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What Feeds The Lake
Welcome to the Artist's Retreat at Pitch Lake.
Each year, the infamous art psychologist, Dr. Ladon Cane, opens his mountain estate to four aspiring artists for a winter term unlike any other. Alumni of the program have gone on to illustrious careers in the art world and beyond. Yet very little is known about Dr. Cane or his unique teaching methods.
Desperate to escape an artless future and a troubled past, Callan Lark is reluctantly drawn into this year’s program, and to the mercurial Professor Cane. But shortly after arriving at Pitch Lake, strange disturbances begin to occur; hauntings that seem conjured from the students’ worst nightmares, and visits from peculiar neighbors despite the isolation of the mountain.
Just as the snow traps the artists at the estate, they discover the truth of the Professor's methods and the reason why he chose each of them for this year’s retreat. Cane’s arcane curriculum comes with one small asterisk. There are monsters lurking in the lake that call to their fears like sirens. And Callan and the other artists will have to do everything in their power to not end up in its cold depths too.
Each year, the infamous art psychologist, Dr. Ladon Cane, opens his mountain estate to four aspiring artists for a winter term unlike any other. Alumni of the program have gone on to illustrious careers in the art world and beyond. Yet very little is known about Dr. Cane or his unique teaching methods.
Desperate to escape an artless future and a troubled past, Callan Lark is reluctantly drawn into this year’s program, and to the mercurial Professor Cane. But shortly after arriving at Pitch Lake, strange disturbances begin to occur; hauntings that seem conjured from the students’ worst nightmares, and visits from peculiar neighbors despite the isolation of the mountain.
Just as the snow traps the artists at the estate, they discover the truth of the Professor's methods and the reason why he chose each of them for this year’s retreat. Cane’s arcane curriculum comes with one small asterisk. There are monsters lurking in the lake that call to their fears like sirens. And Callan and the other artists will have to do everything in their power to not end up in its cold depths too.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 24, 2024
36 people are currently reading
3557 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Hemstreet
1 book304 followersJ.C. Hemstreet grew up with a flashlight to their chin, telling scary stories in the dark of a hallway closet or a backyard tent to anyone who would listen. Their fascination with the macabre and cryptid only deepened with age, as authors like the Brontë sisters and Daphne Du Maurier steered them toward the haunting, dark side of romance. Now, Hemstreet is on a mission to bring horror to the hopeless romantics by crafting stories that bridge the gap between spooky and swoony. Hemstreet lives in San Francisco with their husband and rescue mutt, where they work as a transactional attorney when not emersed in fantastical, monster-filled worlds. You can connect with Hemstreet on Instagram (@bookswithjc) or at their website (https://www.jchemstreet.com).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
January 5, 2025
We need more horror and romance books to exist!
3.5⭐️
I enjoyed this book overall it’s a debut novel so there were some things that could have slightly been improved but I was invested in the story and found the idea intriguing.
I would definitely read more books by this author for sure!
3.5⭐️
I enjoyed this book overall it’s a debut novel so there were some things that could have slightly been improved but I was invested in the story and found the idea intriguing.
I would definitely read more books by this author for sure!
July 23, 2024
i am always of the opinion that we need more horror romance, and the atmosphere here was excellent, as was the concept. moody winter forest? check. snowed-in cabin? check. haunted lake with an appetite for everyone's unprocessed trauma? check.
that said, as much as i wanted to love this one - and i hate to rate an indie low - it just didn't click for me. it's rare i feel a book should have been longer, but this one could have benefited from an extra hundred pages to flesh out the characters, better pace the plot's progression, and explore a few more of the elements promised in the summary without feeling rushed. the art retreat needed more actual art, methinks.
still, I look forward to Hemstreet's next book and will be there when it drops. 🧡
that said, as much as i wanted to love this one - and i hate to rate an indie low - it just didn't click for me. it's rare i feel a book should have been longer, but this one could have benefited from an extra hundred pages to flesh out the characters, better pace the plot's progression, and explore a few more of the elements promised in the summary without feeling rushed. the art retreat needed more actual art, methinks.
still, I look forward to Hemstreet's next book and will be there when it drops. 🧡
April 24, 2024
I was lucky enough to be given an ARC of this wonderful book in exchange for an honest review, and let me tell you. I. Couldn’t. Put. It. Down. For all my folk horror with a side of romance girlies? THIS ONE’S FOR YOU. I’ve never thought myself a super big horror book girlie, but the story was riveting and had me hooked from the start. It gave eerie chill vibes in JUST the right places while still being thought provoking and delving into the human psyche and the ways different people handle events in their lives. And the slow burn? It was BURNING. The snark and vulnerability these characters showed was just my cup of tea. And J.C.’s prose is so beautiful, she had me hanging on her every word. This is me telling you to RUN and preorder this book. It’s the perfect read for spooky girl spring, and it won’t disappoint! I do suggest readers to look up trigger warnings for this story, as there are some deep and sensitive topics that are touched upon. What Feeds the Lake is out on April 24th, and I cannot wait to 1) get a physical copy because this book just so happens to also be gorgeous but 2) anxiously await to see what else J.C. graces us with.
January 10, 2025
I'm not upset that I read this book, but it was bit underwhelming. The writing was fine, but repetitive both in diction and in plot events. The characters were also a little clichéd for my taste; I didn't expect the tortured artist of it all to be more at the forefront than the horror elements. However, it was creepy and atmospheric, and a short, easy read, so it was alright.
May 25, 2024
I really liked this book! I thought the interpretation of shadows and how they affect our lives and could show up physically was very intriguing and well written. I feel like the main romance came across tropey to me and not very developed, but I think that might just depict my preference in written romances.
Excited to read more from this author!
Excited to read more from this author!
August 21, 2024
I’m really sad I didn’t like this book. From the author posts and pitches, the synopsis, and all the vibes attached to the book are some of my favorites things in a horror novel.
The first ~40% of this book was great, and I was really enjoying reading it. After that point, it really started to drop off. I felt like there were a lot of plot holes, flat characters, confusing timeline jumping and all too much going on with the story.
Ladon Cane, the ‘psychologist’ slash ‘professor’ was eerie, which I first really enjoyed but then was utterly confused by his character. Callan said to him ‘you’re more than a man, you’re a good’ and Cane replies with something along the lines of ‘I’ve been called worse but what does it even matter?’ Cane had secrets but seemed conflicted on how much he wanted to share of them, contradicting himself constantly. And with the professor/student romance, it didn’t feel like romance at all, he was just gaslighting the shit out of Callan. He also didn’t allow the students to practice art on their 6 week ‘art retreat’ until they had their ‘spiritual awakening’ aka drugging them and bringing them outside in sub 0 temperatures and forcing them to meet a lake monster that tries to kill them…….
Something that caught me off guard about this story is that it’s pitched as queer.. there’s 1 very short m/m scene… BUT I believe the author intended for the main character, Callan to be non-binary??
I’m just very confused by it, at the 25% mark this conversation happens during a 1-on-1 ‘therapy session’:
Callan: And you don’t use any pronouns for me. Do I look like a boy to you?
Professor Cane : Do you want to look like a boy to me, Lark? What pronouns would you like me to use?
