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And the Trees Stare Back
Many go into the forest. Only one comes back.
1989, Soviet Estonia. In sixteen-year-old Vik’s village—and the cursed forest that looms beyond—danger is everywhere. Soldiers threaten those who so much as dream of dissent. The villagers’ words are sharp with accusations of witchcraft. And deep in the heart of the wood, a lantern-eyed spirit lies in wait to disappear those who wander too far past the trees.
Vik knows because five years ago, she led her little sister Anna over that invisible line—and never saw her again.
The only thing Vik has wished for since then is her sister’s safe return. So when Anna stumbles back through the tree line on the anniversary of her disappearance, it’s a miracle…
Or is it a lie?
As unsettling inconsistencies between this girl and the one who vanished reveal themselves, Vik starts to doubt whether this Anna is her Anna—or something else entirely. Whoever she is, one thing is clear: she was never meant to escape the trees.
And unless Vik can uncover the secrets of the forest, it’s going to take her back.
Rooted in real history with a speculative twist, the horrors of And The Trees Stare Back are the ones we already know: existing as a marginalized person under a hostile state. Raising powerful questions about whose humanity counts and how to survive if the governing body decides yours doesn't, this politically incisive folk-horror irresistibly explores ever-relevant legacies of activism and solidarity.
A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
1989, Soviet Estonia. In sixteen-year-old Vik’s village—and the cursed forest that looms beyond—danger is everywhere. Soldiers threaten those who so much as dream of dissent. The villagers’ words are sharp with accusations of witchcraft. And deep in the heart of the wood, a lantern-eyed spirit lies in wait to disappear those who wander too far past the trees.
Vik knows because five years ago, she led her little sister Anna over that invisible line—and never saw her again.
The only thing Vik has wished for since then is her sister’s safe return. So when Anna stumbles back through the tree line on the anniversary of her disappearance, it’s a miracle…
Or is it a lie?
As unsettling inconsistencies between this girl and the one who vanished reveal themselves, Vik starts to doubt whether this Anna is her Anna—or something else entirely. Whoever she is, one thing is clear: she was never meant to escape the trees.
And unless Vik can uncover the secrets of the forest, it’s going to take her back.
Rooted in real history with a speculative twist, the horrors of And The Trees Stare Back are the ones we already know: existing as a marginalized person under a hostile state. Raising powerful questions about whose humanity counts and how to survive if the governing body decides yours doesn't, this politically incisive folk-horror irresistibly explores ever-relevant legacies of activism and solidarity.
A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
368 pages, Hardcover
First published May 27, 2025
28 people are currently reading
6025 people want to read
About the author
Gigi Griffis
17 books188 followersGigi Griffis is a critically acclaimed author of novels for adults and teens, including We Are The Beasts, The Lioness, and And the Trees Stare Back (a JLG Gold Standard Selection).
She’s a sucker for little-known histories, “unlikable” female characters, and all things Europe. After almost ten years of semi-nomadic life, she now lives in Portugal with an opinionated Yorkie-mix named Luna and a collection of very nerdy books.
She’s a sucker for little-known histories, “unlikable” female characters, and all things Europe. After almost ten years of semi-nomadic life, she now lives in Portugal with an opinionated Yorkie-mix named Luna and a collection of very nerdy books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
February 28, 2025
Many thanks to NetGalley and Holiday House for the ARC! Five phenomenal stars.
This book was like a kaleidoscope–lots of genres all swirled into one amazing picture:
-Folk horror
-Mystery
-Culture/History (Learned so much about Estonia and the Singing Revolution)
-(And a VERY cool surprise genre I don’t want to spoil!)
Above all, though, this is a story about family, healing, and community as an act of rebellion.
Viktoria lives in ~1970’s rural Estonia on the edge of a forest. She only sees its beauty, but it’s said to be stalked by an old god of the bog, and numerous villagers have ventured in never to be heard from again. When Vik takes her toddler sister along to share her favorite place, the unthinkable happens, and Anna vanishes. …Only to reappear ten years later, stumbling out of the forest, exactly the same age.
Is she a witch? Is she a changeling? Is she even the same Anna? The village grows uneasy, then dangerous. But after ten years of grief and guilt, Vik realizes–she doesn’t care. She will do anything to protect this silent, strange child. Her journey leads her to the heart of the bog’s mystery, unravelling secrets while evading Soviet surveillance–and danger lurking in the trees.
To say more would be to spoil the absolutely wild plot twist halfway through (secret genre!), but I was hooked well before that. This story has a ton of heart. It’s about fierce love, psychological healing, keeping hope alive beneath oppression, and how a community can be fractured by grief but still bound together by love. The ending was absolutely beautiful, tying in the Singing Revolution–which I learned about for the first time. Three Baltic countries came together in a human chain two million people strong, protesting Soviet control with one weapon: patriotic songs, which the Soviets had outlawed.
On a more personal note, as someone with OCD, I also deeply appreciate the mental health representation. I noticed some of Vik’s behaviors and wondered, only for a very touching author’s note at the end to confirm my suspicions: Vik and her mom are both traumatized by Anna’s loss, and Vik lives with PTSD and OCD as a result. But this is a story of healing, and how to live with the weight while embracing life and hope. Incredibly well-done.
This book was like a kaleidoscope–lots of genres all swirled into one amazing picture:
-Folk horror
-Mystery
-Culture/History (Learned so much about Estonia and the Singing Revolution)
-(And a VERY cool surprise genre I don’t want to spoil!)
Above all, though, this is a story about family, healing, and community as an act of rebellion.
Viktoria lives in ~1970’s rural Estonia on the edge of a forest. She only sees its beauty, but it’s said to be stalked by an old god of the bog, and numerous villagers have ventured in never to be heard from again. When Vik takes her toddler sister along to share her favorite place, the unthinkable happens, and Anna vanishes. …Only to reappear ten years later, stumbling out of the forest, exactly the same age.
Is she a witch? Is she a changeling? Is she even the same Anna? The village grows uneasy, then dangerous. But after ten years of grief and guilt, Vik realizes–she doesn’t care. She will do anything to protect this silent, strange child. Her journey leads her to the heart of the bog’s mystery, unravelling secrets while evading Soviet surveillance–and danger lurking in the trees.
To say more would be to spoil the absolutely wild plot twist halfway through (secret genre!), but I was hooked well before that. This story has a ton of heart. It’s about fierce love, psychological healing, keeping hope alive beneath oppression, and how a community can be fractured by grief but still bound together by love. The ending was absolutely beautiful, tying in the Singing Revolution–which I learned about for the first time. Three Baltic countries came together in a human chain two million people strong, protesting Soviet control with one weapon: patriotic songs, which the Soviets had outlawed.
