Book Review: They Call Her Regret by Channelle Desamours

Channelle Desamours’ They Call Her Regret is a darkly enchanting YA horror novel that blends spine-tingling suspense with the emotional weight of past trauma. The story follows Simone Washington, a high school senior whose love of Halloween parties and horror is both a passion and a coping mechanism for the secrets she hides. When her invitation-only eighteenth birthday bash at Doll’s Head Lake goes horribly wrong with the death of her best friend Kira, Simone is forced to confront the supernatural in the form of a local witch named Regret.

The premise is compelling: Simone is offered a chance to erase all her regrets and save Kira’s life—but only if she can break the witch’s curse within fourteen days. Desamours crafts a tense, fast-moving narrative filled with eerie folklore, clever twists, and a darkly magical atmosphere that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Simone is a relatable protagonist, her fears and guilt rendering her struggles emotionally resonant even amid the supernatural chaos.

I particularly enjoyed how the story balances high-stakes horror with teenage drama, creating an immersive, page-turning experience. The pacing is strong, the tension builds steadily, and the stakes feel both personal and fantastical. While the ending leaves room for further exploration, it feels satisfying while setting the stage for future reads from Desamours.

Overall, They Call Her Regret is a thrilling, darkly clever read that will appeal to fans of YA horror and supernatural suspense. I rather enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading more from Channelle Desamours.