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The Threshing Floor
She'll do anything to save her child. Even join a cult.
When single mom Dalice learns her toddler, Cash, needs a heart transplant, she gets desperate. There are no guarantees he’ll receive a donor heart in time. And even if he does, she can’t afford the expensive procedure.
Then Dalice meets Shane. He’s part of a mysterious group whose leader claims to be able to heal any disease or injury. Dalice is skeptical at first, and the ritual she witnesses makes her uneasy. But when a broken arm gets healed before her eyes, she can’t deny the truth, and she wants the same miracle for Cash.
As her son’s life hangs in the balance, Dalice must decide how far she’s willing to go to save him. Because the miracles in the secret group come at a steep price. A price that might be too high for even the most devoted mother.
When single mom Dalice learns her toddler, Cash, needs a heart transplant, she gets desperate. There are no guarantees he’ll receive a donor heart in time. And even if he does, she can’t afford the expensive procedure.
Then Dalice meets Shane. He’s part of a mysterious group whose leader claims to be able to heal any disease or injury. Dalice is skeptical at first, and the ritual she witnesses makes her uneasy. But when a broken arm gets healed before her eyes, she can’t deny the truth, and she wants the same miracle for Cash.
As her son’s life hangs in the balance, Dalice must decide how far she’s willing to go to save him. Because the miracles in the secret group come at a steep price. A price that might be too high for even the most devoted mother.
292 pages, Paperback
Expected publication November 11, 2024
About the author
Steph Nelson
7 books178 followersA lifelong PNW girl, Steph currently lives in Boise, Idaho.
She writes thrillers and horror suspense novels.
She also has short stories in Dark Matter Presents: Human Monsters, and Mother: Tales of Love and Terror. Both were finalists for a Bram Stoker Award.
Steph is a voracious reader of thriller, horror, and romance books.
Find her on Instagram/Threads: @stephnelsonauthor
She writes thrillers and horror suspense novels.
She also has short stories in Dark Matter Presents: Human Monsters, and Mother: Tales of Love and Terror. Both were finalists for a Bram Stoker Award.
Steph is a voracious reader of thriller, horror, and romance books.
Find her on Instagram/Threads: @stephnelsonauthor
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 14, 2024
My complete review of The Threshing Floor is published at Grimdark Magazine.
Miracles come at a price in The Threshing Floor, Steph Nelson’s new novel that is equal parts occultist horror and psychological thriller. The lead protagonist, Dalice, is a single mother working multiple jobs to care for her toddler son, Cash, who is in desperate need of a heart transplant. Broke and broken, Dalice finds new hope when a handsome stranger, Shane, enters her life, opening the possibility of companionship and, potentially, a miraculous cure.
The miracle-worker in question is Shane’s younger sister, Reva, an enigmatic cult leader whose healing hands sparkle like the dust of gold. Despite her altruistic veneer, there is a deeply sinister side to Reva, who prays for healing as she preys on her unsuspecting victims.
Steph Nelson grabbed me from the opening prologue of The Threshing Floor, which finds Dalice running in the shadows of darkness, stumbling upon what may be a torture chamber or perhaps a path toward digging her own grave. The tension builds as we learn more about the mysterious gold dust woman and her true intentions. Will Dalice remain in the cult as the price of miracles becomes too high, or will she pick up the pieces and go home?
The Threshing Floor switches perspectives while also alternating between the present timeline and the backstory of Shane and Reva’s childhoods in the early 1990s, revealing striking parallels between Reva’s traumatic childhood and the psychological abuse she inflicts on others.
The horror elements are a slow build throughout The Threshing Floor. I especially enjoyed Steph Nelson’s approach to the supernatural, which is presented in a mostly positive light while showing that the real evil may come from within. As in her previous survival horror, Sawtooth, the psychological aspects of The Threshing Floor are particularly well done.
Steph Nelson also shines with her character development, especially while showing the sacrifices that Dalice is willing to make to save her son. The romance between Dalice and Shane is presented with realistic nuance, lending amorous overtones to balance the horror. However, Reva’s interference might ultimately shatter Dalice’s illusions of love.
From its opening prologue to its unnerving final page, The Threshing Floor is an unputdownable thriller, establishing Steph Nelson as one of my favorite new voices in horror. Fans of occultist and psychological horror will find much to love here.