On a more personal note, as someone with OCD, I also deeply appreciate the mental health representation. I noticed some of Vik’s behaviors and wondered, only for a very touching author’s note at the end to confirm my suspicions: Vik and her mom are both traumatized by Anna’s loss, and Vik lives with PTSD and OCD as a result. But this is a story of healing, and how to live with the weight while embracing life and hope. Incredibly well-done.
May 22, 2025
If you’re on the hunt for stories with disability representation, look no further. Gigi Griffis has done a fantastic job of it. I won’t mention the specific disabilities because I think it’s important to go in blind, read the entire story, and then read the very important author’s note at the very end.
Griffis brings late-1980s Soviet-occupied Estonia to vivid life in this tale of bogs, forests, secrets and folklore. I will say, though, I personally was hoping for more folklore. Still, this is a haunting story of life under occupation, and what it means to chafe under expectations.
Vik has lived for five years without her little sister, who disappeared when they were both in the forest. Vik has always blamed herself, and both she and her mother are traumatized without little Anna. Suddenly, Anna reappears just inside the tree line…but she’s odd. Different, somehow. Vik can’t quite put her finger on it, but she starts to wonder—is this *really* her sister?
Twists and turns abound. It’s well worth a read.
Thank you to both NetGalley and Holiday House for an advance copy. I am writing this review voluntarily.
Griffis brings late-1980s Soviet-occupied Estonia to vivid life in this tale of bogs, forests, secrets and folklore. I will say, though, I personally was hoping for more folklore. Still, this is a haunting story of life under occupation, and what it means to chafe under expectations.
Vik has lived for five years without her little sister, who disappeared when they were both in the forest. Vik has always blamed herself, and both she and her mother are traumatized without little Anna. Suddenly, Anna reappears just inside the tree line…but she’s odd. Different, somehow. Vik can’t quite put her finger on it, but she starts to wonder—is this *really* her sister?
Twists and turns abound. It’s well worth a read.
Thank you to both NetGalley and Holiday House for an advance copy. I am writing this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2025
4.25⭐️
this surprised the heck out of me, I enjoyed this so so much. The slow burn pacing of the mystery worked so well, I couldn’t put it down.
I found Vik to be a really compelling and relatable character, and appreciated reading about such an authentic experience with mental health and grief, with the backdrop of an oppressive, tense, and paranoid political landscape.
I loved the subtle creeping dread that persists throughout the entire novel as Vik unravels this mystery…and like all great horror novels, the truth is more horrifying and distressing than any of my theories.
I also loved the ambiguity for most of the novel around whether there’s a presence of supernatural/paranormal forces or not. I LOVE when you have to ask yourself “is there something supernatural going on? Or is there a rational explanation?”
My absolute favorite aspect of the book was Viks cards and how each chapter relates to one of her cards. I loved the inclusion of the cards and how Vik used them to reflect, guide, comfort, or ground her.
While on the surface this books reads like a folk horror, there’s also so much more to it, like themes of identity, family, friendship, forgiveness, and mental health. I highly recommend to anyone craving a really good slow burn, unnerving, unraveling mystery.
Also shoutout to the fox for being an absolute DELIGHT every time she was on page
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for an e copy of this book, all opinions and thoughts in this review are my own
February 9, 2025
This story was interesting, I loved the concept and mystery behind it.
And the Trees Stare Back is set in Soviet Estonia, 1989. It follows sixteen year old Viktoria (Vik) whose life was changed when five years back, her sister Anna went missing beyond the bog. One day, Anna comes wandering back from the woods, but there’s something off about her. Vik starts to wonder if this truly is her sister that came back or if it’s something else. Vik is determined to find the answers.
This story is shrouded in mystery and I had absolutely no idea where this story was going as I was reading. I kept trying to figure out the mystery, but in the end it was something completely unexpected.
I loved the characters Vik and Liis. I thought they were well crafted, lovable characters. I also adored Kaos. Who doesn’t love a story with a pet fox? This story felt darkly whimsical and I appreciated the bits of history tied in. I thought the twist at the end was unique. I expected something completely different from where this story ended up but I wasn’t disappointed by the route it took.
The only thing I really struggled with and what ultimately landed me at 3/5 stars was the pacing and the ability to draw me in. While I loved the characters and loved where this story ended up, I felt like this story struggled to entice me. The pacing felt unbalanced. While there was a lot of drama and mystery surrounding Anna, I also felt as though not much was happening until around 70% of this book. Once I hit this point, everything started to fall together and the story really picked up.
I am still grateful to have read this book and thank NetGalley and the publisher for the arc. All opinions are my own.
TW: child abuse, child death, confinement, death, mental illness, panic attacks, physical abuse, violence, medical content, kidnapping, grief, murder, war
And the Trees Stare Back is set in Soviet Estonia, 1989. It follows sixteen year old Viktoria (Vik) whose life was changed when five years back, her sister Anna went missing beyond the bog. One day, Anna comes wandering back from the woods, but there’s something off about her. Vik starts to wonder if this truly is her sister that came back or if it’s something else. Vik is determined to find the answers.
This story is shrouded in mystery and I had absolutely no idea where this story was going as I was reading. I kept trying to figure out the mystery, but in the end it was something completely unexpected.
I loved the characters Vik and Liis. I thought they were well crafted, lovable characters. I also adored Kaos. Who doesn’t love a story with a pet fox? This story felt darkly whimsical and I appreciated the bits of history tied in. I thought the twist at the end was unique. I expected something completely different from where this story ended up but I wasn’t disappointed by the route it took.
The only thing I really struggled with and what ultimately landed me at 3/5 stars was the pacing and the ability to draw me in. While I loved the characters and loved where this story ended up, I felt like this story struggled to entice me. The pacing felt unbalanced. While there was a lot of drama and mystery surrounding Anna, I also felt as though not much was happening until around 70% of this book. Once I hit this point, everything started to fall together and the story really picked up.
I am still grateful to have read this book and thank NetGalley and the publisher for the arc. All opinions are my own.
