It Will Only Hurt for a Moment

By Delilah S. Dawson
** Publication Date 22 October 2024 **
4.5 stars


Holy ****. I am still in shock and shaking over this incredible novel. Part thriller, suspense, and horror, it is a tough one to put down. 


Sarah has escaped an abusive relationship and is headed where her ex can’t find her. Tranquil Falls. It’s an artists’ retreat hidden in the south, with no connection to the outside world. No wifi. No cable. No phone service. Just an old abandoned hotel and some artist cabins.


Only this ends up being anything but tranquil. Sarah uncovers a secret grave. Her studio partner is a loud, offensive misogynist. Then she starts having some really creepy dreams. Dreams that don’t feel like dreams, but more like an alternate reality. 


When the goth photographer befriends her, Sarah finally feels like maybe she can get through the next three months in this place. But Sarah’s dreams start getting stranger, and weird things start happening around the campus. Suddenly Sarah isn’t so sure she wants to stay in this place.


Truly an epic, frightening story about ghosts and spirits and alternate realities. I honestly could not wait to finish this novel to know how things would turn out for Sarah. Delilah Dawson has one freaking incredible mind to have come up with this wickedly scary story. Do not read if you’re prone to nightmares, because this is one from start to finish.