Miracles come at a price in The Threshing Floor, Steph Nelson’s new novel that is equal parts occultist horror and psychological thriller. The lead protagonist, Dalice, is a single mother working multiple jobs to care for her toddler son, Cash, who is in desperate need of a heart transplant. Broke and broken, Dalice finds new hope when a handsome stranger, Shane, enters her life, opening the possibility of companionship and, potentially, a miraculous cure.
The miracle-worker in question is Shane’s younger sister, Reva, an enigmatic cult leader whose healing hands sparkle like the dust of gold. Despite her altruistic veneer, there is a deeply sinister side to Reva, who prays for healing as she preys on her unsuspecting victims.
Steph Nelson grabbed me from the opening prologue of The Threshing Floor, which finds Dalice running in the shadows of darkness, stumbling upon what may be a torture chamber or perhaps a path toward digging her own grave. The tension builds as we learn more about the mysterious gold dust woman and her true intentions. Will Dalice remain in the cult as the price of miracles becomes too high, or will she pick up the pieces and go home?
The Threshing Floor switches perspectives while also alternating between the present timeline and the backstory of Shane and Reva’s childhoods in the early 1990s, revealing striking parallels between Reva’s traumatic childhood and the psychological abuse she inflicts on others.
The horror elements are a slow build throughout The Threshing Floor. I especially enjoyed Steph Nelson’s approach to the supernatural, which is presented in a mostly positive light while showing that the real evil may come from within. As in her previous survival horror, Sawtooth, the psychological aspects of The Threshing Floor are particularly well done.
Steph Nelson also shines with her character development, especially while showing the sacrifices that Dalice is willing to make to save her son. The romance between Dalice and Shane is presented with realistic nuance, lending amorous overtones to balance the horror. However, Reva’s interference might ultimately shatter Dalice’s illusions of love.
From its opening prologue to its unnerving final page, The Threshing Floor is an unputdownable thriller, establishing Steph Nelson as one of my favorite new voices in horror. Fans of occultist and psychological horror will find much to love here.
September 7, 2024
I am beyond grateful to have received an arc of this amazing book ! If I could give this a 6 star I would. I genuinely didn’t think she would be able to top the final scene but she definitely did. This book follows a mother who would do anything to cure her son’s heart condition, even joining a cult.. I am a sucker for a book about a cult and this was done so well! Highly suggest giving this a read <333
August 21, 2024
3.5 rounded up - Shoutout to booksirens for the ARC.
If you liked Black Sheep by Rachel Harrison for all of the girly pop campy horror vibes then this book might be up your alley. A drama filled, romantic, chaotic cult book. Fun, easy to read, engaging. I’m not one who enjoys religious aspects in books, but beyond that this book was a good time!
Further thoughts: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTNvnJ754/
If you liked Black Sheep by Rachel Harrison for all of the girly pop campy horror vibes then this book might be up your alley. A drama filled, romantic, chaotic cult book. Fun, easy to read, engaging. I’m not one who enjoys religious aspects in books, but beyond that this book was a good time!
Further thoughts: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTNvnJ754/
Read
August 31, 2024First of all I must give a shout out to the wonderful cover. What a gem!
Now for the novel...I loved it! It grabbed my interest from the outset and kept me gripped right to the very end. A supernatural cult horror with a powerful moral dilemma - What would you be willing to do to save your child's life? Yes there's horror here, but there's a lot of heart, too.
N.B. Please read the Author's Note at the end when you get your copy! I'll say no more because I don't want to spoil it.
Now for the novel...I loved it! It grabbed my interest from the outset and kept me gripped right to the very end. A supernatural cult horror with a powerful moral dilemma - What would you be willing to do to save your child's life? Yes there's horror here, but there's a lot of heart, too.
N.B. Please read the Author's Note at the end when you get your copy! I'll say no more because I don't want to spoil it.
August 29, 2024
“You think they wouldn’t find out that you’re hiding little corners of darkness?”