TW: child abuse, child death, confinement, death, mental illness, panic attacks, physical abuse, violence, medical content, kidnapping, grief, murder, war
June 27, 2025
2025 reads: 155/300
i received a finished copy from the publisher as part of their influencer program. this did not affect my rating.
everyone in vik’s village knows not to go into the forest; after all, no one who enters makes it out. no one, that is, besides vik herself. and when vik lost her sister anna to the forest five years ago, this only further solidified the village’s fear of the forest. now, though, anna is back…but she’s the same age she was when she went missing. something else feels off about her, leading vik to wonder if this is her anna after all. she teams up with an old friend to get to the bottom of the mystery surrounding the forest.
this was such an interesting story, from the folk horror roots to the relationship dynamics to the way the mystery unfolded. this is set in soviet estonia, and i liked how this detail played into the story. i was also pleasantly surprised by the fact that this book featured ocd and ptsd representation, as i wasn’t expecting to get either of these going in. overall, this was a great book. i’m looking forward to reading more from gigi griffis!
i received a finished copy from the publisher as part of their influencer program. this did not affect my rating.
everyone in vik’s village knows not to go into the forest; after all, no one who enters makes it out. no one, that is, besides vik herself. and when vik lost her sister anna to the forest five years ago, this only further solidified the village’s fear of the forest. now, though, anna is back…but she’s the same age she was when she went missing. something else feels off about her, leading vik to wonder if this is her anna after all. she teams up with an old friend to get to the bottom of the mystery surrounding the forest.
this was such an interesting story, from the folk horror roots to the relationship dynamics to the way the mystery unfolded. this is set in soviet estonia, and i liked how this detail played into the story. i was also pleasantly surprised by the fact that this book featured ocd and ptsd representation, as i wasn’t expecting to get either of these going in. overall, this was a great book. i’m looking forward to reading more from gigi griffis!
December 5, 2024
This book was creepy and bone-chilling in the best way! It’s a setting and time period I haven’t read a book in before and I really liked that.
May 7, 2025
Bawled my eyes out, 10/10
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Read as an ARC from Netgalley, many thanks to the publisher Holiday House
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And the Trees Stare Back is a YA horror set in Soviet Estonia of the 1980s, that deals with themes of family, identity and trauma. With its setting, it talks quite a bit about the trauma of living under an authoritarian government, with specific attention on what it means to be 'not-normal' - particularly queer and/or disabled - in a state that demands uniformity.
The protagonist is confirmed to have OCD by the author, who also suffers from the disorder herself. While I do not have OCD myself, I nonetheless found the depiction very refreshing, as it shows the reality of the disorder and the thought-spirals behind it that will have you believing that your whole family will die if you do not press the light-switch next to the front door exactly ten times. It also discusses the frustration, that will be intimately familiar to anyone with an anxiety disorder, of knowing that your fears are not rational, while also not being able to do anything about it.
As a Finnish person who grew up loving Finnish folklore and its many creatures, it also made me realise how embarrassingly little I know about Estonian folklore, which I shall strive to remedy immediately.
So, long story short, I really loved this book.
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Read as an ARC from Netgalley, many thanks to the publisher Holiday House
---
And the Trees Stare Back is a YA horror set in Soviet Estonia of the 1980s, that deals with themes of family, identity and trauma. With its setting, it talks quite a bit about the trauma of living under an authoritarian government, with specific attention on what it means to be 'not-normal' - particularly queer and/or disabled - in a state that demands uniformity.
The protagonist is confirmed to have OCD by the author, who also suffers from the disorder herself. While I do not have OCD myself, I nonetheless found the depiction very refreshing, as it shows the reality of the disorder and the thought-spirals behind it that will have you believing that your whole family will die if you do not press the light-switch next to the front door exactly ten times. It also discusses the frustration, that will be intimately familiar to anyone with an anxiety disorder, of knowing that your fears are not rational, while also not being able to do anything about it.
As a Finnish person who grew up loving Finnish folklore and its many creatures, it also made me realise how embarrassingly little I know about Estonian folklore, which I shall strive to remedy immediately.
So, long story short, I really loved this book.
April 17, 2025
This is a tricky book to rate. On one hand, it offers an interesting premise, sympathetic characters, and some intriguing glimpses of life in Soviet Estonia. On the other, it suffers from inconsistent pacing, and the horror it seems to promise promptly morphs into something else I won’t spoil. Yet despite its flaws, it’s a beautifully written novel with a powerful message, and I appreciated its rich depiction of mental health and trauma.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC!
February 14, 2025
this didn't go in a direction that i thought it would. it was very good, writing and storyline wise. it was also very slow, it didn't pick up until like it hit the 60% / 70% mark.
May 1, 2025
Gigi Griffis is cementing herself as one of my favorite authors, this is my second book by her and I adored it as much as I did the first. This book was brave, scary, profound, challenging, and simply amazing. A book that confronts occupation and dehumanization through the lenses of Soviet Estonia in the 1980s, it adds in this element of folklore and the supernatural that had me hooked. The characters are extremely well developed, and I felt a huge weight lift when I recognized that the main character had OCD and IT WAS ACCURATELY REPRESENTED!!! As someone with OCD, it just felt so good to be seen and to be validated in a way that was real to what the disorder is. I felt like I was in the story, running through the forest and the bog and sitting in the living room and staring at the asylum. I was completely immersed in it every single second and I loved the mystery and how it kept me guessing at every turn. Truly phenomenal, a must read if you like books that are allegorical to current political issues, folklore and spooky settings, mental health rep (OCD, PTSD, CPTSD), and mystery.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC and thank you to Gigi Griffis for writing something so phenomenal.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC and thank you to Gigi Griffis for writing something so phenomenal.
February 19, 2025
For fans of Stranger Things, Naomi Novik, and Katherine Arden's the Bear and the Nightingale. This book was hard to put down.
In Sovient Estonia, a 5 year old girl goes missing. 10 years later, she returns, but is still 5 years old. Her sister tries to investigate as best she can, suspecting fairies and creatures of folklore. The truth is much more real and sinister.
I loved how this book was about rebellious people in Estonia. I loved the use of the Oracle Cards
In Sovient Estonia, a 5 year old girl goes missing. 10 years later, she returns, but is still 5 years old. Her sister tries to investigate as best she can, suspecting fairies and creatures of folklore. The truth is much more real and sinister.
I loved how this book was about rebellious people in Estonia. I loved the use of the Oracle Cards
March 10, 2025
2.8 terrible pacing i was bored asf
July 28, 2025
This was a riveting, suspenseful, magical and realistic historical horror based in the year and country I was born in (Estonia 1989), so this had a special place in my heart. I’m also a bit biased, yes, but I really enjoyed the story, the characters, the writing, the atmosphere, the realistic horrors of Soviet occupation. The author clearly did a lot of research and I respect and was so excited for Estonian horror representation. As I most recently returned from visiting Estonia myself, including a bog, I was able to really hone in on the horrors and myths around bogs, and how people get easily lost in their eeriness where very little life can survive there, and prolonging your stay can make you dizzy. Bogs are so eerily silent that I can imagine in pitch black lighting, having no sound as point of reference can be disorienting.
