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Don't Eat the Pie
Newlywed Sam has always wanted to be a part of a normal happy family. When her mother-in-law falls ill, Sam dutifully moves her family to Edenic Camillia Island to care for her. The island residents, namely the older women, welcome Sam and her daughter Emma with open arms, endless cocktails, and plenty of superstition.
It seems perfect until it’s not.
The house next to her mother-in-law’s is creepy—not only that, it’s where Ben’s first wife died.
Sam’s teen daughter Emma isn’t interested in spending the summer in Camilia. It gets even worse when Emma starts to see things—knowing that there are ghosts trying to warn her of something, but what?
Despite Emma’s pleas, Sam doesn’t want to rock the boat with her new family. Emma won’t pretend nothing is happening, especially as the messages become more grim and frequent. What secrets are buried on Camilia Island? And why are all the residents keen on keeping them quiet?
For fans of Hide by Kiersten White and How To Sell A Haunted House by Grady Hendrix, Don’t Eat The Pie will haunt you long after you’ve turned the last page.
It seems perfect until it’s not.
The house next to her mother-in-law’s is creepy—not only that, it’s where Ben’s first wife died.
Sam’s teen daughter Emma isn’t interested in spending the summer in Camilia. It gets even worse when Emma starts to see things—knowing that there are ghosts trying to warn her of something, but what?
Despite Emma’s pleas, Sam doesn’t want to rock the boat with her new family. Emma won’t pretend nothing is happening, especially as the messages become more grim and frequent. What secrets are buried on Camilia Island? And why are all the residents keen on keeping them quiet?
For fans of Hide by Kiersten White and How To Sell A Haunted House by Grady Hendrix, Don’t Eat The Pie will haunt you long after you’ve turned the last page.
368 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2024
19 people are currently reading
6467 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
May 22, 2025
Don't Eat the Pie is an intriguing Horror story following a mother-daughter duo, Sam and Emma.
This book features a mysterious atmosphere, creepy characters, and luckily, quite a few tropes I tend to enjoy.
I've read a few reviews of this novel and many mention comps to Rosemary's Baby. I absolutely see that, but I would add that it's Rosemary's Baby mixed with The Skeleton Key.
Do y'all remember that movie? It released in 2005 and starred the beautiful, Kate Hudson; set in New Orleans and contained some great supernatural Folk Horror elements. This book was definitely giving me all that.
The Southern Gothic vibes, the protagonists being new to town, the locals behaving strangely, particularly on the home-front. It's all very intriguing and definitely succeeded in pulling me in.
It's set on Camillia Island and the island helped add to the mystery. I think it's mentioned that like only around 40-people actually reside there, so it's super small and feels very remote; not a lot of outside influence.
Sam and Emma move there after Sam marries Ben, and his mom, who lives on the island gets sick. Emma wasn't thrilled about the move, but it's padded a bit by one of her friends, as well as her Aunt and cousin, going along for a bit; at least for the Summer.
I liked the back and forth of the perspectives between Sam and Emma. It really helped to build out their relationship, as well as their current circumstances.
They were both experiencing different things on Camilia Island and it was the totality of their experiences that really created the suspense and mystery.
I felt the author did a great job of creating a sense of danger within this atmosphere. It felt unsettling, even when you weren't sure what you were really being unsettled by and I love that sort of reading experience.
The audiobook does have dual narration, which is perfect for providing distinction between Emma and Sam. I liked that aspect as it made me feel like I was actually listening to the two women tell their story.
While some parts felt a little drawn out, and certain details towards the end got a little muddled, overall, I had a great time with this story. It kept me on my toes.
I've never read from this author before, but I would definitely be interested in picking up more of their work. Particularly, if they have this same dark Southern atmosphere. We love to see it.
Thank you to the publisher, Dreamscape Media, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
This book deserves more buzz, and I hope it starts getting it soon. It's a perfect Spooky Season read!!!
This book features a mysterious atmosphere, creepy characters, and luckily, quite a few tropes I tend to enjoy.
I've read a few reviews of this novel and many mention comps to Rosemary's Baby. I absolutely see that, but I would add that it's Rosemary's Baby mixed with The Skeleton Key.
Do y'all remember that movie? It released in 2005 and starred the beautiful, Kate Hudson; set in New Orleans and contained some great supernatural Folk Horror elements. This book was definitely giving me all that.
The Southern Gothic vibes, the protagonists being new to town, the locals behaving strangely, particularly on the home-front. It's all very intriguing and definitely succeeded in pulling me in.
It's set on Camillia Island and the island helped add to the mystery. I think it's mentioned that like only around 40-people actually reside there, so it's super small and feels very remote; not a lot of outside influence.
Sam and Emma move there after Sam marries Ben, and his mom, who lives on the island gets sick. Emma wasn't thrilled about the move, but it's padded a bit by one of her friends, as well as her Aunt and cousin, going along for a bit; at least for the Summer.
I liked the back and forth of the perspectives between Sam and Emma. It really helped to build out their relationship, as well as their current circumstances.
