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It Came from the Pumpkin Patch
It Came from the Pumpkin Patch… and it doesn’t want to go back.Thirteen-year-old Timmy Mantis hates pumpkins and anything to do with them. Growing up in Harvest Creek, the pumpkin-growing capital of Wisconsin, has been a living hell. Especially at Halloween, when the small town becomes obsessed with everything pumpkin at the annual fall festival.
When an accident happens at the local research laboratory and one of the experiments escapes, Timmy realizes he was right to hate pumpkins. As the festival becomes ground zero for a monstrous invasion of gourds-gone-wild and the body count rises—literally—Timmy must face his greatest fears or become another victim.
Accompanied by a scientist determined to put things right, Timmy uses whatever means he can to save the town and his life. But how do you kill an undead pumpkin that has revenge on its mind?
Pumpkin carving takes on a whole new meaning in this Halloween-themed horror story coming October 2024.
When an accident happens at the local research laboratory and one of the experiments escapes, Timmy realizes he was right to hate pumpkins. As the festival becomes ground zero for a monstrous invasion of gourds-gone-wild and the body count rises—literally—Timmy must face his greatest fears or become another victim.
Accompanied by a scientist determined to put things right, Timmy uses whatever means he can to save the town and his life. But how do you kill an undead pumpkin that has revenge on its mind?
Pumpkin carving takes on a whole new meaning in this Halloween-themed horror story coming October 2024.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 22, 2024
101 people are currently reading
263 people want to read
About the author
Chris Heinicke
29 books55 followersAlthough working as a baker for many years, writing has been a passion for Chris for some time, starting in high school and reigniting again in 2006, when he first got the inspiration to begin writing 'The Man In Black.'
After completing that project eight years later, he took part in NaNoWriMo in November 2014, culminating into a project named 5PM. Deciding to self-publish, 5PM came out in February 2015, and then The Man In Black in August.
2016 saw the release of 7PM, and in that same year, his writing path met with that of Canadian author Kate Reedwood. A mutual respect of each other's work ignited an interest in working together, creating the Legacy Hunter series, the first of which to come out in July 2017.
Apart from writing, Chris enjoys travelling, reading, watching movies and all things geeky. He resides in Coffs Harbour with his wife and three children.
Chris will be at Nexus Con on July 29 celebrating the release of the first book in his Legacy Hunter series.
After completing that project eight years later, he took part in NaNoWriMo in November 2014, culminating into a project named 5PM. Deciding to self-publish, 5PM came out in February 2015, and then The Man In Black in August.
2016 saw the release of 7PM, and in that same year, his writing path met with that of Canadian author Kate Reedwood. A mutual respect of each other's work ignited an interest in working together, creating the Legacy Hunter series, the first of which to come out in July 2017.
Apart from writing, Chris enjoys travelling, reading, watching movies and all things geeky. He resides in Coffs Harbour with his wife and three children.
Chris will be at Nexus Con on July 29 celebrating the release of the first book in his Legacy Hunter series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
October 1, 2024
This is the absolute perfect Halloween read!
Fans of Stranger Things, Super 8, or Dark Harvest will love this one. Any horror book that takes place in the 80s is already moving up to the top of my list. Back in the simpler days when a zombie pumpkin rat humanoid just made sense.
I loved the kids in this story the most but man was Frankie hilarious! Such strong characters in a novel under 300 pages. And the ending actually had me tearing up!
Thank you to the authors for the eARC! I had so much fun reading this.
Fans of Stranger Things, Super 8, or Dark Harvest will love this one. Any horror book that takes place in the 80s is already moving up to the top of my list. Back in the simpler days when a zombie pumpkin rat humanoid just made sense.
I loved the kids in this story the most but man was Frankie hilarious! Such strong characters in a novel under 300 pages. And the ending actually had me tearing up!
Thank you to the authors for the eARC! I had so much fun reading this.
October 22, 2024
I am a huge Halloween fan and I adore monsters - wow, did this book check all the boxes for me. I was lucky to get an ARC copy and have already recommended it to friends when it releases on 10/22.
It seems like a perfect life, small country town, pick your pumpkins, ride your bike through town, but needless to say, things slowly go downhill in a most delicious twisted way. I really like the children being the main focus, kind of a Stranger Things vibe. Much like ST, these kids are stronger than they think and are ready to be challenged.
The writing style is so strong and the descriptions really paint a picture. The villain is super creepy and perfect for a late night Halloween time read.
It’s October, it’s chilly, do yourself a favor…pick up this fun read and snuggle up under a blanket. You won’t be sorry.
It seems like a perfect life, small country town, pick your pumpkins, ride your bike through town, but needless to say, things slowly go downhill in a most delicious twisted way. I really like the children being the main focus, kind of a Stranger Things vibe. Much like ST, these kids are stronger than they think and are ready to be challenged.
The writing style is so strong and the descriptions really paint a picture. The villain is super creepy and perfect for a late night Halloween time read.
It’s October, it’s chilly, do yourself a favor…pick up this fun read and snuggle up under a blanket. You won’t be sorry.
October 14, 2025
Boy, am I glad I don't like pumpkin and reading this book confirmed it more.
The characters were amazing and strong and hard headed. I spent most of my time shouting at them in my head.
The storyline truly scared me and made turn lights on in the apartment!! The story was very well written. It made me think I was in the story witnessing everything that happened and it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Sure it's scary, and a great read for Halloween. Though it not for the faint of heart. I loved reading this book and I told my husband all about it. It really put me Halloween spirit. Highly recommend this read.
The characters were amazing and strong and hard headed. I spent most of my time shouting at them in my head.
The storyline truly scared me and made turn lights on in the apartment!! The story was very well written. It made me think I was in the story witnessing everything that happened and it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Sure it's scary, and a great read for Halloween. Though it not for the faint of heart. I loved reading this book and I told my husband all about it. It really put me Halloween spirit. Highly recommend this read.
