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Letters in the Attic

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A Readers’ Favorite bronze medal winner.

I thought moving to Green Peaks, Wyoming would give me a fresh start. After everything that happened, I just wanted normal. Quiet. A chance to finish my senior year without the weight of my past pressing on me.

But this town isn’t normal. The forest doesn’t just surround Green Peaks—it pulls at me, like a beacon I can’t ignore.

Then the letters started showing up. Beautiful, haunting words from someone who signs only “Z.” He says he knows the truth about the woods. About the people who live hidden inside them. About witches.

Suddenly, I can’t pretend magic isn’t real.

When women start disappearing, the forest’s pull feels more dangerous than ever—and so does the boy behind the letters. Are the witches behind it all? Am I falling in love with a serial killer?

Letters in the Attic is a YA romantasy thriller featuring a witch/human pairing, found family, fated mates, and obsession. This is a standalone novel with a happily ever after.

304 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 3, 2023

56 people are currently reading
177 people want to read

About the author

Meredith Lindsey

2 books27 followers
Meredith Lindsey lives in Southern Indiana with her husband, son, and a German Shepherd who thinks she’s in charge. When she isn't working as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, she can be found diving into love stories filled with magic, fated mates, and happily ever afters.

Learn more at www.MeredithLindsey.com or follow her on Instagram at @meredith.reads.and.writes.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
Profile Image for Anna.
167 reviews4 followers
October 27, 2024
A nice little YA romance with some murd3r mystery thrown in!

When we meet Cami, she’s moving to a new town with her mother after being driven out of their home. Her father was responsible for a tragedy and the town turned against them. Her uncle is able to find them a grand home on the edge of town. Cami starts receiving letters in the form of paper cranes in the attic of her home. These letters show that someone has very deep feelings for her, despite her having not met this person.

Very quickly, Cami wants to meet this mysterious stranger. So Zeke enters our story. Turns out he is a witch who lives in the forest with his coven. He shares that he has essentially been enthralled with Cami ever since he saw her. Cami, despite admitting that she doesn’t make friends easily, has latched onto Zeke’s honeyed words very quickly.

Another plot line that’s running alongside this budding romance is the disappearance of, and subsequent discovery of the bodies of several women close to the forest. Cami’s Uncle Peter shares stories of magic practitioners that were driven from their town several years before by his grandfather. He shares that these people used human sacrifice in order to practice black magic. These stories definitely put Cami on edge. I have to applaud her bravery that pushes her to ask Zeke about this, given she thinks he might be a stalker/serial killer. When Zeke explains why it couldn’t be his people, I think Cami accepts his explanation a little too readily. Although this is likely just her young love and naivety with being seventeen.

We get some cute scenes with Zeke meeting her mom and her friends. He also takes her to meet his coven and witness one of their ceremonies, honoring his sister. His coven was initially very hostile towards Cami, but then Zeke is able to placate them all very quickly. We learn later that with Cami being his fated mate, they backed down very quickly. I initially thought it was because he must’ve held some position of power within the coven, but they’ve seen mates before within their ranks.

Now I’m a self-proclaimed passenger princess when I read, so I definitely didn’t see the twist coming! The fact that Uncle Peter was killing these missing women who reminded him of Cami was not something I picked up on. He was also using these murd3rs as a way to rile up the town to drive the coven from the forest.

It turns out that Zeke is just the dreamy man that Cami needs in her life. While he came on very strongly at the beginning of the story, it was likely difficult her him to hold back from his fated mate. We get a very neat and tidy ending with Uncle Peter being arrested, but before that Zeke’s grandmother casts a powerful spell that forces him to reveal his true self to the townsfolk. So the coven can stay in the town, living side by side with the humans.

I was also fortunate enough to not only receive a review copy of this book from the author, but I also had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook early. Hannah Pierce did an amazing job with the narration, bringing enough inflections to her voice for all the different characters, emoting their rage, pain, and happiness. She brought just the right amount of curiosity to voicing Cami. I would definitely recommend this audio experience!

Give this book a read if you like YA thrillers, romance, a witch/human pairing, fated mates, and a serial killer mystery.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Joanna.
376 reviews52 followers
Read
October 12, 2024
I am choosing to not give this a star rating as this is not my typical genre and I do not think I am the best audience for this book...

I was sent a free, completed copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review.

This YA book is the paranormal romance of Twilight meets the thriller/murder mystery of A Good Girl's Guide to Murder. We have our quiet moody teen who moves to a new small town, the friend group that adopts her and a love interest that could be a mix of Edward and Jacob. Then we also have the mysterious deaths of multiple girls in the small town and the suspense of learning who is responsible.

The premise was interesting, the writing was enjoyable and I truly think the author captured the essence of how a teenager thinks and acts. I found myself rolling my eyes at some of the FMCs thoughts and actions but also found myself immediately thinking "okay actually this is probably how I would react when I was 17 too."