📚
Single mom Dalice Carter has had a rough life. Her mother is deceased, her relationship with her sister is strained, and her two-year-old son, Cash, has a life-threatening congenital heart defect that will require a transplant. Forced to drop out of college due to her pregnancy, she works two jobs, struggling to keep the lights on, relying on her sister for childcare, blaming herself for Cash’s issues, and drowning in student loans, credit card debt, and medical bills. She’s exhausted and overwhelmed, so when she meets an attractive man who’s part of a group whose leader supposedly possesses the ability to heal, she ignores obvious red flags and concerning oddities, determined to do anything she can to save Cash, even if it means joining a cult. But is the price too high?
Threaded with malice and mystery, The Threshing Floor moves back and forth in time as it shifts between characters, gradually unveiling the sinister backstory underscoring the plotline. Its unique premise is rife with uncomfortable culty/religious vibes, ominous undertones, true horrors, and occasional humor, which is hugely refreshing amid the heavy subject matter. It’s a fraught and layered tale of lies, secrets, manipulation, and cruelty; shame, loneliness, longing, and desperation; addiction, illness, mortality, and murder; love, lust, obsession, and temptation; abuse, imprisonment, exploitation, and blackmail; and miracles, power, faith, and freedom.
Topped off with a fascinating title source, delightful crossover with The Vein, heart-pounding climax, exclamation point of an ending, must-read Author’s Note, and an absolutely gorgeous cover, The Threshing Floor is a truly distinctive story sure to satisfy both horror and suspense/thriller enthusiasts.
Thank you to BookSirens and Dark Matter INK for providing an eARC of this forthcoming title — currently slated for release on November 11th — for review consideration.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
📚
Single mom Dalice Carter has had a rough life. Her mother is deceased, her relationship with her sister is strained, and her two-year-old son, Cash, has a life-threatening congenital heart defect that will require a transplant. Forced to drop out of college due to her pregnancy, she works two jobs, struggling to keep the lights on, relying on her sister for childcare, blaming herself for Cash’s issues, and drowning in student loans, credit card debt, and medical bills. She’s exhausted and overwhelmed, so when she meets an attractive man who’s part of a group whose leader supposedly possesses the ability to heal, she ignores obvious red flags and concerning oddities, determined to do anything she can to save Cash, even if it means joining a cult. But is the price too high?
Threaded with malice and mystery, The Threshing Floor moves back and forth in time as it shifts between characters, gradually unveiling the sinister backstory underscoring the plotline. Its unique premise is rife with uncomfortable culty/religious vibes, ominous undertones, true horrors, and occasional humor, which is hugely refreshing amid the heavy subject matter. It’s a fraught and layered tale of lies, secrets, manipulation, and cruelty; shame, loneliness, longing, and desperation; addiction, illness, mortality, and murder; love, lust, obsession, and temptation; abuse, imprisonment, exploitation, and blackmail; and miracles, power, faith, and freedom.
Topped off with a fascinating title source, delightful crossover with The Vein, heart-pounding climax, exclamation point of an ending, must-read Author’s Note, and an absolutely gorgeous cover, The Threshing Floor is a truly distinctive story sure to satisfy both horror and suspense/thriller enthusiasts.
Thank you to BookSirens and Dark Matter INK for providing an eARC of this forthcoming title — currently slated for release on November 11th — for review consideration.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 7, 2024
This gripping, chilling, and utterly addictive book is a must-read for thriller fans. The Threshing Floor is both horrifying and hopeful. I loved it.
October 3, 2024
The idea was good but the execution lacking.
Cults and supervillians ... and insta-love, and a horrifically selfish ditz of a lead character ... and a lot of fatphobia and lookism.
I really had a hard time with the characters and their relationships. The lead goes through hell but sounds like a teenaged character from Clueless. She has a son with severe illnesses but he's just a plot point ... everything is about helping her get out of dealing with him so she can screw the cute new guy she met at the bar. Note that we read from her perspective most of the time, and there's no awareness of this at all. Instead, we have some sad stories about childhood abuse and men screwing her over. But as a reader presented over and over with her son disappearing conveniently from the narrative, only brought in to show how he's a barrier in her romantic life and a strain on her relationship with her sister ... this more than anything gave me ick.