October 14, 2025
A wonderfully weird coming-of-age, Halloween-themed creature feature. The story moves at a brisk pace, is engaging from start to finish, and—let’s be honest—utterly unique. A full-blown invasion of undead pumpkins wasn’t exactly on my Halloween Bingo card this year, but I loved every ridiculous, gory minute of it. The writing is surprisingly strong, balancing absurdity with genuine tension. My only gripe is that the finale feels a little rushed—like, only part of the problem got any attention. Still, this is an absolute blast of a Halloween read.
October 14, 2025
It was good
This was good. It had me saying eww at times, it had my laughing at times too. There are pumpkin headed rat zombies and a "bad" patch of pumpkins. Read to find out what happens go the rats and why the pumpkins are bad
This was good. It had me saying eww at times, it had my laughing at times too. There are pumpkin headed rat zombies and a "bad" patch of pumpkins. Read to find out what happens go the rats and why the pumpkins are bad
October 12, 2025
Excellent !!!
You must read this book. Better yet they need to make it a movie.
This is a Halloween must read and thanks to the authors I will never look at a pumpkin the same way ever again !!!
You must read this book. Better yet they need to make it a movie.
This is a Halloween must read and thanks to the authors I will never look at a pumpkin the same way ever again !!!
October 6, 2024
This is one of the best Halloween books I ever read. I don't have enough words to tell how much I enjoyed it, but it was such an exciting experience and I loved every second of it.
Growing up in a country that doesn't celebrate Halloween, I didn't have the ocassion to immerse myself into the "pumpkin culture". Since I came to UK, we never really celebrated until kids were big enough to ask to go Trick or Treating and so far that was the only tradition we assimilated.
After reading this book, I am damned sure I am not going to immerse myself into the "pumpkin culture" anymore. If I every wanted to try anything with pumpkin, I will run from the orange shitballs like hell from bow on. 😇😇😆
So if you have an aversity to pumpkins, pick up this book, you'll love it. If you love pumpkins, pick up this book, you'll stop loving them after this. 😁
P.S. Also, turns out I do have a trigger afterall.😳😱 And that is hearing or reading the name Jenny! (Jenny was my crazy, racist, abusive ex-neighbor who made my life hell for five years and got me arrested on false accusations days before we managed to move from that place, leaving me with a high emotional trauma).
When I messaged Kate Redwood and told her I am having trouble reading the book, because the character named Jenny in the story was triggering my trauma, she was imensely kind and sweet and made a new custom copy, tailored for my needs, giving the character a name of my chosing). How friggin sweet is that??? 😍😍😍
So pick this up guys, you'll love it!
Release date: 22nd of October
Growing up in a country that doesn't celebrate Halloween, I didn't have the ocassion to immerse myself into the "pumpkin culture". Since I came to UK, we never really celebrated until kids were big enough to ask to go Trick or Treating and so far that was the only tradition we assimilated.
After reading this book, I am damned sure I am not going to immerse myself into the "pumpkin culture" anymore. If I every wanted to try anything with pumpkin, I will run from the orange shitballs like hell from bow on. 😇😇😆
So if you have an aversity to pumpkins, pick up this book, you'll love it. If you love pumpkins, pick up this book, you'll stop loving them after this. 😁
P.S. Also, turns out I do have a trigger afterall.😳😱 And that is hearing or reading the name Jenny! (Jenny was my crazy, racist, abusive ex-neighbor who made my life hell for five years and got me arrested on false accusations days before we managed to move from that place, leaving me with a high emotional trauma).
When I messaged Kate Redwood and told her I am having trouble reading the book, because the character named Jenny in the story was triggering my trauma, she was imensely kind and sweet and made a new custom copy, tailored for my needs, giving the character a name of my chosing). How friggin sweet is that??? 😍😍😍
So pick this up guys, you'll love it!
Release date: 22nd of October
October 15, 2025
A throwback kind of story, in a farming town in 1982 the "big bad" scientific research facility that cropped up is experimenting with a compound to make pumpkins resistant to blights and pests. Right next to a couple of farms who grow pumpkins, some of which will be used in goods cooked and baked for the local harvest festival on Halloween. The science works too well, and when fed to a rat, turns it into a vicious rat-pumpkin creature which escapes the lab. Meanwhile, the pumpkins the facility sprayed with their compound find their way into one farmer's wife's cooking just in time for the fair. They're a huge hit, until they start making everyone violently ill. Then dying and coming back as zombie/pumpkin monsters. Chaos ensues.
In theory this sounded like a fun. nostalgic kind of horror story the likes of which were plentiful in the late 70s and 80s and inspired Stranger Things. However, the tone, or maybe just the writing, didn't seem consistent to me. And though it's not that long a book, all this stuff starts hitting a crescendo about a third or so of the way into the book. Which also made it feel like this book needed to be much shorter, as tight novella might have made it more palatable. Ultimately, I found the writing to be on the hokey side, and the story failing to stick the landing at being comical, but instead feeling cheesier like a SyFy movie. Plus, there were a TON of unlikable characters and there was sooooo much throwing up. Big disappointment for me.
In theory this sounded like a fun. nostalgic kind of horror story the likes of which were plentiful in the late 70s and 80s and inspired Stranger Things. However, the tone, or maybe just the writing, didn't seem consistent to me. And though it's not that long a book, all this stuff starts hitting a crescendo about a third or so of the way into the book. Which also made it feel like this book needed to be much shorter, as tight novella might have made it more palatable. Ultimately, I found the writing to be on the hokey side, and the story failing to stick the landing at being comical, but instead feeling cheesier like a SyFy movie. Plus, there were a TON of unlikable characters and there was sooooo much throwing up. Big disappointment for me.
September 19, 2025
It came from the pumpkin patch
Chris Heinicke and Kate Reedwood
5/5
Now is the time when people will be planning their perfect spooky season reads. Let me tell you, if it ain't Michael Myers, then it doesn't get much more Halloween than this!
Heinicke and Reedwood aren't just good horror authors who have knocked out a few good books.
They're masters of this particular subgenre of self aware, uber-referential, b movie, monster madness.
What's even more impressive is that all of their work has real heart. Picking up any of their books is the equivalent of seeing what Sharknado could have been like if it was written by people who gave a shit, and had a bigger budget than my weekly baked bean allowance.