They were both experiencing different things on Camilia Island and it was the totality of their experiences that really created the suspense and mystery.
I felt the author did a great job of creating a sense of danger within this atmosphere. It felt unsettling, even when you weren't sure what you were really being unsettled by and I love that sort of reading experience.
The audiobook does have dual narration, which is perfect for providing distinction between Emma and Sam. I liked that aspect as it made me feel like I was actually listening to the two women tell their story.
While some parts felt a little drawn out, and certain details towards the end got a little muddled, overall, I had a great time with this story. It kept me on my toes.
I've never read from this author before, but I would definitely be interested in picking up more of their work. Particularly, if they have this same dark Southern atmosphere. We love to see it.
Thank you to the publisher, Dreamscape Media, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
This book deserves more buzz, and I hope it starts getting it soon. It's a perfect Spooky Season read!!!
September 25, 2024
This is a gothic horror books that was definitely creepy. I listened to the audiobook and loved the narration. This book was a lot like horror movies where you want to scream at the protagonist to stop making ridiculous choices and ignoring all of the red flag things around her. I found the very ending to be cheap and unsatisfying. It took me from a 4 to 3 stars honestly. I liked the way history played into the story and it was an interesting take on what happened with Roanoke. Sam and Ben are newlyweds but they are called from their honeymoon to Ben’s hometown as his mother needs support. Sam’s sister Becca and her son Jax joined Sam, her daughter Emma, and Emma’s best friend Hannah to go to the island Ben is from for the summer. The island is beyond small and there are very few residents who have some strange behavior. And there is something about the house next door, the house where Ben’s first wife died with her baby in child birth. This book is well timed for spooky season and it is super creepy.
August 11, 2025
Okay this book is clearly more than a little inspired by Rosemary’s Baby. My take on it is if you aren’t familiar with the source material, maybe it will work okay for you? But if you are like me and have read this story over and over and over again, you’ll realize eventually those copies of copies of copies turn into “Steve” from Multiplicity territory . . .
(On another note, this is the third pie cover book I am reading this summer, so apparently that is my personality now.)
(On another note, this is the third pie cover book I am reading this summer, so apparently that is my personality now.)
March 14, 2024
This is a gothic horror story that reminds me of Rosemary's Baby with the creepy happenings, strange people, and a woman becoming pregnant after a "party" gets bizarre.
It's set on an island that appears idyllic at first. Colorful flowers everywhere, friendly people, and beautiful homes. But it's almost TOO perfect for our protagonist and her family. She's getting married to a great guy and they're going to live on the island with his mother. Right next door is his former home. A home he abandoned when his last wife died.
Yeah, things start getting freaky almost right away. There are shadows seen in the windows. People start behaving oddly. And nobody is willing to answer questions about the island and residents. This place has some very dark dreadful secrets but they get pushed aside as superstition.
Samantha already has a teen daughter and she doesn't want to have any more children. Their past is filled with trauma as well. But after a strange pie party one night, she finds herself pregnant.
And things are going to go off the rails from here. This is a very atmospheric creepy novel and it will have you looking over your shoulder! I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book through Netgalley with no consideration. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
It's set on an island that appears idyllic at first. Colorful flowers everywhere, friendly people, and beautiful homes. But it's almost TOO perfect for our protagonist and her family. She's getting married to a great guy and they're going to live on the island with his mother. Right next door is his former home. A home he abandoned when his last wife died.
Yeah, things start getting freaky almost right away. There are shadows seen in the windows. People start behaving oddly. And nobody is willing to answer questions about the island and residents. This place has some very dark dreadful secrets but they get pushed aside as superstition.
Samantha already has a teen daughter and she doesn't want to have any more children. Their past is filled with trauma as well. But after a strange pie party one night, she finds herself pregnant.
And things are going to go off the rails from here. This is a very atmospheric creepy novel and it will have you looking over your shoulder! I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book through Netgalley with no consideration. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
October 13, 2024
I swear, my library must get different versions of books. I was so freaking bored this entire time.
Quite honestly, I would have rather ate the pie.
Quite honestly, I would have rather ate the pie.
July 31, 2024
This is a creepy tale of horror and I was immediately drawn to it just on the title alone. The cover looks so delicious too!
Sam and her family move to an Island to care for her new husband’s mother, Nadine. When they get there, things start to take a dark turn. There is a pie making contest and everyone must sample every single pie. Once Sam samples the pies, she starts to become ill. What on earth is in it?
This reminded me a little bit of the series True Blood on HBO. Creepy women and their rituals. Unnerving characters. Atmospheric, gothic and witchy vibes. I do think it ended abruptly. However, maybe Asher was setting the tone for a second one. I suppose we will find out and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you to @risingactionpublishingco @moasherwrites and @netgalley for the opportunity.
Publication date 9/24/24
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sam and her family move to an Island to care for her new husband’s mother, Nadine. When they get there, things start to take a dark turn. There is a pie making contest and everyone must sample every single pie. Once Sam samples the pies, she starts to become ill. What on earth is in it?
