Book Review: They Own the Night – Amy McCaw

Book Review: They Own the Night – Amy McCaw

Release date: September 25 2025
Publisher: Ink Road
Pages: 387
Find it: Goodreads Waterstones
Source: The publisher kindly sent me a copy of this book to review
Rating: 4/5 stars

Synopsis

Mia and Johnny have always been there for each other – particularly since their father was revealed to be a serial killer and is now serving a life sentence for murdering thirteen people.


Studying in a small university town near Edinburgh, Mia’s coping mechanisms are hiding behind sarcasm, horror writing and her somewhat illegal true crime radio station, while Johnny steps up as her warm, sensitive brother and keeps her out of trouble.
But when journalist-wannabe Johnny accepts an offer he cannot refuse – the chance to interview a reclusive mega rock star who disappeared from public view three years ago, Mia finds herself stuck on campus when two male students are found dead.

As Johnny grapples with the enigmatic musician, he realises that something about the star’s nocturnal habits doesn’t quite add up. Meanwhile, Mia’s investigation takes her to the most unexpected places – including her dad’s prison…

Review

This gripping YA horror story follows siblings Mia and Johnny. Mia and Johnny are the children of an infamous serial killer who is currently serving life in prison for his crimes. Attempting to put the past behind them, Mia and Johnny attend university in Edinburgh. There, Johnny is offered the job of a lifetime, to interview Vlad Tepez, one of the most famous rock stars in the world. Tepez mysteriously vanished from public life, and if Johnny can find out why, it could make his career, but Vlad isn’t everything he seems. When two students turn up dead at the university, Mia begins to investigate; however, her investigation goes in a direction she absolutely did not expect.

This was such a compelling read. It was fast-paced, engaging, and I absolutely raced through this one. I really enjoyed McCaw’s writing style; it was atmospheric, and it really brought the 1980s to life. I loved the mixed media format of this book – the story features diary entries, interviews, newspaper clippings, and transcripts from a radio show. I thought this really added another dimension to the story, and it was such a fun way to see the story unfold.I thought the characters were terrific. Mia is strong and determined, but also struggling with the knowledge of what her Dad did. I really liked Johnny too, who becomes entangled in a romance that isn’t what he expects. There is lots of character development for both protagonists, and both POVs were really fascinating. I loved the 80s vampires and it was very reminiscent of The Lost Boys and Lestat, which I absolutely adored. If you’re a vampire fan or you’re looking for a fresh take on the Dracula story, They Own the Night is definitely a book you don’t want to miss – this one should absolutely be on your TBR for spooky season.

Leave a comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.