Callan : no reply but inner monologue states Callan thinking fucking therapists.
Callan never shares gender preferences with the professor and for the first 90% of the book, Callan is referred to by the author in she/her pronouns (the professor calling her Callan). However the last 10% of the book Callan is ONLY referred to as they/them pronouns (the professor calling them Cal). There was never a point in which the character had said ‘I use these pronouns’ or ‘hey, please call me by these pronouns from here on out’. Idk, maybe it happened off page, but it just feels kinda icky to me.
I LOVE queer representation in books, but how it was done here just didn’t sit right with me. But what do I know?! Im just a cis white woman 🫠
Also to note, Veronica Fang… our only Asian character, dies. Kinda bummed when BIPOC character being killed off, ESPECIALLY when they’re the minority population in a book and written by a white author.
If you’ve made it this far in my review, while I didn’t particularity enjoy this book, I always say ‘not every book is for every person’.. So please don’t let my review steer you away if you are interested in reading it! There are a lot of raving reviews, and it might become your new favorite! I would totally read from this author again, as I think Hemstreet has an amazingly creative brain with this story, and I’d be interested to see what else they write.
The first ~40% of this book was great, and I was really enjoying reading it. After that point, it really started to drop off. I felt like there were a lot of plot holes, flat characters, confusing timeline jumping and all too much going on with the story.
Ladon Cane, the ‘psychologist’ slash ‘professor’ was eerie, which I first really enjoyed but then was utterly confused by his character. Callan said to him ‘you’re more than a man, you’re a good’ and Cane replies with something along the lines of ‘I’ve been called worse but what does it even matter?’ Cane had secrets but seemed conflicted on how much he wanted to share of them, contradicting himself constantly. And with the professor/student romance, it didn’t feel like romance at all, he was just gaslighting the shit out of Callan. He also didn’t allow the students to practice art on their 6 week ‘art retreat’ until they had their ‘spiritual awakening’ aka drugging them and bringing them outside in sub 0 temperatures and forcing them to meet a lake monster that tries to kill them…….
Something that caught me off guard about this story is that it’s pitched as queer.. there’s 1 very short m/m scene… BUT I believe the author intended for the main character, Callan to be non-binary??
I’m just very confused by it, at the 25% mark this conversation happens during a 1-on-1 ‘therapy session’:
Callan: And you don’t use any pronouns for me. Do I look like a boy to you?
Professor Cane : Do you want to look like a boy to me, Lark? What pronouns would you like me to use?
Callan : no reply but inner monologue states Callan thinking fucking therapists.
Callan never shares gender preferences with the professor and for the first 90% of the book, Callan is referred to by the author in she/her pronouns (the professor calling her Callan). However the last 10% of the book Callan is ONLY referred to as they/them pronouns (the professor calling them Cal). There was never a point in which the character had said ‘I use these pronouns’ or ‘hey, please call me by these pronouns from here on out’. Idk, maybe it happened off page, but it just feels kinda icky to me.
I LOVE queer representation in books, but how it was done here just didn’t sit right with me. But what do I know?! Im just a cis white woman 🫠
Also to note, Veronica Fang… our only Asian character, dies. Kinda bummed when BIPOC character being killed off, ESPECIALLY when they’re the minority population in a book and written by a white author.
If you’ve made it this far in my review, while I didn’t particularity enjoy this book, I always say ‘not every book is for every person’.. So please don’t let my review steer you away if you are interested in reading it! There are a lot of raving reviews, and it might become your new favorite! I would totally read from this author again, as I think Hemstreet has an amazingly creative brain with this story, and I’d be interested to see what else they write.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2024
“She couldn’t leave. Not if it meant there was a chance she could create without the incessant buzzing of the real world always at her ear.”
“Every artist needs their tragedy, do they not?”
I discovered this book through the author’s instagram page @bookswithjc, which has great recs for spooky spice. Im always on the look out for horror romance and this ticked that box perfectly.
We’ve got an artists retreat in the middle of the woods during winter. Each of our four artists has their own unresolved issues (multi POV) and the nearby lake may or may not be getting off on that. The gorgeous art professor/ therapist running the retreat seems to know more than he lets on and as much as he tries to act professional finds it difficult to keep his eyes off Callan Lark.
It is a debut and has many of the common issues you’d expect from a debut. For instance, the romance development could have been a bit more fleshed out for me and some of the transitions were a bit swift. Characters would be discussing having a meeting and then the next paragraph would be having the meeting, where i would have appreciated a transition sentence or a line break. Some of the movement in a scene was also not clear, like i’d picture someone standing and then they’d feel something against their knees but without mentioning that they kneeled or fell for instance.
Overall, though i think this was a great read. Some gorgeous writing, beautiful illustrations throughout. I think if you enjoy a side of folk horror with your romance you’ll enjoy this!
“Every artist needs their tragedy, do they not?”
I discovered this book through the author’s instagram page @bookswithjc, which has great recs for spooky spice. Im always on the look out for horror romance and this ticked that box perfectly.
We’ve got an artists retreat in the middle of the woods during winter. Each of our four artists has their own unresolved issues (multi POV) and the nearby lake may or may not be getting off on that. The gorgeous art professor/ therapist running the retreat seems to know more than he lets on and as much as he tries to act professional finds it difficult to keep his eyes off Callan Lark.
It is a debut and has many of the common issues you’d expect from a debut. For instance, the romance development could have been a bit more fleshed out for me and some of the transitions were a bit swift. Characters would be discussing having a meeting and then the next paragraph would be having the meeting, where i would have appreciated a transition sentence or a line break. Some of the movement in a scene was also not clear, like i’d picture someone standing and then they’d feel something against their knees but without mentioning that they kneeled or fell for instance.
Overall, though i think this was a great read. Some gorgeous writing, beautiful illustrations throughout. I think if you enjoy a side of folk horror with your romance you’ll enjoy this!
July 13, 2025
i devoured this book, i don’t actually know what to write in this review to do it justice. our setting is a moody, snow-covered forest, there’s a dark, eerie cabin, a hot professor, there’s obsession, intensity, suffering and an all-consuming chemistry maintained throughout.
it had my hairs stood on end and my pulse racing. an immediate 5 stars for me!
it had my hairs stood on end and my pulse racing. an immediate 5 stars for me!
April 7, 2024
“She realized once and for all that she did not want to fade into that abyss she had kept company for so long. She didn’t want to float any more than she wanted to sink.”
Thank you endlessly to JC for sending me an eARC of their debut!
I’m going to try to keep it as brief as possible, though I could probably write an essay about how much I loved this book.
First of all, let me just say that if h0rror isn’t your go-to (it isn’t mine either) this story is a perfect introduction to the genre! It also incorporates elements of dark academia and romance (and yes, there’s juicy spice!)
The story revolves around Pitch Lake, where mysterious professor Ladon Cane hosts an annual retreat for aspiring artists. Few are selected for this opportunity, but what our characters don’t know is that the lake will put them face to face with their worst fears – quite literally.