The supervilliany: basically, vampirism with gold dust. They don't sparkle like diamonds in the sun with this one! I'm teasing a little, but this was actually the highlight of the story. Yet, it was disturbing at a meta-level. The superpower works by healing and taking life in return. I liked that it made people high, like a drug, and the bad effects on the ... handsy caster ... could be eliminated by making the recipient feel bad. I mean, it doesn't quite make sense, but it's a gruesome exchange and a nice twist away from vampire lore. But ... the "healing" element deserves a hard look. Slightly overweight characters are "healed" into thin, ripped bodies. Huh? Seriously, what? Everything else has to do with illness and injury, like broken legs and cuts and heart conditions ... so this is just straight up fatphobia and lookism. The lead is also bi/pan and treats it matter-of-factly, even with defiance in one scene ... but it just goes to show that you can be woke about some things and not others.
What would the "Threshing Floor" say about this one, I wonder?
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and Dark Matter INK for the advance copy.
Cults and supervillians ... and insta-love, and a horrifically selfish ditz of a lead character ... and a lot of fatphobia and lookism.
I really had a hard time with the characters and their relationships. The lead goes through hell but sounds like a teenaged character from Clueless. She has a son with severe illnesses but he's just a plot point ... everything is about helping her get out of dealing with him so she can screw the cute new guy she met at the bar. Note that we read from her perspective most of the time, and there's no awareness of this at all. Instead, we have some sad stories about childhood abuse and men screwing her over. But as a reader presented over and over with her son disappearing conveniently from the narrative, only brought in to show how he's a barrier in her romantic life and a strain on her relationship with her sister ... this more than anything gave me ick.
The supervilliany: basically, vampirism with gold dust. They don't sparkle like diamonds in the sun with this one! I'm teasing a little, but this was actually the highlight of the story. Yet, it was disturbing at a meta-level. The superpower works by healing and taking life in return. I liked that it made people high, like a drug, and the bad effects on the ... handsy caster ... could be eliminated by making the recipient feel bad. I mean, it doesn't quite make sense, but it's a gruesome exchange and a nice twist away from vampire lore. But ... the "healing" element deserves a hard look. Slightly overweight characters are "healed" into thin, ripped bodies. Huh? Seriously, what? Everything else has to do with illness and injury, like broken legs and cuts and heart conditions ... so this is just straight up fatphobia and lookism. The lead is also bi/pan and treats it matter-of-factly, even with defiance in one scene ... but it just goes to show that you can be woke about some things and not others.
What would the "Threshing Floor" say about this one, I wonder?
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and Dark Matter INK for the advance copy.
September 12, 2024
Although this book was born out of pain, the most horrible kind of pain there can ever be, it is weirdly nice.
Ok, there is nothing *nice* about the story or how it unfolds, but somehow after you (me, that is) are done reading it, it feels… nice. Yes, I’m still sticking with the word NICE as the best way to describe the feeling after having read it.
Also, I keep thinking about how do I label this book – because a huge part of the plot is a person having a gift, a power of sorts, something others don’t have. Paranormal? Nope, there are no ghosts, but there are some horrible people and that’s way more scary than any ghost could ever be. Supernatural? Wouldn’t that be some sort of haunting too? There are hauntingly creepy events, but none are of non-natural origin. Extrasensory something? No, I’m not sure also, that’s not it either. Yet a major part of the plot is something that is not a thing you encounter Out There. Yet it is told in a way that doesn’t faze even this ultra-realistic reader here.
The story is weird. In the best way possible. It’s quirky, but it’s down to earth. It’s unlike other stories out there. There is a cult. And the cult is unlike most cults I have ever heard of. Although, a nice cult being a foreground for something not too nice is a frequent occurrence, or so I have heard. But the cult itself is the most un-cultishly seeming cult you may ever come across in a book – when you start reading it. Then it all goes downhill from there, of course. Nothing is what it seems to be, and the horrors begin – although, the real horrors began with Dalice’s story of her son’s heart (and then again, the story is also all heart, all heart, and then some more heart, and that heart I’m talking about now is not a part of any horror) and need for a heart transplant. So, it’s like a layered cake. It’s like a multi-tiered wedding cake, except there is no cake and the tiers are all different flavors of horror. Also, the story is all heart.
p.s.
Please read the author's note at the end of the book when you read it. Trust me, do it.
Ok, there is nothing *nice* about the story or how it unfolds, but somehow after you (me, that is) are done reading it, it feels… nice. Yes, I’m still sticking with the word NICE as the best way to describe the feeling after having read it.
