At a Glance
- Rebekah Faubion introduces What a Nightmare, her first adult horror novel.
- The story follows Haven Powers, a receptionist who conjures a nightmare that kills her boss.
- Faubion blends revenge, queer romance, and social critique in a Texas-set thriller.
- Why it matters: The book offers a fresh take on horror while tackling gender expectations and power abuse.
Rebekah Faubion’s debut adult horror novel, What a Nightmare, is set to hit shelves in Fall 2026 from Penguin Random House imprint Berkley. The story centers on Haven Powers, a young woman who has long had to stifle her rage, especially while working as a receptionist under a predatory boss. After a terrifying dream that kills her employer, Haven must confront her powerful ability and return to her hometown of Friendship, Texas, where old memories and family dynamics threaten to consume her.
Book Overview
The novel follows Haven Powers, a modern Carrie White who has grown up trying not to murder or maim everyone. What a Nightmare opens with an encounter that forces Haven to unleash a nightmare in her boss’s subconscious, leading to his sudden death. The incident forces her to wrestle with a new, frightening power and to question the roots of her rage.
When Haven returns to Friendship, she is confronted by:
- The town’s lingering secrets and unresolved family drama.
- A once-distant family that has been estranged for years.
- A personal crusade of revenge that tests her limits.
The narrative moves through a claustrophobic, mind-bending horror landscape that delves into family relationships, societal expectations of women, and the oppressive nature of patriarchal systems. The story is both a thrilling read and a social commentary.
Author Inspiration
Faubion says the idea for What a Nightmare came during a “4 a.m. fever dream.” She felt the dream’s intensity matched the terrifying subject matter she wanted to explore. This personal experience helped shape the novel’s tone and themes.
Key Themes
- Family complexity: The book examines how family ties can both protect and destroy.
- Patriarchal pressure: It critiques the expectation that women be seen as ‘good’ beneath patriarchal scrutiny.
- Power abuse: The narrative shows how power is abused and how complicity sustains oppressive systems.
Faubion’s own words highlight these themes:
> “What unfolds is an incredibly close, claustrophobic, mind-bending kind of horror that delves into the complexity of family relationships, the expectations placed on women and girls to be seen as ‘good’ beneath the thumb of a patriarchal system, and how those systems thrive through the abuse of power and complicity of everyone involved.”
Character Spotlight
Haven Powers
Haven is a receptionist who has long suppressed her anger. She is forced into action when her nightmare kills her boss, forcing her to confront her hidden power and her past.
> “Estranged from her powerful Texas family, she returns home after accidentally killing her boss with a nightmare she conjured in his subconscious, believing that the reason this power exists has to be tied to her broken, tormented past.”
Supporting Cast
- The Predatory Boss: A figure who embodies the oppressive power structures in Haven’s workplace.
- The Texas Family: A complex network of relatives who have shaped Haven’s identity.
- Local Residents: Characters who represent the town’s history and its lingering secrets.
Narrative Style
Faubion describes the novel as a revenge romp with a little queer romance sprinkled on top. She notes that the book turns the notion of ‘good for her’ into an entire narrative arc.
> “This is a revenge romp with a little queer romance sprinkled on top. It takes the notion of ‘good for her’ and turns it into an entire novel. And it’s a hell of a good time all the way to the shocking, visceral end.”
The writing style blends suspenseful horror with sharp social critique, creating an immersive experience that keeps readers on edge.
Release Information
What a Nightmare will be published by Berkley, a Penguin Random House imprint, in Fall 2026. The cover art, credited to Chandra Wicke, showcases a striking image that hints at the novel’s dark themes.
The book is available for pre-order on major online retailers and will be distributed through traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Fans of psychological horror and socially conscious fiction will find this debut a compelling addition to the genre.
Final Thoughts
Rebekah Faubion’s What a Nightmare promises a fresh, unsettling take on adult horror. With its blend of revenge, queer romance, and critique of patriarchal power, the novel offers more than just scares-it invites readers to reflect on the structures that shape our lives.
The book’s release in Fall 2026 marks an exciting moment for horror enthusiasts and those interested in stories that challenge societal norms. Stay tuned for further updates as the novel approaches its launch date.
Key Takeaways
- What a Nightmare is a horror-romp that tackles gender expectations and power abuse.
- The story centers on Haven Powers, a receptionist who unleashes a nightmare that kills her boss.
- Faubion’s inspiration came from a 4 a.m. fever dream, shaping the novel’s intense tone.
- The book blends revenge, queer romance, and social commentary into a gripping narrative.
- Release: Fall 2026 from Berkley, a Penguin Random House imprint.
About the Author
Jonathan P. Miller is the Books editorial assistant at News Of Los Angeles, where they write for both print and digital platforms. The author’s work focuses on uncovering unique stories and providing exclusive first looks for readers.