This reminded me a little bit of the series True Blood on HBO. Creepy women and their rituals. Unnerving characters. Atmospheric, gothic and witchy vibes. I do think it ended abruptly. However, maybe Asher was setting the tone for a second one. I suppose we will find out and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you to @risingactionpublishingco @moasherwrites and @netgalley for the opportunity.
Publication date 9/24/24
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 27, 2024
This is super creepy. Something’s not quite right on Camillia Island. Why does everyone want to keep Sam on the island? Why is the pharmacist unwilling to prescribe normal medications? Why won’t Sam’s mother-in-law go AWAY??!
In the meantime, Sam’s teenage daughter Emma is doing some sleuthing, since she keeps experiencing inexplicable things, like a shadow of a woman in the house next door—where nobody lives.
Who can they trust, when everyone else on the island is banding together?
And what is in that freaking pie?!
This is a fast-paced, unsettling story that horror fans will enjoy. My one complaint is that I feel that it was a little too long…I think it would have been better at fifty pages less.
I look forward to seeing what Ms. Asher comes up with next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Rising Action Publishing Co. for the advance copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Edited to Add: I forgot to mention that, although there are closed door sex scenes in here, later in the book there are a couple of scenes that are not so tame. The story really didn’t need that.
In the meantime, Sam’s teenage daughter Emma is doing some sleuthing, since she keeps experiencing inexplicable things, like a shadow of a woman in the house next door—where nobody lives.
Who can they trust, when everyone else on the island is banding together?
And what is in that freaking pie?!
This is a fast-paced, unsettling story that horror fans will enjoy. My one complaint is that I feel that it was a little too long…I think it would have been better at fifty pages less.
I look forward to seeing what Ms. Asher comes up with next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Rising Action Publishing Co. for the advance copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Edited to Add: I forgot to mention that, although there are closed door sex scenes in here, later in the book there are a couple of scenes that are not so tame. The story really didn’t need that.
September 3, 2024
Ooooookay. I’m going to be shouting from the rooftops about this one until its release date on July 16!
Enter a private island that I can only describe as Stepford Wives meets Beaches. Mother/daughter duo Sam and Emma are the main characters in this novel. I loved how Asher let us see the story from both perspectives. Sam is a newly married woman who left Emma’s abusive father and has an estranged relationship with her own mother, giving her her own set of deep rooted issues. It clouds her judgement…I’ll leave it at that.
Emma is her 16 year old daughter. Normally teenager characters are aggravating and whiny, but Asher did an amazing job of giving Emma depth. I actually connected better with her character than Sam.
Odd things are happening on the island, people are dying, and there is a lot of pie 😂. My favorite part of this novel was the new age twist on a gothic haunted house. The fact Asher was able to genuinely creep me out with a spooky house that was nestled on a beach with beautiful flowers surrounding it was impressive.
I recommend this novel for fans of Rachel Harrison, Kiersten White, and Erin Craig.
As always, check trigger warnings.
I’m so happy I’m one of those readers who can’t remember 99% of a book in a couple months so I can go back to the island in July!
Thank you Monique Asher and Rising Action Publishing for allowing me early access to this wild ride.
Enter a private island that I can only describe as Stepford Wives meets Beaches. Mother/daughter duo Sam and Emma are the main characters in this novel. I loved how Asher let us see the story from both perspectives. Sam is a newly married woman who left Emma’s abusive father and has an estranged relationship with her own mother, giving her her own set of deep rooted issues. It clouds her judgement…I’ll leave it at that.
Emma is her 16 year old daughter. Normally teenager characters are aggravating and whiny, but Asher did an amazing job of giving Emma depth. I actually connected better with her character than Sam.
Odd things are happening on the island, people are dying, and there is a lot of pie 😂. My favorite part of this novel was the new age twist on a gothic haunted house. The fact Asher was able to genuinely creep me out with a spooky house that was nestled on a beach with beautiful flowers surrounding it was impressive.
I recommend this novel for fans of Rachel Harrison, Kiersten White, and Erin Craig.
As always, check trigger warnings.
I’m so happy I’m one of those readers who can’t remember 99% of a book in a couple months so I can go back to the island in July!
Thank you Monique Asher and Rising Action Publishing for allowing me early access to this wild ride.
June 17, 2024
This was a gothic horror novel that was baked to perfection, with echoes of Rosemary's Baby and the movie Midsommar this had all the ingredients any horror fan would enjoy, ghosts, mysterious deaths and strange rituals, but that's just the topping dig deeper and you'll find the real filling is a bitter one of complicated mother/daughter relationships, intergenerational trauma, abuse, grief and manipulation, this quickly became a suffocating southern hellscape, Camilla Island is strange, it's giving cult vibes, its giving Hill House, it's giving random pregnant bleeding ladies appearing out the bushes, this is such an incredibly atmospheric and unnerving novel. Asher has created characters that have a ton of depth and the dual POVs felt entirely authentic and different from one another. An extremely creepy novel full of unrelenting tension and unease, deliciously twisted I devoured it all and want more from Asher!