The writing is beautiful, yet easy to follow, and the chapters alternate between the characters’ povs as we get to know what lurks in their hearts and minds, and how they will have to fight to come out on the other side. All of us have, at some point in our lives, felt like our fears would consume us whole; felt the loneliness that comes with guilt and fear and the inability to move on. I think JC navigated this so beautifully and in a way that is relatable, even through the use of a paranormal/dark fantasy element. The lgbtq+ representation is done incredibly well, too.
The romantic aspect is delicious; truly a triumph of slow burn, palpable tension and peak academic rivalry to lovers.
I would highly suggest checking trigger warnings as the story touches multiple sensitive and darker topics, but all in all, I hope they don’t stop you from experiencing this fantastic debut.
Congratulations @jchemstreet (once again lol), you’ve created truly something special and I’m giddy with excitement for what you’ll gift us next. <3
Thank you endlessly to JC for sending me an eARC of their debut!
I’m going to try to keep it as brief as possible, though I could probably write an essay about how much I loved this book.
First of all, let me just say that if h0rror isn’t your go-to (it isn’t mine either) this story is a perfect introduction to the genre! It also incorporates elements of dark academia and romance (and yes, there’s juicy spice!)
The story revolves around Pitch Lake, where mysterious professor Ladon Cane hosts an annual retreat for aspiring artists. Few are selected for this opportunity, but what our characters don’t know is that the lake will put them face to face with their worst fears – quite literally.
The writing is beautiful, yet easy to follow, and the chapters alternate between the characters’ povs as we get to know what lurks in their hearts and minds, and how they will have to fight to come out on the other side. All of us have, at some point in our lives, felt like our fears would consume us whole; felt the loneliness that comes with guilt and fear and the inability to move on. I think JC navigated this so beautifully and in a way that is relatable, even through the use of a paranormal/dark fantasy element. The lgbtq+ representation is done incredibly well, too.
The romantic aspect is delicious; truly a triumph of slow burn, palpable tension and peak academic rivalry to lovers.
I would highly suggest checking trigger warnings as the story touches multiple sensitive and darker topics, but all in all, I hope they don’t stop you from experiencing this fantastic debut.
Congratulations @jchemstreet (once again lol), you’ve created truly something special and I’m giddy with excitement for what you’ll gift us next. <3
April 9, 2024
Pub date: April 24, 2024
“Our monsters are many, but at their core all they are is us.”
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Read if you like:
-gothic romance
-dark academia
-horror
-mysteries
-art psychology
-professor x student
-academic rivals to lovers
-shadow daddies
-slow burn romance
-snowed in / forced proximity
-who did this to you? 🥵
-multi-POVs
-facing your monsters
-cats (I love Schrödinger so much!)
Hands down one of the most fascinating debut novels that I’ve ever read. And I’m calling it now—What Feeds The Lake will be one of my top 5 favorite reads of 2024. I’m always a sucker for dark academia and horror. So, it was honestly no surprise that I devoured this. It was everything I needed and wanted in a horror novel—suspenseful, riveting, thrilling, shocking, and addicting. From start to finish, it kept me on my toes. It is a novel that you will want to cancel all of your plans for.
This story and these characters were absolutely captivating. Hemstreet’s writing is breathtakingly elegant and it captured me from the first paragraph. The attention to detail made it easy for me to vividly envision what was happening while I was reading. This book could not have been any better. It reached its highest potential. What Feeds The Lake is a genuine masterpiece.
A round of applause for the stunning cover and illustrations on the pages inside. They add so much character and depth to the story. The art is immaculate. I love when art is included in dark academia or gothic books because it intensifies the vibes.
As always, please DO NOT SKIP the trigger warnings listed in the front pages. The author does a magnificent job of describing everything you’ll find that may be triggering to you. Please protect your mental health. 🖤
It’s safe to say What Feeds The Lake has me in a chokehold. And I don’t want to be let go.
Head on over to @bookswithjc on instagram for prëorder info!
Thank you to the author J.C. Hemstreet for this ARC!
“Our monsters are many, but at their core all they are is us.”
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Read if you like:
-gothic romance
-dark academia
-horror
-mysteries
-art psychology
-professor x student
-academic rivals to lovers
-shadow daddies
-slow burn romance
-snowed in / forced proximity
-who did this to you? 🥵
-multi-POVs
-facing your monsters
-cats (I love Schrödinger so much!)
Hands down one of the most fascinating debut novels that I’ve ever read. And I’m calling it now—What Feeds The Lake will be one of my top 5 favorite reads of 2024. I’m always a sucker for dark academia and horror. So, it was honestly no surprise that I devoured this. It was everything I needed and wanted in a horror novel—suspenseful, riveting, thrilling, shocking, and addicting. From start to finish, it kept me on my toes. It is a novel that you will want to cancel all of your plans for.
This story and these characters were absolutely captivating. Hemstreet’s writing is breathtakingly elegant and it captured me from the first paragraph. The attention to detail made it easy for me to vividly envision what was happening while I was reading. This book could not have been any better. It reached its highest potential. What Feeds The Lake is a genuine masterpiece.
A round of applause for the stunning cover and illustrations on the pages inside. They add so much character and depth to the story. The art is immaculate. I love when art is included in dark academia or gothic books because it intensifies the vibes.
As always, please DO NOT SKIP the trigger warnings listed in the front pages. The author does a magnificent job of describing everything you’ll find that may be triggering to you. Please protect your mental health. 🖤
It’s safe to say What Feeds The Lake has me in a chokehold. And I don’t want to be let go.
Head on over to @bookswithjc on instagram for prëorder info!
Thank you to the author J.C. Hemstreet for this ARC!
May 1, 2024
“Our monsters are many, but at their core all they are is us.” — J.C. Hemstreet
Book: What Feeds the Lake
Author: J.C. Hemstreet
Genre: Romantic Horror
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow! What a debut!! I’m so impressed and proud of my friend for writing this amazing book! Somehow it’s the perfect blend of artsy dark academia, folk horror with lots of romantic tension! Seriously, the rivals-to-lovers AND professor-student romance tropes had me in a chokehold! I read it in less than 24 hours and was floored by the depths of WFTL. The themes of acknowledging our inner monsters haunting us and healing from what we refuse to voice is incredibly powerful. I find myself thinking about how impactful What Feeds the Lake is on a daily basis! I hope you all give this book a read!
Book: What Feeds the Lake
Author: J.C. Hemstreet
Genre: Romantic Horror
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow! What a debut!! I’m so impressed and proud of my friend for writing this amazing book! Somehow it’s the perfect blend of artsy dark academia, folk horror with lots of romantic tension! Seriously, the rivals-to-lovers AND professor-student romance tropes had me in a chokehold! I read it in less than 24 hours and was floored by the depths of WFTL. The themes of acknowledging our inner monsters haunting us and healing from what we refuse to voice is incredibly powerful. I find myself thinking about how impactful What Feeds the Lake is on a daily basis! I hope you all give this book a read!
