Summer of Fear
Summer of Fear
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1976
Book Brief
Beta219
Novel • Fiction
•
Mystery & Crime Fiction•
Children`s LiteratureAlbuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA; summer to several years later.
1976
Laurel Leaf
Mass Market Paperback • 1977
YA
13-17 years
Super Short Summary
Fifteen-year-old Rachel Bryant’s summer changes when her orphaned cousin Julia moves in with her family in Albuquerque. As strange events begin, everyone else falls under Julia’s spell while Rachel grows suspicious and increasingly isolated. Convinced that Julia is a witch—and may not be who she claims—Rachel must prove something is terribly wrong before her family is placed in danger.
Suspenseful
Unnerving
Mysterious
Emotional
Fantastical
Reviews & Readership
6,119 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviewers praise Duncan’s compelling writing, spooky mystery, and suspenseful uncertainty, especially the first-person narration that immerses readers in Rachel’s growing isolation after her orphaned cousin moves in. The book’s straightforward style also makes it accessible. Criticism centers on clues that become too obvious, coincidences that feel overly convenient, and a relative shortage of action. One reviewer found the horror surprisingly tame and rarely frightening, though still considered the novel an enjoyable read.
Who Should Read Summer of Fear?
This is a strong choice for readers ages 12 and up who enjoy young adult horror, suspenseful mysteries, and stories with an undercurrent of witchcraft. It especially suits anyone drawn to unsettling family dynamics: Rachel’s orphaned cousin Julia moves in, strange events begin, and Rachel grows suspicious while becoming increasingly isolated. Readers who like tense books that keep them guessing and deliver chills should find plenty to enjoy, without needing any familiarity with Lois Duncan’s other work.
6,119 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Rae’s seventeen-year-old cousin, initially shy and reserved, who joins the Bryant household after being orphaned in a car accident.
Rae’s boyfriend, who joins her and Carolyn in trying to welcome Julia into their circle of friends.
Rae’s best friend, who helps Rae and Michael introduce the newly arrived Julia to their social circle.
Rae’s older brother, toward whom Julia begins making advances after her arrival in the Bryant family’s home.
A retired college professor and folklorist who lives nearby and knows about Ozark superstitions and witchcraft traditions.
Rae’s beloved pet dog, whose intense fear of Julia contributes to Rae’s growing unease about her cousin.
219
Novel • Fiction
•
Mystery & Crime Fiction•
Children`s LiteratureAlbuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA; summer to several years later.
1976
Laurel Leaf
Mass Market Paperback • 1977
YA
13-17 years
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