That being said, this was pitched to me as a YA romantasy thriller with lots of magic. Due to these claims, I was a little bit disappointed. I definitely would call this a YA paranormal romance, not romantasy or fantasy at all. I mean it takes place in Wyoming and I thought the magic we did get was pretty minimal.

I did feel like all the 'reveals' happened too quickly and easily which also effected my reading experience. I always love magical communication in books but the secret admirer reveal happened almost instantly and went from magical letters to In person communication. In my opinion there was not enough buildup for the serial killer storyline and unfortunately I absolutely hated that 'plot twist'. It was surprising, but not in a good way.



My critique comes as an adult in her 30's who reads a lot of YA and Adult fantasy/fantasy romance, and I want to acknowledge that a younger audience might absolutely go feral for this. Zeke will probably be the book boyfriend of their dreams.

I look forward to seeing more from this author as I think this was a great debut novel.
Profile Image for Stephanie Morgan.
23 reviews4 followers
October 6, 2025
Honestly this book started out just a bit slow for me but at about 10%-12% it picked up and never fell off!!! The twist that came, not a spoiler since it is a thriller and all thrillers have twist, was out of nowhere and I wasn’t expecting it so it made it even better!!! I laughed, I almost cried, I was livid and even cringed at some points just from the sheer silliness of some parts. I love this YA romantasy thriller and will definitely be telling everyone to read it!!
Profile Image for Courtney.
674 reviews22 followers
July 5, 2024
I enjoyed this book. I typically do not read fantasy, but it piqued my interest, especially since this also has a mystery and thriller element to it, too. I liked Cami, Zeke, and all the other friends throughout the book. Meredith, you may have successfully sparked my interest in exploring the fantasy genre.
Profile Image for Nicole Thompson.
8 reviews
July 17, 2025
I think this is more like 3.5 stars but I rounded up. The writing was a bit awkward at times for me but I still teared up/ cried a couple times. There wasn’t as much magic as I expected and the murderer was predictable. I was happy about the happy ending but feel like the “letters in the attic” and haunted house themes from the beginning of the book didn’t carry on throughout.
Profile Image for Reader Views.
4,702 reviews329 followers
August 18, 2023
Camille Stone finds herself in the small town of Green Peaks, Wyoming with her newly widowed mother. Packing up their car and leaving the place they called home was a decision made for both. Cami and her mother suffered bullying and heartbreak after Cami’s father chose to drive drunk, causing the death of the school’s star quarterback and his cheer captain girlfriend. Green Peaks offers a fresh start in a vacant, 100-year-old home Uncle Pete secures for Cami and her mom.

Things are looking up with their new proximity to family. Uncle Pete’s popularity in the town as the school principal and leader of the school board certainly helps. Cami immediately hits it off with new friends and finds her way quickly as a senior at her new school. But, while storing her dad’s old things and cleaning the old, long-vacant house they now call home, Cami stumbles upon a desk in the attic with a well-used candle. Oddly, this desk appears out of the ordinary as it is the first dust-free item she’s come across in the house, and it contains an origami-folded love letter from “Z.”

“Letters in the Attic” by Meredith Lindsey isn’t quite as it seems on the surface. While Z’s letters begin in the attic, a whole new scary and exciting world begins to rear its head in Green Peaks. From serial killers to magic-wielders, Meredith Lindsey’s debut novel holds more than simply what the title implies. Feeling part “Twilight” series, part psychological thriller, Lindsey grips readers’ wildest imaginations and twists a tale like no other. Just as this small town seems to embrace Cami, her world begins to rip apart at the seams.

A whirlwind of a read, I couldn’t get enough of this paranormal romantic thriller. Slowly peeling back the secrets hidden away in this small town, readers will be captivated by the plot and shocking twists. Using the relatable experience of starting at a new school, making new friends, and looking for love, Cami is an easily likable character as she navigates a pivotal moment in her life. Readers are sure to enjoy this genre-bending welcome into life in Green Peaks, Wyoming with Meredith Lindsey’s “Letters in the Attic.”
Profile Image for Jasmine Poppovich.
30 reviews1 follower
April 5, 2024
I really enjoyed this debut novel! It was a great way to start my year off.

I enjoyed Cami’s character and her growth throughout the story, as well as her friends and ‘Z’. I don’t typically read books with teenage protagonists because I find them immature and annoying, but I didn’t feel that way with this book. I felt Cami and her friends were fun and their banter was relatable and mature for their age ( high school seniors ). The way the relationships were formed throughout felt very genuine and I appreciated the character development for ( almost ) everyone.

When Cami discovered the first letter in the attic, I wanted to know more and I loved the mystery behind ‘Z’ and finding out more about him, at first I thought he was going to be morally grey, but he was so sweet and had the best golden retriever energy.