December 6, 2024
I don’t even know where to begin. This book felt to me like the plot was never entirely thought out, and the author kept just making a fast solution to the problems that arose. Fake professor who is also somehow a god? Who also is a creepy groomer of a child’s soul that he keeps tabs on until they’re old enough to be his lover? Weird. What did Ladon Cane ever accomplish in his life to be such an enigma to young artists? The only character with good depth was Roth, and it seemed like he just got thrown into a spur of the moment romance so someone would love him and make up for all the shitty things he had to go through in the entire book. If you are looking for a good folklore-ish storyline please do not be fooled by this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2024
Okay this was so good! The horror was great and the romance aspect was so well done and didn’t downplay any of the suspense. If you love a little romance with your horror I would definitely give this one a read
July 28, 2024
I loved the tension of this book and the atmosphere was well done. It was so easy to picture Pitch Lake and the snow and the house. I enjoyed it so so much. I wish I would have gotten some more of Roth and Fray but it was still a fantastic book.
July 29, 2024
Having a hard time rating this for some reason, but I’m landing on 4.25. That may change as I digest it over the next day or 2.
Full RTC
Full RTC
September 2, 2024
A great start to Spooky season! I felt like this book had a strong start. There were a lot of transitions that seemed abrupt and the ping ponging of pronouns for the main character was a bit confusing. The ending seemed a bit rushed. However, all that aside I really liked this book!
May 1, 2025
What Feeds the Lake
By JC Hemstreet
4 ⭐️
The is book creates the best atmospheric winter setting I’ve read to date. The setting is equally beautiful and terrifying. It was great to read. The overall plot line was good. I liked the build up more than the reveal. I wanted to spend some more time with the ending. I’d recommend this one to those who love it when the book setting is so thickly weaved into the story that it almost becomes a sentient character on its own.
By JC Hemstreet
4 ⭐️
The is book creates the best atmospheric winter setting I’ve read to date. The setting is equally beautiful and terrifying. It was great to read. The overall plot line was good. I liked the build up more than the reveal. I wanted to spend some more time with the ending. I’d recommend this one to those who love it when the book setting is so thickly weaved into the story that it almost becomes a sentient character on its own.
March 26, 2025
At the start of the book our main character felt flat to me. I couldn’t connect with them the way I needed to. But towards the end that actually made a lot of sense! I loved the mix of horror and romance, I wish there was even a little bit more horror in the mix but that’s alright. I still really enjoyed this book and I miss it already. I want to give it 4.5 stars but I’m rounding up to 5 because why not.
October 1, 2024
I honestly think this might be my best read of the year! I bought this book quite impulsively after finding Hemstreet’s Instagram account. She had a post about a free eBook, and naturally, I was curious. The cover was lovely, dark, and deep; and the tropes were quite enticing. But to my dismay, I had missed getting a free eBook by just a few hours! That might have been the end of it. I might have added What Feeds the Lake to my wishlist and moved on, but something about this book called to me.
How could I refuse? I found myself unable to resist the siren call of this book, so I dived in. I had a strong suspicion I would love this book, but I didn’t realize I would have to confront my own shadows because the thing is, “What feeds the lake is eating you.”
I read this book in about twenty-four hours. I stayed up all night reading it, and I couldn’t put it down! There are not enough words to express just how good this book was or how much I loved it, but I’m going to try!
This book reminded me of The Haunting of Bly Manor, which is actually my favorite TV show. Yes, there were some big differences, for one the setting. Instead of an English manor, What Feeds the Lake transports the reader to a cabin in the mountains of Montana. Instead of a lady of the lake, the art students are haunted by their own shadows. But the themes of grief, trauma, and letting go were all prevalent.
However, there was one thing that What Feeds the Lake had that The Haunting of Bly Manor didn’t have. Something that I think this quote sums up perfectly:
“But talent will only get you so far. Plenty of artists overflowing with talent have self-destructed before they saw the spoils of their work. Being an artist is ninety percent self-care, and the rest is the actual making of the art. What I’m showing you here is how to tend your mind. How to live so you can continue this pursuit of yours. Nature gifted you all this creative fertilizer. But it’ll be up to you whether you use it to grow or to blow yourself up.”
I know the story focuses on art and artists, but as a writer, I relate to it so much because writing is my art. I had no idea just how much I needed this book. I have been drowning for years, dragged down by my shadows of doubt, insecurity, and fear. This book showed me that I was my own worst monster and that I needed to stop holding myself back.
One of the reasons I connected so profoundly to this story is its characters. Callan Lark, Landon Cane, Benedict Fray, Roth Heller, and Veronica Fang were one of the best groups of characters I’ve read in a hot minute. I cared about each and every single one of them, and I related to them in various ways. These characters felt so real as if they were more than paper and ink but flesh and blood.
Because the characters felt so real, so too did the fear. I do think What Feeds the Lake is scarier than The Haunting of Bly Manor, but I think it stays in that hauntingly beautiful place that is gothic horror. I think it was just the right amount of scary.
The mystery of Pitch Lake was never cliche. Oftentimes, the unknown of horror will drive me mad, but I was actually very satisfied with what was revealed and what wasn’t.
Finally, I can’t tell you how well-written this book is, so I’m just going to show you with a few of my favorite quotes.
“Creepy is just an uncreative word that uncreative people use for things they cannot understand.”
“Or maybe it was the way the flames at Professor Cane’s back framed his broad shoulders, his stark face, like a depiction of a saint in a stained-glass window.”
“Not if it meant there was a chance, she could create without the incessant buzzing of the real world always at her ear. If that was the prize, she would win. At any cost.”
“Art is existence. It is persistence. It is hope in the midst of pain. Art is the greatest enemy of suffering.”
My only problem with this book is I wish it was longer! I could have stayed in this story with these characters forever and never grown tired. I honestly can’t wait to see what Hemstreet does next!
How could I refuse? I found myself unable to resist the siren call of this book, so I dived in. I had a strong suspicion I would love this book, but I didn’t realize I would have to confront my own shadows because the thing is, “What feeds the lake is eating you.”
I read this book in about twenty-four hours. I stayed up all night reading it, and I couldn’t put it down! There are not enough words to express just how good this book was or how much I loved it, but I’m going to try!
This book reminded me of The Haunting of Bly Manor, which is actually my favorite TV show. Yes, there were some big differences, for one the setting. Instead of an English manor, What Feeds the Lake transports the reader to a cabin in the mountains of Montana. Instead of a lady of the lake, the art students are haunted by their own shadows. But the themes of grief, trauma, and letting go were all prevalent.
However, there was one thing that What Feeds the Lake had that The Haunting of Bly Manor didn’t have. Something that I think this quote sums up perfectly:
“But talent will only get you so far. Plenty of artists overflowing with talent have self-destructed before they saw the spoils of their work. Being an artist is ninety percent self-care, and the rest is the actual making of the art. What I’m showing you here is how to tend your mind. How to live so you can continue this pursuit of yours. Nature gifted you all this creative fertilizer. But it’ll be up to you whether you use it to grow or to blow yourself up.”
I know the story focuses on art and artists, but as a writer, I relate to it so much because writing is my art. I had no idea just how much I needed this book. I have been drowning for years, dragged down by my shadows of doubt, insecurity, and fear. This book showed me that I was my own worst monster and that I needed to stop holding myself back.
One of the reasons I connected so profoundly to this story is its characters. Callan Lark, Landon Cane, Benedict Fray, Roth Heller, and Veronica Fang were one of the best groups of characters I’ve read in a hot minute. I cared about each and every single one of them, and I related to them in various ways. These characters felt so real as if they were more than paper and ink but flesh and blood.
