Come Closer

by Sara Gran
Come Closer cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Horror
Technical:
  • ID: 990
  • Added: 2025-09-24
  • Updated: 2025-09-24
  • ISBN: 9781569479223
  • Publisher: Soho Press
  • Published: 2003-07-01
  • Formats: 22
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

Come Closer is a chilling exploration of possession and the loss of control, blending psychological horror with elements of the supernatural. Amanda, a successful architect in a happy marriage, begins to experience strange and unsettling changes in her behavior, from smoking again to acts of violence she can't remember. A recurring dream of a beautiful woman with pointed teeth on a blood-red shore hints at a deeper, more sinister presence in her life. As her behavior grows increasingly erratic, Amanda discovers a book on demon possession that suggests the figure in her dreams could be Naamah, a figure from Kabbalistic lore. The novel delves into the terrifying consequences of losing control, with Amanda struggling to reclaim her life before it's destroyed. This edition includes a new post-script by the author and an 'Are You Possessed?' questionnaire, adding an interactive element to the haunting narrative. The book has been recognized as one of Esquire's Top 50 horror novels of all time, praised for its perfect execution of horror. It's a cult classic that combines psychological depth with supernatural elements, making it a standout in the horror genre. The author's note and questionnaire provide additional context and engagement, making it a unique and unforgettable read.

Reviews
What is Quinn Reading · Quinn · 2025-01-26
harrowing 4.00

The ending is brutal and hopeless, making it one of the most memorable horror novels recently. The reputation as a cult classic is well-earned.

Quinn found the ending of 'Come Closer' to be particularly impactful, describing it as brutal and hopeless, which left a lasting impression. They appreciate how the novel has built a cult following, highlighting its unique ability to unsettle readers. The turn-of-the-millennium setting is well-captured, adding to the overall atmosphere of the story. Quinn admires the novel's ability to evoke a sense of dread and unease, making it a standout in the horror genre.

Quick quotes

    Come Closer has one of the most brutal, hopeless endings of any horror novel I've read lately.

    I can see how it built up a reputation as a cult classic.

    The turn-of-the-millennium world is evoked perfectly.

Tor Nightfire · Tor Nightfire Staff · 2022-01-25
excellent 4.50

The novel is one of the best slices of horror fiction ever read. It is a quick, engaging read with a wonderfully creepy story.

Tor Nightfire's reviewer considers 'Come Closer' to be one of the best slices of horror fiction they have ever read. They appreciate the novel's ability to be both quick and engaging, making it a compelling read. The reviewer finds the story to be wonderfully creepy, highlighting the novel's strength in creating a sense of dread. They also note the novel's use of traditional possession tropes, which are executed effectively. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the novel is evident, making it a highly recommended read.

Quick quotes

    It is, without a doubt, one of the best slices of horror fiction I've ever read.

    A quick, engaging read with a wonderfully creepy horror story.

    The writing style is amazing.

The Guardian · Guardian Staff · 2021-07-19
unsettling 4.00

The novel is lean and seductively mean, capturing a specific time period with precision. It is a compelling exploration of possession and mental decline.

The Guardian's reviewer describes 'Come Closer' as a lean and seductively mean novel that effectively captures the turn-of-the-millennium world. They appreciate the novel's ability to evoke a specific time period, making it relatable yet unsettling. The reviewer finds the exploration of possession and mental decline to be compelling, highlighting the novel's strength in creating a sense of unease. They also note the novel's ability to be both relatable and horrifying, making it a standout in the horror genre.

Quick quotes

    Newly reissued, her lean, seductively mean novel Come Closer evokes a turn-of-the-millennium world in which thirtysomethings could still afford...

    A woman possessed, indeed.

    The novel's strength lies in its ability to be both relatable and horrifying.

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