The mystery of this book revolves around the questionably haunted woods behind Cami’s house and the local young women who have gone missing. The book leaves you wondering who is murdering these girls and what their motive is… I’ll leave the rest for you to find out when you read this book!

Read this if you like :
🕯️found family
🕯️fated mates
🕯️paranormal romance

I felt really drawn to this book for its synopsis and I am thankful to the author Meredith Lindsey for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Alecia (aleciareadsitall).
244 reviews15 followers
January 18, 2024
Read if you like:

-fated mates
-curses
-magical realism
-strong female friendship



Letters in the Attic was such a fun and captivating read! I found myself really invested in the novel right off the bat, and my investment continued as the story went on.

I loved Cami’s relationship with her mother and her strong friendship with Natalie. The beginning of her storyline with “Z” was unique and fun. Overall I found this plot to be really refreshing and new. The background knowledge about the coven and their magic was done well and laid out nicely over the course of the book.

The twist in the book was SO good and I honestly did not see it coming, although looking back the clues were definitely there.

Meredith is an excellent writer with new and creative ideas. I’m excited to read more of her stories!
Profile Image for Betwixt the Pages.
575 reviews75 followers
June 17, 2024
Rating: 🐧🐧🐧.5 (rounded down)
Quick Reasons: soulmates; secret societies, stalker/ serial killer isn't who you expect; small town forest vibes; interesting magic I wish had been fleshed out more


This is an intriguing, mysterious read filled with magical secret societies, an elusive serial killer, family dynamic drama, and star crossed soulmates. As a former Wyoming resident, I knew I just had to pick this book up and give it a try-- add to that a cursed forest and I was hooked!

“As far as we know, no one died there. But there’s just a funny history around that house that no one seems to know the truth of. No one has lived there in a hundred years, and no one knows why. People have gone and looked at it, outsiders like you, but no one could ever close on it. You’re the first family to show a serious interest in the house, and we were all shocked when you actually moved in.”

This read was entertaining and richly woven. The characters and their motivations are (mostly) believable, and the paths they lead us down on this journey are both easy to connect with and wholly mysterious in turn. I found myself wishing that we got more world building and less focus on the romance in this, though. The secret magical society and the history of the Cursed Woods felt half flat-- while pieces fell into place throughout the read, I found myself still confused by how the magic occurred, what exactly the magic was, etc.

The plotline of the serial killer seemed to enter the story later than I expected-- closer to the 40 or 50 percent mark, which felt a bit delayed. In addition to this, the twist reveal-- while SUPER surprising-- also felt a bit like it had been a last minute alteration. With the main focus being the budding relationship between Cami and Zeke, the reveal fell a bit flat from what it could have been with more fleshing out, more red herrings, more development.

“They call it the Cursed Woods because of the strange things that happen in it,” Jason said, reading my mind. “Sometimes there are weird colors in the sky over the forest, and animals have been seen coming out of it that have no business in Green Peaks. There have been sightings of tropical birds, wild horses, and even a kangaroo, supposedly.”

“These are all legends, of course,” Taylor added, giving me a small smile. “None of us have ever seen anything odd in the woods. I think it’s our parents’ generation that are all super weird about it.”


Still, I would recommend this to lovers of star crossed soulmates romances, magical secret societies, and who dun it mysteries. The Cursed Woods await you, Penguins; are you ready for the hike?
Profile Image for Alexandra.
238 reviews10 followers
November 3, 2024
🌟🌟🌟🌟

🌟🌟🌟🌟
No 🌶

✨️ FMC pov
✨️ Soulmates
✨️ Murder Mystery
✨️ Found Family
✨️ Fresh Start
✨️ Art lover
✨️ Romance thriller
✨️ Magic
✨️ Small town
 
I was pleasantly surprised by this young adult mystery/thriller, and I'm thrilled to have had the opportunity to read it. The story is packed with a magical society, cursed woods, star-crossed soulmates, witch hunts, and murder – truly a thrilling combination! I found the plot engaging and appreciated the mysterious “Twilight” vibes. The characters were relatable, and their development throughout the story was well-done. Despite the main characters’ youth, their dialogue was mature and flowed seamlessly, making it easy to connect with the narrative. Cami and Zeke's growing bond from the beginning was a joy to read about.
 
🎧 The narration by Hannah Pierce was really enjoyable and brought depth to the story.
Profile Image for Angie Arms.
18 reviews2 followers
October 11, 2024
I just loved this book. I’m an avid thriller/mystery reader but a NEW fantasy reader and this was such a beautifully written combination of the two!
Cami and zeke “Z” have an instant connection and I adored their story. Their story also gave me a bit of a twilight vibe (which I love-I am a huge twilight fan).