Because the characters felt so real, so too did the fear. I do think What Feeds the Lake is scarier than The Haunting of Bly Manor, but I think it stays in that hauntingly beautiful place that is gothic horror. I think it was just the right amount of scary.
The mystery of Pitch Lake was never cliche. Oftentimes, the unknown of horror will drive me mad, but I was actually very satisfied with what was revealed and what wasn’t.
Finally, I can’t tell you how well-written this book is, so I’m just going to show you with a few of my favorite quotes.
“Creepy is just an uncreative word that uncreative people use for things they cannot understand.”
“Or maybe it was the way the flames at Professor Cane’s back framed his broad shoulders, his stark face, like a depiction of a saint in a stained-glass window.”
“Not if it meant there was a chance, she could create without the incessant buzzing of the real world always at her ear. If that was the prize, she would win. At any cost.”
“Art is existence. It is persistence. It is hope in the midst of pain. Art is the greatest enemy of suffering.”
My only problem with this book is I wish it was longer! I could have stayed in this story with these characters forever and never grown tired. I honestly can’t wait to see what Hemstreet does next!
April 25, 2024
**Received this book as an ARC for an honest review**
"Amazing isn't it, how your mind can make itself into a monster. How you can grow so far apart from yourself that you don't even recognize a piece of your own soul standing before you."
My expectations after initially reading the synopsis for this book was high. Only to find that after reading it, this book, this absolutely intensely dark and beautiful piece of art, surpassed each and every one of those expectations by a mile.
We meet Callan, art student at Melrose Academy who ends up being selected as one of four lucky students to join Professor Ladon at his mountain resort for 6 weeks during the icy winter.
His retreat has proven to make masters out of the students who has joined him in thr past, with most leading to a very successful career in their chosen art.
Upon arrival at the cabin, which is a short walk away from the eerie Pitch Lake that is surrounded by skeletal trees, things are not nearly as they seem.
The story starts off great and as we get familiar with each character and their role and reasons for being the way that they are, it leads to a little self refection as the reader, not to forget the horror elements and spice we are generously given, it is overall a stunningly written story that was nearly impossible to put down.
Can quiet become too quiet?
Is the professor really as good as they claim or is something more sinister going on?
And what is it about the unnaturally dark lake that both lures them closer and chases each of them away?
"Amazing isn't it, how your mind can make itself into a monster. How you can grow so far apart from yourself that you don't even recognize a piece of your own soul standing before you."
My expectations after initially reading the synopsis for this book was high. Only to find that after reading it, this book, this absolutely intensely dark and beautiful piece of art, surpassed each and every one of those expectations by a mile.
We meet Callan, art student at Melrose Academy who ends up being selected as one of four lucky students to join Professor Ladon at his mountain resort for 6 weeks during the icy winter.
His retreat has proven to make masters out of the students who has joined him in thr past, with most leading to a very successful career in their chosen art.
Upon arrival at the cabin, which is a short walk away from the eerie Pitch Lake that is surrounded by skeletal trees, things are not nearly as they seem.
The story starts off great and as we get familiar with each character and their role and reasons for being the way that they are, it leads to a little self refection as the reader, not to forget the horror elements and spice we are generously given, it is overall a stunningly written story that was nearly impossible to put down.
Can quiet become too quiet?
Is the professor really as good as they claim or is something more sinister going on?
And what is it about the unnaturally dark lake that both lures them closer and chases each of them away?
July 9, 2024
I devoured this book! I loved the tension between the characters mixed with the unknown of what they were getting into. There felt like just enough clues throughout the book to keep you guessing, but also hold your intrigue until the end. All of the characters were beautifully written and complex in their own ways. Great dark read!
December 31, 2024
I’m speechless seeing so many four and five star ratings for this book. This was a MESS!!! I know this was an indie release but it needs to be said!
PROS:
•great premise - four art students go to a secluded cabin in the woods with a mysterious (maybe hot) professor for a mentorship, only to learn there’s something spooooooky emerging from the lake
CONS:
•potentially hot professor ends up being a terrible person. Was he supposed to be the sexy version of a morally gray character? Because he read to me as just a sadistic, manipulative creep.
•very underdeveloped storyline. It jumped all over the place, and spent waaaaaaaaay to much time talking about facing your demons, and not enough time actually facing demons
•main character plays damsel in distress over and over
•professor tells main character he likes her over and over and then she’s like “ugh you don’t even like me!!!” Booooring
•also, professor knew main character as a child and then is obsessed with her as an adult? No thx
•author uses the word “sternum” so many times it became distracting
•book lost spooky factor when the monster was *quite literally* invited to dinner
•professor gives them directions to keep them safe repeatedly, on multiple occasions, and they ignore him *every time*
•main character emerges from spooky lake as non-binary? Because why did their pronouns change 90% of the way into the book? wtf was this about?
•characters come very close to dying multiple times and still have a sex drive?
•”are you going to be a good little monster” bro soooo much of the dialogue in this book read as fanfic written by a teenager
This book held my attention for maybe 70%, annoyed me for the next 15%, and then I skimmed for the final 15% of the book because the plot was beyond lost. I believe this author shows a lot of promise, but needs a bit more work on finessing the storyline/details. Also, maybe a better editor.
PROS:
•great premise - four art students go to a secluded cabin in the woods with a mysterious (maybe hot) professor for a mentorship, only to learn there’s something spooooooky emerging from the lake
CONS:
•potentially hot professor ends up being a terrible person. Was he supposed to be the sexy version of a morally gray character? Because he read to me as just a sadistic, manipulative creep.
•very underdeveloped storyline. It jumped all over the place, and spent waaaaaaaaay to much time talking about facing your demons, and not enough time actually facing demons
•main character plays damsel in distress over and over
•professor tells main character he likes her over and over and then she’s like “ugh you don’t even like me!!!” Booooring
•also, professor knew main character as a child and then is obsessed with her as an adult? No thx
•author uses the word “sternum” so many times it became distracting
•book lost spooky factor when the monster was *quite literally* invited to dinner
•professor gives them directions to keep them safe repeatedly, on multiple occasions, and they ignore him *every time*
•main character emerges from spooky lake as non-binary? Because why did their pronouns change 90% of the way into the book? wtf was this about?
•characters come very close to dying multiple times and still have a sex drive?
•”are you going to be a good little monster” bro soooo much of the dialogue in this book read as fanfic written by a teenager
This book held my attention for maybe 70%, annoyed me for the next 15%, and then I skimmed for the final 15% of the book because the plot was beyond lost. I believe this author shows a lot of promise, but needs a bit more work on finessing the storyline/details. Also, maybe a better editor.
June 22, 2024
Thank you for your interest in my debut novel, WHAT FEEDS THE LAKE! Below are the content warnings for the book. If you view content warnings as spoilers, read no further :)
WHAT FEEDS THE LAKE is an adult horror romance. It contains dark and explicit content and deals with mature themes that may be distressing for some readers. It is important to prioritize your well-being while reading. The following list is provided for readers who want to know what to expect from the themes and depictions in this book. If you do not have concerns about dark content, and/or prefer to go into the story blind, skip this.