Also, I keep thinking about how do I label this book – because a huge part of the plot is a person having a gift, a power of sorts, something others don’t have. Paranormal? Nope, there are no ghosts, but there are some horrible people and that’s way more scary than any ghost could ever be. Supernatural? Wouldn’t that be some sort of haunting too? There are hauntingly creepy events, but none are of non-natural origin. Extrasensory something? No, I’m not sure also, that’s not it either. Yet a major part of the plot is something that is not a thing you encounter Out There. Yet it is told in a way that doesn’t faze even this ultra-realistic reader here.
The story is weird. In the best way possible. It’s quirky, but it’s down to earth. It’s unlike other stories out there. There is a cult. And the cult is unlike most cults I have ever heard of. Although, a nice cult being a foreground for something not too nice is a frequent occurrence, or so I have heard. But the cult itself is the most un-cultishly seeming cult you may ever come across in a book – when you start reading it. Then it all goes downhill from there, of course. Nothing is what it seems to be, and the horrors begin – although, the real horrors began with Dalice’s story of her son’s heart (and then again, the story is also all heart, all heart, and then some more heart, and that heart I’m talking about now is not a part of any horror) and need for a heart transplant. So, it’s like a layered cake. It’s like a multi-tiered wedding cake, except there is no cake and the tiers are all different flavors of horror. Also, the story is all heart.
p.s.
Please read the author's note at the end of the book when you read it. Trust me, do it.
September 20, 2024
This occult psychological thriller weaves a gripping tale of secrets, manipulation, and desperation, deftly illustrating that every miracle comes at a price. At its heart of the story lies Dalice, a desperate single mother juggling multiple jobs to care for her gravely ill toddler son. The child urgently needs a heart transplant, but with his name being the least priority at the bottom of the transplant list, no guarantees of finding a suitable donor, and the expensive cost of the procedure which she could not afford, Dalice's options seem woefully limited.
Yet, in her unwavering determination to save her child, Dalice finds herself contemplating the unthinkable, joining the cult group with Reva. Witnessing her internal struggle and the lengths to which she's willing to go—even if it means entangling herself in the dubious practices of a seemingly preposterous cult.
The author masterfully explores the depths of maternal love and the moral quandaries that arise when desperation meets opportunity. The Threshing Floor is a fast-paced book that brings to life true family drama, employing the 'black sheep of the family' trope and showcasing the devotion of a mother. Through Dalice's journey, readers are forced to grapple with uncomfortable questions: At what point does devotion become dangerous? How far would one go to save a loved one?
This taut, suspenseful storyline keeps me on the edge of my seat, blending elements of the supernatural with raw human emotion. Haunting exploration of the human psyche under extreme duress, the plot can resonate with fans of psychological thrillers and those who appreciate morally complex storytelling. The cliff-hanger ending, it definitely not for the faint heart.
Some excerpt from the book
“People who aren’t in your shoes don’t realize how little bandwidth you have for discussing all the issues surrounding being in your shoes. Or see that since this is your reality and not simply a conversation over the phone, you’ve already thought of and ruled out every single one of these ideas on the first day of problem-solving.”
Yet, in her unwavering determination to save her child, Dalice finds herself contemplating the unthinkable, joining the cult group with Reva. Witnessing her internal struggle and the lengths to which she's willing to go—even if it means entangling herself in the dubious practices of a seemingly preposterous cult.
The author masterfully explores the depths of maternal love and the moral quandaries that arise when desperation meets opportunity. The Threshing Floor is a fast-paced book that brings to life true family drama, employing the 'black sheep of the family' trope and showcasing the devotion of a mother. Through Dalice's journey, readers are forced to grapple with uncomfortable questions: At what point does devotion become dangerous? How far would one go to save a loved one?
This taut, suspenseful storyline keeps me on the edge of my seat, blending elements of the supernatural with raw human emotion. Haunting exploration of the human psyche under extreme duress, the plot can resonate with fans of psychological thrillers and those who appreciate morally complex storytelling. The cliff-hanger ending, it definitely not for the faint heart.
