Into The Pines

by Ryan Lill-Washington

Up-and-coming podcast host Eyvette has spent the last few years of her life trying to put her rural Southern upbringing behind her. And she's just about managed it - she's got a snazzy Los Angeles apartment, a talented actress girlfriend, and a growing online following of her own. 




Then, Eyvette's comfortable new world comes crashing down around her. She learns that her childhood friend and first love, Charlene, has been named the second woman to go missing in the woods surrounding her tiny hometown. Eyvette can't help herself - she packs her things and heads back home to the foothills of South Carolina in search of answers.  




It's not long before Eyvette realizes she may have bitten off more than she can chew. There are no leads into Charlene's disappearance, and the once-familiar woods now seem wild and menacing. As she ventures farther and farther into the pines in search of answers, Eyvette begins to realize that she's not alone in the woods - and she may be running out of time to find her friend before someone, or something finds her first.  




What lies within the pines that surround Traveler's Rest? Where do all the missing girls go? Who can you trust in the woods? Do people truly disappear without a trace?

Genres: Horror

189 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 4, 2023

Reviews

[Catharine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one is hard for me to place. For the past 5 or so years I have been trying to find the best of the best Horror books, specifically the most fucked up. I understand that within the Horror genre you will get those "I'm stuck and someone is trying to kill me and my group of friends, and we're all stupid and make the dumbest decisions possible but it's because the story is just a slasher and that's just how it is"...BUT...I don't think this one hits the mark.

The story is basically people going into the woods and getting lost and someone is killing people. We've all seen or read this type of story before, but unfortunately for this book, I just didn't appreciate it. It felt very half-baked. For one, the writing itself is not polished, sentences are clunky and confusing, pieces of the story are brought up over and over but slightly different each time so it's like ???HUH??? Also, things happen to the characters that just would not make sense in the real world. I didn't see certain characters making the choices they made especially since pages were written about who they are and their background (I'm trying really hard not to spoil anything here but I would GLADLY tell anyone who wants to know examples lol). On top of that, certain actions are completely ignored by certain characters and then they random just show up like ??? were you not here 5 minutes ago???

I am saddened by this because everyone who loves Horror, loves a good slasher but this one just didn't do it for me. The ending also just...ends...that's it...no backstory lol. I guess the idea here was to just know everything beforehand and fuck all of us readers for not knowing the inside knowledge I guess.

It's short, so read it if ya want, but I'm already moving on to something else.

[BunTheDestroyer · Rating 2 out of 5]

I dont know how this book has 4 stars it was ROUGH. POV changes mid paragraph, MC making stupid decisions but acting like she knows it all, and what was that ending?? The premise was good but the follow thru was not.

[Amanda Flickinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

SHUT THE FRONT DOOR I WANT MORE!!!

I flew through this book in two days! To the point I told my kids I am finishing this before I make you food!

So let’s start with the cover … 100% on point!

The book was amazing! It is a thriller from page one - it sucks you in and doesn’t let go even after you finish! I thought I had it all figured out but boy oh boy was I wrong and I never saw it coming! There are parts that are graphic but it truly makes the book!

You won’t be disappointed with this one!

[Kat · Rating 1 out of 5]

If I could give 0 I would. I know people who know the author personally and he’s not a good guy. Book is beyond subpar and reminds me of something I would read in middle school. Due to the fact the book is boring and I’ve heard bad exchanges about them, it’s a no from me.

[Katreads.01 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was like a rollercoaster.
The plot kept picking up, building and building. Then BOOM! Twist after turn everything spiraling and thrashing about until you reach the end and it all comes to a stop.
Did you get off the coaster or are you stuck inside the cab for another ride?

[Allison Deutsch · Rating 1 out of 5]

I read this because it was recommended by the author who wrote the Butcher and the Wren, which was a story I absolutely loved and had me sitting on the edge of my seat. I may have come in with too high expectations because of who it was recommended by, however, this book did not meet the mark for me. The chapters, while short, became very repetitive, and I found the ending to be a bit predictable.
I was annoyed that we never get a resolution or some sort of back story as to who the killer was and what the motive was for murdering women, who were seemingly not connected to our unnamed murderer other than being in the wrong place at the wrong time. The book comes to a very abrupt ending when I was just starting to get invested. I felt that there were a lot of throw away lines that I initially thought would connect back later in the story, however it became apparent that there was no other plot to the story for our mysterious murderer who we never fully meet, which is where I ultimately lost interest.
The only reason I finished the book was because it was so short.

[Kel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I slapped my husband when I finished reading this book. It was just his arm as he was the nearest thing to me, but slapped him I did. I then progressed into trying to tell him everything about this book that he never needed, nor wanted to know, nor could he keep up with my overly excited speed talking. This book is great! When I read the last few pages I was hovering my hand over the book to not read ahead. This authors writing style is so clean, descriptive & coherent. He’s informative, does great call backs & easily helps you to fully comprehend a scene. Was I squirming? Yes. Did I love that? Yes. Will I read everything this author writes? I will read everything he writes!!!