May 15, 2024
After Sam marries Ben whilst on honeymoon they get the call Ben's mother has been injured on Camilla Island. Emma (Sam's daughter) arrives with her aunt and cousin who spend the summer on the island but things take a turn for the worse after a pie party which Sam is warned not to eat the pies. In what seems a very Rosemary's baby roundabout way Sam ends up pregnant and it progresses fast. Stuck on the island Emma explores the house where Ben's first wife died and spooky things start to happen with ghosts and seeing things which is brushed off whilst i got the feeling something very cult like was happening i loved every second of this book and writing. If you loved books like Rosemary's baby or hauntings i would highly recommend.
August 29, 2024
I was really hoping that at least the ending would help redeem this one, but all it did was make me even more disappointed in myself for not DNFing it.
March 16, 2024
If Ira Levin wrote a slightly campy tale about a mysterious island, creepy occurrences, and lots of pie, maybe it would look a little like this.
What’s funny is that I wrote the above line prior to finishing the book. As I typed it, I did not yet know that Monique Asher would actually mention Levin in her acknowledgements. I was simply noting my thoughts as they came to me. This tells you, fellow readers, how successful she was in her objective, as the Levin vibe was there, one hundred percent!
I truly appreciated the complicated family dynamics of this story. I think Asher was thorough in developing her main characters’ relationship issues, and she set up Sam’s vulnerability well, although I was often quite frustrated with Sam’s naïveté!
I believe the main problem for me here was overexposure. This reminded me of a number of stories that I’ve already experienced, and not just through Ira Levin’s writing. If I were less inclined to follow horror, I may have found this deliciously satisfying. It was entertaining, and some fellow horror fans might not mind its comfortable predictability, but I’m a glutton for the punishment of extreme anxiety as I hold my breath, fearing what might happen when I turn the page. While this had its eerie moments, as well as perfectly ramped up tension at the climax, nothing left me feeling shocked or deeply unsettled.
I am immensely grateful to Rising Action Publishing Co and NetGalley for my copy. All opinions are my own.
What’s funny is that I wrote the above line prior to finishing the book. As I typed it, I did not yet know that Monique Asher would actually mention Levin in her acknowledgements. I was simply noting my thoughts as they came to me. This tells you, fellow readers, how successful she was in her objective, as the Levin vibe was there, one hundred percent!
I truly appreciated the complicated family dynamics of this story. I think Asher was thorough in developing her main characters’ relationship issues, and she set up Sam’s vulnerability well, although I was often quite frustrated with Sam’s naïveté!
I believe the main problem for me here was overexposure. This reminded me of a number of stories that I’ve already experienced, and not just through Ira Levin’s writing. If I were less inclined to follow horror, I may have found this deliciously satisfying. It was entertaining, and some fellow horror fans might not mind its comfortable predictability, but I’m a glutton for the punishment of extreme anxiety as I hold my breath, fearing what might happen when I turn the page. While this had its eerie moments, as well as perfectly ramped up tension at the climax, nothing left me feeling shocked or deeply unsettled.
I am immensely grateful to Rising Action Publishing Co and NetGalley for my copy. All opinions are my own.
November 14, 2024
A terrifically deranged book that is quite captivating.
The isolation of living on a small island, a community of people that seem somewhat off, and then finding out just how off they are is quite the wild ride.
This book takes you to dark places and spaces that you may not suspect and is a thrilling book that is delightfully devilish.
If you are someone who does not like it when chapters switch viewpoints between different characters and find it jarring, be forewarned that this book does this, it did not bother me but I can see how it may bother some.
The isolation of living on a small island, a community of people that seem somewhat off, and then finding out just how off they are is quite the wild ride.
This book takes you to dark places and spaces that you may not suspect and is a thrilling book that is delightfully devilish.
If you are someone who does not like it when chapters switch viewpoints between different characters and find it jarring, be forewarned that this book does this, it did not bother me but I can see how it may bother some.
December 3, 2024
Man this one was actually so good! Think Rosemarys baby meets the wicker man with an Ending that was just kind of perfect. Super creepy town, super creepy family, and a mysterious pregnancy. What more do you want in life? This one is gorey and one I probably wouldn’t read if I was pregnant. Just a slight trigger warning
September 24, 2024
ARC REVIEW: don’t eat the pie by monique asher (out 9/24!) 🥧 where gothic horror meets family drama transporting readers to the hauntingly picturesque camillia island 🤍
people start behaving oddly claiming they see shadows passing in windows. no one is willing to answer questions about the island and its residents even though it’s full of sinister secrets. I was a big fan of the cult-like elements and unraveling the generational trauma with one of our characters!
such a strong concept but unfortunately, the execution wasn't the best. I never connected with the writing style and the story didn’t flow well moving between the mother and daughter pov’s. the level of gaslighting within is INSANE. although marketed as an adult horror, it felt very ya… despite all of the bloody, gruesome descriptions!
