Inside the Devil’s Nest by John Durgin Review.

This one was a long time coming. It took me a long time to read this book, not because I didn’t enjoy it, but because my MFA work put me behind on my reading. My TBR list had become incredibly long during my time in the program. Be aware that this review may contain some mild spoilers.

Anyway, let’s dive in, maybe avoid the pool, though. Inside the Devil’s Nest is Cinema in my mind. How can a book be cinema, you may ask? This book keeps you on the edge of your seat. The combination of tropes is incredibly interesting when put together. It is part Mafia crime, Part supernatural, part cult, and part broken family.

Because of this, there are a lot of moving parts for the novel, but John Durgin connects all moving parts expertly. His writing draws you in. I had previously read The Cursed Among Us, which was his debut novel. I can see how he has honed his craft. He had created fun compelling characters that keep you guessing till the end.

Anthony is a real estate agent who is in the wrong place at the wrong time. Witnessing a murder that puts him on a crime families list. He flees with his family to a property he bought in New Hampshire called the Birds Nest. Which used to be a cult compound. A lot of craziness ensues, and the family is constantly put in danger. Even when there are slices of life scenes that break the tension. The sword of Damocles hanging over the family is always looming in the background.

From beginning to end, this kept me on edge, and I honestly think this novel would make an incredible movie. From the believable characters to the crazy plot line. It could be a horror blockbuster. Which it already is for the reader. I loved this book so much, and I can tell John is a big movie lover, which just makes the novel even better.

I would love to see a sequel to this. To see where things go after the novel ends, because Anthony and his family are completely broken, and I would love to see what could come next.

Y’all should go out and read this. Right now. It is so fun, and a great read heading into spooky season. Five stars, for sure. I will be reading John’s most recent novel Kosa soon and cannot wait to talk about it as well.

Until next time,