Devil's Lake

When Alison walks into Devil’s Lake one quiet June morning, she doesn’t plan to return. But when she survives and meets a mysterious stranger, the peace he offers could cost her soul. Devil’s Lake is a haunting psychological thriller about trauma, temptation, and the fight to find hope in the darkness.

©2014, 2015, 2017, 2025 Angela Curio (pen name: Angela Merlo) (P)2026 Angela Curio (pen name: Angela Merlo)

A Strange, Haunting,Tale of Conflicting Worldviews

I'm in a bit of unique position writing this review in I lived several years in WI, visiting Baraboo, Sauk City, and even the water park mentioned at the Dells. My husband visited Devil's Lake State Park about five years ago. He has Native American foster brothers from a tribe further north of Devil's Lake. So, the setting was vaguely familiar to me.

The strange unique way that Merlo wove Native American religious systems next to a Catholic worldview was fascinating. Mixing it with childhood trauma and coping mechanisms was chilling. Watching Alison peel back the layers of abuse hurt, though she grew. This book is rich and complex. Definitely worth your attention.

The story feels deeply emotional and raw

trauma, temptation, and a fight to find hope in the darkness all mix together into something you can’t quite predict. The atmosphere is eerie but compelling, and the narrator’s voice brings that unease to life so well. It stuck with me after I finished listening. If you like psychological thrillers with a soul, this is a really strong pick.

Haunting and Beautiful

Devil’s Lake pulled me in from the very first chapter and never let go. Angela Merlo delivers a dark, atmospheric story that blends psychological tension, gothic dread, and an unsettling romance in a way that feels completely fresh. Alison’s journey is emotional, eerie, and deeply compelling.

Penelope Cook’s narration is phenomenal; she captures every fragile moment, every creeping fear, every seductive pull of Philip with absolute perfection. Her performance adds an intensity and intimacy that elevates the entire experience.

This audiobook is haunting in the best way. The mystery of the lake, the slow unfurling of Alison’s memories, and the strange, magnetic connection with Philip kept me hooked the whole time. If you love psychological thrillers with a gothic edge and layered emotional depth, this one is outstanding.

Highly recommended.