Some excerpt from the book
“People who aren’t in your shoes don’t realize how little bandwidth you have for discussing all the issues surrounding being in your shoes. Or see that since this is your reality and not simply a conversation over the phone, you’ve already thought of and ruled out every single one of these ideas on the first day of problem-solving.”
September 22, 2024
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book felt special and important. The note from the author at the end really made me emotional. The author really put a very vulnerable part of herself into this book.
I would describe this book as having elements of the following genres: magical realism, thriller and some horror.
The story intimately touched upon the topic of religious as well as parental abuse, so I'm sure many people will need to tread lightly. Then there is also a very devastating aspect of a child with a serious chronic illness that, in my opinion, will make every heart out there bleed at least a little.
I really appreciated the well-developed characters in this story, I think the author did a stellar job there.
The backstories were equally powerful, I could really see how come certain people ended up the way they did. Even if there was no excuse for their actions.
All in all, I think this is a very solid, very mature and intriguing thriller that also has some intensely dramatic and sentimental parts of the story.
This book felt special and important. The note from the author at the end really made me emotional. The author really put a very vulnerable part of herself into this book.
I would describe this book as having elements of the following genres: magical realism, thriller and some horror.
The story intimately touched upon the topic of religious as well as parental abuse, so I'm sure many people will need to tread lightly. Then there is also a very devastating aspect of a child with a serious chronic illness that, in my opinion, will make every heart out there bleed at least a little.
I really appreciated the well-developed characters in this story, I think the author did a stellar job there.
The backstories were equally powerful, I could really see how come certain people ended up the way they did. Even if there was no excuse for their actions.
All in all, I think this is a very solid, very mature and intriguing thriller that also has some intensely dramatic and sentimental parts of the story.
August 30, 2024
3.5/5 rounded up
The inclusion of the slight fantasy element of the healing ability added a layer of unpredictability to the cult, which I loved because I love to theorize and just let my imagination run wild and still be stunned when everything comes together. Having the multi-POV felt so necessary, and the characters all felt distinct from each other. The writing style felt very casual, which I don’t usually adore, but it worked really well for these characters. Reva’s chapters in particular spurred me onwards because I found her the most intriguing. The climactic scene didn’t hit quite as hard for me because I didn’t quite understand what had changed for Reva to take the drastic action she did, but it was tense and I loved how it all wrapped up, and also loved the last page surprise that I’m still thinking about days later. The romance was cute and felt like a little fairytale that offered a respite from the creepy cultish vibes, though I do wish their relationship was fleshed out more than just desire to touch and how Shane was good with kids. This was my first cult thriller and has made me excited to read more of them.
I loved the book and am happy to leave a review. Thank you BookSirens for sending me a free eARC!
The inclusion of the slight fantasy element of the healing ability added a layer of unpredictability to the cult, which I loved because I love to theorize and just let my imagination run wild and still be stunned when everything comes together. Having the multi-POV felt so necessary, and the characters all felt distinct from each other. The writing style felt very casual, which I don’t usually adore, but it worked really well for these characters. Reva’s chapters in particular spurred me onwards because I found her the most intriguing. The climactic scene didn’t hit quite as hard for me because I didn’t quite understand what had changed for Reva to take the drastic action she did, but it was tense and I loved how it all wrapped up, and also loved the last page surprise that I’m still thinking about days later. The romance was cute and felt like a little fairytale that offered a respite from the creepy cultish vibes, though I do wish their relationship was fleshed out more than just desire to touch and how Shane was good with kids. This was my first cult thriller and has made me excited to read more of them.
I loved the book and am happy to leave a review. Thank you BookSirens for sending me a free eARC!
September 4, 2024
Another solid effort from Steph Nelson with a very Stephen King-ish supernatural creepy feel to it.
If you're a parent whose child has ever been ill and you've thought to yourself that you would do anything for them to be better, you can probably relate to Dalice (pronounced 'Dallas') and what she is willing to endure for her son in this book.
I didn't rate it higher because some of the character interactions felt unauthentic to me and there was, without giving spoilers, what I felt was a fairly large plot hole toward the end. Still, a good read that you can tell came from the author's heart as you will read in the author's note at the end. And perhaps I am being tough because her previous novel, The Final Scene, is one of my favorites of 2024.
Thank you to BookSirens for providing me with an advanced reading copy. This in no way affected my review.
