In her YA debut, Hashem delivers an engaging, cohesive, genre-blending novel, executing the concept of a monster that weaponizes isolation with clarity and mounting suspense and seamlessly incorporating Egyptian Arabic and other culturally rooted details. Mina and Jesse s developing relationship is grounded in mutual vulnerability, bringing a warmth and romantic intimacy that effectively strikes an equilibrium with the horror elements. Mina s struggle to belong, to understand her family s past, and to reconcile the parts of herself shaped by two worlds gives the novel a lingering emotional depth. A gripping, atmospheric blend of supernatural terror and the aching work of reclaiming agency.
Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Hashem mixes this chilling supernatural mystery with a satisfying, slow-burn romance that adds additional stakes to Mina s fight to survive, while developing Mina into an emotionally complex protagonist readers will genuinely fear for. The structure of the story moves through different time periods, settings, and viewpoints to slowly reveal the terrifying entity behind this generational curse. A well-earned but heartbreaking conclusion sets this tale apart from its peers.
Booklist (starred review)

Mina s strong narrative voice is imbued with witty sarcasm and introspection, and Jesse is more than her match in clever banter. They ve got a sparking chemistry that is sure to make romance fans swoon. . . .
Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books