Back to the story, I loved the sisterhood between characters, the endless conspiracies, the real fear of hiding from Russian soldiers, and the determination right to the very end. I enjoyed the spooky and science-fiction elements. And I loved how the ending tied into some real events around Estonian liberation. Very powerful and inspiring. Highly recommended for those that have never heard of this little part of the world and its sacred connection to nature. Especially if you enjoy a slightly more innocent perspective where it feels like a game of cat and mouse in the woods/bog.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this advanced readers copy.
Back to the story, I loved the sisterhood between characters, the endless conspiracies, the real fear of hiding from Russian soldiers, and the determination right to the very end. I enjoyed the spooky and science-fiction elements. And I loved how the ending tied into some real events around Estonian liberation. Very powerful and inspiring. Highly recommended for those that have never heard of this little part of the world and its sacred connection to nature. Especially if you enjoy a slightly more innocent perspective where it feels like a game of cat and mouse in the woods/bog.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this advanced readers copy.
August 31, 2025
This book was full of twists and turns, and I had no idea where it was going to end up. I was thrilled to read a book set in Estonia, a country about which I know almost nothing. I loved learning about their culture, and it sent me on a deep dive to learn more.
This book has a lot of great representation; there are queer characters, disability rep, and mental illness rep. The story centers around a village near a bog where children frequently go missing. The protagonist lost her 5-year-old sister to the bog 5 years prior, and then one day, she returns, still 5 years old. What happened? Why hasn't she aged? Why doesn't she speak Estonian or seem to recognize anyone?
Sometimes the pacing was slow and it felt repetitive at times, but overall, I really enjoyed this story!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a free e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
This book has a lot of great representation; there are queer characters, disability rep, and mental illness rep. The story centers around a village near a bog where children frequently go missing. The protagonist lost her 5-year-old sister to the bog 5 years prior, and then one day, she returns, still 5 years old. What happened? Why hasn't she aged? Why doesn't she speak Estonian or seem to recognize anyone?
Sometimes the pacing was slow and it felt repetitive at times, but overall, I really enjoyed this story!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a free e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
June 11, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy for review.
I really enjoyed this book. A bit of folk horror, a bit of political horror and some mad scientist thrown in there.
My favorite part of was the setting and time the book took place. I knew nothing about Estonia or its ties to the USSR. Their fight for freedom, although a relatively minor part of the story, had me researching the history.
I also enjoyed the science aspect and the setting of the asylum in the woods. So terrifying. Mixing cold science with the natural setting of the bog/woods.
The characters and family drama was intriguing and kept me reading. It started to move at a faster pace about 75% in and there was lots of action.
Recommend for those looking for something a little different in their horror.
I really enjoyed this book. A bit of folk horror, a bit of political horror and some mad scientist thrown in there.
My favorite part of was the setting and time the book took place. I knew nothing about Estonia or its ties to the USSR. Their fight for freedom, although a relatively minor part of the story, had me researching the history.
I also enjoyed the science aspect and the setting of the asylum in the woods. So terrifying. Mixing cold science with the natural setting of the bog/woods.
The characters and family drama was intriguing and kept me reading. It started to move at a faster pace about 75% in and there was lots of action.
Recommend for those looking for something a little different in their horror.
September 20, 2025
I almost put this books down after e few chapters. I was so put off by the constant "noise" of the main character and the lack of anywhere to rest for a moment.
Before I abandoned it though (and I always do this on books I'm not enjoying), I turned to the back to read any author notes. I discovered historical notes about this time period in Estonia and a deeply personal author note describing her struggle with OCD and CPTSD (Compound Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). She writes, "When I see books and movies talk about OCD, it's always kind of a joke...The truth is that OCD takes whatever your deepest, darkest, and sometimes most unreasonable fears are and slams them into you over and over again."
I kept reading. With this new information in mind, the book took on such a deeper meaning and I am so glad I finished it.
Before I abandoned it though (and I always do this on books I'm not enjoying), I turned to the back to read any author notes. I discovered historical notes about this time period in Estonia and a deeply personal author note describing her struggle with OCD and CPTSD (Compound Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). She writes, "When I see books and movies talk about OCD, it's always kind of a joke...The truth is that OCD takes whatever your deepest, darkest, and sometimes most unreasonable fears are and slams them into you over and over again."
I kept reading. With this new information in mind, the book took on such a deeper meaning and I am so glad I finished it.
dnf
November 20, 2025dnf @ chapter 13. I understand what the author is attempting to convey wrt to OCD but I don't think it's done effectively if it requires grinding the momentum of the narrative to a halt every couple of pages to portray the MC's intrusive thoughts. Made it very difficult to become invested in the slow-to-start plot despite the very intriguing premise. And I like tarot imagery as much as the next lesbian but I think having to explain a fake tarot card to us every chapter so we understand the significance of the chapter title is beleaguered. Just commission a personal deck or something.
February 24, 2025
Unexpectedly tragic and heartwarming. Most of the book has Dark vibes, while the ending was more 80's sci-fi. The relationships between characters is where this story excels. Complicated familial relationships, strained friendships, overcoming trauma and feelings of self worth.
The first 2/3s of the story were slow paced, but kept me invested enough in the mystery. The direction the end takes was one I wasn't expecting.
Thank you to Netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
The first 2/3s of the story were slow paced, but kept me invested enough in the mystery. The direction the end takes was one I wasn't expecting.
Thank you to Netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2025
I appreciated the little-known (to me) time period and setting the most.
May 4, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy
And the Trees Stare Back by Gigi Griffis is a first person-POV YA Sapphic historical horror set in Estonia in 1989. Five years ago, Vik’s younger sister, Anna, was taken by the bog outside their town. One day, Anna comes back with no memories, speaking perfect Russian instead of Estonian, and is still five-years-old instead of ten, like she should be. Vik and her best friend and romantic interest, Liis, are going to try to find out what happened and if the bog is magic.
Like Gigi Griffis’ previous YA historical horror, We Are the Beasts, the question of whether the horror elements are supernatural or it can all be explained by things in the world we have is one that remains for the most of the book. Vik is pretty convinced that the bog is magic but the adults around her aren’t as convinced. What really sells this for me is the setting as the Soviet Union committed so many crimes against humanity that I fully believed that if magic was going on, the adults would still think immediately that it had to be the Soviet Union.