I don't think I’ll be making a return trip to camillia island anytime soon. thank you netgalley & dreamscape media for an advanced copy 👻 2 stars!
people start behaving oddly claiming they see shadows passing in windows. no one is willing to answer questions about the island and its residents even though it’s full of sinister secrets. I was a big fan of the cult-like elements and unraveling the generational trauma with one of our characters!
such a strong concept but unfortunately, the execution wasn't the best. I never connected with the writing style and the story didn’t flow well moving between the mother and daughter pov’s. the level of gaslighting within is INSANE. although marketed as an adult horror, it felt very ya… despite all of the bloody, gruesome descriptions!
I don't think I’ll be making a return trip to camillia island anytime soon. thank you netgalley & dreamscape media for an advanced copy 👻 2 stars!
July 16, 2024
The cover of this book drew me in instantly and I had to read it. I seem to not be reading as many horrors as I usually do so this one was a treat. You are drawn into this complicated family right away and you know something weird is going on but you can’t quite put your finger on it.
I zipped through this book enjoying the pie fair and the creepy old ladies. There’s always something about food and horror books that goes together.
Thank you to NetGalley, Rising Action Publishing and Monique Asher for an eARC for an honest review of the book.
I zipped through this book enjoying the pie fair and the creepy old ladies. There’s always something about food and horror books that goes together.
Thank you to NetGalley, Rising Action Publishing and Monique Asher for an eARC for an honest review of the book.
September 4, 2024
I think the concept of the book is good, but the execution wasn't the best. The plot felt a bit rushed, it didn't flow very well.
I do think the multiple POV's made the book a bit confusing. It was also hard to really connect with the characters. Both POV's explored very different things that almost made it feel like 2 different books that interlaced together.
I think it may have just been a case of the book wasn't for me. I do think some people will love this book but its not for me.
also note the book has a lot to do about pregnancy, Domestic Violence and more so make sure to go check the triggers!
thank you Netgalley for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
I do think the multiple POV's made the book a bit confusing. It was also hard to really connect with the characters. Both POV's explored very different things that almost made it feel like 2 different books that interlaced together.
I think it may have just been a case of the book wasn't for me. I do think some people will love this book but its not for me.
also note the book has a lot to do about pregnancy, Domestic Violence and more so make sure to go check the triggers!
thank you Netgalley for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
September 11, 2024
Don't Eat The Pie
Monique Asher
4.75 / 5
The Gothic horror and the familial drama are served up in thick slices in this excellent new novel of terror.
I was completely intrigued by both the duel perspectives that we're given - Each very different, they are characters that are fleshed out and complex, with tangled family dynamics.
Rosemary's Baby vibes galore, mixed with flavorings of Nat Cassidy's Nestlings and sweetened with some dark cult vibes, I greedily gobbled up every last page.
But whatever you do, Don't Eat The Pie!
I promise you'll just want more.
(Also reminded me a little of Bentley Little's The Resort in certain ways.)
Monique Asher
4.75 / 5
The Gothic horror and the familial drama are served up in thick slices in this excellent new novel of terror.
I was completely intrigued by both the duel perspectives that we're given - Each very different, they are characters that are fleshed out and complex, with tangled family dynamics.
Rosemary's Baby vibes galore, mixed with flavorings of Nat Cassidy's Nestlings and sweetened with some dark cult vibes, I greedily gobbled up every last page.
But whatever you do, Don't Eat The Pie!
I promise you'll just want more.
(Also reminded me a little of Bentley Little's The Resort in certain ways.)
December 30, 2024
A Horror Bookworm Recommendation
Don’t Eat The Pie by Monique Asher
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
Emma attends a wedding at a beautiful location called Camillia Island. Both Emma and her mother indulge in what seems to be an unblemished environment. However, the residents of the island seem to have an eerie undertone about them. Emma slowly uncovers the real mysteries and unexplainable events surrounding the island…including the unusual pie contest.
Monique Asher’s debut novel is a bizarre encounter of what seems to be a living breathing island of dark mysteries. Family relationships, unearthly curses and haunting realities help build an ultimate crescendo of unnerving proportions. With a vibe of Rosemary’s Baby, The Wicker Man and a splash of Midsommar, Asher brings home the blue ribbon when it comes to psychological tension and paranoia.
With silver pendants, ouija boards and delicious pies of all shapes and sizes, Monique Asher brings supernatural settings to life by cleverly dressing them with human sacrificial accents. Looking through Asher’s ritualistic rose colored glasses, the reader will find a distorted Eden that is emotionally eerie, weirdly obscene and downright creepy as hell. It’s the constant feeling that something bad is going to happen that’ll getcha.
Here on Camillia Island, “tradition is tradition” and they take their pie recipes very serious. The Island is a bit like the Hotel California…”you can check out any time you like, but you can never leave.” A five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Horror Bookworm Recommendation.
Don’t Eat The Pie by Monique Asher
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
Emma attends a wedding at a beautiful location called Camillia Island. Both Emma and her mother indulge in what seems to be an unblemished environment. However, the residents of the island seem to have an eerie undertone about them. Emma slowly uncovers the real mysteries and unexplainable events surrounding the island…including the unusual pie contest.