[Shana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh man. I'm going to need a minute here. I had to force myself to only read a couple sections each night and go to sleep. "You can enjoy it longer if you pace yourself, Shana." Wellllll, now it's over... and I need some time. 🙈

This was a great read and it COULD be read quickly if you allow yourself to fly through it.

I kept going back and forth in my mind about who "The Girl" was... convincing myself it was definitely THIS girl; no, wait, it's THAT girl. This was set up so well and the ending! Ugh, I still need a minute. Lol.

[Cheyenne Panada · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished this in a few hours. Once I started, I couldn’t stop. The details in this book really made me feel like I was there. I thought I had it figured out a few times just to be proven wrong.. and then the ending left me with my jaw on the floor. This is a beautifully written modern story with a diverse cast with the perfect mix of true crime, psychological thriller, and some horror-movie type scenes.

[Veronica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did enjoy the book. I am not gonna lie, I am confused a bit at the ending, the last 3-4 chapters. But I guess it will all make sense in the next book - I hope there is a nest book, I need more!!!
The style of writing is amazing. It pulls you in and I could not put it down. And it stayed on my mind even when I had other things to do.

[Molly · Rating 2 out of 5]

I feel like it was a bit repetitive at times and what was with the ending? Just didn’t do it for me

[Chiara Cooper · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book as I found my interest piqued since the first page, but I had to lower my expectations as I kept reading it. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed it, but I found it a but underwhelming. But this is my opinion of course.

I loved the feisty and brave main character, even more so as representative of the LGBTQIA+ community. I could sympathise with her background story, and started rooting for her since the first pages. In addition, the author's language and prose allowed me to fly through the pages as very easy to read.

Whilst I liked it overall, I felt it lacked in unpredictability, especially because I managed to guess correctly all the twists early on so that I didn't have that surprise effect anywhere in the story.

This was for me an OK read because of the reasons above, albeit it enjoyable anyway.

But again I want to stress that this is my opinion and I'm grateful to Ryan Lill-Washington for a copy.

[Jordan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, I thought this book was pretty fun. I would rate it a 3.5, but wanted to round up. Two of the main things that I would have liked to see a little more of are editing and formatting.

The story was pretty fun to read and was fast paced. If you’re looking for a reason to stay out of the woods, this book is it.

I will say, one of the twists got me, which is always a nice surprise in the thriller genre.

I’ll definitely more than likely read the sequel.

[Aleta Braziel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t usually write reviews, but this book was amazing. I couldn’t put it down! The imagery is so vivid, I felt like I was in the story! I don’t spook easily and the ending gave me goosebumps! Now I need more! 😍

[Books with Becs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Got an advanced reader copy of this one. It kept me hooked the entire time, but it could use some editing. It got a bit repetitive towards the middle. Some chapters of the character running through the woods could have been edited down or cut entirely. The descriptions, however, definitely made all the fear palpable. This book will definitely keep me out of the woods for a little while. 3.5/5 stars rounded up.

[Mel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book!! Was suspenseful and my type of thriller storyline, the twist at the end was not expected!

[Shelby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent little quick thriller read. Could use a little editing and a little more details for the ending *no spoilers* but overall a fun and easy read!

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this book had a great plot and the twist was very very good but the writing was hard for me to follow and there were some times that the story didn’t make much sense. I think if it was written more clearly and with more intrigue I could have enjoyed this more

[Leslie E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick read! I couldn’t put it down. I just needed to know who the girl in the pines was. Great character building with twists and turns you didn’t see coming. Cannot wait for book #2!

[Cassandra Blair · Rating 2 out of 5]

First of all I want to say I’m really grateful and thank you to Ryan Lill-Washington for sending me a copy of your book for my honest review

This book was a quick read which I really loved and every now and then would have a chapter that had a very interesting bit to get you hooked and that kept me wanting to read to find out what was next.

It was a little bit repetitive but the ending did spark my interest to read the second book.

Of course this is just my personal opinion overall was an easy read. 2.75 - 3/5 stars

[Margaret Singer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A refreshing gem of a novel in the true crime/thriller genre! I would describe myself as a casual reader at best, but I could not stop reading once I started this book. I especially liked the dual POVs. It added a ton of suspense. I have read many thriller novels that had lackluster twists, but this was exactly the opposite. I was guessing and guessing and was truly shocked by the ending!

[Tina · Rating 2 out of 5]

A short review: this book has good bones.

A longer review: The story itself is intriguing and keeps you wondering how the main character connects to the girl in the pines. The author has a knack for keeping the reader on their toes. I had to give it 3 stars because I felt like the writing could have been better but the story itself is a solid 4 stars. A quick read, too! I do plan on reading what I assume will be a sequel to this novel. I think with a good editing team, the next book will be even better!

[Idalis Larson · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC READ 5⭐️

RYANNN!!! Ahhh, I loved it.
Binge-worthy.
Wonderful thriller that kept me on my seat the entire read.

