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Addictive on oh-so-many levels
Feature image credit: Simon & Schuster
Hannah Richelle’s One Dark Night is a masterful fusion of folklore and psychological thriller, blending the eerie allure of ghost stories with the gritty realism of a modern murder investigation. Set in the insular and atmospheric small town of Thorncombe, the novel plunges readers into a world where superstition and reality collide, leaving no one untouched.
The story begins with the chilling local legend of a bride murdered on her wedding day, her body left at the stone folly to be claimed by crows. The ghost of the girl in the white dress is said to haunt the surrounding woods, luring the unwary to their doom. Richelle uses this tale not only as a backdrop but as a potent metaphor for the town’s simmering fears and long-buried secrets. The narrative’s tension escalates when, the morning after Halloween, a teenage girl’s lifeless body is discovered eerily arranged at the base of the same stone folly.
From the very first page, One Dark Night traps readers with its gripping narrative, and by the end of chapter one, it is very difficult to put down. At the heart of the investigation is Detective Ben Chase, a character as complex and compelling as the plot itself. Chase is not just a determined investigator but also a father to a teenage daughter, a role that adds a poignant layer of vulnerability to his character. As the case unfolds, Chase is forced to confront the harrowing possibility that the danger might be closer to home than he ever imagined. Richelle’s portrayal of Chase’s internal conflict—his professional resolve clashing with his personal fears—is nuanced and deeply human, making him an anchor in a story rife with uncertainty.
The novel’s strength lies in its ability to weave suspense with a keen understanding of human psychology. Richelle crafts a claustrophobic atmosphere, where every character harbors secrets and trust is a fragile commodity. From the suspiciously aloof neighbours to the teenagers’ cryptic social media posts, the web of intrigue grows ever tighter. The author’s deft use of red herrings keeps readers guessing until the very end, ensuring that the twists land with maximum impact.
Adding to the novel’s allure is its vivid sense of place. Thorncombe is brought to life through Richelle’s evocative prose, from the haunting stillness of the woods where birds refuse to sing to the looming presence of the old stone folly, a silent witness to past and present horrors. This richly rendered setting becomes a character in its own right, amplifying the story’s tension and immersing readers in its eerie ambiance.
One Dark Night also explores deeper themes, such as the ways in which myths can shape a community’s identity and how fear can both unite and divide. The interplay between folklore and reality serves as a poignant reminder of how easily the lines between the two can blur, especially in moments of crisis.
While the novel’s pacing is largely effective, the intricate plotting occasionally sacrifices character development for complexity. Some secondary characters, though intriguing, feel underexplored. However, this is a minor quibble in an otherwise gripping narrative.
In One Dark Night, Hannah Richelle delivers a tense, clever, and atmospheric thriller that keeps readers on edge from the first page to the last. With its seamless blend of haunting folklore, a tightly wound mystery, and richly drawn characters, the book is a testament to Richelle’s storytelling prowess. Fans of psychological thrillers and gothic tales alike will find much to savour in this captivating read. Be warned: once you step into the haunted woods of Thorncombe, you may find it hard to leave.
Reviewed by Leanne Caune
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Simon & Schuster AustraliaReleased: January 2025RRP: $32.99
