I have no real interest in coming back to this book, sadly. I'm definitely interested in reading this author's other books because the writing was enjoyable enough and there was a ton of potential; the storyline just didn't "click" with me the way I hoped it would in Nestlings.
Thank you to the publisher and LibroFM for the gifted audiobook! All thoughts are honest and my own.
———
bookstagram | booktok | blog | storygraph
I placed this one "on hold" a couple of months ago with plans of coming back to it, but I just accidentally spoiled myself for the ending and it made me accept that I have no real interest in coming back to this book, sadly. I'm definitely interested in reading this author's other books because the writing was enjoyable enough and there was a ton of potential; the storyline just didn't "click" with me the way I hoped it would in Nestlings.
Thank you to the publisher and LibroFM for the gifted audiobook! All thoughts are honest and my own.
———
bookstagram | booktok | blog | storygraph
December 31, 2023
Thank the good LORD above that this horrid novel is finally over. If I could give it negative stars, I would. After this second monstrosity written by Cassidy, I’m finished with him as an author. He is clearly a misogynist, given the way he writes women and treats women in his books. Again, there is no regard for what the actual female experience is within this novel, and one of the most egregious acts of awfulness from him is highlighted in his description of a female erotica writer, who is portrayed as stupid, anxious, and actually writing dreck like using a broken hockey stick as a dildo on a woman. Talk about writing what you really believe about women, lesbians, and kink behaviour in the space of two pages. Ugh ugh ugh.
And that ending? Nope. Done. And say may the memory of this book be a blessing, but…it’s a curse and a blight on my mind.
And that ending? Nope. Done. And say may the memory of this book be a blessing, but…it’s a curse and a blight on my mind.
November 17, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC. It hasn't affected the contents of my review.
My initial thoughts as posted to GR upon reading the summary: "biTe mArKs oN tHe bAbY". You can tell by the funky usage of capitals that I was very intrigued and disturbed by this book's possible contents. And it turns out my excitement/interest radar wasn't wrong. This was fantastic, in a horrible, creepy, bugnuts and all kinds of fuckery sort of way.
The general premise here is inspired by a combo of Rosemary's Baby (which I just read for the first time this month, so the parallels really hit me) and 'Salem's Lot, but it's not quite either of those things and definitely branches off into doing its own weird, creepy as hell but really smart thing. Ana and Reid Green have just won the NYC low income housing lottery and we meet them as they're touring their potential new apartment in the old and prestigious Deptford building. Despite Ana using a wheelchair*, and the Deptford having almost zero accessibility accommodations, neither of them can pass up the chance to live in such a beautiful historic building at such an affordable price. So they move in with their almost one-year old baby, Charlie.
*Her spine was compressed severely during childbirth to the point where she is now paralyzed and can't walk. This disability and the fact that it was brought on by childbirth is important, and handled surprisingly well by the male author. His wife must be cool.
And then shit gets weird. I really don't want to say more than that. I was basically in agony over not being able to spoil myself for the plot of this book like I do most horrors, because there were no spoilers bc ARC, but I'm glad I stuck it out and read on because this was definitely better with all the surprises and turns to the plot left unspoiled (which isn't always the case for me!)
But the thing that upped this one to five stars for me was the ending, which Nat Cassidy knocked out of the park. Oh, and definitely don't miss out on his afterword where he goes into his inspiration for the book, which gives it even more depth.
The audiobook was great, performed very nicely by Cassandra Campbell. She probably helped me get through the book when otherwise I would have spoiled myself all to hell (somehow?) on the plot or given up on it entirely. Very glad I persisted! Putting his first book, Mary, on my TBR immediately.
[4.5 stars, rounded up for the ending]
My initial thoughts as posted to GR upon reading the summary: "biTe mArKs oN tHe bAbY". You can tell by the funky usage of capitals that I was very intrigued and disturbed by this book's possible contents. And it turns out my excitement/interest radar wasn't wrong. This was fantastic, in a horrible, creepy, bugnuts and all kinds of fuckery sort of way.
The general premise here is inspired by a combo of Rosemary's Baby (which I just read for the first time this month, so the parallels really hit me) and 'Salem's Lot, but it's not quite either of those things and definitely branches off into doing its own weird, creepy as hell but really smart thing. Ana and Reid Green have just won the NYC low income housing lottery and we meet them as they're touring their potential new apartment in the old and prestigious Deptford building. Despite Ana using a wheelchair*, and the Deptford having almost zero accessibility accommodations, neither of them can pass up the chance to live in such a beautiful historic building at such an affordable price. So they move in with their almost one-year old baby, Charlie.
*Her spine was compressed severely during childbirth to the point where she is now paralyzed and can't walk. This disability and the fact that it was brought on by childbirth is important, and handled surprisingly well by the male author. His wife must be cool.
And then shit gets weird. I really don't want to say more than that. I was basically in agony over not being able to spoil myself for the plot of this book like I do most horrors, because there were no spoilers bc ARC, but I'm glad I stuck it out and read on because this was definitely better with all the surprises and turns to the plot left unspoiled (which isn't always the case for me!)
But the thing that upped this one to five stars for me was the ending, which Nat Cassidy knocked out of the park. Oh, and definitely don't miss out on his afterword where he goes into his inspiration for the book, which gives it even more depth.
The audiobook was great, performed very nicely by Cassandra Campbell. She probably helped me get through the book when otherwise I would have spoiled myself all to hell (somehow?) on the plot or given up on it entirely. Very glad I persisted! Putting his first book, Mary, on my TBR immediately.
[4.5 stars, rounded up for the ending]
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