Gloam

Description: After moving into her late grandmother's eerie house on a small island, thirteen-year-old Gwen must protect her family from their monstrous babysitter Esme, which forces her to confront her deepest fears as she fights back against terrifying creatures.

Review Quotes: Praise for Gloam

"The first time I read this book, I was so frightened I hid under the bed--and read it again."--Lemony Snicket

"Mackay's debut is well constructed, gripping audiences from the very first pages as the author explores grief, terror, and familial bonds...Thrilling and chilling, with a standout protagonist." --Kirkus

"Debut author Mackay delivers a classic tale of children's horror that's as chilling as it is heartfelt." --Booklist

"The nightmare fuel that Mackay brings to bear against each of the children draws brilliantly on phobic triggers and the terror of the unknown... [The] atmospheric effects [...] will keep readers up at night." --The Horn Book

"I've read a lot of middle-grade horror, and this is one of the boldest debuts I've come across. Gloam definitely lingers, so don't sleep on it." --My Spooky Ways on Instagram

"I was hooked from page one and finished it in less than 24 hours. I devoured this book and so far it's one of my top 10 books of 2025." --Library Girl Reading