If you’re a fan of atmospheric horror that gets under your skin (literally), then T. Kingfisher’s latest masterpiece, Wolf Worm, needs to be at the top of your TBR list.
The Story
Set in 1899, we follow Sonia Wilson, a talented scientific illustrator who finds herself adrift after her father’s death. Desperate for work in a world that rarely welcomes women in science, she accepts a position at a remote North Carolina manor. Her task? To illustrate the massive insect collection of the reclusive and surly Dr. Halder.
But the North Carolina woods hold secrets far more disturbing than a few rare beetles. Sonia soon begins to wonder what happened to her predecessor—Halder’s wife—and why the local townspeople whisper about “blood thieves” and the devil in the woods.
As Sonia digs deeper into Halder’s entomological studies, she discovers a nightmare of parasitic maggots, unethical experiments, and a horror that threatens to consume her as well. It’s a slow-burn Gothic tale that blends historical detail with truly visceral body horror.
Why You’ll Love It
Kingfisher excels at creating “anxious but capable” protagonists. Sonia is relatable, smart, and observant, making the unfolding dread feel incredibly vivid. Be warned: if you’re squeamish about bugs, this one will definitely make you squirm!
