The Hiding
A salesman frees a chained boy, only to find he is the predator targeting his daughter.
The novel centers on Alex Summers, whose professional ambition has cost him his marriage and relationship with his daughter Nancy. When asked to care for her for a single day, he takes her along during his sales route. The plot hinges on a specific incident at a farmhouse where Alex rescues a boy from chains. This act of kindness unravels quickly as the truth emerges: the boy is a killer kept captive by his evangelical parents. The horror stems from the proximity of this danger to Nancy, who is now in the company of the very person Alex tried to save. Hearn structures the narrative to maximize suspense through isolation and misplaced trust.
Published in 2021 by Independently Published, this work sits within the contemporary independent horror market. It engages with American evangelical subcultures and rural settings to create a sense of isolation. The story reflects modern anxieties about child safety and the failure of traditional family structures.
📝 Description: The Hiding
💎 Our verdict on The Hiding
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
Readers who appreciate tight, atmospheric thrillers that subvert traditional kidnapping tropes will find significant value in this narrative. The book offers a chilling exploration of misplaced trust and the psychological dread inherent in realizing danger is already present within one's circle. It appeals to those interested in the intersection of gothic domestic horror and modern suspense, providing a tense experience driven by isolation rather than graphic violence. Fans of stories that examine the consequences of professional ambition on family dynamics, particularly the estrangement between fathers and daughters, will connect with the emotional stakes. This title is ideal for audiences seeking psychological intensity over gore, offering a suspenseful ride that relies on narrative structure to maximize fear through proximity and the vulnerability of children.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
This novel effectively utilizes gothic domestic horror elements to create profound psychological tension. By subverting the kidnapping trope, it shifts focus to the terrifying reality of hidden evil within seemingly safe spaces. The narrative excels in building suspense through isolation and the tragic failure of parental judgment, making the threat feel immediate and personal. It is best suited for readers who prioritize atmospheric dread and tight plotting over complex character development or hopeful endings. Those who enjoy stories where professional ambition clashes with familial duty, leading to dire consequences, will find this compelling. The emphasis on psychological horror ensures a gripping experience without relying on gratuitous violence.
📖 Read on the blog
🏛 Books from this publisher Independently Published
You might also like
See more →
Have a question about this item?
Ask about the edition, condition, delivery or anything else — we reply by email or phone, usually within a day.