You want more? It's not just fun, it's not just heartfelt and it's not just smart. You get a whole universe of tie-ins with their books. This is the straight to VHS horror version of the Marvel movies. Who doesn't like easter eggs? If you spend some time in this world you'll be treated to plenty.
It Came From The Pumpkin Patch is a whirlwind of gross out horror that's garnished with enough laughs to keep anyone happy. The pacing is great and the characters are all fun and well defined in their own right.
I'm so stoked for It Came From The Flower Shop Down Under after finishing this one, and you will be too.
Get some KC Stories in your life!
Chris Heinicke and Kate Reedwood
5/5
Now is the time when people will be planning their perfect spooky season reads. Let me tell you, if it ain't Michael Myers, then it doesn't get much more Halloween than this!
Heinicke and Reedwood aren't just good horror authors who have knocked out a few good books.
They're masters of this particular subgenre of self aware, uber-referential, b movie, monster madness.
What's even more impressive is that all of their work has real heart. Picking up any of their books is the equivalent of seeing what Sharknado could have been like if it was written by people who gave a shit, and had a bigger budget than my weekly baked bean allowance.
You want more? It's not just fun, it's not just heartfelt and it's not just smart. You get a whole universe of tie-ins with their books. This is the straight to VHS horror version of the Marvel movies. Who doesn't like easter eggs? If you spend some time in this world you'll be treated to plenty.
It Came From The Pumpkin Patch is a whirlwind of gross out horror that's garnished with enough laughs to keep anyone happy. The pacing is great and the characters are all fun and well defined in their own right.
I'm so stoked for It Came From The Flower Shop Down Under after finishing this one, and you will be too.
Get some KC Stories in your life!
October 12, 2024
It Came From the Pumpkin Patch Review:
🎃🎃🎃🎃🧡 4.5
Release Date: Oct. 22 (? I think?)
This definitely isn’t my normal style of horror/thriller read, so I am keeping that in mind as I write my review.
For me? this book was Goonies meets 80s Horror meets a fun twist on the Apocalypse. Growing up in the 80s and 90s I felt like Timmy’s character, as well as his friends…a love interest 😉😉, were perfectly portrayed for their age and era for when this story takes place. His disdain for all things pumpkin makes me laugh and although not relatable (since I love all things pumpkin) does capture the spirit of a teenage boy not wanting to “partake” in the towns festivities in regards to these beautiful orange gourds aka orange shitballs!
Was the book a little cheesy at times? Absolutely, but the best thing about the 80s is the cheesy movies and the epic big hair bands.
If you enjoyed Stranger Things and/or grew up in the 80s this may be a fun read for you as an adult! It would also be a fun read for teenagers (especially because of the naughty words 😂)
Thank you @heinickewriter and @katereedwood for allowing me to read your arc! I wish you all the best with your release and future novels! I will definitely have to check out the already released, and anything new!
🎃🎃🎃🎃🧡 4.5
Release Date: Oct. 22 (? I think?)
This definitely isn’t my normal style of horror/thriller read, so I am keeping that in mind as I write my review.
For me? this book was Goonies meets 80s Horror meets a fun twist on the Apocalypse. Growing up in the 80s and 90s I felt like Timmy’s character, as well as his friends…a love interest 😉😉, were perfectly portrayed for their age and era for when this story takes place. His disdain for all things pumpkin makes me laugh and although not relatable (since I love all things pumpkin) does capture the spirit of a teenage boy not wanting to “partake” in the towns festivities in regards to these beautiful orange gourds aka orange shitballs!
Was the book a little cheesy at times? Absolutely, but the best thing about the 80s is the cheesy movies and the epic big hair bands.
If you enjoyed Stranger Things and/or grew up in the 80s this may be a fun read for you as an adult! It would also be a fun read for teenagers (especially because of the naughty words 😂)
Thank you @heinickewriter and @katereedwood for allowing me to read your arc! I wish you all the best with your release and future novels! I will definitely have to check out the already released, and anything new!
September 28, 2024
This is an ARC read given to me by the authors. This book releases October 22, 2024.
"A g-ddamn pumpkin-zombie apocalypse"; you'll have to check out this book to make sense of the most accurate sentence I've ever seen to describe a situation. You guys remember my review of that turkey zombie book from last November? This book has that one beat by a long shot. It's also actually creepy. I won't say scary because horror doesn't scare me, so you'll have to be the judge of that yourself, but it's definitely original in an ocean of recycled horror concepts. How many books with feral pumpkins have YOU read?
The basis for this is your typical apocalypse trope, but that's really where the similarities end. It's a fast paced ride for sure, and I can see it being a Spooky Month occult classic if it ever gets to stand in the movie spotlight honestly.
I really enjoyed this new addition to my Spooky Season collection and I think fellow horror lovers will too. Hopefully the authors will give us some more interesting holiday themed horror.
I give this book 5 of 5 Paws while I ponder moving their Christmas horror trilogy higher up on the Holiday Season list.
"A g-ddamn pumpkin-zombie apocalypse"; you'll have to check out this book to make sense of the most accurate sentence I've ever seen to describe a situation. You guys remember my review of that turkey zombie book from last November? This book has that one beat by a long shot. It's also actually creepy. I won't say scary because horror doesn't scare me, so you'll have to be the judge of that yourself, but it's definitely original in an ocean of recycled horror concepts. How many books with feral pumpkins have YOU read?
The basis for this is your typical apocalypse trope, but that's really where the similarities end. It's a fast paced ride for sure, and I can see it being a Spooky Month occult classic if it ever gets to stand in the movie spotlight honestly.
I really enjoyed this new addition to my Spooky Season collection and I think fellow horror lovers will too. Hopefully the authors will give us some more interesting holiday themed horror.
I give this book 5 of 5 Paws while I ponder moving their Christmas horror trilogy higher up on the Holiday Season list.
November 8, 2024
This is a horror apocalyptic book, set in 1982. It was filled with dread, evil experiment that turned the world upside down and spooky season. It was a pumpkin season in Harvest Creek, everyone was fine until monsters invasion and the sinister thing that turned everything into monsters. Timmy hates pumpkins and when he sees something suspicious, he is determined to get to the bottom of it. While everyone is excited about the pumpkin annual festival, Timmy is trying to figure out what’s going on in town. He is trying to save the town from the danger ahead. But will he able to save people?