The moment I saw when this book took place and where, I immediately requested it. We don’t have enough books exploring the way the Soviet Union was flattening the cultures and languages of Eastern Europe in order to make everything ‘like Russia.’ It’s a form of cultural imperialism and we need to talk about the Iron Curtain more. The way Vik remarks on how her language and culture is constantly treated as lesser and how she learned Russian in school only helped to highlight these points.
Liis and Vik’s romance feels like one that has been deeply established and is, in many ways, just a given. They are in love, their mothers were in love at one point, and they are going to work together. As such, there isn’t really a romance arc. There are disagreements and frustration and the normal aspects that come with a relationship, but it’s not following the structure. For me, this was fine because the book is exploring CPTSD and oppression and rebellion and the romance complemented it without overshadowing the other things.
Content warning for imperialism and child death
I would recommend this to fans of YA horror who want a historical discussing real world oppression and readers looking for books set in the Soviet Union
And the Trees Stare Back by Gigi Griffis is a first person-POV YA Sapphic historical horror set in Estonia in 1989. Five years ago, Vik’s younger sister, Anna, was taken by the bog outside their town. One day, Anna comes back with no memories, speaking perfect Russian instead of Estonian, and is still five-years-old instead of ten, like she should be. Vik and her best friend and romantic interest, Liis, are going to try to find out what happened and if the bog is magic.
Like Gigi Griffis’ previous YA historical horror, We Are the Beasts, the question of whether the horror elements are supernatural or it can all be explained by things in the world we have is one that remains for the most of the book. Vik is pretty convinced that the bog is magic but the adults around her aren’t as convinced. What really sells this for me is the setting as the Soviet Union committed so many crimes against humanity that I fully believed that if magic was going on, the adults would still think immediately that it had to be the Soviet Union.
The moment I saw when this book took place and where, I immediately requested it. We don’t have enough books exploring the way the Soviet Union was flattening the cultures and languages of Eastern Europe in order to make everything ‘like Russia.’ It’s a form of cultural imperialism and we need to talk about the Iron Curtain more. The way Vik remarks on how her language and culture is constantly treated as lesser and how she learned Russian in school only helped to highlight these points.
Liis and Vik’s romance feels like one that has been deeply established and is, in many ways, just a given. They are in love, their mothers were in love at one point, and they are going to work together. As such, there isn’t really a romance arc. There are disagreements and frustration and the normal aspects that come with a relationship, but it’s not following the structure. For me, this was fine because the book is exploring CPTSD and oppression and rebellion and the romance complemented it without overshadowing the other things.
Content warning for imperialism and child death
I would recommend this to fans of YA horror who want a historical discussing real world oppression and readers looking for books set in the Soviet Union
May 8, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers as well as Peach Tree for my physical ARC in enhance for my honest review!!
Actual rating 4.5 stars
I was pulled into this story for the horror aspect but stayed for the interesting history lesson about Estonia. I didn’t know anything about Estonia and how it was under the USSR so this was a super fascinating read.
While I was expecting a supernatural story about haunted trees or mystical spirits that take away little girls, the truth of the story was unique and I enjoyed the twists.
The family and friends aspect in this was very strong and I wanted to see a layout of this little village. I can also only imagine the anguish of the Russians being over everything and not being able to fully be yourself.
This book also goes into a bit about mental illness and I appreciated the breakdown at the end for the historical notes and the notes about mental illness throughout.
This was also a more emotional book than I anticipated. I was actually kinda sad through a good bit of it. I really enjoyed this one and I’m looking forward to more from Gigi like this!
Actual rating 4.5 stars
I was pulled into this story for the horror aspect but stayed for the interesting history lesson about Estonia. I didn’t know anything about Estonia and how it was under the USSR so this was a super fascinating read.
While I was expecting a supernatural story about haunted trees or mystical spirits that take away little girls, the truth of the story was unique and I enjoyed the twists.
The family and friends aspect in this was very strong and I wanted to see a layout of this little village. I can also only imagine the anguish of the Russians being over everything and not being able to fully be yourself.
This book also goes into a bit about mental illness and I appreciated the breakdown at the end for the historical notes and the notes about mental illness throughout.
This was also a more emotional book than I anticipated. I was actually kinda sad through a good bit of it. I really enjoyed this one and I’m looking forward to more from Gigi like this!
February 10, 2025
This is another one of those books where I feel like the advertised genre has tricked me. It was an "oooh, I want" because I saw that it was supposed to be a horror, but then I read it, and it is mildly sci-fi, but mostly just a regular young adult novel with historical backties. The first few chapters excited and hooked me, but the middle was dull. Even when the revelation happened, it was pretty predictable when it came to discovering the bad guy.
Perhaps the Anne and Liis thing was a nice curveball, but at that point, I was so over the book that I kept marching on because my heart wasn't in on it, but I was determined to finish what I started. Maybe if Vik weren't so damn unlikable, then it would have been easier to enjoy.
Thank you, Netgalley, for allowing me the opportunity to read and review.
Perhaps the Anne and Liis thing was a nice curveball, but at that point, I was so over the book that I kept marching on because my heart wasn't in on it, but I was determined to finish what I started. Maybe if Vik weren't so damn unlikable, then it would have been easier to enjoy.
Thank you, Netgalley, for allowing me the opportunity to read and review.
June 13, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up
review coming soon
review coming soon
January 26, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and Holiday House for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Gigi Griffis delivers a haunting and deeply poignant YA folk-horror novel in “And the Trees Stare Back.” Set in 1989 Soviet-occupied Estonia, this story masterfully weaves historical realism with folklore, exploring themes of humanity and resistance against oppression. With its evocative setting and gripping mystery, the book is a must-read for fans of atmospheric horror and historical fiction.
In a small Estonian village, 16-year-old Vik lives under the shadow of occupation, fear, and the looming threat of the cursed forest beyond her home. Five years ago, her younger sister Anna disappeared into the forest, a place whispered to be inhabited by lantern-eyed spirits and cursed with unspeakable dangers. On the anniversary of Anna’s disappearance, she miraculously returns—but something about her is unsettlingly off. As Vik begins to question whether this is truly her sister or something more sinister, she is drawn into a heart-pounding mystery that forces her to confront the forest’s dark secrets. Along the way, the story delves into broader questions about identity, humanity, and the lengths we go to protect those we love.
Griffis���s prose is both vivid and immersive, bringing the eerie bogs and dark forests of Estonia to life. The setting is an integral part of the story, its brooding atmosphere heightening the tension and underscoring the themes of isolation and resilience, making the bog almost like its own sentient character. The atmosphere and setting were definitely the strongest parts of the book, though I also really enjoyed the character development. The incorporation of Estonian folklore adds a layer of cultural depth and originality, blending seamlessly with the historical context of Soviet oppression, and the author had clearly conducted a lot of research on the topic.
