Horror Book Review: There’s Something Here From Somewhere Else (Jonathon T. Cross)

There’s Something Here from Somewhere Else is the latest novella from author Jonathon T. Cross, whose debut horror novella, Madness from the Sea: Cthulhu’s Lure was a hugely enjoyable read (our review of that is here). Now, he brings us another tale with cosmic horror vibes, but one also based within the folk horror genre.

The story follows Lydia, a 10-year-old girl whose life has been completely uprooted by her parents. Moved to a small town on the edge of a swamp, told to not reveal her last name to anyone, and shunned by the locals who are wary of outsiders.

Although this might have something to do with the tall tales of wickedness that infect every aspect of the town. Tales that surround a being simply known as the ‘Lurker’. Some of the townspeople deny its existence, others speak of it with fear, some even speak of it with a certain reverence, but most refuse to speak of it at all.

Feeling completely alone, Lydia desperately desires a friend, so when a mysterious doll appears on her doorstep, she is overjoyed. Especially as she feels a bond with it that is almost magical. Does the doll have a connection with the stories of the Lurker and will Lydia be able to overcome its influence on the town?

There’s Something Here from Somewhere Else is a gripping read, and once again, Jonathon T. Cross nails the strong feeling of otherworldly horror. The combination of cosmic horror, often intangible, and folk horror, often relatable, works brilliantly, and you almost get a sense of world-building going on here.

What’s really quite interesting about this read though, is how Cross works on creating drama from real-life issues with the characters. The over-arching theme might be based in fantastical horror, but the main players are often dealing with real world problems. Which makes the characters very compelling, particularly Lydia.

It’s not easy to write a ten-year-old well, especially when it comes to making one likable while still having the immaturity that comes with the age. Cross does a great job of making Lydia, and many others, feel realistic in a short amount of time. She is sympathetic, but frustrating, she is mature and immature in equal measures, she makes bad decisions, but also just wants to be cared for. This makes her journey all the more enjoyable to read.

Of course, this is a horror story, and Cross proved with Madness from the Sea: Cthulhu’s Lure that he has no fear when it comes to writing from a gruesome place. No spoilers, but There’s Something Here from Somewhere Else has some pretty horrific moments, including one that is quite shocking. Yet, it never feels egregious, even when the writing gets quite graphic. Nor does the impact lessen as the story reaches its wild conclusion.

There’s Something Here from Somewhere Else is an excellent novella, and Jonathon T. Cross is a very strong writer. That’s two stories he has nailed, roll on what comes next!

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