QUICK SUMMARY
Short stories surrounding ordinary people from Argentina, mainly women, who encounter surreal, terror and supernatural. 

FINAL THOUGHTS
The first story had me hooked but was sadly a downhill slide from there. Which was disappointing because I really had zero interest by the time I hit the end of the book. The only reason it is as highly rated as it is, is because I enjoyed that first story so much.

This is more about not being able to follow the audiobook medium. So I will need to read the ebook. 

Who would this book appeal to?
Perfect for fans of slow burn suspenseful family dramas with many moving parts in a small town atmosphere. This book is very character driven and explores some hard topics such as loss, secrets and complex family drama. 

FINAL THOUGHTS
This beautifully written novel drew me in from the very first page. Set in the Adirondack Mountains and spanning multiple years, it showcases a distinct divide between the wealthy and the working class. I adored the women in this story and their complex lives.

Over the years, the author has woven an intricate tale about these women's lives. Although the story is slow-paced, I remained invested in each character and was eager to find out how it all ended—and I was not disappointed.

QUICK SUMMARY
Liz Rocher is coming home, ONLY for her best friend's wedding. As a Black woman, this small town doesn't exactly bring back fond memories from her childhood. Except, during the wedding, Caroline, the friends daughter disappears and the only thing left behind is a piece of her dress covered in blood. Liz frantic to help her friend find their missing child will stop at nothing, but unfortunatley that means digging up the past.. Which people want to keep hidden.

FINAL THOUGHTS
It honeslty took me a hot minute to gather my thoughts. This book is so much more than the surface level story. I honestly am still having trouble voicing my opinions, the story brought real world issues into a fantastical story. So much so that people might not realize. Missing Black girl? Who is going to look for her? After reading other reviews, I fully believe that people have missed the point. Or maybe I am reading too much into it?

“It was the night before the end-of-year dance, and Adelaide Hu sat less than an inch away from a gory cluster of intestines.”

The White Guy Dies First - A Horror Anthology 
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

WHO WOULD ENJOY THIS BOOK?
Fans of anthologies would find this a fresh breath on classic tropes, from BPOC authors will provide enough variety where there is something for everyone. Challenging traditional narratives with killer clowns, supernatural themes and modern villains.


FINAL THOUGHTS 💭 
The only reason why I think this fell short for me is because of the amazing anthology I read just before this. These were all solid stories, but I just didn’t love them nor did any super stand out in my mind but it was definitely nice to read another collection from different views. 

WHO WOULD THIS BOOK APPEAL TO
Those who enjoy historical fiction. The heavy topics in the book are one to watch out for, slavery being the central theme. Horror fans can unite with a fresh vampire story. Also, it can look appealing to those who enjoy fantasy but want to dive into the darker side. With complex characters and action-packed storytelling is a blend of horror, history and social justice.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Whoa, this historical horror set in a Southern Plantation in 1710 covers some heavy and uncomfortable topics all whilst blending in vampire lore. I had an emotional time with his book and its topics as the set up is a necessary evil. Being witness to these acts against the slaves sets the tone for why the main character makes the choices and the extreme measures he takes to gain freedom. Over all this book is one to look out for!

Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay

This book is for....
Horror and psychological thriller fans who enjoy or are curious about cursed files and unique narratives. A good fit for those who appreciate suspense and a deeper exploration of human experience through horror.

FINAL THOUGHTS
 The concept of this book has me feeling conflicted. I really enjoy the different points of view and multiple narrators throughout the audiobook, which is how I chose to experience this story. However, similar to Tremblay's other works, there is always something that leaves me feeling unsatisfied, though I can’t quite pinpoint why. 

The Black Girl Survives in This One - A Horror Anthology
Narrated by Shayna Small

THIS BOOK IS FOR
Those who enjoy horror and suspense, although it is geared towards young adult readers. These stories feature strong, resilient Black Girls and are perfect for everyone who is looking for something more out of their horror reading experience. Perfect for those seeking diverse voices and fresh perspectives, and maybe even finding a new favourite author.

FINAL THOUGHTS
This is the first short story collection I have ever read that I loved every single story. Each story was so different and engaging and sucked me in. I wasn't left wanting more. This has something for everyone within its pages. Slashers, body-snatches and werewolves OH MY!'

My personal top three stories:
1. Black Girl Nature Group
2. The Black Stings
3. The Brides of Devil's Bayou

“If you are ever attacked, remember that eye gouging is extremely effective at incapacitating an attacker. For someone as small and slight as you, it’s probably the best way to defend yourself. Thrust hard and thrust deep. You must crush the eyeball or at least cause severe hemorrhaging if you are to take out your assailant.”

Blood on Her Tongue by Johanna van Veen 
🩸 🩸 🩸 🩸 🩸 

READ THIS IF 
You are a fan of gothic horror that blur the lines between madness and reality. Exploring the complexities of sibling love and simply being a woman. 

FINAL THOUGHTS 💭 
Johanna has done it again. I couldn’t not put this book down, it’s going to live rent free in my head for a long while. Thank you @netgalley @poisonedpenpress for this electronic advanced copy of someone who is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors. Johanna has a way with her gothic tales to bring you in and leave you shocked and questioning everything. I read this in public at times and I can only imagine what people thought of the look on my face at some points. The complexities of relationships within in this book is a driving force but also a main problem as our main character is a woman in 1800 Netherlands which in itself is a whole other can of worms. I will be devouring everything she writes from here on out. 

I’m beginning to think that Nick Cutter books are not for me. As much as I want to support Canadian authors. I just can’t get into his books.