The book tackles complex themes with remarkable nuance. It explores the dehumanizing effects of occupation and societal judgment while shedding light on issues such as marginalization and mental illness. These heavier themes are balanced with moments of hope and personal growth, making the story both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
The characters are a highlight, particularly Vik, whose determination and vulnerability make her a relatable and compelling protagonist. Kaos, the feisty one-eyed fox, adds charm and levity to the story, quickly becoming a fan favorite (Kaos remains safe throughout the book). The inclusion of LGBTQ and disability representation further enriches the story, making it inclusive and relatable for a diverse audience.
The mystery at the heart of the story is gripping, keeping you guessing whether the horrors are supernatural or human in nature. Griffis deftly blends magical realism and speculative elements with historical and psychological undertones, creating a story that is both eerie and profoundly human. This balance between the supernatural and human element was a bit ambiguous, though this ambiguity is likely intentional, reinforcing the story’s themes of uncertainty and fear of the unknown.
Overall, “And the Trees Stare Back” raises important questions about what it means to be human and who gets to decide whose humanity matters. It critiques systems of oppression and explores the toll of living under fear and judgment, making it as politically incisive as it is emotionally compelling. At its core, the book is also a story of love and the unbreakable bonds of family. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy folk horror, complex female protagonists, and stories steeped in cultural and historical richness. If you’re looking for a book that balances eerie suspense with emotional depth, “And the Trees Stare Back” will not disappoint.
Gigi Griffis delivers a haunting and deeply poignant YA folk-horror novel in “And the Trees Stare Back.” Set in 1989 Soviet-occupied Estonia, this story masterfully weaves historical realism with folklore, exploring themes of humanity and resistance against oppression. With its evocative setting and gripping mystery, the book is a must-read for fans of atmospheric horror and historical fiction.
In a small Estonian village, 16-year-old Vik lives under the shadow of occupation, fear, and the looming threat of the cursed forest beyond her home. Five years ago, her younger sister Anna disappeared into the forest, a place whispered to be inhabited by lantern-eyed spirits and cursed with unspeakable dangers. On the anniversary of Anna’s disappearance, she miraculously returns—but something about her is unsettlingly off. As Vik begins to question whether this is truly her sister or something more sinister, she is drawn into a heart-pounding mystery that forces her to confront the forest’s dark secrets. Along the way, the story delves into broader questions about identity, humanity, and the lengths we go to protect those we love.
Griffis���s prose is both vivid and immersive, bringing the eerie bogs and dark forests of Estonia to life. The setting is an integral part of the story, its brooding atmosphere heightening the tension and underscoring the themes of isolation and resilience, making the bog almost like its own sentient character. The atmosphere and setting were definitely the strongest parts of the book, though I also really enjoyed the character development. The incorporation of Estonian folklore adds a layer of cultural depth and originality, blending seamlessly with the historical context of Soviet oppression, and the author had clearly conducted a lot of research on the topic.
The book tackles complex themes with remarkable nuance. It explores the dehumanizing effects of occupation and societal judgment while shedding light on issues such as marginalization and mental illness. These heavier themes are balanced with moments of hope and personal growth, making the story both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
The characters are a highlight, particularly Vik, whose determination and vulnerability make her a relatable and compelling protagonist. Kaos, the feisty one-eyed fox, adds charm and levity to the story, quickly becoming a fan favorite (Kaos remains safe throughout the book). The inclusion of LGBTQ and disability representation further enriches the story, making it inclusive and relatable for a diverse audience.
The mystery at the heart of the story is gripping, keeping you guessing whether the horrors are supernatural or human in nature. Griffis deftly blends magical realism and speculative elements with historical and psychological undertones, creating a story that is both eerie and profoundly human. This balance between the supernatural and human element was a bit ambiguous, though this ambiguity is likely intentional, reinforcing the story’s themes of uncertainty and fear of the unknown.
Overall, “And the Trees Stare Back” raises important questions about what it means to be human and who gets to decide whose humanity matters. It critiques systems of oppression and explores the toll of living under fear and judgment, making it as politically incisive as it is emotionally compelling. At its core, the book is also a story of love and the unbreakable bonds of family. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy folk horror, complex female protagonists, and stories steeped in cultural and historical richness. If you’re looking for a book that balances eerie suspense with emotional depth, “And the Trees Stare Back” will not disappoint.
May 27, 2025
This was a book that piqued my interest based on the description. I’m a big fan of supernatural elements that can’t fully be explained, and this book seemed promising in delivering. I will admit that the first half of the book felt very slow, with a lot of stops and low points in between trying to figure out the mystery. The second half definitely picked up though and was continuous till the end with its questions and twists and turns. Just as you thought you might have something figured out, something else would throw a spanner in the works.
That was one of the things I liked about this book - you never quite knew where it was going. I felt as confused as the main character, Vik, and while I felt her frustration at times, I still wanted to push on and figure things out. Every time a question was answered, another would appear. Sometimes you would get answers but didn’t know what question it answered. It made it impossible to pin down how things were going to end. It wasn’t until about the third quarter that it became clear it was leaning towards a more grounded soviet explanation than a purely supernatural one.
That is something I did enjoy, as despite how much I wanted to know the truth about Soovana, I am glad it ultimately remains unclear. It is the air of mystery and uncertainty that gives these folklore tales their intrigue, so to have the answers laid out would take away from the interest. I can’t say I’m fully on-board with the ending however, as it felt like it was trying to be grounded in reality to contrast the supernatural, but ended up leaning that way anyway. After reading the explanation as to why and how things were happening, it answered the questions, but in a slightly unsatisfactory way. I may be being too harsh with wanting unanswered supernatural questions but answered grounded questions, but it felt like a bit of a cop out. It felt like it was trying too hard to be strange whilst staying grounded in science, and whilst the end notes about the history helped a little, I think it would’ve been better had their plan not had any success, rather than some success.
The endnotes were very interesting and helpful in adding additional context to the story, especially for those like myself who are too young to know what it was like in the 80’s under Soviet rule. I also like the explanation about mental health representation in the book. It isn’t understood or explained by the characters in the same way we do today, but it is still clear throughout the book that it is present. The acknowledgments did make me tear up a little at reaffirming the overall message of the book - to fight back against corruption.
Overall, it was a good book. I perhaps would’ve liked a bit more supernatural than Soviet, but that’s my personal preference. I do think the two blend well together regardless.
