A Head Full of Ghosts

by Paul Tremblay
A Head Full of Ghosts cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Crime
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 7573
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9786023852536
  • Publisher: Noura Publishing
  • Published: 2017-05-05
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

A Head Full of Ghosts explores the unraveling of a family as they confront the possibility of demonic possession. The Barrett family's struggles are exacerbated by financial strain and emotional turmoil, leading them to participate in a reality TV show that exploits their suffering. The novel delves into themes of mental illness, the power of belief, and the ethical boundaries of reality television. Through the lens of a young girl, the story unfolds with a mix of horror and psychological suspense, leaving readers questioning what is real and what is imagined. Written by Paul Tremblay, this novel is a modern take on the exorcism genre, blending psychological horror with a critique of media sensationalism. The narrative structure and unreliable perspectives add layers of complexity, making it a gripping and unsettling read. The book's exploration of family dynamics and the impact of trauma on mental health adds depth to its horror elements.

Reviews
I Would Rather Be Reading Blog · 2023-02-05
fantastic 4.75

The characterization is superb, particularly the relationship between the sisters, making it a fantastic work of gothic horror.

The reviewer from I Would Rather Be Reading Blog praises the book's characterization, especially the complex relationship between the sisters. They find the book to be a fantastic work of gothic horror, with a narrative that is both chilling and emotionally resonant. The reviewer appreciates the way Tremblay explores themes of mental illness and family dynamics, creating a rich and layered story. They also highlight the book's ability to keep readers engaged with its suspenseful and unsettling atmosphere. The ending is noted for its emotional impact, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Quick quotes

    The characterization as a whole is superb, particularly the relationship between the sisters.

    Marjorie does seem like your typical sullen teenager.

    A Head Full of Ghosts by Paul Tremblay is a fantastic work of gothic horror.

Grimdark Magazine · 2021-02-13
chilling 4.00

The story is a well-crafted horror possession tale with nods to classic films like The Exorcist. It effectively blends horror and psychological elements.

Grimdark Magazine delves into the horror elements of the book, highlighting its clever nods to classic possession stories. They appreciate the way Tremblay weaves together horror and psychological thriller elements, creating a chilling atmosphere. The reviewer finds the story to be a modern take on classic themes, making it a standout in the genre. They also note the book's ability to keep readers on edge throughout, with a narrative that is both unsettling and engaging.

Quick quotes

    The story has many distinct parts of a horror possession story.

    It has plenty of nods to The Exorcist, arguably the most famous possession story.

    Tremblay weaves together horror and psychological thriller elements.

The Guardian · 2016-10-18
frightening 4.50

The book is a thoroughly frightening take on classic possession stories, with a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged.

The Guardian's review emphasizes the book's ability to be both terrifying and compelling. They praise Tremblay's skill in crafting a story that is both a horror tale and a psychological thriller. The reviewer finds the characters, particularly the sisters, to be well-developed and the narrative to be gripping. They also highlight the book's exploration of themes like mental illness and family dynamics, making it a rich and layered read. The ending is noted for its emotional impact, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Quick quotes

    Paul Tremblay's horror tale of an apparent teenage possession is a thoroughly frightening take on classics of the genre.

    The characterization as a whole is superb, particularly the relationship between the sisters.

    The ending left me with a hole and an ache in my heart.

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