I absolutely loved the book and the concept was unique. This reminded me a bit of the girl with all the gifts. Author’s writing is compelling. The book is dark, terrifying, and unputdownable.
I received an ARC from Booksirens and leaving my review voluntarily.
I absolutely loved the book and the concept was unique. This reminded me a bit of the girl with all the gifts. Author’s writing is compelling. The book is dark, terrifying, and unputdownable.
I received an ARC from Booksirens and leaving my review voluntarily.
October 13, 2024
In the vein of their Christmas-themed 80's style absolutely wild Mall Priest, It Came From the Pumpkin Patch is such a ROMP! It mainly follows Timmy Mantis as his town bears the unfortunate effects of having a local experimental science laboratory—you guessed it—pumpkin-based monsters!! High in body count and heart, this pulls no punches and had me grinning like a maniac the entire way. Such a treat!
October 21, 2024
If you’re looking for a great Halloween story, this is a super fun Halloween read!
I love the throwback to 80s style horror. This book is like Stranger Things meets Goonies tucked into Its the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, but with a body count. This offer is a great mashup of classic horror tropes with a new twist. Kate Reedwood and Chris Heinicke knocked this one out of the park! (Perhaps out of the pumpkin patch?)
I love the throwback to 80s style horror. This book is like Stranger Things meets Goonies tucked into Its the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, but with a body count. This offer is a great mashup of classic horror tropes with a new twist. Kate Reedwood and Chris Heinicke knocked this one out of the park! (Perhaps out of the pumpkin patch?)
October 4, 2024
This is one pumpkin festival you don't want to go to. Chemicals from the plant next door leeched into the pumpkin patch. You can imagine what happens when those pumpkins are used in baked goods and cooking. This was utterly suspenseful and edge of your seat. Maybe, don't read this at night in the dark!!! It has a high creep factor. I'm sure teens would love this, because I enjoyed it. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
October 30, 2024
Do I take a moment to compose myself after finishing this book before I leave a review?
No! Don't be ridiculous!
A roller-coaster ride from start to finish, the story builds as quickly as a mutated pumpkin plant grows, and keeps you in its grips the entire way through.
Couple that with characters you actually care about (or those you just can't wait for them to get their just deserts), and touches of humour, it's a book I read through much faster than I usually do, and I loved every moment.
Thank you Kate and Chris for another absolute banger of a story!
No! Don't be ridiculous!
A roller-coaster ride from start to finish, the story builds as quickly as a mutated pumpkin plant grows, and keeps you in its grips the entire way through.
Couple that with characters you actually care about (or those you just can't wait for them to get their just deserts), and touches of humour, it's a book I read through much faster than I usually do, and I loved every moment.
Thank you Kate and Chris for another absolute banger of a story!
October 5, 2024
This book was really cool! For fans of Super 8, Stranger Things, It and other horror stories in which children play the leading role. The story started quickly. I'll never look at pumpkins the same way again!
October 9, 2024
Received an arc of this book and oh my god it was great. Seriously hate pumpkins now.
October 12, 2024
A perfect halloween book! I love monster movies and 80s horror flicks, and this grave all the vibes. Gave me some characters to love and some to absolutely hate. Really enjoyed. Also, I agree, I hate the taste of those orange shitballs! I'm definitely gonna be recommending this book.
December 1, 2024
An enjoyable and digestible Halloween tale with COA elements and plenty of blood. I gobbled this up in two sittings.
February 1, 2025
I did enjoy this YA adventure, a great idea, really well written! A fun idea with a really sinister presence that turns into a fast paced, at time amusing, read. This is the first time I have read this writers work, but it won't be the last! A good fun distraction!
October 23, 2024
It Came from the Pumpkin Patch is a creepy good time. The story is fast paced, and the characters are well developed. The storyline is quite unique to the point where I can honestly say that when I began this book, I had just made batch of pumpkin chili. I began reading the story and literally could not eat the chili or anything else pumpkin, and I am a pumpkin fanatic. This wasn’t due to the physical events taking place in the story, but the fact that the storyline made me begin to think about GMO’s and how scientists are trying to modify our foods. I truly started to freak myself out about how the events that take place in this book could possibly happen in some form. When I get that uneasy feeling as I read, that is what makes a horror story truly good, and these two authors have nailed it in this book. A must read for the spooky season!
One last thing, please don’t write a book about possessed apples.
I received an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.
One last thing, please don’t write a book about possessed apples.
I received an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.
October 22, 2024
Pumpkin
Timmy Mantis can't wait for Halloween so he can be with his friends and trick or treat after the harvest festival. Timmy hates pumpkin, but the town loves it and has a celebration of the harvest every year. This year, some of the pumpkins are different. People are changing. Unique tale with amazing characters fast-paced pulse pounding read . You will never look at a pumpkin the same again.
Timmy Mantis can't wait for Halloween so he can be with his friends and trick or treat after the harvest festival. Timmy hates pumpkin, but the town loves it and has a celebration of the harvest every year. This year, some of the pumpkins are different. People are changing. Unique tale with amazing characters fast-paced pulse pounding read . You will never look at a pumpkin the same again.
September 27, 2025
The day was fast becoming the best day of his life.
He literally couldn’t think of how things could get any more perfect…
And that’s when the screaming and vomiting started.
I wound up really enjoying Chris Heinicke' and Kate Reedwood's "It Came from the Pumpkin Patch: A small town harvest monster horror" a lot more than I thought I would. Now before the usual social media trolls start screaming at me with such clever comebacks as "What? Did you think it was going to suck? Then why did you check it out? Stupid libtard snowflake and your damn Tylenol!" (it happens more than you think), please allow me to explain. First of all, I have not had the best of luck over the years when it comes to picking out specifically Halloween-themed stories that more often than not have pumpkins - or better said perhaps, demonically presented jack-o'-lanterns - on their covers. But after finishing this one, I can promise you, the cover is both apt as well as quite stylish under the circumstances.