That was one of the things I liked about this book - you never quite knew where it was going. I felt as confused as the main character, Vik, and while I felt her frustration at times, I still wanted to push on and figure things out. Every time a question was answered, another would appear. Sometimes you would get answers but didn’t know what question it answered. It made it impossible to pin down how things were going to end. It wasn’t until about the third quarter that it became clear it was leaning towards a more grounded soviet explanation than a purely supernatural one.
That is something I did enjoy, as despite how much I wanted to know the truth about Soovana, I am glad it ultimately remains unclear. It is the air of mystery and uncertainty that gives these folklore tales their intrigue, so to have the answers laid out would take away from the interest. I can’t say I’m fully on-board with the ending however, as it felt like it was trying to be grounded in reality to contrast the supernatural, but ended up leaning that way anyway. After reading the explanation as to why and how things were happening, it answered the questions, but in a slightly unsatisfactory way. I may be being too harsh with wanting unanswered supernatural questions but answered grounded questions, but it felt like a bit of a cop out. It felt like it was trying too hard to be strange whilst staying grounded in science, and whilst the end notes about the history helped a little, I think it would’ve been better had their plan not had any success, rather than some success.
The endnotes were very interesting and helpful in adding additional context to the story, especially for those like myself who are too young to know what it was like in the 80’s under Soviet rule. I also like the explanation about mental health representation in the book. It isn’t understood or explained by the characters in the same way we do today, but it is still clear throughout the book that it is present. The acknowledgments did make me tear up a little at reaffirming the overall message of the book - to fight back against corruption.
Overall, it was a good book. I perhaps would’ve liked a bit more supernatural than Soviet, but that’s my personal preference. I do think the two blend well together regardless.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2025
When children go into the bog, they don't come out. Unfortunately, Viktoria (Vik) found out the hard way when she brought her little sister, Anna, into the bog to look at plants. Vik was the only one to emerge that day. Five years have passed, and Vik still doesn't know what happened to her sister, until one day, Anna returns, almost exactly the same as when she went missing.
Set in 1989, Soviet Estonia, Vik is determined to discover who, or what, took her sister while staying out of the dangers and harshness of soldiers and fellow villagers.
And the Trees Stare Back is an amazing example of how a story comes in waves. Some are small and calm while others crash and drag you out to sea. Let me tell ya, in the beginning those waves very slow. As much as I loved the writing, it did not aid in fixing my reading slump. For over a month I could only read a chapter or two at a time because if felt like there was nothing going on. I'm so glad I took my time and was able to finish it when I could actually appreciate it because while it took a little while, those waves definitely came crashing. For the entire second half of the book, I couldn't put it down. I was in a constant state of stress and I knew I wouldn't be able to sleep until it was over.
This story is one that I can't help but sit back and appreciate. It deals with mental illness, love, grief, speaking out not just for yourself but others as well even if it means putting yourself at risk, because no one is free until we are all free, and so much more. One thing in particular I will take away from this is that when dealing with problems in your life, it doesn't matter where you start, only that you do start. Take a risk. make a decision, make a mistake, and trust that it will all work out. Because if you are truly determined, it will.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this e-arc!
Set in 1989, Soviet Estonia, Vik is determined to discover who, or what, took her sister while staying out of the dangers and harshness of soldiers and fellow villagers.
And the Trees Stare Back is an amazing example of how a story comes in waves. Some are small and calm while others crash and drag you out to sea. Let me tell ya, in the beginning those waves very slow. As much as I loved the writing, it did not aid in fixing my reading slump. For over a month I could only read a chapter or two at a time because if felt like there was nothing going on. I'm so glad I took my time and was able to finish it when I could actually appreciate it because while it took a little while, those waves definitely came crashing. For the entire second half of the book, I couldn't put it down. I was in a constant state of stress and I knew I wouldn't be able to sleep until it was over.
This story is one that I can't help but sit back and appreciate. It deals with mental illness, love, grief, speaking out not just for yourself but others as well even if it means putting yourself at risk, because no one is free until we are all free, and so much more. One thing in particular I will take away from this is that when dealing with problems in your life, it doesn't matter where you start, only that you do start. Take a risk. make a decision, make a mistake, and trust that it will all work out. Because if you are truly determined, it will.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this e-arc!
February 13, 2025
And the Trees Stare Back follows Vik in 1989, Soviet Estonia after her sister went missing five years ago and her mother blamed her. When her little sister, Anna, walks out of the forest and bog, Vik is overjoyed, until she realizes that Anna hasn’t aged at all. Under Soviet rule, talk of witchcraft and the folklore lingering in the trees surrounding them is forbidden. But that’s the only explanation to Anna. Vik must uncover the truth or risk losing Anna a second time.
This one was quite interesting! I really enjoyed the concept and loved the folklore element. I can’t say I’ve ever read any Estonian lore before so this was really fascinating. I really liked the setting and time period. It made for a very tense and gripping read especially when the soldiers came around. It was a little slow at times, but the ending was really action-packed. The twist at the end was very surprising and I liked it. This is one of those books where you’re not sure if it’s speculative, folk-monster/creature, or just some natural, human explanation to what is truly going on. It toed that line of questioning really well.
I enjoyed the main character. I felt really bad for her home situation and its definitely really easy to root for her. I liked the progression of her relationship with her mom and her sister. Her friendship with Liis was really sweet and it was so nice how much they cared for each other even with their differences and tense past. Love Kaos—who doesn’t love a loveable fox?
Overall, if you like folk horror with interesting twists and books rooted in real history, then this is definitely one you’ll want to check out.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review!
This one was quite interesting! I really enjoyed the concept and loved the folklore element. I can’t say I’ve ever read any Estonian lore before so this was really fascinating. I really liked the setting and time period. It made for a very tense and gripping read especially when the soldiers came around. It was a little slow at times, but the ending was really action-packed. The twist at the end was very surprising and I liked it. This is one of those books where you’re not sure if it’s speculative, folk-monster/creature, or just some natural, human explanation to what is truly going on. It toed that line of questioning really well.
I enjoyed the main character. I felt really bad for her home situation and its definitely really easy to root for her. I liked the progression of her relationship with her mom and her sister. Her friendship with Liis was really sweet and it was so nice how much they cared for each other even with their differences and tense past. Love Kaos—who doesn’t love a loveable fox?
Overall, if you like folk horror with interesting twists and books rooted in real history, then this is definitely one you’ll want to check out.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review!
February 8, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me this ARC in return for a review! I've rated "And the Trees Stare Back" a 3/5, it was okay!
"And the Trees Stare Back" seemed really interesting as a story - set in Soviet Estonia (near the end of Soviet occupation specifically), a cursed bog takes children away, until one comes back. There are twists by the end of it that I genuinely didn't expect, but it worked, I think!