What follows may be considered spoilers.
Please be advised that the following topics are explored in this novel:
• Depictions of untreated and unresolved anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, drug-related withdrawals, suicidal ideation, self-harm and suicide
• Mentions of child abuse and domestic abuse, both physical and sexual
• Mentions of family member death including parents and siblings
• Depictions of explicit sexual situations including themes of BDSM, unequal balance of power, and sexual encounters with a non-human
• Depictions of drug and alcohol use
• Depictions of verbal bullying
• Depictions of physical violence and abuse
• Mentions of religious trauma
WHAT FEEDS THE LAKE is an adult horror romance. It contains dark and explicit content and deals with mature themes that may be distressing for some readers. It is important to prioritize your well-being while reading. The following list is provided for readers who want to know what to expect from the themes and depictions in this book. If you do not have concerns about dark content, and/or prefer to go into the story blind, skip this.
What follows may be considered spoilers.
Please be advised that the following topics are explored in this novel:
• Depictions of untreated and unresolved anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, drug-related withdrawals, suicidal ideation, self-harm and suicide
• Mentions of child abuse and domestic abuse, both physical and sexual
• Mentions of family member death including parents and siblings
• Depictions of explicit sexual situations including themes of BDSM, unequal balance of power, and sexual encounters with a non-human
• Depictions of drug and alcohol use
• Depictions of verbal bullying
• Depictions of physical violence and abuse
• Mentions of religious trauma
August 9, 2024
Every time I said I want to give up on this book I wish I would’ve listened. This was exhausting. The summary & genres for this book are very incorrect. This is a paranormal, fantasy, vampire, horror, mental health type book, not a mystery thriller. There’s also no art on this art retreat, in fact they are prohibited from doing any art lol. This book is just one long required therapy session for each student with the professor, who is not a therapist, so it’s so wordy without saying anything of substance because you know he’s not a therapist.
Every other day he says don’t go to the lake and on the odd day he says let’s all go to the lake, nothing will hurt you, they almost die, he says don’t go to the lake and this repeats every other chapter for the entire book. And when given the chance to leave, for those who are still alive & not drugged, choose not to even knowing the professor is unhinged. Like what is the purpose of this retreat?! Why does he care to “help” them?
There is no point to this book other than trying to be redundant. It’s trying too hard to be intellectual when it’s not. And the romance was so cheesy, “he’s not just a professor, he’s a god.”
Every other day he says don’t go to the lake and on the odd day he says let’s all go to the lake, nothing will hurt you, they almost die, he says don’t go to the lake and this repeats every other chapter for the entire book. And when given the chance to leave, for those who are still alive & not drugged, choose not to even knowing the professor is unhinged. Like what is the purpose of this retreat?! Why does he care to “help” them?
There is no point to this book other than trying to be redundant. It’s trying too hard to be intellectual when it’s not. And the romance was so cheesy, “he’s not just a professor, he’s a god.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2024
What Feeds the Lake by J.C. Hemstreet is a work of art, not to mention the gorgeous art in the book. I won’t be surprised if it’s my #1 read of the year; if not, it’s at least in the top five. I’ve been wanting to dip my toes into the horror genre for a while now, and What Feeds the Lake was the perfect way to start.
I think it’s a great introduction to horror because it’s a softer horror. Gothic horror usually is, though I believe What Feeds the Lake is actually folk horror. I’ve watched a few folk horror movies, but I’ve never read any before. A little about me, I am absolutely obsessed with folklore and mythology. Add horror, and you’ve got me!
Outside of the hauntingly beautiful prose, my favorite thing about this book was the characters. From the first chapter, I was emotionally attached to Callan Lark and intrigued by Professor Cane. But my favorite character? Definitely, Schrödinger! Guys, there was an orange cat named Schrödinger! How funny is that? I’m a cat mom, and I love this trend of furry little buddies in horror (don’t worry, the cat doesn’t die).
There was a bit of a time jump from Chapter 2 to Chapter 3. I’m not usually a fan of time jumps, but this just skipped over the last of Callan’s semester and got us to the art retreat. After that, it wasn’t long until the mystery and the horror began to unfold.
It’s rare that I can’t predict what’s going to happen in a book, but I couldn’t figure out the mystery of Pitch Lake. In fact, my theory was actually wrong!
You’ll have to read for yourself to find out the answer to the mystery. I will say Hemstreet perfectly balanced the unknown and known, revealing just enough to satisfy but keeping that mystery very much alive.
I usually hate slowburn because I don’t have the patience for it, but to my surprise, I was on the edge of my seat for both couples. The tension between them was so palpable you could almost taste it. When they finally got together, the romance/spice was so worth it!
I would recommend this book to readers who want to dip their toes into the horror genre, seasoned horror readers, or readers of paranormal romance. This was one of the best debut novels I’ve read in a while, and I honestly can’t wait to see what J.C. Hemstreet does next!
I think it’s a great introduction to horror because it’s a softer horror. Gothic horror usually is, though I believe What Feeds the Lake is actually folk horror. I’ve watched a few folk horror movies, but I’ve never read any before. A little about me, I am absolutely obsessed with folklore and mythology. Add horror, and you’ve got me!
Outside of the hauntingly beautiful prose, my favorite thing about this book was the characters. From the first chapter, I was emotionally attached to Callan Lark and intrigued by Professor Cane. But my favorite character? Definitely, Schrödinger! Guys, there was an orange cat named Schrödinger! How funny is that? I’m a cat mom, and I love this trend of furry little buddies in horror (don’t worry, the cat doesn’t die).
There was a bit of a time jump from Chapter 2 to Chapter 3. I’m not usually a fan of time jumps, but this just skipped over the last of Callan’s semester and got us to the art retreat. After that, it wasn’t long until the mystery and the horror began to unfold.
It’s rare that I can’t predict what’s going to happen in a book, but I couldn’t figure out the mystery of Pitch Lake. In fact, my theory was actually wrong!
You’ll have to read for yourself to find out the answer to the mystery. I will say Hemstreet perfectly balanced the unknown and known, revealing just enough to satisfy but keeping that mystery very much alive.
I usually hate slowburn because I don’t have the patience for it, but to my surprise, I was on the edge of my seat for both couples. The tension between them was so palpable you could almost taste it. When they finally got together, the romance/spice was so worth it!
I would recommend this book to readers who want to dip their toes into the horror genre, seasoned horror readers, or readers of paranormal romance. This was one of the best debut novels I’ve read in a while, and I honestly can’t wait to see what J.C. Hemstreet does next!
April 12, 2024
[arc review]
Thank you to the author, JC Hemstreet, for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
What Feeds The Lake releases April 24, 2024
“I want your pain,” he said. “You’ve been playing hide and seek with it for so long I think you’ve forgotten it’s there. It’s haunting you. But you won’t be able to access it until you acknowledge it. If you want to know the crux of this retreat, the secret of my method, that is it. It’s quite simple. Confront yourself.”
A professor and four hand-picked students spend six weeks at Pitch Lake in a snowed-in cabin, taking part in an elusive retreat for artists.