Monique Asher’s debut novel is a bizarre encounter of what seems to be a living breathing island of dark mysteries. Family relationships, unearthly curses and haunting realities help build an ultimate crescendo of unnerving proportions. With a vibe of Rosemary’s Baby, The Wicker Man and a splash of Midsommar, Asher brings home the blue ribbon when it comes to psychological tension and paranoia.
With silver pendants, ouija boards and delicious pies of all shapes and sizes, Monique Asher brings supernatural settings to life by cleverly dressing them with human sacrificial accents. Looking through Asher’s ritualistic rose colored glasses, the reader will find a distorted Eden that is emotionally eerie, weirdly obscene and downright creepy as hell. It’s the constant feeling that something bad is going to happen that’ll getcha.
Here on Camillia Island, “tradition is tradition” and they take their pie recipes very serious. The Island is a bit like the Hotel California…”you can check out any time you like, but you can never leave.” A five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Horror Bookworm Recommendation.
September 17, 2024
Sam has recently married Ben and is ready to begin a new life with him and her teen from a previous marriage, Emma. However, Ben’s mother soon falls ill and it sees the new family moving to her island of residence to take care of her. With the elder community members plying Sam with alcohol and pie, Emma begins to see things that warn her that her mother isn’t safe here.
DON’T EAT THE PIE by Monique Asher is an eerie horror novel that will make you think twice about sticking your fork in that pie!
Overall, I really enjoyed the story and the arc that it took - there were a lot of creepy, cult-like elements that stood out to me and I felt like Asher really incorporated some nice (read: terrifying & disgusting) imagery.
However, I was never able to fully click with the writing style and the story didn’t flow very well from one point to another. I also had a hard time understanding Sam and Emma’s relationship - there’s what we’re told and what we’re shown, and they never really seem to match up. Emma also read much younger than her 16 years for a good chunk of the story.
Thank you to Rising Action Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Publication Date: September 24
DON’T EAT THE PIE by Monique Asher is an eerie horror novel that will make you think twice about sticking your fork in that pie!
Overall, I really enjoyed the story and the arc that it took - there were a lot of creepy, cult-like elements that stood out to me and I felt like Asher really incorporated some nice (read: terrifying & disgusting) imagery.
However, I was never able to fully click with the writing style and the story didn’t flow very well from one point to another. I also had a hard time understanding Sam and Emma’s relationship - there’s what we’re told and what we’re shown, and they never really seem to match up. Emma also read much younger than her 16 years for a good chunk of the story.
Thank you to Rising Action Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Publication Date: September 24
February 1, 2024
Perfectly set, unsettling scenes with a cast of quirky characters that stick with you. You will never look at pie the same way again. 👀👀👀🫣
December 31, 2024
I personally had some issues with the writing style of this book that left me unable to fully enjoy this. I often felt disoriented from scene to scene, like there was some missing context about how characters were interacting with the space and people around them. I don't know how to put it other than I didn't feel fully immersed in the setting or characters.
BUT I seem to be the outlier based on other reviews, which are glowing so far! I would say test the waters with a few pages if you can and see if you like the writing before diving in.
You might like this if you like:
💀 Gothic horror
🔮 Cults & the occult
🐍 Family drama
🥧 Small towns with secrets
BUT I seem to be the outlier based on other reviews, which are glowing so far! I would say test the waters with a few pages if you can and see if you like the writing before diving in.
You might like this if you like:
💀 Gothic horror
🔮 Cults & the occult
🐍 Family drama
🥧 Small towns with secrets
May 2, 2024
I enjoyed reading this little novella, although I don't think the writing style is quite for me. I prefer stories with a lot of character development and detail, especially when setting up the story in the beginning. There was some of this here, although it reminds me more of the Lisa Unger style of writing where it focuses more on the emotion of the situation and less the entirety of the scene.
All in all, very enjoyable read and i'll be looking for more from this author in the future.
All in all, very enjoyable read and i'll be looking for more from this author in the future.
September 14, 2024
Wow. Just wow. This book hooks you from the get go and doesn’t let up the whole time. You don’t know who to trust or what to believe and the ending 😱 a must read if you are into horror and creepy ass people who live on islands.
August 27, 2024
ARC by NetGalley and the publisher.
Newlywed Sam is in the throes of wedded bliss as all her dreams are finally coming true. Her husband Ben and their future life together hold a promise of happy normalcy that she has so longed for. Sam’s honeymoon state of mind is short lived and hijacked away as her mother-in-law falls suddenly ill. Causing the new family to move to Edenic Camilla Island in order to care for her. Upon arrival Sam and her daughter Emma are met with welcoming open arms from the island residence. However, as ghostly pasts are revealed it becomes apparent that this picturesque island and the people there are hiding deadly secrets behind their warm smiles.
