Halloween may be over, but Yomi Adegoke’s costume deserves one more lap. The British-Nigerian author and journalist posted her look from the “Twisted Fairytales” Halloween party at Annabel’s in Mayfair, and the fairytale did not go the way you remember it.

The costume is classic Goldilocks gone feral: a blue gingham corset dress, white knee socks, Mary Janes, and a blonde curly wig. Then the details turn it into a crime scene. There are fake scratches across her face, one hairy bear paw on her hand, and a wicker basket that holds a bear’s head. In one shot she is mid-wave with the paw, looking away like a woman who has just heard footsteps. In the other, she poses with the bear head tucked under her arm beside a guest in a stitched-up white rabbit mask, which fits the theme perfectly.

Her caption sets the tone: “Goldilocks vs the three bears,” followed by “Goldilocks CLEARED” and a wink. Readers of The List will know why that last line made us grin. Yomi’s debut novel, which Brittle Paper reported was optioned for television by HBO Max, the BBC, and A24, is built around accusations, public judgment, and who gets to be believed. Here the verdict is in, and the bears will have to take it up with her lawyer.

 If this costume has put you in the mood to keep the spooky season going, we have just the thing. Our list of 7 African horror and thriller books to keep the spooky season going, includes ‘Pemi Aguda’s One Leg on Earth and Yasmin Angoe’s The Ferryman’s Daughter. Neither features a bear, but both will keep you up at night.

Photos and caption: Yomi Adegoke via Instagram. Party: Annabel’s Mayfair.