Addy is reclaiming her life. Following a divorce from her belittling and controlling ex, she’s decided she’s living for herself. To celebrate, she’s traveling to a horror convention to hang with friends and commiserate over their love of the macabre.

While on the road, a miscalculation leads to being caught in the eye of a snowstorm. She’s left at the mercy of icy roads, with little to no hope of navigating independently. Luckily, good samaritan Mack comes to the rescue offering a CB radio and guidance through the treacherous terrain.

Until Mack flips, careening off a cliff into darkness like no other. Addy must make a choice: stay put or slink down into the unknown, facing what awaits Below.

Atmospheric and eerie, Below starts strong and doesn’t let up. Vivid imagery paired with multiple horror elements creates a claustrophobic environment where nothing can be trusted. Hightower’s prose is hypnotic, allowing the story to flow effortlessly despite the business of the plot. Although the ambiguity let my mind wonder, some aspects would’ve been more impactful if elaborated upon.

My only qualm is I wish it were longer :-( highly recommended!