Don’t Eat the Pie is a hauntingly atmospheric slow burn horror that served all the eerie dread that I absolutely love in my spookier reads. Reading this was like watching a movie, as each chapter unfolds you begin to slowly piece together the puzzle and understand where the shadows are leading you to. As such this debut will absolutely give you Rosemary’s Baby vibes as well as American Horror Story. Told through dual POV we follow both Sam and Emma as they unravel the truths that the island hides; like the fact that Ben’s previous wife mysteriously died during childbirth and now her ghost is trying to warn Sam and Emma, but of what they don’t know. The books pacing and mounting unease had me reading at the edge of my seat screaming at the characters and clamoring to uncover all the secrets, as if learning them may somehow aid in these characters fates. Asher expertly weaves tension and ghostly cult filled horror while also managing to explore deeper subjects such as pregnancy loss, generation trauma, tough family dynamics, and DV. Again I can’t say enough how much I truly enjoyed this book and am shocked that it is a debut! If you are a fan of gothic horror reads with ghosts, a secluded island location, cults, unhinged twists, and enjoy pie then you absolutely have to pick up this one!
Don’t Eat the Pie comes out September 24th, 2024.
Thank you NetGalley and Rising Action Publishing Co. for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Newlywed Sam is in the throes of wedded bliss as all her dreams are finally coming true. Her husband Ben and their future life together hold a promise of happy normalcy that she has so longed for. Sam’s honeymoon state of mind is short lived and hijacked away as her mother-in-law falls suddenly ill. Causing the new family to move to Edenic Camilla Island in order to care for her. Upon arrival Sam and her daughter Emma are met with welcoming open arms from the island residence. However, as ghostly pasts are revealed it becomes apparent that this picturesque island and the people there are hiding deadly secrets behind their warm smiles.
Don’t Eat the Pie is a hauntingly atmospheric slow burn horror that served all the eerie dread that I absolutely love in my spookier reads. Reading this was like watching a movie, as each chapter unfolds you begin to slowly piece together the puzzle and understand where the shadows are leading you to. As such this debut will absolutely give you Rosemary’s Baby vibes as well as American Horror Story. Told through dual POV we follow both Sam and Emma as they unravel the truths that the island hides; like the fact that Ben’s previous wife mysteriously died during childbirth and now her ghost is trying to warn Sam and Emma, but of what they don’t know. The books pacing and mounting unease had me reading at the edge of my seat screaming at the characters and clamoring to uncover all the secrets, as if learning them may somehow aid in these characters fates. Asher expertly weaves tension and ghostly cult filled horror while also managing to explore deeper subjects such as pregnancy loss, generation trauma, tough family dynamics, and DV. Again I can’t say enough how much I truly enjoyed this book and am shocked that it is a debut! If you are a fan of gothic horror reads with ghosts, a secluded island location, cults, unhinged twists, and enjoy pie then you absolutely have to pick up this one!
Don’t Eat the Pie comes out September 24th, 2024.
Thank you NetGalley and Rising Action Publishing Co. for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 25, 2024
Summary: Emma’s mother Sam (Samantha) has recently remarried to Ben, after a terrible experience with domestic violence in her prior marriage. Ben’s mother becomes ill and the family decides to temporarily relocate to Camillia Island to look after her. Although she isn’t happy about this development, Emma accepts it and goes along. The island, Ben’s mother and her friends are creepy and weird. Emma gets uncomfortable vibes about being there and wishes they could leave. Despite Emma’s concerns, Sam insists they must support Ben and stay for the time being. Then Emma starts seeing strange things in the house next door. Is there a ghost and if so, what is it trying to tell her?
Thoughts: This novel is everything Southern Gothic should be: unsettling, ghostly, edgy and a bit grotesque. I expected it to be disturbing and suspenseful, and it certainly lived up to my expectations. I found the mother, Samantha, very docile and passive which was frustrating. It made sense in the narrative however, as she had grown up in an abusive home and left that to marry an abusive man. She is “all in” when it comes to Ben because she really wants to change the trajectory of her life and this is her fresh start.
Camillia Island itself feels like a character in the novel – stunning beauty disguising treachery and danger. An idyllic island paradise full of evil. I enjoyed the historical connection the author creates with the mystery of Roanoke Island. Some readers may be annoyed by the ambiguity of the ending – fair warning. This wasn’t a problem for me as I am fine with an ending that doesn’t provide a neat solution and a happy ever after. If that type of ending bothers you, then you may not appreciate the conclusion. However I thoroughly enjoyed this creepy gothic.
Thoughts: This novel is everything Southern Gothic should be: unsettling, ghostly, edgy and a bit grotesque. I expected it to be disturbing and suspenseful, and it certainly lived up to my expectations. I found the mother, Samantha, very docile and passive which was frustrating. It made sense in the narrative however, as she had grown up in an abusive home and left that to marry an abusive man. She is “all in” when it comes to Ben because she really wants to change the trajectory of her life and this is her fresh start.
Camillia Island itself feels like a character in the novel – stunning beauty disguising treachery and danger. An idyllic island paradise full of evil. I enjoyed the historical connection the author creates with the mystery of Roanoke Island. Some readers may be annoyed by the ambiguity of the ending – fair warning. This wasn’t a problem for me as I am fine with an ending that doesn’t provide a neat solution and a happy ever after. If that type of ending bothers you, then you may not appreciate the conclusion. However I thoroughly enjoyed this creepy gothic.