This was neither a trick nor a treat. It was a living nightmare.
Also, just from the promo itself, I was worried this was going to be an exceedingly young adult-centered book, as Timmy the 13-year-old hater of all things made from the shitballs known as pumpkins (how's that for foreshadowing?) obviously features prominently within. However, one of the best aspects of this read for me was that the authors successfully maintained a well-balanced mix of viewpoints from the kids involved - and there was a good collection of all ages - as well as from the adults. Now, I won't just come out and say the book was family-oriented, no, but when entire families are being attacked, decimated, and ultimately zombified (more to that in a moment), it is important to get a look at the reactions and especially the shock for all involved! That and office politics, well, it all made perfect sense for those of us that have experienced both sets of people in our lives.
Don’t get bitten by a zombie. Don’t get squashed by a monster. Don’t eat pumpkin pies.
What was then especially pleasing to this self-proclaimed lover of all things zombie, is that (a) I didn't realize this was going to actually BE a zombie story and not only that, but a full-fledged "goddamn pumpkin-zombie apocalypse"! Plus, (b) said zombies - of which there were several "types" - were very unique. Maybe not as maniacally deadly as some I've seen in dozens of other books, but they did the undead proud what with them "making their ‘ur’ and ‘ug’ noises". So I have no hesitation to add this book to my pantheon (it's really just a list) of worthy Z-books immediately. I mean, we had zombie rat-pumpkin versions, or to be exact, "giant fucking scarier-than-all-hell pumpkin-headed rat" creatures. And there were zombie rat-pumpkin-human hybrids, zombies created the old-fashioned way of being bitten by infected humans, and humans that got infected simply by eating, quote, fucking orange shitballs, aka pumpkins. Oh and don't forget zombies resulting from contaminated zombie poop lying about as poop tends to do!
If a rat could become part-pumpkin, a pumpkin could also become part-rat… Oh fuck.
And, might I add (I might), the origin for these maniacally twisted undead forms (vs. lifeforms, you see) was extremely plausible. I mean, evil GMO-making corporations looking to create mutant pumpkins in the middle of the center of Pumpkin Grower-Ville, USA aka Harvest Creek, the pumpkin-growing capital of Wisconsin!! What could possibly go wrong? Now even with all that going on, the authors then manage to keep this tale moving along at quite a good pace, with both the bad guys, rats, creatures, etc. doing their darndest to annihilate or terminate (job-wise at least) the good guys en masse. Does some of it get completely silly in a drive-in creature feature kind of way? Oh hell yes, and do not think for a moment there aren't any massive explosions included as well. But the hilarity does go not so far as to interupt what has happened up to that point (it seems to have been the 7-foot to 50-foot transition in terms of size where things went fully to, well, shit). And let's be honest: when folks are turning the annual Halloween Harvest Festival into a vomitous scene worthy of "Stand By Me", it's perfectly acceptable to raise an eyebrow or three (just go with it) about the shenanigans around us.
Ratbo had been upgraded to Ratzilla at some point.
But it all works well together and we keep the human side of the emotions well in the spirit of things. And should you be worried that your actual horror quota won't be met: yes, Virginia, there is quite a bit of gore and nasty things done to all manners of lurking nasties. The zombies have more "powers" than just the usual rambling and shambling creatures that we all know and love, which makes for some pretty cool scenes. Maybe it's just the inner nerd in me screaming with glee, but when those vines start going "thwip" and snagging folks left and right and usually right around the throat, well, I just had to utter my own "cooooool!" for the experience! Besides, I'm not a huge fan of pumpkin myself - and especially not of the pumpkin-free things referred to as containing "pumpkin spice" - though when things like pies and all are made with a "pumpkin custard" recipe, I can be persuaded to have a piece or seven.
Contact Area 51. We’re going to need extra help with this one.
So overall, a fun read and a very well-executed book (seriously, kudos to the editing team). No, this will never make the splatterpunk best-seller list; no, this book will never win a Pulitzer (or a Nobel which seems to be a hot topic these days) Prize; and no, except for some well-placed and deserved f-bombs, you will see not even the first exposed breast nor any copulating creatures of any kind throughout. But in my book (or theirs more fairly said) that still doesn't mean that this wasn't a great way to start my Halloween reading for 2025! Enjoy!
He literally couldn’t think of how things could get any more perfect…
And that’s when the screaming and vomiting started.
I wound up really enjoying Chris Heinicke' and Kate Reedwood's "It Came from the Pumpkin Patch: A small town harvest monster horror" a lot more than I thought I would. Now before the usual social media trolls start screaming at me with such clever comebacks as "What? Did you think it was going to suck? Then why did you check it out? Stupid libtard snowflake and your damn Tylenol!" (it happens more than you think), please allow me to explain. First of all, I have not had the best of luck over the years when it comes to picking out specifically Halloween-themed stories that more often than not have pumpkins - or better said perhaps, demonically presented jack-o'-lanterns - on their covers. But after finishing this one, I can promise you, the cover is both apt as well as quite stylish under the circumstances.
This was neither a trick nor a treat. It was a living nightmare.
Also, just from the promo itself, I was worried this was going to be an exceedingly young adult-centered book, as Timmy the 13-year-old hater of all things made from the shitballs known as pumpkins (how's that for foreshadowing?) obviously features prominently within. However, one of the best aspects of this read for me was that the authors successfully maintained a well-balanced mix of viewpoints from the kids involved - and there was a good collection of all ages - as well as from the adults. Now, I won't just come out and say the book was family-oriented, no, but when entire families are being attacked, decimated, and ultimately zombified (more to that in a moment), it is important to get a look at the reactions and especially the shock for all involved! That and office politics, well, it all made perfect sense for those of us that have experienced both sets of people in our lives.
Don’t get bitten by a zombie. Don’t get squashed by a monster. Don’t eat pumpkin pies.