This paranormal/gothic horror story is told in multi-pov and includes themes that touch on past trauma, suicidal ideation, child abuse, drug withdrawal, and unbalanced power dynamics.
I’ll admit, it took me a fair bit to warm up to the writing, but once we fully got into the eeriness of the lake and the true identity of a certain character, my interest was at its peak.
Interspersed throughout are illustrated pages, which brought the characters and setting to life, adding an extra layer of dimension.
There’s also an exploration of shadow play, teacher x student, and queer relationships that are fueled by the slowest of slow burns!
I think what drew me back though was the fact that the professor acted much more as a therapist, and I found it kind of counterintuitive that an artist’s retreat would be so restrictive in the act of art itself.
spoilers
I realize that the cast of characters was smaller and more intimate to being with, but I can’t help feeling a certain way about the fact that the only character that was killed off (and by suicide), was the Asian, sapphic character. In doing so, it further propelled the arc of the leading character, Callan (not of ethnic minority), and I believe I would be doing a disservice not to at least mention this intentional and off-putting plot device to other bipoc or Asian readers like myself.
Thank you to the author, JC Hemstreet, for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
What Feeds The Lake releases April 24, 2024
“I want your pain,” he said. “You’ve been playing hide and seek with it for so long I think you’ve forgotten it’s there. It’s haunting you. But you won’t be able to access it until you acknowledge it. If you want to know the crux of this retreat, the secret of my method, that is it. It’s quite simple. Confront yourself.”
A professor and four hand-picked students spend six weeks at Pitch Lake in a snowed-in cabin, taking part in an elusive retreat for artists.
This paranormal/gothic horror story is told in multi-pov and includes themes that touch on past trauma, suicidal ideation, child abuse, drug withdrawal, and unbalanced power dynamics.
I’ll admit, it took me a fair bit to warm up to the writing, but once we fully got into the eeriness of the lake and the true identity of a certain character, my interest was at its peak.
Interspersed throughout are illustrated pages, which brought the characters and setting to life, adding an extra layer of dimension.
There’s also an exploration of shadow play, teacher x student, and queer relationships that are fueled by the slowest of slow burns!
I think what drew me back though was the fact that the professor acted much more as a therapist, and I found it kind of counterintuitive that an artist’s retreat would be so restrictive in the act of art itself.
spoilers
I realize that the cast of characters was smaller and more intimate to being with, but I can’t help feeling a certain way about the fact that the only character that was killed off (and by suicide), was the Asian, sapphic character. In doing so, it further propelled the arc of the leading character, Callan (not of ethnic minority), and I believe I would be doing a disservice not to at least mention this intentional and off-putting plot device to other bipoc or Asian readers like myself.
September 2, 2024
Market Your Book Correctly Challenge: Level Impossible
What the author said this book was:
Cozy folk horror romance ❌
Queer slow burn romance ❌
Dark Academia ❌
Isolated Winter Setting ✔️
Psychological Folk Horror ✔️
Rivals to Lovers ❌
Professor x student relationship ✔️
Tortured artists & their trauma ✔️
Art retreat ✔️
The monster is you ✔️
When did we as a society let people write books with characters who not only have no chemistry but also only have feelings of lust/possession for each other & allow them to call it ROMANCE?! The professor was a gaslighting, manipulative, & controlling asshole who emotionally & psychologically abused his students the entire time (& even drugged them with psychedelics once) yet I’m supposed to believe it’s a romance? Is the romance in the room with us? Am I meant to be rooting for them??
Conceptually, this book sounded incredible, but the execution was horrible. The pacing was a MESS. The plot was a mess & felt a little thin. It fell apart around the 70% (ish) mark. The characters didn’t feel fleshed out enough, despite the book being about trauma & self-reflection. I didn’t connect to any of them even a little.
I don’t care if a character is non-binary or prefers they/them pronouns, but can we not change a characters pronouns 90% into the book with no explanation? Like where’s the editor?
The weird/random POV shifts didn’t do it for me, nor did the timeline. I genuinely feel like a lot of the events of this book would have landed better if it had been single POV. It would have significantly added to the mystery & suspense. We don’t need to repeat events in different POVs, hope this helps!!!
Also, & maybe this is dickish of me, but if the only real world work of art you use as an example is the Mona Lisa…I’m going to assume you don’t know that much about art. So many parts of this book felt pretentious that the entire thing just fell flat on its face. The only thing about WFLK that I loved was the vibes & atmosphere.
What the author said this book was:
Cozy folk horror romance ❌
Queer slow burn romance ❌
Dark Academia ❌
Isolated Winter Setting ✔️
Psychological Folk Horror ✔️
Rivals to Lovers ❌
Professor x student relationship ✔️
Tortured artists & their trauma ✔️
Art retreat ✔️
The monster is you ✔️
When did we as a society let people write books with characters who not only have no chemistry but also only have feelings of lust/possession for each other & allow them to call it ROMANCE?! The professor was a gaslighting, manipulative, & controlling asshole who emotionally & psychologically abused his students the entire time (& even drugged them with psychedelics once) yet I’m supposed to believe it’s a romance? Is the romance in the room with us? Am I meant to be rooting for them??
Conceptually, this book sounded incredible, but the execution was horrible. The pacing was a MESS. The plot was a mess & felt a little thin. It fell apart around the 70% (ish) mark. The characters didn’t feel fleshed out enough, despite the book being about trauma & self-reflection. I didn’t connect to any of them even a little.
I don’t care if a character is non-binary or prefers they/them pronouns, but can we not change a characters pronouns 90% into the book with no explanation? Like where’s the editor?
The weird/random POV shifts didn’t do it for me, nor did the timeline. I genuinely feel like a lot of the events of this book would have landed better if it had been single POV. It would have significantly added to the mystery & suspense. We don’t need to repeat events in different POVs, hope this helps!!!
Also, & maybe this is dickish of me, but if the only real world work of art you use as an example is the Mona Lisa…I’m going to assume you don’t know that much about art. So many parts of this book felt pretentious that the entire thing just fell flat on its face. The only thing about WFLK that I loved was the vibes & atmosphere.
May 21, 2025
3 - perhaps 3.5 ⭐
This is a book about trauma, different kinds of guilts, grief and fear.
It's about the inner darkness of individuals and about being human.
The overall idea was great, the atmosphere and mood truly captivating, and the dark and thrilling moments pulling. The book did great at creating the setting and tone.
Though I did not agree with every decision made according to plot and development, I did enjoy the book. Though it did seem to be tripping itself from time to time.
Sometimes it seemed to try to be even more surreal than necessary, which might have been its biggest flaw.
I liked the characters and what they each brought.
Though I must confess I missed a more true bond between Callan and Cane and their relationship. I did not mind the romantic subplot, not at all, but I needed more strength and meaningfulness between them. And even though the reader is given a kind of explanation, at least from Cade, about the pull between them - I still missed more chemistry.
(And exactly what happened with their intimate scene? Because the book had done so well with the tone and the way of writing - and that particular scene seemed amateurish, like a badly written dark romance without eloquence and quality, that didn't fit the standart of the book, and even the characters seemed out of character...)
(though points for Roth and Fray!)