September 18, 2024
3.5. Sam and Ben have recently married but Ben’s mother has become ill. They decide to move with Sam’s daughter Emma care for her. The house is next to Ben’s home that he previously shared with his former wife who has since passed away. Emma starts to notice bizarre things happening but Sam doesn’t want to cause problems with their new family.
This book was a wild ride! I really enjoyed how bizarre and creepy the story was. There was so much happening and just when I thought things couldn’t get any more weird, they did! This was a fun creepy read perfect for this time of year!
This audiobook was narrated by Cady Zuckerman and Stephanie Willing. They put on a great performance!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Monique Asher, and Dreamscape Media for providing this free ARC. This is my honest review. This publishes on September 23rd.
This book was a wild ride! I really enjoyed how bizarre and creepy the story was. There was so much happening and just when I thought things couldn’t get any more weird, they did! This was a fun creepy read perfect for this time of year!
This audiobook was narrated by Cady Zuckerman and Stephanie Willing. They put on a great performance!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Monique Asher, and Dreamscape Media for providing this free ARC. This is my honest review. This publishes on September 23rd.
July 29, 2025
A fun gothic, witchy, culty romp for fans of Rosemary’s Baby and Rebecca.
September 9, 2024
DONT EAT THE PIE by Monique Asher
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC audiobook
Narration by Cady Zuckerman and Stephanie Willing was good.
3.5 ⭐️
A horror novel that begins with Sam as newly married and just wanting a normal family life for herself and daughter, Emma. Ben, Sam and Emma move to Edenic Camilla Island, to the house Ben grew up in, to care for his mom who has taken a fall. Things seem fine until they aren’t. The ominous house next door is where Ben’s first wife, Kristen died. The house next door is creepy and Emma begins seeing things, but despite her pleas, her mom doesn’t want to rock the boat with her new family. The messages that Emma is getting begin getting creepier and more dangerous. What are the secrets on Camilla Island that residents don’t want known? Everyone in Camilla Island has skeletons in their closets. And what’s up with the “pie party”?
This is a debut and I thought it was a decent read and I look forward to what Monique Asher has in store for us next. I felt this could be more for mature YA’s. It is a very dark and creepy read that touches upon, family drama, paranormal activity, evilness, domestic abuse, motherhood, trusting instincts, and not giving up.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC audiobook
Narration by Cady Zuckerman and Stephanie Willing was good.
3.5 ⭐️
A horror novel that begins with Sam as newly married and just wanting a normal family life for herself and daughter, Emma. Ben, Sam and Emma move to Edenic Camilla Island, to the house Ben grew up in, to care for his mom who has taken a fall. Things seem fine until they aren’t. The ominous house next door is where Ben’s first wife, Kristen died. The house next door is creepy and Emma begins seeing things, but despite her pleas, her mom doesn’t want to rock the boat with her new family. The messages that Emma is getting begin getting creepier and more dangerous. What are the secrets on Camilla Island that residents don’t want known? Everyone in Camilla Island has skeletons in their closets. And what’s up with the “pie party”?
This is a debut and I thought it was a decent read and I look forward to what Monique Asher has in store for us next. I felt this could be more for mature YA’s. It is a very dark and creepy read that touches upon, family drama, paranormal activity, evilness, domestic abuse, motherhood, trusting instincts, and not giving up.
January 30, 2024
Monique does an absolutely phenomenal job building these characters to the point of investment. Further, her ability to craft words into imagery that requires you to read with the lights on? On par.
Sam's honeymoon is cut short when her, her teenage daughter Emma, and her new husband need to move in with her mother-in-law after she has a fall. The private island where they will have to spend the summer is gorgeous...how can something so beautiful be so sinister?
Sam and Emma's relationship is complicated. While Sam is trying to break the cycle that her own mother couldn't, Emma feels like her mom is holding back about her father. Can they both put their resentment aside to recognize the oddities these islanders have going on?
The island has lots of snakes, lots of death, lots of drama, and a dash of paranormal happenings. Neither Sam nor Emma have a rational explanation for what's going on. The only thing they know for sure? Don't eat the pie.
Thank you for the advanced copy, Monique!
Sam's honeymoon is cut short when her, her teenage daughter Emma, and her new husband need to move in with her mother-in-law after she has a fall. The private island where they will have to spend the summer is gorgeous...how can something so beautiful be so sinister?
Sam and Emma's relationship is complicated. While Sam is trying to break the cycle that her own mother couldn't, Emma feels like her mom is holding back about her father. Can they both put their resentment aside to recognize the oddities these islanders have going on?
The island has lots of snakes, lots of death, lots of drama, and a dash of paranormal happenings. Neither Sam nor Emma have a rational explanation for what's going on. The only thing they know for sure? Don't eat the pie.
Thank you for the advanced copy, Monique!
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