If you're a parent whose child has ever been ill and you've thought to yourself that you would do anything for them to be better, you can probably relate to Dalice (pronounced 'Dallas') and what she is willing to endure for her son in this book.
I didn't rate it higher because some of the character interactions felt unauthentic to me and there was, without giving spoilers, what I felt was a fairly large plot hole toward the end. Still, a good read that you can tell came from the author's heart as you will read in the author's note at the end. And perhaps I am being tough because her previous novel, The Final Scene, is one of my favorites of 2024.
Thank you to BookSirens for providing me with an advanced reading copy. This in no way affected my review.
August 28, 2024
Firstly, thank you BookSirens for letting me read this ARC. I absolutely love horror and thriller books. When I read the premise of this book, the word “cult” hooked me and I knew I had to read it. I can honestly say that this book was a page-turner. I kept saying to myself “one more chapter” before I would have to put it down for the day. The way the author seamlessly weaves in the past and the present together for the climax is great. The characters and their reactions in perilous situations were realistic and believable. There were some parts that didn’t read as well and slightly took me out of the story, but overall it was very good. Can’t wait to see what her next book is!
I received this ARC for free and am reviewing it voluntarily.
I received this ARC for free and am reviewing it voluntarily.
September 29, 2024
this was an interesting read that kept me engaged and wondering how the end of the story was going to play out (which was crazy). reva’s chapters were my favorite because they explored how she grew into the twisted woman she ultimately became. to me, dalice and shane’s chemistry was not natural. their relationship was such a focal point of the plot, but it moved too quickly in my opinion. “the threshing floor” is the kind of book where you know the characters are not going to make the best choices, but you still stick around in the hopes that things will be okay. dalice doing whatever it took to save her son, cash, was both a strength and a weakness. thank you to booksirens and the author for this ARC!
October 5, 2024
Steph Nelson's The Threshing Floor is a compelling entry into the cult horror genre, distinguished by its use of multiple perspectives and alternating narrators. This narrative structure enriches the story, providing a multifaceted view of the unsettling events within the cult.
The novel thrives on its eerie atmosphere and the cult's enigmatic allure. Whether delving further into the intricacies of the cult or fleshing out the characters, there's a little something missing for me.
Overall, The Threshing Floor is an engaging and immersive read that could have benefited from deeper exploration in certain areas. Fans of cult horror will find much to appreciate.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The novel thrives on its eerie atmosphere and the cult's enigmatic allure. Whether delving further into the intricacies of the cult or fleshing out the characters, there's a little something missing for me.
Overall, The Threshing Floor is an engaging and immersive read that could have benefited from deeper exploration in certain areas. Fans of cult horror will find much to appreciate.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 6, 2024
The Threshing Floor had me floored.
Wow - Dalice's journey and her persistence at seeing her Son healed, the interaction and conflicts of choice each character is faced.
It had me hooked and had me wanting to finish it. The character development was heavy and the plot was detailed and well crafted. You could not guess where it was going and how it would end. I enjoyed it and thoroughly loved it.
This book has you hooked, has you feeling like you are Dalice or Shane and it will have you guessing about the complexities of Reva.
I did receive an advance copy from the author complementary through booksirens, and my decision to leave the review is voluntary.
Wow - Dalice's journey and her persistence at seeing her Son healed, the interaction and conflicts of choice each character is faced.
It had me hooked and had me wanting to finish it. The character development was heavy and the plot was detailed and well crafted. You could not guess where it was going and how it would end. I enjoyed it and thoroughly loved it.
This book has you hooked, has you feeling like you are Dalice or Shane and it will have you guessing about the complexities of Reva.
I did receive an advance copy from the author complementary through booksirens, and my decision to leave the review is voluntary.
September 23, 2024
I had my doubts about reading this one because I generally don't enjoy books about cults, but I REALLY liked The Final Scene - it was such a fresh idea that I couldn't resist giving this one a chance, and I'm glad I did!