The twist at the end I kind of guessed ahead of time but it still didn’t spoil the ending for me. I loved it but my only thought about it, is it came fast. Like escalated very quickly kind of late in the story. But all in all, really well written, easy to read and just great character development. I highly recommend!
Profile Image for Hannah Shields.
49 reviews
August 20, 2024
It definitely picked up in the end which I gave it a higher rating for. Even though the book was fewer than 300 pages, the pacing was slow. I wish that Cami stopped calling them witches after learning they identified as “magic wielders” during her meeting his family. I think the book came to a natural end, and I wouldn’t want a sequel or a prequel
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sierra Londenberg.
18 reviews1 follower
August 31, 2024
This was such a fun and quick read. I loved the characters and was shocked by the plot twists several times. I went into the book blind and honestly that was the way to go because I just had so much fun figuring things out as it went.
Profile Image for Danielle MacLeod.
80 reviews2 followers
July 20, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ Overall, just good vibes. Small town serial killer, magic, found family. What else could you ask for?
Profile Image for Jill Rey.
1,225 reviews48 followers
August 16, 2023
Camille Stone finds herself in the small town of Green Peaks, Wyoming with her newly widowed mother. Packing up their car and leaving the place they called home was a decision made for both. Cami and her mother suffered bullying and heartbreak after Cami’s father chose to drive drunk, causing the death of the school’s star quarterback and his cheer captain girlfriend. Green Peaks offers a fresh start in a vacant, 100-year-old home Uncle Pete secures for Cami and her mom.

Things are looking up with their new proximity to family. Uncle Pete’s popularity in the town as the school principal and leader of the school board certainly helps. Cami immediately hits it off with new friends and finds her way quickly as a senior at her new school. But, while storing her dad’s old things and cleaning the old, long-vacant house they now call home, Cami stumbles upon a desk in the attic with a well-used candle. Oddly, this desk appears out of the ordinary as it is the first dust-free item she’s come across in the house, and it contains an origami-folded love letter from “Z.”

“Letters in the Attic” by Meredith Lindsey isn’t quite as it seems on the surface. While Z’s letters begin in the attic, a whole new scary and exciting world begins to rear its head in Green Peaks. From serial killers to magic-wielders, Meredith Lindsey’s debut novel holds more than simply what the title implies. Feeling part “Twilight” series, part psychological thriller, Lindsey grips readers’ wildest imaginations and twists a tale like no other. Just as this small town seems to embrace Cami, her world begins to rip apart at the seams.

A whirlwind of a read, I couldn’t get enough of this paranormal romantic thriller. Slowly peeling back the secrets hidden away in this small town, readers will be captivated by the plot and shocking twists. Using the relatable experience of starting at a new school, making new friends, and looking for love, Cami is an easily likable character as she navigates a pivotal moment in her life. Readers are sure to enjoy this genre-bending welcome into life in Green Peaks, Wyoming with Meredith Lindsey’s “Letters in the Attic.”
Profile Image for Marlene Ridgway.
Author 6 books27 followers
May 5, 2023
An intriguing blend of romance, fantasy, and mystery, this YA book will keep you on your toes.

Cami is a high school student dealing with the recent tragic death of her father, bullying, and a big move to a new town, Green Peaks, Wyoming. As a strong female lead, she is determined to keep a low profile and move on after so much tragedy. However, not even Cami could’ve prepared herself for the events that unfold during her senior year.

Eager for a distraction, Cami soon discovers that she has a secret admirer who isn’t exactly a typical teenager and even more surprising, a group of friends that she actually likes. This young artist’s life feels like it’s on the upswing when suddenly girls her age around town start vanishing. Soon enough the threat of a serial killer is the only explanation. When Cami starts to suspect her new mysterious boyfriend and his family might have something to do with the deaths, she’s determined to reveal the truth.

Meredith Linsey portrays a perfect setting, which is an oversized spooky house resting on the edge of a dark intimidating forest with more than a few magical elements. I loved how the setting felt like its own character. As you read, you can practically hear the creaking floorboards, smell the dusty attic, and perfectly picture the shadowy woods where the drama unfolds.

This book is good for young readers who are interested in mild fantasy and romance, although there are some dark undertones, such as murder, drunk driving, and obsession. The character’s maturity and the seriousness of the murders felt a little unbalanced, but the story overall was engaging!

I’d also like to note that this book is very well-edited and formatted. Happy reading!
Profile Image for Anyssa Smith.
376 reviews3 followers
March 26, 2024
This was so good honestly. After a tragedy, Camille Stone and her mother move to Green Peak, Wyoming hoping to find a new beginning. The town seems like a quiet below average place, but the woods hold secrets. Cami just wants an easy laid back senior year, but she starts to receive origami messages in her Attic from a secret admirer named Z. As her and Z get closer, woman start ending dead in town. Cami has to try figure out if her mysterious admirer is truly a serial killer or not. The beginning was a little slow for me but when it picked up, I could not put it down. I really loved Cami as a character. I felt for her when she was going through her grief. I loved her found family she formed at her new school. Her little group of friends were super nice and seemed like sweet people. I cried for Natalie. Zeke was become a new favorite MMC for me. I got a thing for blue striking eyes (iykyk). The end though! The twist, I was shocked even though he rubbed me wrong from the very beginning. Anyways, I give it 4/5 ⭐️☺️
Profile Image for Booktokqutiepie.
215 reviews29 followers
January 10, 2024
Such a thrilling and surprising young romance