As a start, I did like the characters. Vik, the mc, was really interesting and her relationship with all of the other characters, especially her best friend, Liis, and her sister, Anna, were well done. Vik's determination to save her sister was the central point of the story, and I think their relationship and Vik's love for Anna was the best part. I also enjoyed Vik's (/the author's) way of framing events through the cards that Vik has. I think it was a really interesting way to incorporate astrology and make it unique, and I liked that!
I did have some minor issues, hence the 3/5. There were parts of the story that I felt were overly repetitive, the same thing just kept happening to the point that I almost lost interest. While the overall plot really was interesting, there were just points where I was tired of nothing happening.
Overall, I thought this book was okay! It wasn't what I expected, but that isn't a bad thing by any means! There were definitely instances where it could have been a little better (in my opinion, of course.), but overall, it was okay!
"And the Trees Stare Back" seemed really interesting as a story - set in Soviet Estonia (near the end of Soviet occupation specifically), a cursed bog takes children away, until one comes back. There are twists by the end of it that I genuinely didn't expect, but it worked, I think!
As a start, I did like the characters. Vik, the mc, was really interesting and her relationship with all of the other characters, especially her best friend, Liis, and her sister, Anna, were well done. Vik's determination to save her sister was the central point of the story, and I think their relationship and Vik's love for Anna was the best part. I also enjoyed Vik's (/the author's) way of framing events through the cards that Vik has. I think it was a really interesting way to incorporate astrology and make it unique, and I liked that!
I did have some minor issues, hence the 3/5. There were parts of the story that I felt were overly repetitive, the same thing just kept happening to the point that I almost lost interest. While the overall plot really was interesting, there were just points where I was tired of nothing happening.
Overall, I thought this book was okay! It wasn't what I expected, but that isn't a bad thing by any means! There were definitely instances where it could have been a little better (in my opinion, of course.), but overall, it was okay!
February 22, 2025
~~Thank you to NetGalley and Holiday House / Peachtree for the ARC!~~
3.5/5 stars rounded down.
What an interesting read! I didn't know what to expect after reading We Are the Beasts, but I do feel confident in saying Griffis keeps me on my toes with her plot twists.
The characters are definitely the best part of this book. Vik is traumatized, and her mental health is at its all time low, especially due to her OCD and CPTSD being undiagnosed. She has these fear-fueled rituals and beliefs about herself that make her such a sad character to follow along in the story, but the fears she's forced to confront throughout her journey make her so much stronger. I absolutely adored her friendship with Liis and the little fox Kaos, and their exploration of the bog was seeped such a dark, heavy atmosphere; I love that kind of writing. I again much mention my adoration to Griffis' attention to detail regarding historical accuracy and her notes at the end of the story expanding upon the background the story plays around.
The one thing that really held this story back, though, was the pacing. It got repetitive a lot, and I felt like the story wasn't really progressing all that much until the last third or so of the book when we finally got to the juicer bits of the mystery.
Overall, this was a book with great main characters and a story with a really goof unexpected twist, but the pacing of the story hindered a lot of the enjoyment for me.
3.5/5 stars rounded down.
What an interesting read! I didn't know what to expect after reading We Are the Beasts, but I do feel confident in saying Griffis keeps me on my toes with her plot twists.
The characters are definitely the best part of this book. Vik is traumatized, and her mental health is at its all time low, especially due to her OCD and CPTSD being undiagnosed. She has these fear-fueled rituals and beliefs about herself that make her such a sad character to follow along in the story, but the fears she's forced to confront throughout her journey make her so much stronger. I absolutely adored her friendship with Liis and the little fox Kaos, and their exploration of the bog was seeped such a dark, heavy atmosphere; I love that kind of writing. I again much mention my adoration to Griffis' attention to detail regarding historical accuracy and her notes at the end of the story expanding upon the background the story plays around.
The one thing that really held this story back, though, was the pacing. It got repetitive a lot, and I felt like the story wasn't really progressing all that much until the last third or so of the book when we finally got to the juicer bits of the mystery.
Overall, this was a book with great main characters and a story with a really goof unexpected twist, but the pacing of the story hindered a lot of the enjoyment for me.
June 25, 2025
“And The Trees Stare Back” by Gigi Griffis is speculative literary horror at its finest.
Flawless writing, an authentic voice and keen storytelling abilities, make for a deeply emotional and disturbing reading experience. This high-caliber novel isn’t some tour through a haunted house or a jump-scare fest. Heck, I enjoy those so much too; it’s quiet horror and it is so much worse, so much deeper, and inherently reflective of the realities of Estonia’s history, under an oppressive, imperialistic Soviet Regime.
Vik blames herself after the bog takes her little sister, Anna. Five years later, Anna returns, but she hasn’t aged and no longer speaks Estonian, so is it Anna at all?
There are some fascinating and genre-bending twists that I won’t even hint at. The characterizations of the people, the setting, the atmosphere of suspicion and paranoia, the weight of heavy oppression, dire uncertainty, superstition, loss of identity, the flattening of an entire culture, creeping dread, deadly sinkholes, the dangers of the bog, the secrets of the woods, the black hearts of power-hungry men — there’s a lot to unpack and process.
By the end, this is a heart-wrenching, unnerving, and terrifying read which is superbly executed and deserves every one of its 5/5 stars.
Do not to miss the author’s Historical Note and The Mental Health Note found in the back matter of the book.
Flawless writing, an authentic voice and keen storytelling abilities, make for a deeply emotional and disturbing reading experience. This high-caliber novel isn’t some tour through a haunted house or a jump-scare fest. Heck, I enjoy those so much too; it’s quiet horror and it is so much worse, so much deeper, and inherently reflective of the realities of Estonia’s history, under an oppressive, imperialistic Soviet Regime.
Vik blames herself after the bog takes her little sister, Anna. Five years later, Anna returns, but she hasn’t aged and no longer speaks Estonian, so is it Anna at all?
There are some fascinating and genre-bending twists that I won’t even hint at. The characterizations of the people, the setting, the atmosphere of suspicion and paranoia, the weight of heavy oppression, dire uncertainty, superstition, loss of identity, the flattening of an entire culture, creeping dread, deadly sinkholes, the dangers of the bog, the secrets of the woods, the black hearts of power-hungry men — there’s a lot to unpack and process.
By the end, this is a heart-wrenching, unnerving, and terrifying read which is superbly executed and deserves every one of its 5/5 stars.
Do not to miss the author’s Historical Note and The Mental Health Note found in the back matter of the book.
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