Book Review: Whistle by Linwood Barclay

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Linwood Barclay ventures into supernatural horror with Whistle, delivering a chilling and gripping story that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Known for his suspenseful thrillers, Barclay seamlessly blends eerie, otherworldly horror with his signature fast-paced storytelling, making this novel an instant standout.

The story follows Annie Blunt, a children’s book author and illustrator who, after enduring a tragic year, moves to a quiet town in upstate New York with her son, Charlie. Their fresh start quickly takes a sinister turn when Charlie discovers an old train set in a locked shed on their property. At first, it seems like a harmless relic—until Annie starts hearing phantom train whistles in the dead of night, and strange occurrences begin to spiral around them. Worse, Annie finds herself uncontrollably drawing an unsettling figure that doesn’t belong in any children’s book. As the mystery deepens, it becomes clear that something far darker is at play, tied to a world beyond comprehension.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its atmosphere. Barclay masterfully builds suspense, layering dread through eerie sounds, uncanny visions, and a growing sense of isolation. The horror is both psychological and supernatural, making the reader question what’s real and what’s a manifestation of grief and trauma. Annie is a compelling protagonist—flawed, strong, and relatable in her struggle to protect her son while battling the unknown. The Sliver, the sinister force at the heart of the mystery, is a truly haunting creation, and its lore is fascinating.

The pacing is excellent, with well-timed reveals and tension that escalates to a thrilling climax. Unlike many horror novels that falter in their endings, Whistle delivers a satisfying and well-earned conclusion, leaving just enough mystery to linger in the reader’s mind.

This was my first Linwood Barclay book, and it certainly won’t be my last. The writing is sharp, the concept is fresh, and the execution is flawless. Whether more stories will be set in this eerie universe remains to be seen, but if they are, I’ll be first in line. Whistle is a must-read for horror and thriller fans alike—highly recommended!