When I was introduced to this book and author thanks to instagram the blurb had me at hello. I’m not huge into the YA / slow burn romances but this book was so much more. Great fully fleshed characters, all the high school ya charm and bully aspects we all know and love or love to hate in certain instances. The paranormal tie in absolutely sold me such charming ways to use magic in fiction. The romantic aspects are done tastefully and with an almost old world charm that aren’t’ seen much anymore. Twist you will think are coming may or may not come leaving you burning through this read faster than you’d think. I look forward to more from this author ! Thank you for adding through the thousands of lives I have lived through fiction !
Profile Image for Daph.
24 reviews
January 9, 2024
Trope:
FMC pov
Art lover
Romance thriller
Magic
Small town

The plot twist was ooooh ✨

Letters in the attic is amazing. The way you don’t realize you are reading a thriller, until hint comes out that a killer is on the lose. At some point I wish it was in multiple POV. Just so I could get another view and experience, but then again it wasn’t their story. The mystery, the clues that are in front of you but you seem to ignore because of the romance. And how it all ravel is just❤️‍🔥.
I think I might be secretly on a quest to find plot twists books. If I am I’m definitely not complaining, cause wow!¡! Just wow.

Thank you Meredith Lindsey for sharing this with me 🤍✨
Profile Image for CAM.
109 reviews25 followers
August 5, 2024
This book starts off very twilight esc- shy, sad new girl starts high school in a new town (sans sparkly vampires).
Girl explores her creepy new house on the edge of the haunted woods, and finds love letters in the attic.
Girl meets a mysterious boy, boy has a secret.

It takes a minute for the conflict to kick in, but once it does, it Letters in the Attic takes on an interesting supernatural murder mystery / thriller element.

I’ll admit, it’s been a while since I’ve read a high school romance plot, but I enjoyed the twilight nostalgia feel of this one.

Profile Image for Supriya  K.
121 reviews7 followers
May 31, 2024
Book name: Letters in the Attic
Author name: Meredith Lindsey
Genre:YA romantasy thriller
My rating: 💖💖💖💖💖🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Summary:
After a tragic accident, Cami and her mother move to Green Peaks, Wyoming for a fresh start. This quiet town may seem like a blip on the map, but the surrounding trees hide a history even darker than the forest’s depths. A community of people live in the heart of the Cursed Woods, secluded from the rest of society.

Cami’s plans for a quiet senior year go out the door when she begins to receive love letters from a secret admirer. The mysterious “Z” reveals the truth about the forest and its hidden inhabitants, forcing Cami to accept that witches–and magic–are real.

When women start disappearing all around town, Cami must face the possibility that her future is just as dark as her past. Are the witches performing human sacrifices? And if so, is she falling in love with a serial killer?

My thoughts:
Seriously, why did the author have to write this book so darn well? 🤨 How did I not stumble upon this gem until now?

Reading this book was like stepping back into my teenage years, reliving those Twilight fangirling days. This book gave me butterflies, made me giggle, and had me biting my nails in the final chapters. I was glued to the pages, devouring every word, every twist, and turn. I can't help it—I'm head over heels for this book.

Cami's story hit close to home. Moving with her mom to Green Peaks after her dad's passing, navigating a new school, finding lovely friendships, and her uncle, the hilarious principal, keeping things lively—it all resonated with me.

Then there's the whole haunted house and cursed woods situation. Talk about spooky! And those mysterious love letters addressed to "Camii" from "Z"? Total heart-fluttering material.💓💞

And that final twist, revealing the identity of the serial killer, left me utterly speechless. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, bam! The shock and disbelief hit me like a ton of bricks. It was a masterful stroke by the author, Brilliantly executed.And that ending? It was so satisfying, tying up all the loose ends perfectly.

I was hooked. I devoured the book in one sleepless night. The mystery, the romance, the danger—it all came together perfectly. It's been ages since a book captured me like this, since the Twilight days, and I'm loving every minute of it.

This book is an absolute masterpiece, brilliantly written by the author. I couldn't get enough of Camii, Zeke characters. I couldn't help but scream with joy as I turned the final page. This is storytelling at its finest!

I'm officially fangirling over this book. It's a must-read, no doubt about it. And hey, Hollywood, if you're listening, this needs to be a movie.

I highly recommend this book. 💖🙂😘
Profile Image for Jayna - TheChaotic_TBR.
189 reviews41 followers
April 21, 2023
Thank you to the author Meredith Lindsey and Reedsy for allowing me early access to Letters in the Attic in exchange for more honest review.

