Review of Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak
From the moment I stumbled upon Hidden Pictures, I felt an irresistible pull. The blend of critiqued life choices, a child’s innocent yet haunting illustrations, and the complicated journey of the protagonist, Mallory Quinn, had me intrigued. I’ve long admired the psychological thriller genre, but Jason Rekulak’s unique twist caught my eye—and my heart.
Mallory, freshly emerged from rehab, takes a babysitting gig with Ted and Caroline Maxwell, caring for their five-year-old son, Teddy. The stability she craves seems within reach, and her bond with Teddy blossoms beautifully. Yet, the story takes a profound turn when Teddy’s drawings begin to reveal eerily lifelike sketches—disturbing images that hint at dark secrets. As readers, we are invited to peel back the layers of Mallory’s life and her newfound role as a caregiver amidst a sinister backdrop.
Rekulak weaves a rich narrative that marries emotional depth with tension. The author does an extraordinary job of creating a dual storyline—one grounded in the very real struggles of addiction and recovery, and the other steeped in a supernatural mystery that keeps you guessing. I found myself invested not just in the mystery of Teddy’s drawings, but also in Mallory’s journey. There’s something profoundly stirring about a flawed character striving for redemption while navigating unsettling circumstances.
One of the greatest strengths of the novel is its pacing; the tension never lags, and the supernatural elements inch forward with an unsettling inevitability that keeps you turning the pages. The illustrations included throughout the book add a vivid and haunting layer to the story—each page turned felt like uncovering a hidden piece of a puzzle that was both beautiful and terrifying. The chilling transformation of Teddy’s innocent doodles into something darker kept my heart racing, and I couldn’t help but feel a mix of dread and anticipation.
Charming and unsettling, Mallory’s character is beautifully drawn (no pun intended). A reader can’t help but root for her; her struggles make her relatable. As she grapples with the ghosts of her past while trying to protect Teddy, you can’t shake the feeling of resonance—her scars echo our own battles, be they in the form of addiction, fear, or regret.
One memorable quote from Stephen King who loved the book reads, “I loved it.” You understand why once you delve into this thrilling ride; it’s not just a ghost story but a tale about seeking light in dark places. The exploration of trust, both in oneself and in others, resonates deeply.
Hidden Pictures is perfect for readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with a touch of the supernatural. If you appreciate books that compel you to question the boundaries of reality and perception, this one should be next on your reading list. It’s a haunting tribute to resilience, revealing that sometimes, the scariest truths lie just beneath the surface.
Finishing this book left me in a reflective space—wondering not only about Mallory’s fate but about the hidden truths in our own lives. It’s a reading experience that lingers long after the final page, a testament to Rekulak’s inventive storytelling. Whether you’re a fan of thrillers or simply looking for an emotional ride, Hidden Pictures will leave you breathlessly turning each page, eager for more.