Set in 1981 on a struggling, isolated Iowa farm during a meteor shower, the story follows nineteen-year-old Ry Burke, who lives with his mother and younger sister, scraping by after years of hardship. Ry carries deep scars from his past, including the shadow of his abusive father, whose violent actions once shattered their lives. When old threats resurface and the night sky lights up with falling stars, Ry must confront buried horrors, summon inner strength, and protect what’s left of his family in a nightmare that blurs the line between reality and the unimaginable.

Kraus writes with unflinching intensity, vivid atmosphere, and psychological depth, blending visceral horror with raw emotional truth to explore themes of abuse, resilience, fear, and the cost of facing one’s demons.

For readers who crave dark, character-driven horror with substance beyond jumpscares, fans of psychological thrillers or Stephen King-style family nightmares with a coming-of-age edge, readers drawn to stories of trauma, survival, and the monstrous side of human nature, and anyone who appreciates literary horror that lingers long after the last page — perfect for intense, late-night reading sessions (note: contains strong themes of violence and abuse)