Book Review | Cackle by Rachel Harrison

Source: Preordered purchase. This is a review of my personal reading experience.

Cackle is Rachel Harrison's latest horror novel.

All her life, Annie has played it nice and safe. After being unceremoniously dumped by her longtime boyfriend, Annie seeks a fresh start. She accepts a teaching position that moves her from Manhattan to a small village upstate. She’s stunned by how perfect and picturesque the town is. The people are all friendly and warm. Her new apartment is dreamy too, minus the oddly persistent spider infestation.

Then Annie meets Sophie. Beautiful, charming, magnetic Sophie, who takes a special interest in Annie, who wants to be her friend. More importantly, she wants Annie to stop apologizing and start living for herself. That’s how Sophie lives. Annie can’t help but gravitate toward the self-possessed Sophie, wanting to spend more and more time with her, despite the fact that the rest of the townsfolk seem…a little afraid of her. And like, okay. There are some things. Sophie’s appearance is uncanny and ageless, her mansion in the middle of the woods feels a little unearthly, and she does seem to wield a certain power…but she couldn’t be…could she?

Cackle was such a delight!

I really enjoyed Rachel Harrison's debut novel The Return last year so I was excited to read Cackle.

I loved the characters of Annie and Sophie. I could relate to Annie, and I loved the dynamic between her and the mysterious and enchanting Sophie.

If you've read The Return, there were moments in that book where you are like what?! Just ask your friend where she has been!! There are similar vibes here where Sophie will say something completely off the wall and Annie is oblivious, but it's a fun journey.

If you need a pick-me-up, I do recommend reading this wicked and witchy book of friendship and living your best life.

⭐⭐⭐⭐★
4/5 Stars