This was a fast-paced, twisty, surprisingly emotional horror thriller that kept me turning the pages late into the night - or maybe should I say early into the morning? The characters felt authentic and well-developed, with flashback scenes aiding the reader's understanding of their fears and motivations. A creepy book with heart!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a fast-paced, twisty, surprisingly emotional horror thriller that kept me turning the pages late into the night - or maybe should I say early into the morning? The characters felt authentic and well-developed, with flashback scenes aiding the reader's understanding of their fears and motivations. A creepy book with heart!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2024
If you love a good "Cult" story, you need to read this book! A woman who joins a cult in order to get her son healed from his heart problems by a healer named Reva? Come on, what's not to like?! You will go from the 90s to present day to see how the cult was created and what happens along the way. A mother will do anything to heal her son.
I did knock a star for the ending- it was wrapped up in a pretty little bow and I like ugly bows. Also, the brother was a bit dim-witted regarding his sister Reva who has healing powers, but maybe I missed something. I have questions for anyone else who have also read the book.
Thank you to BookSirens for sending me an ARC for an honest review!
I did knock a star for the ending- it was wrapped up in a pretty little bow and I like ugly bows. Also, the brother was a bit dim-witted regarding his sister Reva who has healing powers, but maybe I missed something. I have questions for anyone else who have also read the book.
Thank you to BookSirens for sending me an ARC for an honest review!
August 25, 2024
I tend to think cults are scary so when a book involves them but really well done. The characters felt like real and thought the overall feel worked. It had that horror element that I was expecting and had me on the edge of my seat. Steph Nelson has a strong writing style and can't wait for more. It uses the occult element perfectly and enjoyed the overall concept perfectly. I was engaged with what was happening and thought the conclusion worked overall.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 4, 2024
Wow! I’m not sure what exactly I expected with this book but, it blew me away! The author does a really good job at keeping you invested in the characters and even though they may not make the smartest decisions…. You can fully understand why.
I personally loved the authors note at the end. It was extremely touching and felt like you were getting a peek into the authors life a little bit. I love when stories (however fictionalized) come from real life experiences.
Thanks to BookSirens for my very first ARC!
I personally loved the authors note at the end. It was extremely touching and felt like you were getting a peek into the authors life a little bit. I love when stories (however fictionalized) come from real life experiences.
Thanks to BookSirens for my very first ARC!
September 22, 2024
"The Threshing Floor" is a captivating, fast-paced read that truly draws you into the main character's perspective. From start to finish, you're left praying for a miracle and hoping against all odds that the impossible becomes reality. I found myself eagerly looking forward to reading it each evening. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves suspense with a touch of the supernatural—it’s a thrilling and immersive experience!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 26, 2024
I got the pleasure of receiving this ARC, and loved it! This book has a great cult dynamic which is a first for me, and I really enjoyed it!
Amid the chaotic cult theme, there is also a hopeful love story, which I really enjoyed following. I also really enjoyed all the different POV’s and switching between time frames.
I would say it didn’t get 5 stars just because it was a little slow to start, and the ending was a little predictable.
But overall this book was another banger from Steph! She hasn’t disappointed me yet.
Amid the chaotic cult theme, there is also a hopeful love story, which I really enjoyed following. I also really enjoyed all the different POV’s and switching between time frames.
I would say it didn’t get 5 stars just because it was a little slow to start, and the ending was a little predictable.
But overall this book was another banger from Steph! She hasn’t disappointed me yet.
September 5, 2024
Loved it! The Threshing Floor is a captivating, culty, and thrilling read! Steph's writing flows, blossoming with ideas at every turn. Dalice, Cash, and Shane have my heart. Also I love the cover - it's gorgeous!
If you like cult stories, definitely check out The Threshing Floor.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC!
5/5
If you like cult stories, definitely check out The Threshing Floor.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC!
5/5
September 15, 2024
The first third and last third of this book had me hooked. I got lost a little bit in the middle there and totally saw what was going to happen in the epilogue but overall I thought this was a quick, suspenseful read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 23, 2024
Just “Wow!” I really did not want this story to end and I couldn’t put it down at the same time. Steph Nelson I love your writing, your story telling gets me every time. It’s like pressing the play button on a movie whenever I picked it back up to continue reading.
August 26, 2024
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC. This was a well-written, sinister, believable story with a good amount of tension throughout. The actual concept of the threshing was horrible - so twisted! The author did a good job.
Want to read
August 15, 2024you had me at “cult”
September 8, 2024
Cults. Miracles. Secrets. Danger. What more do you need?
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