If you are like me, 30-something year old and the idea of reading a young adult book brings chills to your old bones HOLD UP ONE MOMENT. When I committed to this book I didn't realise it was young adult and as much as I used to love that genre, life has beaten the ability to enjoy the hormonal drama that usually comes with it out of me (not book bashing, my tastes have just changed over the years). However, I can say I was pleasantly surprised with this book. I wasn't rolling my eyes every 4 pages trying to push through the inevitable teen angst. The characters were relatable despite their age, the main character even elicited some emotional responses from me with her back story. I found it was less about being a teenager and more about a sleepy town with its mysterious landmarks, pushing through life's adversities and they sinister going-ons along the way.

So now for a spoiler free summary of the book:

17 year old Cami moves to Green Peaks with her Mum and has to start a new life in her senior year. They are hoping to leave behind tragedy and live a peaceful life in this sleepy little town. Things go smoother than either could have hoped for until bodies of young women start turning up and the local legend begins to be brought back to life. Cami meets a mysterious outsider who seems to know her better than she knows herself and she wonders why she feels so comfortable with him when she knows so little about him. Could he be responsible for the terrible events that are unfolding or is he an innocent bystander?

Excellently written and edited, I was pleased to find no grammatical errors or clunky writing. Nothing throws me out of a story more than spelling errors, repeats or unnecessary filler. Well done to the author and editing team. For me there was the right mix of character development, romance, magic and crime/thriller to keep me interested. Also if you are looking for smut free young romance this will tick that box for you.

I will flag some possible content warning. There is mention or death and murder and it becomes more graphic as the story comes to an end. For those squeamish or have troubles with this sort of writing you may not enjoy parts of this book.

Highly recommend for young adults, though would suggest there is definitely adult content in there so be aware. Those that have given up on YA fiction may also get some enjoyment out of this as I said earlier.

4 stars - would definitely recommend!
1 review
Read
September 30, 2024
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, and I must say, her writing style is truly beautiful. The initial mystery surrounding the letters was so interesting and kept me on the edge of my seat. I had a theory about the “stalker” early on, but I was completely wrong, which was kind of hilarious to be honest.

I found the backstory of the main character, Cami, so exciting. It was refreshing to see how this book explored the impact of tragedy from different angles, on those directly and indirectly involved. The complex relationship between Cami and her mother was another favourite part of mine. Their dynamic wasn’t portrayed as either perfect nor completely abusive I think, but rather a complicated one with highs and lows and things that definitely need improvement. Cami’s mother is flawed, emotional, and caring, which felt realistic as she tries her best despite her shortcomings. I, however, do not support her actions in the book during the climax, I think she should have been more supportive of her daughter and taken her word about the situation.

I also grew very attached to the character Natalie. Although she wasn’t the central focus of the story, her bright and cheerful presence left a strong impression on Cami's life, bringing light to the darker, sadder parts of the narrative. Her influence was deeply felt, even in the background.

One thing I would have liked more descriptions or explanations on was the magical system. I would have liked some more information about the rules, powers, and limitations that came with it. That said, the climax involving the serial killer was incredibly intense and emotional. I could feel Cami’s fear and pain, and it was so well written that I couldn't stop reading. However, the ending did feel a little rushed, and the resolution seemed simplified. Still, I appreciated the emotional sacrifice made by a certain character.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this journey with Cami. While I didn’t always agree with her decisions or perspective on things and her world view, I reminded myself that she’s a teenage girl learning and growing through her experiences. As for the longer chapters, they were a bit challenging for me, especially since I’ve been reading shorter novels with brief chapters. Nonetheless, I understand that longer chapters were necessary to maintain the pacing and structure of the story.

In the end, I'm grateful to the author for the opportunity to read her work. It was a compelling and immersive adventure.
Author 1 book89 followers
May 17, 2023
Cami Stone is a pariah; outcast because of her connection to the drunken father whose bad decisions claimed both his own life and the lives of two of their small Colorado town’s most beloved youth. To escape the angry texts and hateful stares directed at her from her peers, Cami and her mother move north to Wyoming for a fresh start in a house larger and more mysterious than they realized. Curious letters begin appearing in the attic, causing Cami to find herself in the middle of a secret that dates back over a hundred years. But the truth of the past is not the only thing hidden in her new hometown, and as girls are mysteriously murdered one by one, the suspect must be brought to justice before it is too late.

This young adult novel is a compelling blend of mystery, horror, and romance, and its engaging writing draws readers in from the first pages. Though there are some slow moments within the plot, the book nonetheless comes to a high-octane conclusion. It is uncommon to meet a protagonist who has lost a parent through socially unacceptable means, and Cami shoulders much of the burden that comes from her father’s decision to drive instead of calling a cab on that fateful night. Small town life is at the center of Cami’s reality, where everyone seems to know everyone else, and she happens to be welcomed warmly into her new home despite being an outsider. Recognizable character types appear around Cami, which adds a layer of comfort and familiarity to the narrative.

