Stephen Graham Jones continues to grace us with fantastic new novels and stories which is no different with Killer on the Road which he coupled with The Babysitter Lives in the brand new Saga Doubles. This double feature release thrilling science fiction horror tales with imaginative worlds, gripping mysteries, and unforgettable characters in a beautiful package.
The double feature format of Killer on the Road / The Babysitter Lives is absolutely fantastic. While the gorgeous cover immediately drew me in, the author is why I stayed. Having originally been released only in an audio format, it was exciting to see The Babysitter Lives finally in print and the inclusion of Killer on the Road in this collection just added to the experience. The thoughtful formatting, design, and overall presentation created a truly complete and immersive experience–a complete package.
Killer on the Road: Sixteen-year-old Harper has decided to run away from home after she has another blow-out argument with her mother. However, her two best friends, little sister, and ex-boyfriend all stop her from hitchhiking her way up Route 80 in Wyoming by joining her on an intervention disguised as a road trip. What they don’t realize is that Harper has been marked by a very unique serial killer who’s been trolling the highway for the past three years, and now the killer is after all of them in this fast-paced and deadly chase novel that will have your heart racing well above the speed limit as the interstate becomes a graveyard.
The Babysitter Lives: When high school senior Charlotte agrees to babysit the Wilbanks twins, she plans to put the six-year-olds to bed early and spend a quiet night studying: the SATs are tomorrow, and checking the Native American/Alaskan Native box on all the forms won’t help if she chokes on test day. But tomorrow is also Halloween, and the twins are eager to show off their costumes.
Charlotte’s last babysitting gig almost ended in tragedy when her young charge sleepwalked unnoticed into the middle of the street, only to be found unharmed by Charlotte’s mother. Charlotte vows to be extra careful this time. But the house is filled with mysterious noises and secrets that only the twins understand, echoes of horrors that Charlotte gradually realizes took place in the house eleven years ago. Soon Charlotte has to admit that every babysitter’s worse nightmare has come true: they’re not alone in the house.
Stephen Graham Jones presents us with two different stories featuring teenage girl narrators, each bringing a completely distinct perspective. The Killer on the Road introduces a rebellious girl with nothing to lose and no clear future—a character teetering on the edge of danger. On the other hand, The Babysitter Lives centers on a more grounded, college-bound rule follower with a sense of responsibility. Though their personalities and outlooks couldn’t be more different, both girls find themselves ensnared in terrifying situations.
While Killer on the Road delivers a high-octane, action-packed story infused with the terror of a hitchhiking serial killer, The Babysitter Lives offers a contrasting experience. It’s a quieter, slow-building haunted house tale that gradually intensifies with suspense–while still as terrifying. Although Killer on the Road is undeniably frightening, The Babysitter Lives distinguishes itself by being deeply unsettling and profoundly chilling.
Both tales feel like they belong in a collection such as a Saga Double feature. While they share a thin thread of connection through the narration, each story offers something distinct and unique. This combination delivers a thrilling and terrifying reading experience.
The Killer on the Road / The Babysitter Lives Saga Double hits bookstores everywhere on July 15, 2025 from Saga Press.