What was then especially pleasing to this self-proclaimed lover of all things zombie, is that (a) I didn't realize this was going to actually BE a zombie story and not only that, but a full-fledged "goddamn pumpkin-zombie apocalypse"! Plus, (b) said zombies - of which there were several "types" - were very unique. Maybe not as maniacally deadly as some I've seen in dozens of other books, but they did the undead proud what with them "making their ‘ur’ and ‘ug’ noises". So I have no hesitation to add this book to my pantheon (it's really just a list) of worthy Z-books immediately. I mean, we had zombie rat-pumpkin versions, or to be exact, "giant fucking scarier-than-all-hell pumpkin-headed rat" creatures. And there were zombie rat-pumpkin-human hybrids, zombies created the old-fashioned way of being bitten by infected humans, and humans that got infected simply by eating, quote, fucking orange shitballs, aka pumpkins. Oh and don't forget zombies resulting from contaminated zombie poop lying about as poop tends to do!
If a rat could become part-pumpkin, a pumpkin could also become part-rat… Oh fuck.
And, might I add (I might), the origin for these maniacally twisted undead forms (vs. lifeforms, you see) was extremely plausible. I mean, evil GMO-making corporations looking to create mutant pumpkins in the middle of the center of Pumpkin Grower-Ville, USA aka Harvest Creek, the pumpkin-growing capital of Wisconsin!! What could possibly go wrong? Now even with all that going on, the authors then manage to keep this tale moving along at quite a good pace, with both the bad guys, rats, creatures, etc. doing their darndest to annihilate or terminate (job-wise at least) the good guys en masse. Does some of it get completely silly in a drive-in creature feature kind of way? Oh hell yes, and do not think for a moment there aren't any massive explosions included as well. But the hilarity does go not so far as to interupt what has happened up to that point (it seems to have been the 7-foot to 50-foot transition in terms of size where things went fully to, well, shit). And let's be honest: when folks are turning the annual Halloween Harvest Festival into a vomitous scene worthy of "Stand By Me", it's perfectly acceptable to raise an eyebrow or three (just go with it) about the shenanigans around us.
Ratbo had been upgraded to Ratzilla at some point.
But it all works well together and we keep the human side of the emotions well in the spirit of things. And should you be worried that your actual horror quota won't be met: yes, Virginia, there is quite a bit of gore and nasty things done to all manners of lurking nasties. The zombies have more "powers" than just the usual rambling and shambling creatures that we all know and love, which makes for some pretty cool scenes. Maybe it's just the inner nerd in me screaming with glee, but when those vines start going "thwip" and snagging folks left and right and usually right around the throat, well, I just had to utter my own "cooooool!" for the experience! Besides, I'm not a huge fan of pumpkin myself - and especially not of the pumpkin-free things referred to as containing "pumpkin spice" - though when things like pies and all are made with a "pumpkin custard" recipe, I can be persuaded to have a piece or seven.
Contact Area 51. We’re going to need extra help with this one.
So overall, a fun read and a very well-executed book (seriously, kudos to the editing team). No, this will never make the splatterpunk best-seller list; no, this book will never win a Pulitzer (or a Nobel which seems to be a hot topic these days) Prize; and no, except for some well-placed and deserved f-bombs, you will see not even the first exposed breast nor any copulating creatures of any kind throughout. But in my book (or theirs more fairly said) that still doesn't mean that this wasn't a great way to start my Halloween reading for 2025! Enjoy!
November 25, 2024
When I was looking at the books available on BookSirens and choosing what to read next, this cover immediately caught my eye. It's great. A typical image of a horror story that fans of this kind of thing want to read or watch on a weekend evening or for Halloween. And I'm sorry I didn't read it for Halloween because it would have been perfect.
When I started reading the book, I immediately fell in love with it. The story is well told and it's easy to draw the reader into that world. It's about a place that grows pumpkins and every year they have a fair where they offer everything that can be made from pumpkins. By a combination of circumstances, pumpkins that were taken for the fair pies cause an addiction to pumpkins (there's a research station nearby that tests all sorts of things), kill the host after he eats them and turn them into a walking zombie pumpkin. What a twist.
Reading about this place, I could exactly imagine how they prepare everything for the fair and the noise and bustle of people. It's very easy to imagine every page that you read and that's great for me because it additionally connects the reader to the book, and then the feeling is better and more real.
As I always like to emphasize, the writing style is very important to me. The book is simply written, easy to read and, most importantly, understandable. The plot is not drawn out so that the reader thinks when something will end or wonders whether to continue or not. The story is long enough to fit everything into it, the important things, without there being any room for boredom. The characters are also very accessible. Even those who were supposedly supposed to be bad are portrayed in a very sympathetic and endearing way and it is hard to hate them or want them to pay for what they did. Except for some who got what they deserved. The only thing I found a little unbelievable was that a large number of the characters are children, and the authors didn't spare anyone. It was just cap-cap – you are gone, sorry pal. I haven't come across something like that in a very long time and that was a bit of a shock to me. But that's what books are for.
In any case, big thanks to the authors and BookSirens for allowing me and providing me with free copy to read this book, which I genuinely enjoyed. Who knows, maybe a movie will come out by next Halloween. That would be cool.
When I started reading the book, I immediately fell in love with it. The story is well told and it's easy to draw the reader into that world. It's about a place that grows pumpkins and every year they have a fair where they offer everything that can be made from pumpkins. By a combination of circumstances, pumpkins that were taken for the fair pies cause an addiction to pumpkins (there's a research station nearby that tests all sorts of things), kill the host after he eats them and turn them into a walking zombie pumpkin. What a twist.
Reading about this place, I could exactly imagine how they prepare everything for the fair and the noise and bustle of people. It's very easy to imagine every page that you read and that's great for me because it additionally connects the reader to the book, and then the feeling is better and more real.
As I always like to emphasize, the writing style is very important to me. The book is simply written, easy to read and, most importantly, understandable. The plot is not drawn out so that the reader thinks when something will end or wonders whether to continue or not. The story is long enough to fit everything into it, the important things, without there being any room for boredom. The characters are also very accessible. Even those who were supposedly supposed to be bad are portrayed in a very sympathetic and endearing way and it is hard to hate them or want them to pay for what they did. Except for some who got what they deserved. The only thing I found a little unbelievable was that a large number of the characters are children, and the authors didn't spare anyone. It was just cap-cap – you are gone, sorry pal. I haven't come across something like that in a very long time and that was a bit of a shock to me. But that's what books are for.
