Riley Sager's Home Before Dark garners praise for its atmospheric tension and compelling dual narratives, intricately weaving past and present. Readers are captivated by its eerie, haunted-house setting and unexpected twists. However, some critique the pacing and predictability in parts. Overall, it succeeds as an engaging thriller with a blend of mystery and suspense.

Readers who enjoy a blend of psychological thrillers and horror, especially fans of The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson and The Shining by Stephen King, would be captivated by Riley Sager's Home Before Dark. This novel appeals to those who relish spine-chilling mysteries set in eerie, atmospheric locations.

Home Before Dark by Riley Sager follows Maggie Holt as she returns to Baneberry Hall, a house her family fled due to alleged supernatural occurrences. Alternating between Maggie's present-day perspective and her father Ewan's memoir, House of Horrors, the story unravels dark secrets about the house, including mysterious deaths and the possibility of a hidden murderer among those she trusts.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Dark / Unnerving

- Home Before Dark is heavily inspired by classic haunted house stories, drawing particular influence from Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House, which is evident in its atmospheric writing and eerie settings.
- Author Riley Sager is known for his knack for blending thriller and horror elements, creating a unique narrative style that has garnered a strong fanbase and critical acclaim across his works, including Home Before Dark.
- Riley Sager's decision to alternate between the past and present narrative structure in Home Before Dark provides a dual perspective that enhances the mystery and suspense throughout the novel.

**Maggie Holt**  
The protagonist, Maggie is a complex character struggling with her identity and the truth behind her family's history at Baneberry Hall, as depicted in her father's book.

**Ewan Holt**  
Maggie's father and the author of a bestselling book about their time at Baneberry Hall, Ewan is characterized by the tension between his affectionate nature and the secrets he keeps.

**Jessica Holt**  
Maggie's mother, who serves as a skeptic in her husband's narrative, is viewed by Maggie as an unengaged parent and struggles with the past involving the infamous book.

**Dane Hibbets**  
The charming caretaker and grandson of a previous resident of Baneberry Hall, who harbors a personal history that he conceals from Maggie.

**Tess Alcott**  
The sheriff called by Maggie during her return to Baneberry Hall, who was also involved in the original investigation and aims to resolve unfinished matters.

**Brian Prince**  
The journalist whose article about the Holt family's experiences significantly contributed to the widespread attention and subsequent book deal.

**Marta Carver**  
A resident of Bartleby who is later revealed to have a deeper involvement in the events at Baneberry Hall than initially apparent.

**Elsa Ditmer**  
The former housekeeper at Baneberry Hall, noted for her faith and superstitious beliefs, who holds symbolic and narrative significance.

**Petra Ditmer**  
The teenage daughter of Elsa Ditmer, whose history and presence in the story are largely posthumous and central to the mystery.

**Hannah Ditmer**  
Petra's younger sister, who as an adult, remains deeply affected by past events and demonstrates a protective attitude toward their legacy.

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Prologue-Chapter 4

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Chapters 5-8

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Chapters 9-12

Home Before Dark Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-16

Home Before Dark Chapters 13-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-20

Home Before Dark Chapters 17-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-28

Home Before Dark Chapters 21-28 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 29-32

Home Before Dark Chapters 29-32 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 33-40

Home Before Dark Chapters 33-40 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 41-Epilogue

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