Lester

Kimberly Wheelock, winner of the Elizabeth Breen Prose Award and author of Wonderland, presents a sophomore novel about the darkness that lives inside us all. The narrative centers on Talia Michaels, who escaped the ghost town of Lester in the Pacific Northwest as an eight-year-old after a lost day in the woods. Two decades later, she is recruited by the Dark Dimensions paranormal team to guide them to this violent location for their vlog investigation. Talia must work alongside her former childhood bully, a figure from her traumatic past who now serves as her reluctant partner. The story unfolds as the team uncovers a century-old secret hidden within Lester's tragic history. Few who stumble upon this wilderness area return, creating a high-stakes environment for the paranormal investigators. Talia is forced to confront her own troubled memories while helping the group survive Lester's terrifying power. The novel draws on gothic and supernatural fiction traditions, focusing on the psychological weight of past trauma and the lingering effects of violence in isolated settings. It appeals to readers who enjoy atmospheric horror with a focus on character-driven survival narratives. This book is not suitable for those seeking lighthearted supernatural tales or fast-paced action without emotional depth. The IngramSpark Editorial Selection for Horror highlights its place in contemporary genre fiction. Wheelock’s prose examines how individuals cope with the ghosts of their past, both literal and metaphorical. The narrative structure follows the team's descent into the town, mirroring Talia's internal journey toward facing her fears. The story concludes with the characters grappling with the reality of the town's power.