The story unfolds in an intriguing manner, especially as secrets are carefully revealed at expert moments within the novel. Readers will find themselves driven to discover what happens next, and the story flows easily within this design. It is initially difficult to determine whether the primary storyline is one of levity or of fear, though the reality ultimately becomes clear as the plot progresses. Readers who will be triggered by familial abuse or violence should note that there are a few significant scenes of this type later in the story. Young adults will appreciate the familiar high school landscape and the emotions that come from the rich friendships and romances found throughout this novel. This is a unique addition to library collections for young adult readers.

I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.
Profile Image for Meli F.
119 reviews6 followers
September 28, 2024
Okay, so let’s get this out of the way: I’m definitely not the target audience for Letters in the Attic (insert old lady memes here). Lately, I’ve noticed that YA books aren’t hitting the same as they used to. Teenagers teenaging, which is amazing on a YA story because that means the characters are acting their age, it's becoming a wee bit difficult to process sometimes.

But I can still appreciate what Meredith Lindsey brings to the table. And let me tell you, for the right reader, this one’s got all the juicy vibes.

Letters in the Attic has:

soulmates 🫶
magical secret societies 🪄
cursed forest 🌲

And... wait for it...

Serial killer drama in a small town where everything is 🎭not🎭 as it seems🕵️‍♀️

✨ The vibes ✨

The book is dripping in mystery and magic. It's giving eerie, it's giving intrigue, it's giving "I gots to know!". I do wish the magical elements and character backstories got a bit more time to shine, but as it is, it works well.

The pacing:

While a bit on the slower side for a short book, I think it was on point for the story. I like when the authors take time to give context for their characters choices. If that makes the story flow to slow down, I'm good with that.

The writing:

Smooth like butter 🧈 🎶 The characters, each one had their own vibe, and I 😍loved😍 how genuine their relationships felt. Cami’s connection with her mom is sooo sweet 🩷 And her friendship with Natalie, well, goals 👯‍♀️

The action:

It takes a hot minute to kick in, but once it does... Honey, you’re in for ride. With a murder mystery twist that’ll have you flipping pages like there’s no tomorrow🔪✨ Don’t forget the star crossed romance 😍 If fated mates and magical love stories are your thing, you’re gonna eat this up.

So, who would I recommend this to? If you love a mix of romance, magic (especially witches!), secret societies, and a dash of thriller, this one’s calling your name 😊

I recommend you read this "whodunnit" mystery with cursed love, and supernatural vibes all wrapped up in a YA package.

Just a heads up, there are some darker moments (murder, obsession, and even a bit of reckless driving). But for readers into light fantasy and romance with a side of thriller, Letters in the Attic is definitely the book to read.

4.5 🌟

Thanks to the author for providing me with a digital copy of the book
1,395 reviews14 followers
October 30, 2024
"My great grandparents...escaped to the forest 100 years ago...We have no contact with people outside the forest...our biggest rule, keep hidden and stay safe "

"Why have they stayed hidden in the woods?"

It's the why that elevates the quite enjoyable, Letters In The Attic, by contemplative author Meredith Lindsey. A fated young romance that must be kept secret is heightened when a serial killer stalks teen girls in a small town.

Cami and her mother are forced to move when a tragic accident leads to their lives in turmoil. Luckily, Cami's Uncle Peter has a place for them to stay while Cami finishes high school. Exploring the attic of the old house, everything's covered by layers of dust, except the desk where there's an origami bird. When Cami opens it she reads, "Are there words to describe your beauty..." It ends with just the letter "Z".

Soon she's exchanging love letters with her secret admirer as the origami birds fly up to the attic for her. It's when she realizes witches and magic are real. But in the background, waiting for them, is evil.

Girls in the high school are disappearing, turning up dead, some are blaming whatever lives in the Cursed Woods but what if the evil is in plain sight?!

Voice actress Hannah Pierce 's performance for teenage Cami is the right amount of young exuberance and willfulness. The author created a believable character in a paranormal world. What she also did was subtly show the consequences of fear mongering, of believing everything wrong is the fault of "their kind" when in reality it's the one creating the fear that may be at fault.

Letters In The Attic works as a magical YA romance, as a serial killer mystery, but it excels at leaving you contemplating why anyone has to hide themselves away to feel safe.

I received a free copy of this audiobook from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
136 reviews3 followers
October 7, 2024
This audiobook was my first experience with this gripping novel and honestly, I couldn’t imagine a better narrator for this book.

Hannah Pierce was a fantastic Cami. She brought this young girl to life and made me feel every emotion she felt throughout the story. Never once did I feel that Hannah fell short on projecting the tension, fear, and excitement on the page. Her crowning moment in narration was during the big plot twist towards the end of the book - her delivery was fantastic and I had trouble walking away from the narration to do things like sleep and work (stupid basic needs).

