A review by meganmonique
The Nesting by C.J. Cooke

4.0

When a chance opportunity arises, Lexi travels to Norway and takes a job as a nanny to two young girls. The girls lost their mother, Aurelia, to suicide only a few months prior, and their father is determined to finish building their dream house in her honor, overlooking the very same fjord where she took her own life. Soon, Lexi begins to realize things might not be what they seem. She begins to notice mysterious footprints, one of the children talks of seeing the "Sad Lady," and one day Aurelia's diary is placed in her room. Did Aurelia really kill herself, or are they all in danger from something more sinister....

The gothic atmosphere, slow build, and inclusion of Nordic folklore tied together beautifully for a thrilling read. The story follows dual timelines, showing the parallels between Lexi's experiences and what happened to Aurelia to lead her to her terrible fate. Overall very well done.