In any case, big thanks to the authors and BookSirens for allowing me and providing me with free copy to read this book, which I genuinely enjoyed. Who knows, maybe a movie will come out by next Halloween. That would be cool.
April 21, 2025
I grew up in the 1980's where Halloween wasn't so popular, I also lived in a house that didn't believe in Halloween and we would have to sit in the house in darkness and ignore the front door.
It was only when I had children of my own that I discovered what Halloween was all about. And it was as an adult that I cut my first pumpkin.
It Came from the Pumpkin Patch… and it doesn’t want to go back.
Thirteen-year-old Timmy Mantis hates pumpkins and anything to do with them. Growing up in Harvest Creek, the pumpkin-growing capital of Wisconsin, has been a living hell. Especially at Halloween, when the small town becomes obsessed with everything pumpkin at the annual fall festival.
When an accident happens at the local research laboratory and one of the experiments escapes, Timmy realizes he was right to hate pumpkins. As the festival becomes ground zero for a monstrous invasion of gourds-gone-wild and the body count rises—literally—Timmy must face his greatest fears or become another victim.
Accompanied by a scientist determined to put things right, Timmy uses whatever means he can to save the town and his life. But how do you kill an undead pumpkin that has revenge on its mind?
Genre: YA Horror.
Pages: 266.
This is one of the best Halloween books I ever read.
Sometimes writing reviews can take a while as it can be difficult to express how much I enjoyed a book. This was an exciting read and I loved every second of it and the creep factor was so high.
After reading this book I'm not sure if I ever want to do pumpkins anymore. Set in 1982 this story is filled with dread, evil, and a lot of spookiness.
The concept of this book was so unique. And the writing was so good,
This book is very dark and you will be unable to put the book down.
A perfect read for those dark autumn nights.
I received an ARC from Booksirens and leaving my review voluntarily.
It was only when I had children of my own that I discovered what Halloween was all about. And it was as an adult that I cut my first pumpkin.
It Came from the Pumpkin Patch… and it doesn’t want to go back.
Thirteen-year-old Timmy Mantis hates pumpkins and anything to do with them. Growing up in Harvest Creek, the pumpkin-growing capital of Wisconsin, has been a living hell. Especially at Halloween, when the small town becomes obsessed with everything pumpkin at the annual fall festival.
When an accident happens at the local research laboratory and one of the experiments escapes, Timmy realizes he was right to hate pumpkins. As the festival becomes ground zero for a monstrous invasion of gourds-gone-wild and the body count rises—literally—Timmy must face his greatest fears or become another victim.
Accompanied by a scientist determined to put things right, Timmy uses whatever means he can to save the town and his life. But how do you kill an undead pumpkin that has revenge on its mind?
Genre: YA Horror.
Pages: 266.
This is one of the best Halloween books I ever read.
Sometimes writing reviews can take a while as it can be difficult to express how much I enjoyed a book. This was an exciting read and I loved every second of it and the creep factor was so high.
After reading this book I'm not sure if I ever want to do pumpkins anymore. Set in 1982 this story is filled with dread, evil, and a lot of spookiness.
The concept of this book was so unique. And the writing was so good,
This book is very dark and you will be unable to put the book down.
A perfect read for those dark autumn nights.
I received an ARC from Booksirens and leaving my review voluntarily.
October 13, 2024
It Came from the Pumpkin Patch: A Small Town Harvest Monster horror
by Kate Reedwood
There are many ways to start a story-
Slow burns, cliffhangers, and a great hook.
In some books, you're just thrown right in and told to figure it out.
But with "It Came from the Pumpkin Patch" following a young boy in a small town it feels as if you're placed directly in his shoes. From the first chapter, I connected to young Timmy as he raced to get home for supper before dark. The scene we are introduced to is as if I have lived this moment too. The author does a wonderful job of connecting the reader to these complicated and relatable emotions that this teen is feeling and with pace as this story unravels.
This book is packed with
action
frustration
comedy
grief
love
and mistakes
It's filled with morals and simply follows a boy (and others) who is trying to do their best.
it is the perfect book to read while curling up on a chilly fall night.
I was expecting this cute fall/Halloween (Falloween??) book-
Instead, I was transported back in time to when I too was a 13-year-old kid who went on this crazy adventure with a protagonist that's choices surprised me in the best ways. It had me on the edge of my seat and I could not put the book down, needing to know what happened next.
If you are looking for a light gore action-packed book then It Came from the Pumpkin Patch: A Small Town Harvest Monster Horror
by Kate Reedwood is for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It Came from the Pumpkin Patch: A Small Town Harvest Monster Horror
by Kate Reedwood
There are many ways to start a story-
Slow burns, cliffhangers, and a great hook.
In some books, you're just thrown right in and told to figure it out.
But with "It Came from the Pumpkin Patch" following a young boy in a small town it feels as if you're placed directly in his shoes. From the first chapter, I connected to young Timmy as he raced to get home for supper before dark. The scene we are introduced to is as if I have lived this moment too. The author does a wonderful job of connecting the reader to these complicated and relatable emotions that this teen is feeling and with pace as this story unravels.
This book is packed with
action
frustration
comedy
grief
love
and mistakes
It's filled with morals and simply follows a boy (and others) who is trying to do their best.
it is the perfect book to read while curling up on a chilly fall night.
I was expecting this cute fall/Halloween (Falloween??) book-
Instead, I was transported back in time to when I too was a 13-year-old kid who went on this crazy adventure with a protagonist that's choices surprised me in the best ways. It had me on the edge of my seat and I could not put the book down, needing to know what happened next.
If you are looking for a light gore action-packed book then It Came from the Pumpkin Patch: A Small Town Harvest Monster Horror
by Kate Reedwood is for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It Came from the Pumpkin Patch: A Small Town Harvest Monster Horror
October 9, 2024
Thank you, BookSiren, for the ARC, and thank you to the writer and publishers for all your hard work. This review is voluntary and happily left!