Hannah was a great voice for Cami and Meredith created Cami and Zeke and this fantastic, exciting, ominous world wherein Cami has to make hard choices and face her fears and misgivings to make the right choice.

I fell in love with both Cami and Zeke as well as their collection of friends that helped to build their story. Throughout the book, we’re introduced to a plethora of characters and, when a serial killer starts taken women around the town, you start looking at each character in a new light. As you read, you start wondering who is trustworthy and if Cami is really safe. Once I was into this book, you couldn’t pull me away. I listened to it around the house because I couldn’t convince myself to stop listening to it once I started to hit the main aspect of the story.

Honestly, this book took me a few days to finish because work kept getting in the way but once I had the time, I devoured it in no time! I had a blast messaging Meredith and yelling at her about the plot twist.

✨ I received an ALC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Profile Image for Hayden.
97 reviews1 follower
June 13, 2024
Who doesn’t love a magical thriller? When they relocated to a mysterious house that had been empty for a century I honestly thought the house was going to kill them. Especially with the room with herbs and furniture in the attic. The addition of th mysterious and creepy notes in the paper cranes didn’t help, especially when people started to turn up dead.

The reveal that Zeke was not a ghost and was in fact a living breathing teenage boy was a nice throw for spector I thought she might be encountering. Finding out more about his people and getting to see them use their magic was very telling and gave a great view of the history of this town.

I spent good portion of this book trying to figure out who was the serial killer. The only person I knew wasn’t guilty was Zeke and his coven. They were too peaceful of a people just using their spells to turn away the humans and not harm them. Penalty of curse kept them in line but still they didn’t have motive to commit murder.

I have to say I was actually sold on the murderer being Natalie the loud friend that incidentally near the victim each time. Though i like the reveal of it truly being the uncle behind it and discovering that it was his family that ran the magic weilders from the town a century ago. While I hate that Zeke’s grandmother took on the curse I loved that her payback for all of Morse’s crimes was to cause him pain when thinking of violent acts on people especially his niece.

This book felt like reading a mixture of Vampire Diaries and Law and Order SVU and I was all for it. Hopefully more will be written in this world for us to explore.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sheila's Bookshelf .
430 reviews5 followers
September 26, 2024
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪

𝗟𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗰
𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗲𝘆 @meredith.reads.and.writes
𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝘆: Hannah Pierce
YA fantasy/mystery /thriller
🌟🌟🌟🌟/5

I really enjoyed this debut novel by Meredith Lindsey. A wonderful young adult mystery/thriller filled with a magical society, cursed woods, star crossed soulmates, and murder!

I loved the creative plot in this novel and the overall atmospheric tone. It had a mysterious Twilight-esque vibe ( sans vampires), and it's much more than the title implies.

The author's thought process is unique , specifically the mysterious letters to Cami. This was such a nice touch, in the style of old-world charm which I love and a nice tie-in with the old house.

The characters were relatable, and I loved the small town vibe. And despite the age of the main characters, there was none of the typical teenage angst. The dialogue was mature and flowed well, allowing me to become emotionally invested in the story without rolling my eyes. 😂

I rarely read young adult but I was pleasantly surprised how much I really enjoyed this book. My only drawback is that I would have loved more exploration of the magical system. They were incredibly interesting people. But that is not a criticism. I loved the story, and, for a debut, she knocked it out of the park, and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.

The audiobook was brilliantly narrated by Hannah Pierce.

Thank you, Meredith, for allowing me to read your baby. I wish you much success and can't wait to see what you write next. ❤️
Profile Image for Victoria Scozzafava.
302 reviews21 followers
July 26, 2024
4.5⭐️

Letters In The Attic by Meredith Lindsey is a YA paranormal romance. This was a fun and interesting read! I was hooked from the beginning and really liked the characters. The murder mystery aspect of the book was entertaining. The identity of the serial killer was unexpected and I thought that made the book even better. The characters were likeable and the plot was well written. The romance was good and I loved the love interest. This small town had a lot of secrets and seeing them slowly get revealed was a whirlwind.

Cami was a great FMC! She has been through a lot but still let herself open up to her new friends. Zeke was so cute! I loved his character. I thought Cami and Zeke complimented each other well and had a great story. The friendships Cami made were genuine and I loved the banter, The group dynamic was fun! The murder mystery was engaging and I could nor stop reading. I also thought Cami was a fun and interesting character. Watching her navigate this chapter of her life was endearing. For a high school senior she was pretty mature. The incident that caused her father’s death was rough and watching her get through that was inspiring. I feel this book had some good takeaways. I highly recommend this book especially if you like romance, suspense, paranormal, and murder mystery.

Thank you @meredithlindsey for sending me a copy of Letters In The Attic!! I really enjoyed this book!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5

HAPPY READING
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