Scaredy Bear

Publisher: RDS Publishing | Raw Dog Screaming Press
Release Date: June 20, 2024

After a series of tragic events, Maxine returns to her childhood home only to find it abandoned. No food, the soap is old and hardened, mold spots coat the walls and the backyard is overrun with weeds. As Max grapples to understand what events could have led to the house being uninhabited, she’s also forced to confront the painful memories haunting every room.

This short gothic tale centers on Maxine, an incredibly resilient character whose life has been a series of unfortunate events. Her journey, as she confronts and conquers that which haunts her past, is inspiring. The narrative initially unfolds as a domestic drama but gradually escalates into outright horror, echoing the butterflies depicted on the cover. The story intentionally leaves many questions unanswered, a characteristic I appreciate. When a book leaves you pondering unanswered questions, it tends to linger in your memory longer. With a small cast of characters and limited settings, Royce crafts an intimate atmosphere akin to a “bottle episode”. It’s just us and Max, navigating through the mysteries and attempting to uncover the truth behind her absent parents.

If the above sounds like your style, I highly recommend this book.

Similar vibes: The Butterfly Garden by Dot Hutchison, Umma (2022)

Thank you, NetGalley and RDS Publishing for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.