I'm not really into zombie books, but getting into this one, I'm so glad to have been a part of it. There were so many twists and turns, funny and horrific parts to make up the plot of this book. When you think you've figured something out another is thrown at you, making you say what the heck did I just read? I enjoy it when books do this to me. It's full of surprises and unique twists. Plus, you also fall in love with the characters and want so much for them. You feel so much for some and want others to suffer so much! Plus, just the overall quirkyness, i just love all of it combined together.
Do you hate pumpkins? Like, really hate them? Then beware! What's to happen once a zombie apocalyptic style horror happens in this small tien that loves all things pumpkin? Timmy hates pumpkins, and there's definitely good reason to now. How will he and others of this small town keep everyone safe? Will the world end up destroyed by pumpkins or worse? Will the scientist involved be able to come up with something in time to stop the spreading of the Demented pumpkins. Read and find out.
Like I said before, I'm not into zombie books, but I really enjoyed this one. The humor, darkness, and the childness qualities in it. Even so, I truly loved the horror and the dread it inflicted, and when I had to put the book down, all i could think about was what was going to happen next? Will they survive, who's going to die, and will they find out how to defeat the enemy? I definitely will be adding this author to my favorites.
I'm not really into zombie books, but getting into this one, I'm so glad to have been a part of it. There were so many twists and turns, funny and horrific parts to make up the plot of this book. When you think you've figured something out another is thrown at you, making you say what the heck did I just read? I enjoy it when books do this to me. It's full of surprises and unique twists. Plus, you also fall in love with the characters and want so much for them. You feel so much for some and want others to suffer so much! Plus, just the overall quirkyness, i just love all of it combined together.
Do you hate pumpkins? Like, really hate them? Then beware! What's to happen once a zombie apocalyptic style horror happens in this small tien that loves all things pumpkin? Timmy hates pumpkins, and there's definitely good reason to now. How will he and others of this small town keep everyone safe? Will the world end up destroyed by pumpkins or worse? Will the scientist involved be able to come up with something in time to stop the spreading of the Demented pumpkins. Read and find out.
Like I said before, I'm not into zombie books, but I really enjoyed this one. The humor, darkness, and the childness qualities in it. Even so, I truly loved the horror and the dread it inflicted, and when I had to put the book down, all i could think about was what was going to happen next? Will they survive, who's going to die, and will they find out how to defeat the enemy? I definitely will be adding this author to my favorites.
October 19, 2024
🎃🧟🎃🧟🎃 5 out of 5 for this amazing tale. it will cause you finger blisters for how quickly the story progresses. bonus - part of the mall priest universe! the main monster is one for the ages and will stick with me: starting with the original monster's name and evolving to the spiraling out of control spawn it, all the baddies and truly unique. come prepared to have your mind blow with the authors' creativity.
mix the 80s, a group of teens, small town country american love of 'the orange shit balls' with the fun creepy dread of john carpenter's The Thing and plucky vibes of stranger things plus a truck full of memorable characters.
relatable teen farmboy brothers and a strong willed scientist are the main characters
like any great 80s horror / comedy movie rounding out the cast are other loveable teens and fun 'character actor' supporting adult characters: dominining farm dad and mom with love in their hearts for their boys, a laugh out loud security guard, a loathsome corporate sleaze ball (straight from Aliens) and countless others way out of their depths
the world created in such a short time feels real to my experience of small town america in love with fall and the characters' grow and world view are spot on. main character's growth is real feels real.
slight spoilers - dont get attached to the characters like any great 80s action horror tale.
mix the 80s, a group of teens, small town country american love of 'the orange shit balls' with the fun creepy dread of john carpenter's The Thing and plucky vibes of stranger things plus a truck full of memorable characters.
relatable teen farmboy brothers and a strong willed scientist are the main characters
like any great 80s horror / comedy movie rounding out the cast are other loveable teens and fun 'character actor' supporting adult characters: dominining farm dad and mom with love in their hearts for their boys, a laugh out loud security guard, a loathsome corporate sleaze ball (straight from Aliens) and countless others way out of their depths
the world created in such a short time feels real to my experience of small town america in love with fall and the characters' grow and world view are spot on. main character's growth is real feels real.
slight spoilers - dont get attached to the characters like any great 80s action horror tale.
December 23, 2024
You know you've read a great book when you catch yourself daydreaming about it while trying to read your next one, forgetting to turn the page. So embarrassing for your current read!
"It Came from the Pumpkin Patch" is set in Harvest Creek, where a group of kids tries to save the town from a monstrous pumpkin patch. Dun Dun Dun! (Insert dramatic music here).
Welcome to Harvest Creek, where there's going to be a lot of dying going on. This year’s Pumpkin Festival is going to be killer! The story delves into the nefarious testing facility that’s been spraying the pumpkin patches on its property. Did they really think it wouldn't get out?
The pie contest, which was supposed to be a highlight, leads to mass hysteria and an ungodly amount of deaths and resurrections in a single day. I love books that don’t mind offing characters you like. It's reassuring to know there are authors with standards. (That’s a joke, folks, please take it as one!)
This is a campy 1980s nostalgia story with wonderful feels, so it deserves a review with a little dry humor. If you enjoy a good horror monster murder mystery with a touch of camp, then this book is for you. Keep an eye out for it!
Don't let this on squash you by.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"It Came from the Pumpkin Patch" is set in Harvest Creek, where a group of kids tries to save the town from a monstrous pumpkin patch. Dun Dun Dun! (Insert dramatic music here).
Welcome to Harvest Creek, where there's going to be a lot of dying going on. This year’s Pumpkin Festival is going to be killer! The story delves into the nefarious testing facility that’s been spraying the pumpkin patches on its property. Did they really think it wouldn't get out?
The pie contest, which was supposed to be a highlight, leads to mass hysteria and an ungodly amount of deaths and resurrections in a single day. I love books that don’t mind offing characters you like. It's reassuring to know there are authors with standards. (That’s a joke, folks, please take it as one!)
This is a campy 1980s nostalgia story with wonderful feels, so it deserves a review with a little dry humor. If you enjoy a good horror monster murder mystery with a touch of camp, then this book is for you. Keep an eye out for it!
Don't let this on squash you by.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews