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Grave Birds
The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires meets Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil in this twisty, fresh take on a Southern gothic that follows a mysterious, charming bachelor as he makes his way into a small town, bringing a plague and the devil with him, from GMA Buzz Pick author Dana Elmendorf.
Grave birds haunt the cemeteries of Hawthorne, South Carolina, where Spanish moss drips from the trees and Southern charm is imbued with lies. Hollis Sutherland never knew these unique birds existed, not until she died and was brought back to life. The ghostly birds are manifestations of the dead’s unfinished business, and they know Hollis and her uncanny gift can set them free.
When a mysterious, charming bachelor wanders into their small town, bizarre events begin to plague its wealthiest citizens. Like blood dripping from dogwood blossoms, flocks of birds crashing into windows of their homes, and faces in paintings morphing into distortion. Hollis knows these are the omens her grandfather warned about, announcing the devil’s return. Despite Cain Landry’s eerie presence and the plague that has followed him, his handsome face and wicked charm win over the townsfolk. Even Hollis falls under his spell as they grow closer.
That is, until lies about the town’s past start to surface. The grave birds begin to show Hollis the dead’s ugly past from some twenty-five years ago. And she learns all about the horrible things these noble families did to gain their wealth. Hollis can’t decide if Cain is some immortal hand of God, there to expose their sins. Or if he’s a devil there to ruin them all. Either way, she’s determined to save her town and the people in it, whatever she has to do.
Grave birds haunt the cemeteries of Hawthorne, South Carolina, where Spanish moss drips from the trees and Southern charm is imbued with lies. Hollis Sutherland never knew these unique birds existed, not until she died and was brought back to life. The ghostly birds are manifestations of the dead’s unfinished business, and they know Hollis and her uncanny gift can set them free.
When a mysterious, charming bachelor wanders into their small town, bizarre events begin to plague its wealthiest citizens. Like blood dripping from dogwood blossoms, flocks of birds crashing into windows of their homes, and faces in paintings morphing into distortion. Hollis knows these are the omens her grandfather warned about, announcing the devil’s return. Despite Cain Landry’s eerie presence and the plague that has followed him, his handsome face and wicked charm win over the townsfolk. Even Hollis falls under his spell as they grow closer.
That is, until lies about the town’s past start to surface. The grave birds begin to show Hollis the dead’s ugly past from some twenty-five years ago. And she learns all about the horrible things these noble families did to gain their wealth. Hollis can’t decide if Cain is some immortal hand of God, there to expose their sins. Or if he’s a devil there to ruin them all. Either way, she’s determined to save her town and the people in it, whatever she has to do.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 2025
79 people are currently reading
11414 people want to read
About the author
Dana Elmendorf
3 books285 followersDana Elmendorf was born and raised in a small town in Tennessee. She now lives in Southern California with her family. After four years of college and an assortment of jobs, she wrote a book. She is the author of IN THE HOUR OF CROWS a GMA Buzz Pick and GRAVE BIRDS coming July 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews
April 9, 2025
Dana Elmendorf’s writing is so beautifully atmospheric and just the perfect amount of spooky that it’s like a chilly hug. I’m hereby creating a new subgenre: cozy horror. Similar to horror-light. This subgenre is perfect for people wanting to try horror but don’t want to be so scared that they’ll be having nightmares for weeks.
I loved the author’s previous book, In the Hour of Crows, so I’ve been so excited for her next one. And it did not disappoint! I had so much fun reading this. I loved the paranormal aspects in the book, and the bit of romance that was snuck in (Cain Landry was so dreamy to me!). But the added mystery really puts the icing on the cake. I’m usually able to guess the twists in books, but this one threw me for a complete surprise!
I honestly loved this one as much as In the Hour of Crows, and I can’t wait til the audio comes out, because Brittany Pressley is narrating it!
𝑾𝒉𝒐 𝑰'𝒅 𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒐:
Anyone wanting to dip their toes in the horror genre; lovers of mysteries, the paranormal, and atmospheric writing; and those that loved In the Hour of Crows!
I loved the author’s previous book, In the Hour of Crows, so I’ve been so excited for her next one. And it did not disappoint! I had so much fun reading this. I loved the paranormal aspects in the book, and the bit of romance that was snuck in (Cain Landry was so dreamy to me!). But the added mystery really puts the icing on the cake. I’m usually able to guess the twists in books, but this one threw me for a complete surprise!
I honestly loved this one as much as In the Hour of Crows, and I can’t wait til the audio comes out, because Brittany Pressley is narrating it!
𝑾𝒉𝒐 𝑰'𝒅 𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒐:
Anyone wanting to dip their toes in the horror genre; lovers of mysteries, the paranormal, and atmospheric writing; and those that loved In the Hour of Crows!
July 26, 2025
This was my first read by this author and I was definitely impressed. This is a southern Gothic mystery. It's haunting, atmospheric, and suspenseful. I was totally into it.
Hollis Sutherland lives in the small town of Hawthorne, South Carolina. After she was in a car accident and died but was brought back to life, she has had the ability to see Grave Birds. They are the ghostly manifestations of the dead's unfinished business. When a hauntingly mysterious gentleman, Cain Landry, arrives in town, The townsfolk are enamored by his good looks and charm. But ever since he's arrived, bizarre things begin to happen to the wealthy people in the town. Then Hollis begins to see things from the town's past. Lies are being exposed. I loved the Gothic vibes and the mystery of Cain Landry and the town. Such a unique read. Full of family drama, ghosts, and magical realism. I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Hollis Sutherland lives in the small town of Hawthorne, South Carolina. After she was in a car accident and died but was brought back to life, she has had the ability to see Grave Birds. They are the ghostly manifestations of the dead's unfinished business. When a hauntingly mysterious gentleman, Cain Landry, arrives in town, The townsfolk are enamored by his good looks and charm. But ever since he's arrived, bizarre things begin to happen to the wealthy people in the town. Then Hollis begins to see things from the town's past. Lies are being exposed. I loved the Gothic vibes and the mystery of Cain Landry and the town. Such a unique read. Full of family drama, ghosts, and magical realism. I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
July 14, 2025
Grave Birds was a Southern Gothic mystery with Sixth Sense vibes in that the grave birds show Hollis bits from the past that are unresolved. The ghostly birds are “pinned” to the Earth until someone with the ability to “see” the flash of whatever is left behind by a person’s death. Hollis becomes inundated with several grave birds when Cain Landry blows into town, some connected to the prominent Hawthorne family. What’s being revealed is disturbing and dangerous and throws a different spin on the past she thought she knew!
I really enjoyed unraveling this mystery right along with Hollis! Hawthorne, South Carolina is a small town where everyone knows everyone and there’s plenty of secrets that needed to come out! Some was surprising and there was a twist I didn’t see coming! There was a bit of romance, as well!
I alternated between reading an e-copy and listening to the audio and enjoyed both versions. Brittany Pressley is one of my favorite narrators and she enhanced the story, bringing the characters and their emotions to life!
I voluntarily read/listened to an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
I really enjoyed unraveling this mystery right along with Hollis! Hawthorne, South Carolina is a small town where everyone knows everyone and there’s plenty of secrets that needed to come out! Some was surprising and there was a twist I didn’t see coming! There was a bit of romance, as well!
I alternated between reading an e-copy and listening to the audio and enjoyed both versions. Brittany Pressley is one of my favorite narrators and she enhanced the story, bringing the characters and their emotions to life!
I voluntarily read/listened to an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
September 7, 2025
It was a beautiful yet haunting sight.
Hollis Sutherland died when she was eleven years old and was brought back to life by someone in her town whom she later came to recognise as her god uncle Royce. After this incident, Hollis can see ghostly birds that are manifestations of the dead’s unfinished business. Fifteen years later, when a mysterious stranger, Cain Landry, walks into the town, strange and uncanny things start to happen. Hollis tries to brush it off, but things get even bizarre and dangerous, and Hollis has no choice but to investigate these events and find out the truth. But what would she find?
I loved In the Hour of Crows, sure, the pacing had issues, but it was absolutely unique, so this automatically went on my to-read list. And I am glad that it did, as this was equally unique and engaging.
Hollis is twenty-six years old now and owns an event planning business. She also helps to free the grave birds from their tethers whenever she comes across a grave bird using her gift. I loved Hollis. She was level-headed, a hard worker, and just easy to like. I also loved Granny and Hollis's two best friends, Calista and Nadine, even though we didn't get to read that much about them. Though as much as I wanted to, I didn't like Cain. But all the other characters were well thought out and just made the story come to life.
Romance was the one thing that I didn't like, mainly because I didn't like Cain. He was extremely rude to Hollis right from the beginning, then he does the exact opposite all of a sudden. I understand why he was rude to Hollis, but there was no reason for his complete change of heart, or at least I couldn't see a reason for this. Hollis deserved better from the very beginning.
The writing and the smooth-flowing prose were atmospheric. I recognised and loved the node to ITHOC. The story was bewitching. I loved how the mystery was unfolding as Hollis was planning the gala in true Southern fashion. Also, the mystery was so much better than the In the Hour of Crows, which was my main issue with ITHOC. I wasn't able to figure out any of the mysterious parts in this, which made this read that much better.
I loved the setting of this small town in South Carolina, although not as much as the beautiful backdrop of the Appalachian mountains. Still, the setting works here rather well, full of southern charm, dark gothic atmosphere, religious politics, mysterious events, and magical realism.
It is worth mentioning that just like in ITHOC, I loved the dynamics between the MC and other family members. It felt real how the MC was closer to some of her family and not others. I also loved the fact that the grandma in the book was the polar opposite of the grandma in ITHOC. This made me so happy.
There are some things that I would have liked to have an explanation for. Other than that, this was a beautiful and an unputdownable read.
I don't mind saying that I would love to read another unique story or ten, preferably set in the Appalachian mountains Dana Elmendorf.
4.25 stars
Hollis Sutherland died when she was eleven years old and was brought back to life by someone in her town whom she later came to recognise as her god uncle Royce. After this incident, Hollis can see ghostly birds that are manifestations of the dead’s unfinished business. Fifteen years later, when a mysterious stranger, Cain Landry, walks into the town, strange and uncanny things start to happen. Hollis tries to brush it off, but things get even bizarre and dangerous, and Hollis has no choice but to investigate these events and find out the truth. But what would she find?
I loved In the Hour of Crows, sure, the pacing had issues, but it was absolutely unique, so this automatically went on my to-read list. And I am glad that it did, as this was equally unique and engaging.
Hollis is twenty-six years old now and owns an event planning business. She also helps to free the grave birds from their tethers whenever she comes across a grave bird using her gift. I loved Hollis. She was level-headed, a hard worker, and just easy to like. I also loved Granny and Hollis's two best friends, Calista and Nadine, even though we didn't get to read that much about them. Though as much as I wanted to, I didn't like Cain. But all the other characters were well thought out and just made the story come to life.
Romance was the one thing that I didn't like, mainly because I didn't like Cain. He was extremely rude to Hollis right from the beginning, then he does the exact opposite all of a sudden. I understand why he was rude to Hollis, but there was no reason for his complete change of heart, or at least I couldn't see a reason for this. Hollis deserved better from the very beginning.
The writing and the smooth-flowing prose were atmospheric. I recognised and loved the node to ITHOC. The story was bewitching. I loved how the mystery was unfolding as Hollis was planning the gala in true Southern fashion. Also, the mystery was so much better than the In the Hour of Crows, which was my main issue with ITHOC. I wasn't able to figure out any of the mysterious parts in this, which made this read that much better.
I loved the setting of this small town in South Carolina, although not as much as the beautiful backdrop of the Appalachian mountains. Still, the setting works here rather well, full of southern charm, dark gothic atmosphere, religious politics, mysterious events, and magical realism.
It is worth mentioning that just like in ITHOC, I loved the dynamics between the MC and other family members. It felt real how the MC was closer to some of her family and not others. I also loved the fact that the grandma in the book was the polar opposite of the grandma in ITHOC. This made me so happy.
There are some things that I would have liked to have an explanation for. Other than that, this was a beautiful and an unputdownable read.
I don't mind saying that I would love to read another unique story or ten, preferably set in the Appalachian mountains Dana Elmendorf.
4.25 stars
July 22, 2025
GRAVE BIRDS
By Dana Elmendorf
Narrated by Brittany Pressley
Set against the haunting backdrop of a Southern town steeped in secrets—and where the past refuses to stay buried—Grave Birds is a suspenseful Southern gothic story with a touch of romance and a strong supernatural thread.
We meet Hollis Sutherland from Hawthorne, South Carolina, who’s bound to the dead through a gift she never asked for. She can see ghostly birds that carry the weight of unfinished business—and they know she’s the one who can help set them free.
When a mysterious and charming stranger arrives in town, strange and terrifying events start to unfold. Is he good or evil? Does he have the townspeople’s best interests at heart? Either way, Hollis is determined to protect her town and the people she loves, no matter the cost.
Brittany Pressley’s narration adds to the story, bringing out the mood and emotion in just the right way.
This was my first book by Dana Elmendorf, and I really enjoyed it. The writing is atmospheric and descriptive—you can feel the Southern heat, see the moss-covered trees, and sense something is always just beneath the surface. I’m looking forward to seeing what she writes next.
By Dana Elmendorf
Narrated by Brittany Pressley
Set against the haunting backdrop of a Southern town steeped in secrets—and where the past refuses to stay buried—Grave Birds is a suspenseful Southern gothic story with a touch of romance and a strong supernatural thread.
We meet Hollis Sutherland from Hawthorne, South Carolina, who’s bound to the dead through a gift she never asked for. She can see ghostly birds that carry the weight of unfinished business—and they know she’s the one who can help set them free.
When a mysterious and charming stranger arrives in town, strange and terrifying events start to unfold. Is he good or evil? Does he have the townspeople’s best interests at heart? Either way, Hollis is determined to protect her town and the people she loves, no matter the cost.
Brittany Pressley’s narration adds to the story, bringing out the mood and emotion in just the right way.
This was my first book by Dana Elmendorf, and I really enjoyed it. The writing is atmospheric and descriptive—you can feel the Southern heat, see the moss-covered trees, and sense something is always just beneath the surface. I’m looking forward to seeing what she writes next.
August 26, 2025
Oh. My. Gosh. This book. I wasn’t prepared when I started it and I never truly was prepared for what was coming next. Do you know how rare it is that I listen to an entire audiobook in one day? I literally balanced my checkbook so I can listen more uninterrupted 😅😅 A gothic fiction, mixed with thriller and a touch of horror and magical realism and I was hooked. I loved having my sense of justice fulfilled in the end, but I can tell you, I was blown away by the big reveal. I knew something was up but never added the pieces of the puzzle together correctly. This was an amazing listen, I would definitely recommend!
Hollis died for a bit when she was younger. The truck she was in with her grandfather got into a crash and ended up going off a bridge into the river. She was revived but he grandfather was not. Ever since then, she has seen them. The grave birds. Her Uncle Royce knew about them too, as he was hit by a car when he was younger and showed her how to help them. Sometimes they just needed to tell their story, the deceased’s biggest regret, or sometimes they needed her to fix a wrong before they can truly rest. Only now some of these are showing her murders in her small town that she had never heard of. Someone has been getting away with something terrible for a long time, and she is going to have to figure out what it is for these poor souls to rest.
Thank you to NetGalley for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
Hollis died for a bit when she was younger. The truck she was in with her grandfather got into a crash and ended up going off a bridge into the river. She was revived but he grandfather was not. Ever since then, she has seen them. The grave birds. Her Uncle Royce knew about them too, as he was hit by a car when he was younger and showed her how to help them. Sometimes they just needed to tell their story, the deceased’s biggest regret, or sometimes they needed her to fix a wrong before they can truly rest. Only now some of these are showing her murders in her small town that she had never heard of. Someone has been getting away with something terrible for a long time, and she is going to have to figure out what it is for these poor souls to rest.
Thank you to NetGalley for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
June 24, 2025
The epitome of southern gothic 🤌🏻
You’ve got ghost birds, insane family drama, a mystery, ghosts, hot new stranger and an ending that was perfection.
I loved the gothic vibes mixed with the southern small town drama, Hollis was a great FMC and going back in time when she touched a grave bird was my favorite - it almost reminded me of ghost whisperer, do y’all remember that show? Anyway, this was a very unique read and you should all check it out when it comes out next week!
🪶🪶🪶🪶/5
Thank you @readmirabooks and @danaelmendorf for the finished copy! PUB DATE: 7/1
You’ve got ghost birds, insane family drama, a mystery, ghosts, hot new stranger and an ending that was perfection.
I loved the gothic vibes mixed with the southern small town drama, Hollis was a great FMC and going back in time when she touched a grave bird was my favorite - it almost reminded me of ghost whisperer, do y’all remember that show? Anyway, this was a very unique read and you should all check it out when it comes out next week!
🪶🪶🪶🪶/5
Thank you @readmirabooks and @danaelmendorf for the finished copy! PUB DATE: 7/1
September 8, 2025
Overall the best part was the setting, gorgeously described southern gothic to a T. I loved Hollis and Cain though the lack of explaining on why things started to happen at his arrival kinda got me… the ending fell a bit flat. It’s a good story but not one I would pay for. Library find for the win.
June 9, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Haunting and atmospheric.
This is a southern gothic mystery touched by the paranormal.
This is magical realism exactly how I like it — atmospheric, slightly spooky, but not too scary to keep you up at night.
Hollis Sutherland is a small town girl, but she’s been touched by death. Ever since a traumatic car accident, she can see grave birds that are invisible to others. When she touches one, she’s catapulted into the mind of the deceased, their memories shattering her waking consciousness.
Haunting and atmospheric, I could see the vivid scenes and the ghostly charm in my mind’s eye.
🎧 Brittany Pressley brings the voice of Hollis Sutherland to life in this cozy horror murder mystery! I recommend the audio format, although both work.
🐦⬛ I had high hopes for this one as I loved In the Hour of Crows and I would say that if you liked that one, you’ll also enjoy this one. The vibes are on point.
Thank you to the author and HTP audio for the review copy and ALC.
Haunting and atmospheric.
This is a southern gothic mystery touched by the paranormal.
This is magical realism exactly how I like it — atmospheric, slightly spooky, but not too scary to keep you up at night.
Hollis Sutherland is a small town girl, but she’s been touched by death. Ever since a traumatic car accident, she can see grave birds that are invisible to others. When she touches one, she’s catapulted into the mind of the deceased, their memories shattering her waking consciousness.
Haunting and atmospheric, I could see the vivid scenes and the ghostly charm in my mind’s eye.
🎧 Brittany Pressley brings the voice of Hollis Sutherland to life in this cozy horror murder mystery! I recommend the audio format, although both work.
🐦⬛ I had high hopes for this one as I loved In the Hour of Crows and I would say that if you liked that one, you’ll also enjoy this one. The vibes are on point.
Thank you to the author and HTP audio for the review copy and ALC.
October 30, 2025
There's a good plot in here somewhere, but it got lost when the fire tornados showed up (really even before that) leading to one of the most unbelievable endings I've ever read. I know better than to read something I see on BookToc. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice....well...I blame only myself.
June 5, 2025
Hollis Sutherland lives in a small southern town of Hawthorne, run by the wealthy Hawthorne family. As a child, she died and was brought back to life. Ever since she has had the ability to see grave birds, which are manifestations of deceased parties' unfinished business. What a cool concept! Only those who have died and been brought back can see these grave birds. When Cain Landry moves to town, Hollis's life is rudely interrupted. He may be handsome, but with him comes trouble, perhaps even the devilish kind. Hollis is hired to plan a big gala event for the Hawthorne family, but with Cain comes strange occurrences in town, people acting suspicious, and the Hawthornes not living up to their name. The grave birds begin showing Hollis snippets of the past, revealing buried secrets from the town of Hawthorne. And with this, unfolds our Southern gothic mystery! Overall, I liked it. The concept of the grave birds was awesome and the mysery was enough to hold my interest. It's not YA, but it sort of feels like it is somehow? I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars (wish GR had half stars)! I did listen to it in one day and the narrator did a good job.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the opportunity to listen to this ALC before release! Book releases 7/1/25.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the opportunity to listen to this ALC before release! Book releases 7/1/25.
June 1, 2025
I didn’t know I needed Southern Gothic in my life, but here we are! I need more of this, please.
The grave birds concept was actually pretty cool and felt unique. After death, a bird is tethered to the sight. Hollis is able to see moments of regret from the dearly departed. This is her gift, after she herself died at the age of 11 and came back to life.
The mystery was interesting and kept trying to piece it all together. There were some creep factors throne in too, where I had some goosebumps of my own! There is a bit of romance.
Thank you netgalley and HTP for the earc.
The grave birds concept was actually pretty cool and felt unique. After death, a bird is tethered to the sight. Hollis is able to see moments of regret from the dearly departed. This is her gift, after she herself died at the age of 11 and came back to life.
The mystery was interesting and kept trying to piece it all together. There were some creep factors throne in too, where I had some goosebumps of my own! There is a bit of romance.
Thank you netgalley and HTP for the earc.
September 13, 2025
This book was almost exactly my preferred flavor of weird. I usually complain about stories being too long, but this one should have been longer and could have benefited by more complex situations. I adored the writing and the characters. 4 solid stars.
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If you love active book communities, check out LiterALLy BOOKiSh Book Club (on Facebook)! Games, giveaways, discussions, reviews, bingo, swaps, traveling books, and a lot more!
June 15, 2025
“There are three things I’ve learned from the dead. One, they always have something to say. Two, you can almost guarantee what they’re going to show you won’t be pretty. And three, the dead don’t like being ignored.”
The set up to this story and the premise in general is a really unique and intriguing idea. I was drawn in right away but I do think the storytelling lacked what it needed to make this really good.
In general it felt a little disjointed and clunky. After the initial set up I got lost in a lot of the flashbacks and building of Hollis’ story. It wasn’t always clear when or why a flashback was being told and they were quite frequent making it difficult to keep track.
I also felt Hollis’ motivations didn’t make a lot of sense. She is very motivated from the start of the story to get her event planning business off the ground. That seems to be a major theme. However, as the story progresses and the plot mystery starts to unfold, she is very quick to make risky, career ending choices, and almost pushes aside her responsibilities to hunt down grave bird clues. For what and why? I’m still not really sure. My initial impression of the Grave Birds was that Hollis really felt this was a curse and she seems very unfamiliar with dealing with them at the start of the story. However, her actions make her out to be a regular Nancy Drew when it comes to town and Grave Bird business.
I finished this, not just because it was a NetGalley ARC, but because it had its moments of really beautiful prose, crazy happenings and some cleverness. Like Chapter 12!? It was so good. I also felt all the weird weather and ghostly events really added to the tension so well. The FMC is mostly likable, the MMC is intriguing in the best way. However, I really did feel a little lost and a little confused the whole time unfortunately.
Thank you NetGalley & HarperCollins for this ARC.
The set up to this story and the premise in general is a really unique and intriguing idea. I was drawn in right away but I do think the storytelling lacked what it needed to make this really good.
In general it felt a little disjointed and clunky. After the initial set up I got lost in a lot of the flashbacks and building of Hollis’ story. It wasn’t always clear when or why a flashback was being told and they were quite frequent making it difficult to keep track.
I also felt Hollis’ motivations didn’t make a lot of sense. She is very motivated from the start of the story to get her event planning business off the ground. That seems to be a major theme. However, as the story progresses and the plot mystery starts to unfold, she is very quick to make risky, career ending choices, and almost pushes aside her responsibilities to hunt down grave bird clues. For what and why? I’m still not really sure. My initial impression of the Grave Birds was that Hollis really felt this was a curse and she seems very unfamiliar with dealing with them at the start of the story. However, her actions make her out to be a regular Nancy Drew when it comes to town and Grave Bird business.
I finished this, not just because it was a NetGalley ARC, but because it had its moments of really beautiful prose, crazy happenings and some cleverness. Like Chapter 12!? It was so good. I also felt all the weird weather and ghostly events really added to the tension so well. The FMC is mostly likable, the MMC is intriguing in the best way. However, I really did feel a little lost and a little confused the whole time unfortunately.
Thank you NetGalley & HarperCollins for this ARC.
July 2, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🐦 Southern Gothic
🐦 Atmospheric
🐦 Mystery/Who Done It
🐦 Smidge of Romance
🐦 Small Southern Town with Dark Family Secrets
🐦 Paranormal/Haunting
🐦 Magical Realism
The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires x Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil = Grave Birds
Paige-TheBookAndTheBoston (Goodreads) created a new subgenre for books like this: cozy horror, and I couldn't agree more.
"Sometimes the dead have unfinished business."
Grave Birds is an eerily fun, haunting juxtaposition of a wildly mysterious, religious, small town in the south full of dark family secrets, and a woman who died as a kid but was revived with a paranormal gift that grabbed me by the throat immediately and didn't let up until it's final page (to be honest, I might still be at a gorgeous gala in Hawthorne, South Carolina). The twists and reveals are currently my favorite of 2025 - I didn't see that coming and I love that I didn't.
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When our main character, Hollis, was 11, she died. Shortly after being brought back to life, she started seeing Grave Birds - ghostly manifestations of the dead's unfinished business. These birds know that Hollis can see them, and only see can set them, and the dead souls that represent, free.
Now, Hollis is an adult who just started her own event planning business and is working tirelessly to make it big in her small town of Hawthorne, South Carolina.
Things are going alright enough, as well as they can with small town politics in play, until the day a handsome, albeit eerie, stranger shows up in town - Cain. Then this small town in the deep south starts to take on a truly eerie atmosphere as more and more bizarre and unexplainable events begin to occur - some that have the religious folks in town certain that these events are sure signs that the Devil has returned.
While planning the gala that will make or break her career, Hollis is also attempting to get to the heart of this nest of lies and uncover all the truths the grave birds have to show her. Truths that the wealthiest and most powerful in the area have done everything in the power to cover up over the last 25 years. Oh, and dating Cain - who may be in town for nefarious reasons.
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📝 For me, the plot was sublime. I pride myself on being able to figure out most reveals ahead of the reveal(s). That wasn't the case with this book, not even close. And it managed to truly confound me without coming across as contrived or making me roll my eyes. Full on 🤯. It's been a while since I've read a book with such well executed twists and turns.
✍🏼 I found the prose to be beautiful and seeping with atmosphere. I love the way Dana manages to tow the prose-line with being descriptive. Somehow she manages to write in a way that nearly overflows with atmosphere without crossing into purple
Her word choices feel deliberate and well thought out.
"A murder of crows settles in the trees; it's the hour when the day has almost ended and the night is not quite here."
I love that Dana adds in tiny little Easter egg tie-ins to her other books (like the above quote, an homage to In The Hour of Crows). If you haven't read them, no worries, it doesn't impact anything. Just a fun little thing for people that have.
"Hey, dickhead! Excuse me is the polite thing to say."
I found the dialogue to read as natural and befitting the characters. There are itty bits of levity occasionally provided via dialogue, helping ease the tension from becoming overwhelming.
I love when books are written using colloquialisms and while not technically grammatically correct they're true to how many in that area, of that generation, speak. If you don't enjoy that, some of the dialogue may not be your thing (the latter only really applies to one minor character).
⏳ Grave Birds moves along fairly quickly. I didn't want to put it down, but I also kind of didn't want it to end.
Tension is the main propellent to the plot, and is well used. Dialogue is well placed to tease the plot out while keeping the pace moving fairly quickly.
“You know what a little bird told me?”
🔮 I found the grave birds idea to be enthralling and unique. Someone who can solve crimes, settle things for the dead, etc by finding their grave bird and allowing it to show them whatever their associated soul wants her to see.
"Murder feels like a viable option today."
👥 Phenomenal characters full of nuance and personality. I love that Dana shows the duality of humanity, and I love the way she goes about it. It's there, sometimes in the subtext, but it is there.
"A storm is certainly brewing, and I can’t help but feel like hell is coming to Hawthorne now the devil has come home to roost."
💓 From their angry first meeting, I was torn (like Hollis is) on whether Cain is there for nefarious purposes, or not. Once he said to Hollis, "Who did this?!" I was 💯 in on him being there for "good" reasons, even if he turned out to be morally grey. 😆
🗝️ 👻 The mystery and haunted type paranormal aspects were an eerily fun time.
If you liked: In The Hour of Crows, A House with Good Bones (T. Kingfisher), The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires (Grady Hendrix), or Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (John Berendt), then I think you'd enjoy Grave Birds.
-----
Thank you to Dana Elmendorf, HarperCollins, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this eARC. Thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
oh wow, what an amazing read. had I finished it yesterday, it would've been my favorite book of June.
Southern Gothic, eerie and atmospheric,
mystery, bit of thriller, who done it, smidge of romance, beautifully written. my favorite book by Dana Elmendorf so far. the reveal 🤯
highly recommend you all read this book.
🦜🐦⬛🕊️🐦
frtc
Thank you to Dana Elmendorf and HarperCollins for the opportunity to read this eARC.
🐦 Southern Gothic
🐦 Atmospheric
🐦 Mystery/Who Done It
🐦 Smidge of Romance
🐦 Small Southern Town with Dark Family Secrets
🐦 Paranormal/Haunting
🐦 Magical Realism
The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires x Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil = Grave Birds
Paige-TheBookAndTheBoston (Goodreads) created a new subgenre for books like this: cozy horror, and I couldn't agree more.
"Sometimes the dead have unfinished business."
Grave Birds is an eerily fun, haunting juxtaposition of a wildly mysterious, religious, small town in the south full of dark family secrets, and a woman who died as a kid but was revived with a paranormal gift that grabbed me by the throat immediately and didn't let up until it's final page (to be honest, I might still be at a gorgeous gala in Hawthorne, South Carolina). The twists and reveals are currently my favorite of 2025 - I didn't see that coming and I love that I didn't.
-----
When our main character, Hollis, was 11, she died. Shortly after being brought back to life, she started seeing Grave Birds - ghostly manifestations of the dead's unfinished business. These birds know that Hollis can see them, and only see can set them, and the dead souls that represent, free.
Now, Hollis is an adult who just started her own event planning business and is working tirelessly to make it big in her small town of Hawthorne, South Carolina.
Things are going alright enough, as well as they can with small town politics in play, until the day a handsome, albeit eerie, stranger shows up in town - Cain. Then this small town in the deep south starts to take on a truly eerie atmosphere as more and more bizarre and unexplainable events begin to occur - some that have the religious folks in town certain that these events are sure signs that the Devil has returned.
While planning the gala that will make or break her career, Hollis is also attempting to get to the heart of this nest of lies and uncover all the truths the grave birds have to show her. Truths that the wealthiest and most powerful in the area have done everything in the power to cover up over the last 25 years. Oh, and dating Cain - who may be in town for nefarious reasons.
-----
📝 For me, the plot was sublime. I pride myself on being able to figure out most reveals ahead of the reveal(s). That wasn't the case with this book, not even close. And it managed to truly confound me without coming across as contrived or making me roll my eyes. Full on 🤯. It's been a while since I've read a book with such well executed twists and turns.
✍🏼 I found the prose to be beautiful and seeping with atmosphere. I love the way Dana manages to tow the prose-line with being descriptive. Somehow she manages to write in a way that nearly overflows with atmosphere without crossing into purple
Her word choices feel deliberate and well thought out.
"A murder of crows settles in the trees; it's the hour when the day has almost ended and the night is not quite here."
I love that Dana adds in tiny little Easter egg tie-ins to her other books (like the above quote, an homage to In The Hour of Crows). If you haven't read them, no worries, it doesn't impact anything. Just a fun little thing for people that have.
"Hey, dickhead! Excuse me is the polite thing to say."
I found the dialogue to read as natural and befitting the characters. There are itty bits of levity occasionally provided via dialogue, helping ease the tension from becoming overwhelming.
I love when books are written using colloquialisms and while not technically grammatically correct they're true to how many in that area, of that generation, speak. If you don't enjoy that, some of the dialogue may not be your thing (the latter only really applies to one minor character).
⏳ Grave Birds moves along fairly quickly. I didn't want to put it down, but I also kind of didn't want it to end.
Tension is the main propellent to the plot, and is well used. Dialogue is well placed to tease the plot out while keeping the pace moving fairly quickly.
“You know what a little bird told me?”
🔮 I found the grave birds idea to be enthralling and unique. Someone who can solve crimes, settle things for the dead, etc by finding their grave bird and allowing it to show them whatever their associated soul wants her to see.
"Murder feels like a viable option today."
👥 Phenomenal characters full of nuance and personality. I love that Dana shows the duality of humanity, and I love the way she goes about it. It's there, sometimes in the subtext, but it is there.
"A storm is certainly brewing, and I can’t help but feel like hell is coming to Hawthorne now the devil has come home to roost."
💓 From their angry first meeting, I was torn (like Hollis is) on whether Cain is there for nefarious purposes, or not. Once he said to Hollis, "Who did this?!" I was 💯 in on him being there for "good" reasons, even if he turned out to be morally grey. 😆
🗝️ 👻 The mystery and haunted type paranormal aspects were an eerily fun time.
If you liked: In The Hour of Crows, A House with Good Bones (T. Kingfisher), The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires (Grady Hendrix), or Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (John Berendt), then I think you'd enjoy Grave Birds.
-----
Thank you to Dana Elmendorf, HarperCollins, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this eARC. Thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
oh wow, what an amazing read. had I finished it yesterday, it would've been my favorite book of June.
Southern Gothic, eerie and atmospheric,
mystery, bit of thriller, who done it, smidge of romance, beautifully written. my favorite book by Dana Elmendorf so far. the reveal 🤯
highly recommend you all read this book.
🦜🐦⬛🕊️🐦
frtc
Thank you to Dana Elmendorf and HarperCollins for the opportunity to read this eARC.
June 16, 2025
4.5 stars!
GRAVE BIRDS, by Dana Elmendorf, begins with Hollis--a woman who died as a young girl, and was brought back to life by a man she later called Uncle Royce. When she first sees a small bird tethered to the ground in a cemetery, Royce takes notice. Eventually, he explains that Grave Birds are left behind those that died who still had unfinished business, or something they wanted others to know about. Having a death experience himself, Royce believes that those who once "crossed over" and came back, are the only ones able to see these "in between" beings, and help them by listening to what they so desperately wanted to tell.
Along comes Cain, a very rich man, to Hollis's Southern town. Literally prophecies of biblical proportion begin to take place whenever the man is around: Locusts, fire from the sky, etc. Whatever is happening is ramping up the longer he stays. Is the man a devil, or is something else at work on this small town?
Overall, great characterization, fast paced novel without needless repetitions of each event, and a mystery with twists I didn't see coming. I always appreciate an author who can manage to do that, with all the "clues" in place.
Recommended.
*I received an eARC of this book through NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are uniquely my own.*
GRAVE BIRDS, by Dana Elmendorf, begins with Hollis--a woman who died as a young girl, and was brought back to life by a man she later called Uncle Royce. When she first sees a small bird tethered to the ground in a cemetery, Royce takes notice. Eventually, he explains that Grave Birds are left behind those that died who still had unfinished business, or something they wanted others to know about. Having a death experience himself, Royce believes that those who once "crossed over" and came back, are the only ones able to see these "in between" beings, and help them by listening to what they so desperately wanted to tell.
Along comes Cain, a very rich man, to Hollis's Southern town. Literally prophecies of biblical proportion begin to take place whenever the man is around: Locusts, fire from the sky, etc. Whatever is happening is ramping up the longer he stays. Is the man a devil, or is something else at work on this small town?
Overall, great characterization, fast paced novel without needless repetitions of each event, and a mystery with twists I didn't see coming. I always appreciate an author who can manage to do that, with all the "clues" in place.
Recommended.
*I received an eARC of this book through NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are uniquely my own.*
July 31, 2025
I have a book that needs to be on your radar this summer! It snatched my attention from the beginning and my anticipation grew with every flick of the page. This is southern gothic to its core. Dripping with atmospheric descriptions. Grave Birds running chills down my spine and into the tips of my toes. A mystery that had all my attention until the very end. A spider web that expanded its net across the small town of Hawthorne, South Carolina. A deeply religious family that knows wealth beyond everyone else and has a hand in all the towns business ventures. The Hawthorne's command respect. They are the family in charge, and no one better utter a single bad thing about them. The characters are deeply layered, flawed, and have powers that allow them to see things beyond what the normal person can see.
Hollis Sutherland has lived her entire life in Hawthorne. Her life changed the day that she came back from the dead. Allowing her to see grave birds. What are grave birds you ask? It is when a person passes and has unfinished business. They leave their bird behind, tethered to the place their human passed. They wait years until someone who can see them, picks them up. They are flung back to the image or passage of time they want shown. The day the mysterious new man Cain comes into town, the amount of grave birds seems to explode. There are fire tornados, blood dripping from trees, and Hollis is beyond angry when the place she dreamed of turning into her very own events space is scooped up from her. The dashing new Cain appears to be behind it all or the timing is just a huge coincidence. Hollis is planning the event for the season for the Hawthornes. As each day steps closer to the big event, more birds show her a connection. Leading her all over town, as she tries to piece together what each story means. Have I confused you yet?
I do not want to go into too many details. This one kept me on my toes. Between the biblical firestorms, the budding romance, the gorgeous descriptions of gardens, my senses were on overload, and I loved every second of it. Just know this is a must read if you love paranormal, mixed with a dash of atmosphere, a sprinkle of romance, and all the southern drama you can handle. I have already put Dana Elmendorf's last book in my cart. I need to read all her words! Thank you to Dana for my gifted finished copy of this exquisite book.
Hollis Sutherland has lived her entire life in Hawthorne. Her life changed the day that she came back from the dead. Allowing her to see grave birds. What are grave birds you ask? It is when a person passes and has unfinished business. They leave their bird behind, tethered to the place their human passed. They wait years until someone who can see them, picks them up. They are flung back to the image or passage of time they want shown. The day the mysterious new man Cain comes into town, the amount of grave birds seems to explode. There are fire tornados, blood dripping from trees, and Hollis is beyond angry when the place she dreamed of turning into her very own events space is scooped up from her. The dashing new Cain appears to be behind it all or the timing is just a huge coincidence. Hollis is planning the event for the season for the Hawthornes. As each day steps closer to the big event, more birds show her a connection. Leading her all over town, as she tries to piece together what each story means. Have I confused you yet?
I do not want to go into too many details. This one kept me on my toes. Between the biblical firestorms, the budding romance, the gorgeous descriptions of gardens, my senses were on overload, and I loved every second of it. Just know this is a must read if you love paranormal, mixed with a dash of atmosphere, a sprinkle of romance, and all the southern drama you can handle. I have already put Dana Elmendorf's last book in my cart. I need to read all her words! Thank you to Dana for my gifted finished copy of this exquisite book.
August 29, 2025
Grave Birds is my second Elmendorf, and I'm just as in love with it as I was my first (In the Hour of Crows (also 5⭐️s)!
Grave Birds is a modern southern gothic, mystery with magical realism, romance, and aaall the vibes. I loved the idea of grave birds; chilling and mesmerizing. Elmendorf writes her MCs smart, relatable, and loveable. Her writing is beautiful, connecting you to nature, life, death, and the beyond. She really knows how to pull you in emotionally. I was all up in my feels over what Hollis was experiencing.
If you enjoy Adrienne Young's adult novels, then I think Dana Elmendorf might be a new favorite for you!
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing | MIRA for the eARC!
Grave Birds is a modern southern gothic, mystery with magical realism, romance, and aaall the vibes. I loved the idea of grave birds; chilling and mesmerizing. Elmendorf writes her MCs smart, relatable, and loveable. Her writing is beautiful, connecting you to nature, life, death, and the beyond. She really knows how to pull you in emotionally. I was all up in my feels over what Hollis was experiencing.
If you enjoy Adrienne Young's adult novels, then I think Dana Elmendorf might be a new favorite for you!
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing | MIRA for the eARC!
July 15, 2025
**I was provided this book as an e-ARC. Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this story and provide my honest opinion on it.**
Grave Birds is the second book I read by Dana Elmendorf. The first was "In the Hour of Crows." Both stories share themes of whimsy, southern charm, and a little bit of fantasy. In this book that fantasy comes in the context of death and the deceased as Hollis (our FMC) is able to see these otherwise invisible creatures. Not only can she see them, but they show her snippets of the past related to those who have passed. Hollis uses these snippets to help piece together what increasingly becomes a mystery to be solved. While she's engaging in this a Hawthorne newcomer, Cain, seems to somehow be involved though she can't quite decipher how or why. This story follows Hollis through figuring out what is going on and who the players are.
I truly enjoyed the content and premise for this story. I wish it had been a bit more fleshed out as there are a number of things that could have used explaining (why did all of those catastrophes begin happening upon the arrival to town of one particular individual?) or had the opportunity to be built into a really great explanation and storyline (how and why did the two MC's go from relative hatred to not only care, but emotions worthy of a relationship so quickly?!). These holes and others make it hard for me to give this story as high of marks as I would like. However, based on the subject matter, the plot, and the characters I would say it's an enoyable, easy to read story.
Grave Birds is the second book I read by Dana Elmendorf. The first was "In the Hour of Crows." Both stories share themes of whimsy, southern charm, and a little bit of fantasy. In this book that fantasy comes in the context of death and the deceased as Hollis (our FMC) is able to see these otherwise invisible creatures. Not only can she see them, but they show her snippets of the past related to those who have passed. Hollis uses these snippets to help piece together what increasingly becomes a mystery to be solved. While she's engaging in this a Hawthorne newcomer, Cain, seems to somehow be involved though she can't quite decipher how or why. This story follows Hollis through figuring out what is going on and who the players are.
I truly enjoyed the content and premise for this story. I wish it had been a bit more fleshed out as there are a number of things that could have used explaining (why did all of those catastrophes begin happening upon the arrival to town of one particular individual?) or had the opportunity to be built into a really great explanation and storyline (how and why did the two MC's go from relative hatred to not only care, but emotions worthy of a relationship so quickly?!). These holes and others make it hard for me to give this story as high of marks as I would like. However, based on the subject matter, the plot, and the characters I would say it's an enoyable, easy to read story.
March 30, 2025
I had previously enjoyed In the Hour of Crows by Elmendorf, so I was interested to see what Grave Birds had to offer. As with her previous work, this one offered a really fresh and fascinating premise with the concept of the grave birds and those who can see them. The tale also incorporated a bit of a murder mystery linked to family secrets, and ended with a twist I hadn't seen coming. Overall, it was a very enjoyable paranormal Gothic tale, even though I didn't love it quite as much as In the Hour of Crows. I think the element that didn't 100% work for me was the romance element. Cain was a noticeably underdeveloped character whose personality suddenly did a full 180 without any real justification, and the romance between him and Hollis felt forced and lacked spark. But in general, the fun mystery elements of the plot outweighed any issues with the romance subplot, so I am giving the book 4 stars.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 10, 2025
Grave Birds was my second book by this author and I'm just in love with her writing. Oh my goodness this book was amazing! It's filled with Southern charm and family drama, as well as an intriguing mystery with supernatural elements.
Hollis can see grave birds (little birds that carry messages from the dead). When she touches one, she gets a peek into the person's biggest regrets or last moments. When Cain Landry shows up with his own grave bird, Hollis starts to uncover the town's old secrets.
I found the concept of the grave birds to be both chilling and captivating. Elmendorf's protagonist is intelligent, easy to relate to, and endearing. Her writing style is exquisite and she possesses a remarkable ability to evoke strong emotions. I was deeply moved by Hollis's experiences and captivated by the mystery elements.
If you're into Southern gothic with magical realism, then this is the book for you!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Hollis can see grave birds (little birds that carry messages from the dead). When she touches one, she gets a peek into the person's biggest regrets or last moments. When Cain Landry shows up with his own grave bird, Hollis starts to uncover the town's old secrets.
I found the concept of the grave birds to be both chilling and captivating. Elmendorf's protagonist is intelligent, easy to relate to, and endearing. Her writing style is exquisite and she possesses a remarkable ability to evoke strong emotions. I was deeply moved by Hollis's experiences and captivated by the mystery elements.
If you're into Southern gothic with magical realism, then this is the book for you!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 1, 2025
I adored this book! It was my 1st by this author but I will most definitely be seeking out her backlist!
Hollis Sutherland is a small-town southern girl who died in a tragic car accident but was brought back to life. Since that happened, she's been able to see grave birds. Grave birds are ghostly birds that manifest the dead's unfinished business. Cain Landry has just moved to Hawthorne, SC. He's incredibly mysterious, handsome, and wealthy. But his presence seems to wreak havoc. Some truly bizarre things have been happening since he moved to town, like blood dripping from dogwood blossoms, fire tornadoes, and a flock of birds crashing into a window. Not to mention he bought the house that Hollis was going to buy. But soon the birds start to show Hollis the darker side of the town's "noble family" and what they did to get to where they are now. Is Cain connected somehow? Will Hollis be able to uncover the truth?
This book is the epitome of Southern Gothic! It was haunting, atmospheric, suspenseful, and took place in South Carolina! The mystery was so intriguing, I couldn't turn the pages fast enough! Full of family and small-town drama, I was completely hooked! I absolutely love birds, and the way they were incorporated into this story was perfection! I also loved the setting and the romance between Hollis and Cain! This book was beautifully written and completely captivating! I enjoyed it SO much and HIGHLY recommend it!🩷
Hollis Sutherland is a small-town southern girl who died in a tragic car accident but was brought back to life. Since that happened, she's been able to see grave birds. Grave birds are ghostly birds that manifest the dead's unfinished business. Cain Landry has just moved to Hawthorne, SC. He's incredibly mysterious, handsome, and wealthy. But his presence seems to wreak havoc. Some truly bizarre things have been happening since he moved to town, like blood dripping from dogwood blossoms, fire tornadoes, and a flock of birds crashing into a window. Not to mention he bought the house that Hollis was going to buy. But soon the birds start to show Hollis the darker side of the town's "noble family" and what they did to get to where they are now. Is Cain connected somehow? Will Hollis be able to uncover the truth?
This book is the epitome of Southern Gothic! It was haunting, atmospheric, suspenseful, and took place in South Carolina! The mystery was so intriguing, I couldn't turn the pages fast enough! Full of family and small-town drama, I was completely hooked! I absolutely love birds, and the way they were incorporated into this story was perfection! I also loved the setting and the romance between Hollis and Cain! This book was beautifully written and completely captivating! I enjoyed it SO much and HIGHLY recommend it!🩷
November 25, 2025
3.5 ⭐️s - on paper, this book was perfect for me—southern gothic vibes, a dark and charming MMC, and a small town drowning in secrets. And honestly, the writing was really beautiful and absolutely delivered on atmosphere.
The premise—a girl brought back to life who can suddenly see the “grave birds” of the dead—was so haunting and imaginative that it hooked me immediately. Every page planted these creepy seeds of mystery, and I loved that. But even with all the gorgeous writing, I kept finding myself wanting more.
The last few chapters of the book finally brought twists and real momentum, but by then it just felt too late. Overall, an entertaining read.
The premise—a girl brought back to life who can suddenly see the “grave birds” of the dead—was so haunting and imaginative that it hooked me immediately. Every page planted these creepy seeds of mystery, and I loved that. But even with all the gorgeous writing, I kept finding myself wanting more.
The last few chapters of the book finally brought twists and real momentum, but by then it just felt too late. Overall, an entertaining read.
November 23, 2025
TLDR: Interesting premise, short on spooks.
After Hollis Sutherland nearly drowned as a child she returned from the dead with a new ability to see “grave birds”—spirits/souls of the dead that show her their memories. Now an event planner trying to launch her own business she meets Cain—a handsome and wealthy man who buys Hollis’ dead uncle’s house out from under her. He is rude until suddenly he isn’t and they fall in love. Meanwhile new grave birds are appearing more often and Hollis is compelled to uncover their secrets. Can she solve the mystery they are leading her to and pull off a gala event to solidify her event planner reputation?
Loved the setup but to call this a Southern gothic is a stretch. Hollis’ family might be the town outcasts (although Hollis herself is active in town and has supportive friends) but we don’t see deep dysfunction with them. We are outside observers to the family who wins the most dysfunctional award which removes a lot of the spookiness. In addition, the darker threads are never followed. Cain is introduced as a possible “devil” but he’s just a hot soybean entrepreneur with a creepy godmother.
The Revelations imagery (fire tornadoes, dead cardinals) felt like we were building to something apocalyptic but that also never materialized. I kept expecting Cain to be one of the Four Horsemen and Mary Beth to be possessed. And questions stack up that are never answered: Does Cain see the dead? Who was he talking to in his office the night Hollis heard a child’s voice with him? And why is he such an absolute dick at the beginning?
Unfortunately, there are too many questions left unanswered for this to be a satisfying read.
After Hollis Sutherland nearly drowned as a child she returned from the dead with a new ability to see “grave birds”—spirits/souls of the dead that show her their memories. Now an event planner trying to launch her own business she meets Cain—a handsome and wealthy man who buys Hollis’ dead uncle’s house out from under her. He is rude until suddenly he isn’t and they fall in love. Meanwhile new grave birds are appearing more often and Hollis is compelled to uncover their secrets. Can she solve the mystery they are leading her to and pull off a gala event to solidify her event planner reputation?
Loved the setup but to call this a Southern gothic is a stretch. Hollis’ family might be the town outcasts (although Hollis herself is active in town and has supportive friends) but we don’t see deep dysfunction with them. We are outside observers to the family who wins the most dysfunctional award which removes a lot of the spookiness. In addition, the darker threads are never followed. Cain is introduced as a possible “devil” but he’s just a hot soybean entrepreneur with a creepy godmother.
The Revelations imagery (fire tornadoes, dead cardinals) felt like we were building to something apocalyptic but that also never materialized. I kept expecting Cain to be one of the Four Horsemen and Mary Beth to be possessed. And questions stack up that are never answered: Does Cain see the dead? Who was he talking to in his office the night Hollis heard a child’s voice with him? And why is he such an absolute dick at the beginning?
Unfortunately, there are too many questions left unanswered for this to be a satisfying read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2025
This book seemingly had it all- a southern gothic vibe, a dark and devilishly handsome man, a small town hiding terrible secrets.
The writing really set the stage for a sticky North Carolina summer filled with spanish moss and the scent of freshly baked sweets. The premise of a girl brought back to life who can now see the “grave birds” of the dead was fascinating. And seeds of mystery were slowly planted at every turn.
It should have been perfect- but I ended up just really wanting more.
More action, more suspense, more romance- more ANYTHING. It felt like the entire book was a prelude- every chapter felt like we were just about to really get into it, and then it pulled away. And I know not everything is about romance, but this story was frustrating in that it seemed to want to make the romance a main focus while also skipping over it entirely? The potential was so great which made the disappointment even worse.
The last 15% was pretty twisty and intense and fun, but it was too little too late. A very 3 star read.
The writing really set the stage for a sticky North Carolina summer filled with spanish moss and the scent of freshly baked sweets. The premise of a girl brought back to life who can now see the “grave birds” of the dead was fascinating. And seeds of mystery were slowly planted at every turn.
It should have been perfect- but I ended up just really wanting more.
More action, more suspense, more romance- more ANYTHING. It felt like the entire book was a prelude- every chapter felt like we were just about to really get into it, and then it pulled away. And I know not everything is about romance, but this story was frustrating in that it seemed to want to make the romance a main focus while also skipping over it entirely? The potential was so great which made the disappointment even worse.
The last 15% was pretty twisty and intense and fun, but it was too little too late. A very 3 star read.
September 16, 2025
I wanted this to be darker than what it was. It wasnt creepy or intriguing, just a drawn out book with a terrible romance story.
October 8, 2025
interesting premise but took me ageeeesss to get into and i just didn’t care at all for the romance plot
July 8, 2025
4.5 / 5 stars
Thank you Harlequin Audio for providing this audiobook for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Hollis Sutherland drowned when she was eleven years old. She came back, but she didn’t come back the same.
Ever since, she’s been able to see grave birds – spectral robins, mourning doves, and other restless spirits tied to the places where people died, waiting for their unfinished business to be resolved.
In Hawthorne, South Carolina, where secrets haunt every street, Hollis has learned to live with the grave birds’ presence. Until the day Cain Landry comes to town – with a grave bird perched on his shoulder.
As strange omens and restless spirits stir, Hollis must follow the grave birds’ clues to uncover the town’s buried sins before the past destroys everything she’s working to build.
This was such a satisfying Southern Gothic, blending magical realism with a layered small-town mystery that kept me hooked from start to finish. Hollis is exactly the kind of protagonist I love – driven and compassionate, with a strong sense of justice that pushes her to help the grave birds around town. Brittany Pressley’s narration brought her to life so vividly, and I was rooting for Hollis the whole way.
The grave birds themselves were a highlight – each one a specific species tied to unfinished business, adding a tangible realism to the magic. I also loved how rich the Southern atmosphere felt, with abandoned properties, emerging cicadas, secrets in every corner, and the sense that something eerie is always just out of sight.
While the publisher’s description makes it sound like a “devil comes to town” story, the heart of this book is Hollis’s connection with the dead and her unraveling of Hawthorne’s dark past. (And so much more about her event planning business than I expected.) It reminded me of The Change in the best ways, with women’s power, magical realism, and a mystery that actually delivers.
If I have one quibble, it’s that Cain didn’t feel as fully developed as Hollis, and his enemies-to-lovers arc moved a bit fast. I didn’t mind him, but he didn’t leave me swooning. Still, that’s a small thing compared to how much I enjoyed this story.
If you love a Southern Gothic with rich atmosphere, an engaging mystery, and a touch of magic, Grave Birds is perfect for your TBR.
Thank you Harlequin Audio for providing this audiobook for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Hollis Sutherland drowned when she was eleven years old. She came back, but she didn’t come back the same.
Ever since, she’s been able to see grave birds – spectral robins, mourning doves, and other restless spirits tied to the places where people died, waiting for their unfinished business to be resolved.
In Hawthorne, South Carolina, where secrets haunt every street, Hollis has learned to live with the grave birds’ presence. Until the day Cain Landry comes to town – with a grave bird perched on his shoulder.
As strange omens and restless spirits stir, Hollis must follow the grave birds’ clues to uncover the town’s buried sins before the past destroys everything she’s working to build.
This was such a satisfying Southern Gothic, blending magical realism with a layered small-town mystery that kept me hooked from start to finish. Hollis is exactly the kind of protagonist I love – driven and compassionate, with a strong sense of justice that pushes her to help the grave birds around town. Brittany Pressley’s narration brought her to life so vividly, and I was rooting for Hollis the whole way.
The grave birds themselves were a highlight – each one a specific species tied to unfinished business, adding a tangible realism to the magic. I also loved how rich the Southern atmosphere felt, with abandoned properties, emerging cicadas, secrets in every corner, and the sense that something eerie is always just out of sight.
While the publisher’s description makes it sound like a “devil comes to town” story, the heart of this book is Hollis’s connection with the dead and her unraveling of Hawthorne’s dark past. (And so much more about her event planning business than I expected.) It reminded me of The Change in the best ways, with women’s power, magical realism, and a mystery that actually delivers.
If I have one quibble, it’s that Cain didn’t feel as fully developed as Hollis, and his enemies-to-lovers arc moved a bit fast. I didn’t mind him, but he didn’t leave me swooning. Still, that’s a small thing compared to how much I enjoyed this story.
If you love a Southern Gothic with rich atmosphere, an engaging mystery, and a touch of magic, Grave Birds is perfect for your TBR.
July 3, 2025
A southern gothic horror novel full of interesting, mysterious characters, beautiful settings, and the singularly fascinating premise of grave birds - a bird that is physically bound to the earth by an invisible tether holding them here as a representative of a soul with unfinished business.
Our main character, Hollis, drowned and was revived when she was eleven and since then she can see grave birds. It's a haunting and beautiful concept and one that plagues her as the birds cannot be freed until she's understood what their message is. (And this whole wonderfully, gorgeously tragic idea now has me obsessing about the nature of the birds. Different species appear for different people, there's no one type: cardinal, sparrow, chickadee, etc. So I keep wondering if the species is geographically specific, or more a representation of the person's personality? Would you get a shima enaga or a kakapo in South Carolina...? How about a penguin? 🤔)
Now in her mid-20s, she's been noticing some strange things happening in her South Carolina town: a stranger arrives, natural disasters frequent the area, mysterious accidents befall the local residents and a decades old mystery starts to resurface.
Elmendorf's writing is perfectly on point for a southern gothic tale, full of lush settings, quirky characters, haunting family secrets and unsettling tragic ghosts. She crafts a murder mystery that is complex and compelling and the main character is easily relatable. The overall feel of this was strongly reminiscent of a cross with Midnight In the Garden of Good and Evil and the 2000 movie The Gift to give you an idea of tone and style.
My only criticism is that the 'big reveal' felt a bit rushed and confusing, a little out of sync with the pacing of the novel as a whole.
Otherwise, a great book!
My thanks to NetGalley and MIRABooks for the complimentary Advanced Reader Copy.
Our main character, Hollis, drowned and was revived when she was eleven and since then she can see grave birds. It's a haunting and beautiful concept and one that plagues her as the birds cannot be freed until she's understood what their message is. (And this whole wonderfully, gorgeously tragic idea now has me obsessing about the nature of the birds. Different species appear for different people, there's no one type: cardinal, sparrow, chickadee, etc. So I keep wondering if the species is geographically specific, or more a representation of the person's personality? Would you get a shima enaga or a kakapo in South Carolina...? How about a penguin? 🤔)
Now in her mid-20s, she's been noticing some strange things happening in her South Carolina town: a stranger arrives, natural disasters frequent the area, mysterious accidents befall the local residents and a decades old mystery starts to resurface.
Elmendorf's writing is perfectly on point for a southern gothic tale, full of lush settings, quirky characters, haunting family secrets and unsettling tragic ghosts. She crafts a murder mystery that is complex and compelling and the main character is easily relatable. The overall feel of this was strongly reminiscent of a cross with Midnight In the Garden of Good and Evil and the 2000 movie The Gift to give you an idea of tone and style.
My only criticism is that the 'big reveal' felt a bit rushed and confusing, a little out of sync with the pacing of the novel as a whole.
Otherwise, a great book!
My thanks to NetGalley and MIRABooks for the complimentary Advanced Reader Copy.
June 23, 2025
This book was put on my radar by my dear friend Lindsey! I saw her beautiful book on instagram and was instantly drawn to it. Thankfully Netgalley had the hookup for an audio book so we could do a buddy read!
📖Hawthorne is a small town in South Carolina where everyone knows everyone. Hollis Sutherland has lived there her whole life and knows the town like the back of her hand. However, the town might now know Hollis as well as they think. Hollis has the unique ability to see Grave Birds. When she was a little girl she was brought back from the dead, and with that resurrection came the ability to see the birds. These birds carry visions of the dead's unfinished business.
When the incredibly mysterious, handsome Cain Landry comes to town, Hollis is thrown off guard. Not just by his incredibly good looks, but by the Grave bird that is always following him. While Hollis finds herself frustrated with Cain and his bulldozing into the town and taking over, she also finds herself quite smitten with him as well. But while she may be falling for him, something is very off in the town of Hawthorne. The Grave Birds stories are not adding up with those of the living and Hollis is determined to get down to the bottom of it. Even if it means finding out Cain is hiding something.
📝This book felt like I was right in the middle of South Carolina just looking at the mossy trees and vibing with the gothic feel of the town. As someone from a small town, Dana definitely nailed the “small town atmosphere” and the sprinkle of the gothic setting was perfect. It definitely felt like a mystery with a side of romance, but just the right amount to keep you interested in their story. The ending surprised me which I always take as a win!
Grave Birds has a little bit of everything, mystery, paranormal, love interests and beautiful atmosphere!
📖Hawthorne is a small town in South Carolina where everyone knows everyone. Hollis Sutherland has lived there her whole life and knows the town like the back of her hand. However, the town might now know Hollis as well as they think. Hollis has the unique ability to see Grave Birds. When she was a little girl she was brought back from the dead, and with that resurrection came the ability to see the birds. These birds carry visions of the dead's unfinished business.
When the incredibly mysterious, handsome Cain Landry comes to town, Hollis is thrown off guard. Not just by his incredibly good looks, but by the Grave bird that is always following him. While Hollis finds herself frustrated with Cain and his bulldozing into the town and taking over, she also finds herself quite smitten with him as well. But while she may be falling for him, something is very off in the town of Hawthorne. The Grave Birds stories are not adding up with those of the living and Hollis is determined to get down to the bottom of it. Even if it means finding out Cain is hiding something.
📝This book felt like I was right in the middle of South Carolina just looking at the mossy trees and vibing with the gothic feel of the town. As someone from a small town, Dana definitely nailed the “small town atmosphere” and the sprinkle of the gothic setting was perfect. It definitely felt like a mystery with a side of romance, but just the right amount to keep you interested in their story. The ending surprised me which I always take as a win!
Grave Birds has a little bit of everything, mystery, paranormal, love interests and beautiful atmosphere!
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