Excited to ARC read the preview for book 2!

[Dieter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Into The Pines takes readers on a gripping journey into the mysterious and ominous woods of Traveler's Rest. Eyvette, a podcast host with a seemingly perfect life in Los Angeles, is compelled to confront her past when her childhood friend, Charlene, becomes the second woman to vanish in the woods of their rural Southern hometown. The book raises thought-provoking questions about trust, disappearance, and the enigmatic nature of the woods. The narrative explores the unsettling possibility of people vanishing without a trace and challenges the protagonist to navigate a world where the familiar becomes unknown.

Eyvette's character, while compelling, is not without flaws. Some of her decisions may leave readers questioning her judgment and choices. These dubious moments contribute to the overall tension but may also test readers' ability to fully empathize with the protagonist.

A notable strength of the novel lies in its ability to create an eerie atmosphere within the woods. The detailed descriptions bring to life a setting that is not only haunting but instills a sense of unease, making each step into the pines a journey into the unknown. From the snazzy Los Angeles apartment to the rural Southern woods, the author masterfully crafts an environment that is more scary than idyllic. The once-familiar woods transform into a menacing backdrop, adding a layer of fear that heightens the suspense of the narrative.

Into The Pines stands out not only for its gripping mystery and scary atmosphere but also for a conclusion that satisfies. The book takes readers on a journey through fear and self-discovery, culminating in an ending that leaves a strong impression. If you appreciate a well-crafted conclusion that stays with you, this novel is a must-read.

[De Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to arc read this.

Like are you serious! This is sooooo good! Soooo good! I can’t even begin to explain the excitement, fear, annoyance, anger, happiness, and sadness I experienced during this read!

Also, the book art! I love the pines!

I was obsessed with switching from the main character Evette to the 2nd main character the girl in the pines. I really really was shocked I thought I knew who the girl in the pines was but I didn’t! The book is written so well that you question things, reread things that you read clearly just to be like hmm wow! I love how the story of the girl in the pines matches Evette’s and it’s not even the same!

All I know is READ this BOOK!!!

I’m still thinking about it and going to be for a while!

Book 2!!!!!! Now!??

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely gripping thriller that thrusts you directly into the suspense from the first chapter! Throughout the book you will find yourself trying to piece together the clues and hints to try and help Eyvette solve the mysterious disappearances in her hometown. Twists, turns, and shocking discoveries will keep you on the edge of your seat and, sometimes, you'll catch yourself skimming ahead because you HAVE to know what's going to happen right then and there! Another one of my favorite things about this book is that you can go back and reread, with the knowledge gained, to try and connect clues and tidbits you may have missed on the first, or even second, read.
Cannot wait to read more from Ryan Lill-Washington in the future!

[Joshua Vaughn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ryan Lil-Washington is an author to watch out for.

Though Into The Pines is a relatively short read, it packs a narrative fit for a book three times it’s size.

Well written, and truly thrilling, I found the characters well developed and the story brisk and genuinely gripping. Despite the vast majority of the book taking place in South Carolina, I did find the setup to the mystery at hand a little cliche and doldrum. I also found some of the characters un relatable, which is why I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars.

I’m a sucker for a good psychological mystery and the story DID deliver. Due to the short size, the premise, and the South Carolina setting, I found the book quite entertaining and will definitely be checking out the sequel!

[Andrea Brado · Rating 4 out of 5]

Face paced read. Twists on twists. Scorned lovers. New lovers. A hunter capturing, torturing, and killing women.

Are the woods your safe place or the scary unknown? Charlene (Charlie) loves the woods and they are her happy place. When her ex girlfriend Eyvette learns that Charlie is missing after a solo hike, she sets off to find her. Discovering that Charlie is the second woman to disappear in these woods. Coincidence?

I love the layer with the podcast - The Last Cassette Tape - and how it circles back into the story. This was a fast read and I figured out one of the twists about 75% into the book. The second twist I didn’t catch at all. This is well crafted and keeps you guessing. I would love reading more by this author.

[Dani Canoles · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute page turner. Things pick up quickly and you’re left saying “Just one more chapter”

Eyvette, a queer POC hosts a podcast that focuses on true crime and music. Her research becomes hands-on when her childhood girlfriend ends up missing and she is compelled to find out what happened as it may be tied to multiple disappearances. Is there a serial killer in the town she grew up in? Will she become another victim as she tries to find out what is happening in the Pines?

The plot twists in this book are WILD! I finished this book heartbroken and shocked with more questions than answers but that’s what the sequel is for!

[Sarah Metcalf · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the story and really liked the concept. I LOVED that it had a particular focus on f-f relationships. The bad guy (although we do not know his identity) reminds me of the type of person who would be an unsub in a Criminal Minds episode. Not sure if I missed something, but when it revealed the girl in the pines was Izzy I had to do a double take. I suspected it but I feel like it just 'switched' to that very quickly. The ending pissed me off, just when things got really exciting it ends 😭😭 guess I'll have to read Into The Peaks 😎