In the realm of supernatural thrillers, Mia Hartson's Deranged Demons emerges as a riveting narrative, skillfully intertwining elements of horror, mystery, and a touch of dark fantasy. The book invites readers into a chilling world where demons aren’t just figments of folklore, but visceral entities that can influence and disrupt the mundane aspects of human lives. Hartson crafts a tale that not only delves into the supernatural but also examines the human condition through encounters with the infernal.

The novel is set in the seemingly tranquil town of Eldridge, a place whose historic charm masks a sinister past. The protagonist, Eliza Mirth, is a compelling character, returning to her hometown after years of trying unsuccessfully to outrun her traumatic childhood memories. Her return is met not with the comforting embrace of nostalgia but with a series of chilling events that suggest the demons of her past are not just metaphorical. Hartson's portrayal of Eliza is robust and dimensional—she is not merely a victim of her circumstances, but a fighter, a survivor who is determined to confront her past.

Hartson’s narrative strategy is particularly noteworthy. She employs a dual timeline, shifting between the "then" of Eliza's past and the "now" of her present, piecing together the mystery with meticulous precision. This method not only maintains suspense but also deepens the reader's understanding of the psychological depths of each character. The transitions are smooth and effectively maintain the story’s pace, engaging the reader without sacrificing the complexity of the plot or the depth of character development.

The thematic core of Deranged Demons explores the idea that demons can be both literal and metaphorical. Hartson challenges the readers to interrogate their own shadows as much as those of Eldridge. Through the experiences of Eliza and the town’s other inhabitants, the novel explores themes like redemption, the power of memory, and the possibility of metaphysical realities, all woven into the human experience. The horror elements do not merely serve to scare but act as a catalyst for introspection and revelation.

The book excels in setting and atmosphere, employing descriptive language that paints both the beauty and the eeriness of Eldridge. Hartson’s Eldridge is alive, breathing with the fog that rolls over its landscape and the whispers of its shaded past. This atmospheric detailing is one of the book’s strongest points, enveloping the reader in a cloak of suspense that makes the supernatural elements all the more effective. The dialogue is authentic, and the inner monologues of Eliza provide a strong internal perspective that helps ground the supernatural in the emotional reality of the character.

However, no book is without its flaws. At times, Deranged Demons seems to struggle under the weight of its own ambition. The complexity of the plot sometimes edges into convoluted territory, and key revelations may come off as too abrupt, risking the loss of emotional impact. Additionally, while Hartson’s focus on character development is commendable, some secondary characters lack sufficient depth, occasionally feeling like mere conduits to further Eliza’s storyline rather than integral parts of the story.

Furthermore, while the philosophical musings interlaced with the narrative provoke thought, they can at times feel slightly heavy-handed, detracting from the narrative's natural flow. This aspect might not appeal to readers who prefer their thriller narratives to be straightforward rather than reflective.

Despite these critiques, Deranged Demons stands as a powerful entry in the supernatural thriller genre. Hartson shows an adept hand at melding the horror and thriller genres with philosophical and psychological undercurrents, offering more than just surface-level scares. The book speaks to the fears that lie dormant in our psyches—both the fear of the unknown and the sometimes more terrifying inner demons.

In conclusion, Mia Hartson's Deranged Demons is a book with many layers, meticulously constructed and suspenseful, if occasionally marred by its narrative ambition. It is perfect for readers who seek a story that combines chilling supernatural elements with deep psychological insights. As Hartson weaves her tale of demons both real and imagined, she invites the readers not only to be terrified but also to reflect on the demons lurking in their own lives. It’s a compelling read that will likely be a worthwhile addition to the bookshelves of both horror enthusiasts and fans of psychological thrillers alike.