The book truly had its moments when it delved into the horror parts, and it did well being unreliable in regard to the supernatural vs the psychological - and creating a balance.
It contained small details, like pronounces, and different POV, that told a lot about the characters from whom it was shown and told by.
I think the depth the book wanted to create was done rather well, and I really enjoyed the psychological aspects of it.
This is a book about trauma, different kinds of guilts, grief and fear.
It's about the inner darkness of individuals and about being human.
The overall idea was great, the atmosphere and mood truly captivating, and the dark and thrilling moments pulling. The book did great at creating the setting and tone.
Though I did not agree with every decision made according to plot and development, I did enjoy the book. Though it did seem to be tripping itself from time to time.
Sometimes it seemed to try to be even more surreal than necessary, which might have been its biggest flaw.
I liked the characters and what they each brought.
Though I must confess I missed a more true bond between Callan and Cane and their relationship. I did not mind the romantic subplot, not at all, but I needed more strength and meaningfulness between them. And even though the reader is given a kind of explanation, at least from Cade, about the pull between them - I still missed more chemistry.
(And exactly what happened with their intimate scene? Because the book had done so well with the tone and the way of writing - and that particular scene seemed amateurish, like a badly written dark romance without eloquence and quality, that didn't fit the standart of the book, and even the characters seemed out of character...)
(though points for Roth and Fray!)
The book truly had its moments when it delved into the horror parts, and it did well being unreliable in regard to the supernatural vs the psychological - and creating a balance.
It contained small details, like pronounces, and different POV, that told a lot about the characters from whom it was shown and told by.
I think the depth the book wanted to create was done rather well, and I really enjoyed the psychological aspects of it.
April 16, 2024
4.5/5 stars
What Feeds the Lake sucked me in immediately and didn’t let me back up for air until the end. I knew I was going to love this book just based off of the initial premise. You have multiple students attending an invitation only artists retreat hosted by a mysterious professor in the middle of the woods with the main star basically being an eerie lake that is so pitch black that it seems to swallow light. Throw in being snowed in, shadow figures and a slow burn romance? Say less! The dark academia meets horror vibes were immaculate. J. C. Hemstreet’s prose is beautiful and descriptive without being overly done. The story has this underlying suspense that creeps up on you and just builds and builds. Everything about the retreat is an unknown and chilling events happen immediately but the explanations to these events unfold slowly which adds to the creepy atmosphere. Some of these scenes are so spine-tingling and had me on the edge of my seat. The little twists were great and I didn’t see them coming. I loved the characters and the alternating POVs. Each person was so different in their personalities yet were similar to each other in heartbreaking ways. Roth and Callan were my favorites but each character has depth and I found them all easy to connect with. The slow burn and rivals to lovers romance was deliciously tense at times and played out so satisfyingly. I was very happy with where the relationships went. There is so much to love about this book and I can’t get enough of Pitch Lake, the shadows and the lore surrounding them. This book tackles some very hard topics and I appreciate that the author handled them with such care. Special shoutout to Schrödinger, stop going into the woods silly kitty!
Thank you so much to the author J. C. Hemstreet for sending me a free eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What Feeds the Lake sucked me in immediately and didn’t let me back up for air until the end. I knew I was going to love this book just based off of the initial premise. You have multiple students attending an invitation only artists retreat hosted by a mysterious professor in the middle of the woods with the main star basically being an eerie lake that is so pitch black that it seems to swallow light. Throw in being snowed in, shadow figures and a slow burn romance? Say less! The dark academia meets horror vibes were immaculate. J. C. Hemstreet’s prose is beautiful and descriptive without being overly done. The story has this underlying suspense that creeps up on you and just builds and builds. Everything about the retreat is an unknown and chilling events happen immediately but the explanations to these events unfold slowly which adds to the creepy atmosphere. Some of these scenes are so spine-tingling and had me on the edge of my seat. The little twists were great and I didn’t see them coming. I loved the characters and the alternating POVs. Each person was so different in their personalities yet were similar to each other in heartbreaking ways. Roth and Callan were my favorites but each character has depth and I found them all easy to connect with. The slow burn and rivals to lovers romance was deliciously tense at times and played out so satisfyingly. I was very happy with where the relationships went. There is so much to love about this book and I can’t get enough of Pitch Lake, the shadows and the lore surrounding them. This book tackles some very hard topics and I appreciate that the author handled them with such care. Special shoutout to Schrödinger, stop going into the woods silly kitty!
Thank you so much to the author J. C. Hemstreet for sending me a free eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 22, 2024
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐅𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐛𝐲 𝐉.𝐂. 𝐇𝐞𝐦𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 ✨
“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘵, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘣𝘴𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘴𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘬𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘥.”
What Feeds The Lake was such an intriguing debut novel by J.C. Hemstreet. I was drawn in by this one before I’d even turned the first page - the premise of the story was so unique it immediately had my attention, especially when it’s described as romantic horror. It is horror, mystery and romance all rolled into one, which in my opinion, is such a thrilling aesthetic.
Hemstreet’s writing style is beautiful, she can paint a vibrant atmosphere with just a few brief sentences, leaving you with a shiver down your spine and a craving for more. I found myself so immersed in this world, which was quite spooky at times.
“𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘺, 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘴.”
The characters were compelling and with multiple POVs they were well and truly fleshed out. We get to face their challenges and see how they cope in these eerie circumstances. Personally, I always love an enigmatic, brooding professor and Dr. Landon Cane really exceeded expectations, I was gripped by him within the first few chapters.
“𝘐𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳, 𝘩𝘦’𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘬𝘦 𝘣𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘬𝘦.”
Honestly, run to read this book, it’s well worth it. You won’t regret it 😍
Read this if you like:
✨Dark academia
✨Horror
✨Professor x student
✨Slow burn romance
✨Gothic romance
✨Academic rivals to lovers
Thank you so much to J.C. Hemstreet for sending me an eARC of this book! Congratulations on your incredible debut!
“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘵, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘣𝘴𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘴𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘬𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘥.”
What Feeds The Lake was such an intriguing debut novel by J.C. Hemstreet. I was drawn in by this one before I’d even turned the first page - the premise of the story was so unique it immediately had my attention, especially when it’s described as romantic horror. It is horror, mystery and romance all rolled into one, which in my opinion, is such a thrilling aesthetic.
Hemstreet’s writing style is beautiful, she can paint a vibrant atmosphere with just a few brief sentences, leaving you with a shiver down your spine and a craving for more. I found myself so immersed in this world, which was quite spooky at times.
“𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘺, 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘴.”
The characters were compelling and with multiple POVs they were well and truly fleshed out. We get to face their challenges and see how they cope in these eerie circumstances. Personally, I always love an enigmatic, brooding professor and Dr. Landon Cane really exceeded expectations, I was gripped by him within the first few chapters.
“𝘐𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳, 𝘩𝘦’𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘬𝘦 𝘣𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘬𝘦.”
Honestly, run to read this book, it’s well worth it. You won’t regret it 😍
Read this if you like:
✨Dark academia
✨Horror
✨Professor x student
✨Slow burn romance
✨Gothic romance
✨Academic rivals to lovers
Thank you so much to J.C. Hemstreet for sending me an eARC of this book! Congratulations on your incredible debut!
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