My recommendation for a good horror book

I’ve always had a soft spot for a good horror story. There’s something strangely comforting about being scared witless, maybe it’s the twisted reassurance that, no matter how chaotic your life is, at least you’re not tearing through the woods in a ripped white nightie, pursued by a maniac with a rusty hatchet.

Recently, I devoured Student of Death by Iain Rob Wright, and let me tell you, it was an absolute ride. Think Dexter meets Hannibal Lecter, but with a delicious dash of dark humour thrown in for good measure. I hadn’t read anything by Wright before (a friend's recommendation - thank you, Alison), but I’ll definitely be reading more.

What made it even more enjoyable was the setting: Chester-le-Street and Durham. These are places I know well, and there’s something gloriously unsettling about picturing sinister goings-on in familiar streets and alleyways. It added a layer of eerie charm that had me completely hooked.

For the first time in forever, I read a book cover to cover in one sitting. That alone deserves a standing ovation, or at least a five-star review, which is exactly what I’m giving it.

Highly recommended for anyone who likes their thrillers clever, creepy and just the right side of unhinged.