Penny Padgett is a twenty-seven-year-old cartoonist who agrees to pet-sit a seemingly sweet cat named Godfrey. But when disturbing nightmares, a seriously gross insect infestation, increasingly dark drawings, and some very strange health problems start piling up, Penny begins to wonder if Godfrey might be more than just an unusually clingy cat.
I listened to Look What the Cat Dragged In on audio, and this was WEIRD in a way that really worked for me. I obviously missed out on the 60+ pages of illustrations included in the physical book, which are actually referenced throughout the story, but surprisingly, I never felt lost without them. Rekulak does such a good job building the atmosphere and describing what Penny is experiencing that I had absolutely no problem picturing everything. And honestly? Listening to Penny slowly spiral had me spiraling right along with her.
If you’re coming into this expecting another Hidden Pictures or The Last One at the Wedding, I think it’s important to know that this is much more paranormal horror than mystery/thriller. I really enjoyed Hidden Pictures, while The Last One at the Wedding was just okay for me, and this feels very different from both. It goes ALL IN on the supernatural, gets pretty imaginative, and there are definitely some moments that aren’t for the squeamish. So, if you’re looking for a twisty murder mystery, this might not be the Rekulak for you. If you’re looking for something weird and creepy for spooky season? Absolutely.
One of my favorite parts was how Rekulak worked the history and lore surrounding possession into the story. Those details gave the horror more depth and made some of the increasingly bizarre things happening to Penny feel grounded enough that I just went with it. I also really liked Penny as a main character and thought the horror was introduced really well. It starts with those little okay, that’s weird moments and just keeps escalating until things get completely out of control.
Overall, this was a solid 4-star read for me. It’s creepy, bizarre, occasionally gross, and definitely not afraid to lean into the paranormal. I was completely hooked while listening, and I’d especially recommend the audiobook if you’re looking for something captivating for spooky season. That said, I’m curious enough about those illustrations that I may need to flip through a physical copy now just to see what I missed.
& all three of Jason Rekulak’s newest books can be found on KINDLE UNLIMITED!
AMAZON | GOODREADS | BOOKSHOP |★★★★
Look What the Cat Dragged In comes out October 13, 2026. Huge thank you to Flatiron and MacMillan Audio for my advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.  If you liked this review please let me know either by commenting below or by visiting my instagram @speakingof.books.
