Incidents Around the House : A Novel – Josh Malerman

Incidents Around the House follows eight-year-old Bela, whose seemingly ordinary life unravels when a sinister entity called “Other Mommy” begins haunting her family. Told through Bela’s innocent yet haunting perspective, the story explores the eerie presence that lurks in her closet, asking daily: “Can I go inside your heart?” As Other Mommy grows bolder, the family’s attempts to escape—fleeing to relatives’ homes, seeking help from friends—only deepen the terror.

The novel delves into the fragility of family bonds, as Bela’s parents grapple with marital strain and the escalating supernatural threats. Malerman masterfully builds tension through mundane moments—a breakfast table, a midnight bathroom trip—that twist into heart-pounding scenes of dread. The entity’s relentless pursuit forces Bela to confront a chilling choice: surrender her heart or risk losing everyone she loves.

Themes of childhood innocence, parental fear, and the unseen horrors of the familiar weave through the narrative. Malerman’s prose captures Bela’s voice with unsettling authenticity, blending childlike curiosity with visceral terror. The climax, set in a supposed safe haven, unravels into a desperate battle against an entity that defies logic and reality.

Fans of psychological horror and domestic suspense will find themselves gripped by the novel’s claustrophobic atmosphere and unpredictable twists. Malerman avoids clichés, delivering a fresh take on hauntings that lingers long after the final page.