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Camp Sunshine: A Thrilling Domestic Novella
"A camping trip with friends takes an unexpected and sinister turn in this imaginative thriller. Readers will enjoy seeing how Brooke's story unfolds!" Kristina B., Proofreader, Red Adept Editing
Three couples, two kids, and one camping trip gone horribly wrong.
Who is responsible for the murder at Pleasant Valley Campground that night? Trapped, not only in her mind, but also in a forensic mental health facility, Brooke struggles with that question.
In this novella, an imprisoned woman recollects her past while struggling with the present. After years of silence, mental turmoil, and behavioral outbursts, Brooke’s situation changes.
As the lines between her memory and reality blur, she must go back and relive the terror.
Her disheveled appearance did nothing to convince the authorities that she was innocent, and her mental trauma and inability to defend herself shined an unforgiving light on what really happened. After all this time, will she ever be able to prove what happened, and if she does, can she accept the truth?
Three couples, two kids, and one camping trip gone horribly wrong.
Who is responsible for the murder at Pleasant Valley Campground that night? Trapped, not only in her mind, but also in a forensic mental health facility, Brooke struggles with that question.
In this novella, an imprisoned woman recollects her past while struggling with the present. After years of silence, mental turmoil, and behavioral outbursts, Brooke’s situation changes.
As the lines between her memory and reality blur, she must go back and relive the terror.
Her disheveled appearance did nothing to convince the authorities that she was innocent, and her mental trauma and inability to defend herself shined an unforgiving light on what really happened. After all this time, will she ever be able to prove what happened, and if she does, can she accept the truth?
186 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2025
35 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
March 26, 2025
"Camp Sunshine" is a novella that initially starts slowly but proves essential for setting up the character dynamics, ultimately delivering an engaging and suspenseful narrative. The story explores the complexities of friendships and relationships, particularly the dangers that can arise from being in the wrong place at the wrong time.It also reinforces my skepticism towards camping, an activity I may now reconsider!
One of the aspects I most enjoyed was the multiple points of view, which allowed for a deeper connection with the main female character. I found her relatable on numerous levels. The overall progression of the book was highly enjoyable until the ending, which left a lingering question: how was the doctor apprehended? I would have appreciated more insight into how Brooke convinced the authorities.
Though it’s a shorter story, Camp Sunshine packs a significant punch, offering suspense and character depth without skimping on either. The twists were captivating, and I was constantly kept on my toes, unsure of what would unfold next. The eerie atmosphere, particularly in the camping setting, was masterfully crafted, and at times, I found myself at the edge of my seat.
One of the aspects I most enjoyed was the multiple points of view, which allowed for a deeper connection with the main female character. I found her relatable on numerous levels. The overall progression of the book was highly enjoyable until the ending, which left a lingering question: how was the doctor apprehended? I would have appreciated more insight into how Brooke convinced the authorities.
Though it’s a shorter story, Camp Sunshine packs a significant punch, offering suspense and character depth without skimping on either. The twists were captivating, and I was constantly kept on my toes, unsure of what would unfold next. The eerie atmosphere, particularly in the camping setting, was masterfully crafted, and at times, I found myself at the edge of my seat.
April 23, 2025
What a great read 😳👀. I had just decided to read Another book and your post came why no one was reading your book. I seen that it was short and could read two at a time. I couldn’t. Ate this up! The absolute BEST thing you can do for authors is to shout about their books!
May 17, 2025
This short thriller covers a lot of ground in under 200 pages. I thought it was going to be predictable, but then there was a curve ball. I just couldn't see how this was going to resolve in the end. Definitely a different take on this type of thriller. It was refreshing to see things go in a different direction than I expected.
February 10, 2025
This was a quick read that was slow to start but necessary to get to know the characters. This is the story of friends and relationship dynamics and what can go wrong when being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Probably another reason for me to hate camping 😅 I did enjoy the multiple PoV for this story and I could relate to the MFC on so many levels. I enjoyed all of the book until the end when no light was shed on how the Doctor was caught out. I would have loved to know how Brooke was able to convince the authorities. Not having this knowledge is keeping me guessing which maybe is what the author wanted but I admit I am feeling annoyed by it. Otherwise the book was a fun ride and I’d be keen to see what more Heather will write for us in the future. This book gave me some Freida McFadden vibes so if you enjoy her books, you will enjoy this twisty and suspenseful novella.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2025
How many ways can a simple weekend camping trip with "friends" go horribly wrong? Friday the 13th meets Psycho in the Mississippi woods.
This story begins by dragging the reader along on a then 29 year old Brooke's slow agonizing trek through foggy memories of a horrifying camping trip from years ago broken up by peeks into her current nightmare. Her memories keep taking her back to a tragic weekend trip taken with her husband, 18 month old daughter, and 2 neighbor couples. The troubled dynamics going on beneath the surface between the characters slowly becomes more clear as the story progresses. It is one of those slowly creeping through the woods horror fests where you know nothing good is going to happen.
Just when you're lulled into an almost sleepy apathy riding along on that ever moving golf cart, and starting to think you're finally getting some idea of just how despicable some of these characters are, suddenly you're pitched head first off a metaphorical cliff into a deviously deranged plot twist worthy of Hitchcock himself.
It becomes psychological horror in its most raw form. I would have loved to see the first half pared down and the twists and turns of the last chapters more fleshed out. But it is still a brilliant piece of suspense writing. This one is well worth sticking with to the end. If you're a lover of horror suspense, this author is one to definitely follow and I highly recommend this book.
This story begins by dragging the reader along on a then 29 year old Brooke's slow agonizing trek through foggy memories of a horrifying camping trip from years ago broken up by peeks into her current nightmare. Her memories keep taking her back to a tragic weekend trip taken with her husband, 18 month old daughter, and 2 neighbor couples. The troubled dynamics going on beneath the surface between the characters slowly becomes more clear as the story progresses. It is one of those slowly creeping through the woods horror fests where you know nothing good is going to happen.
Just when you're lulled into an almost sleepy apathy riding along on that ever moving golf cart, and starting to think you're finally getting some idea of just how despicable some of these characters are, suddenly you're pitched head first off a metaphorical cliff into a deviously deranged plot twist worthy of Hitchcock himself.
It becomes psychological horror in its most raw form. I would have loved to see the first half pared down and the twists and turns of the last chapters more fleshed out. But it is still a brilliant piece of suspense writing. This one is well worth sticking with to the end. If you're a lover of horror suspense, this author is one to definitely follow and I highly recommend this book.
November 15, 2025
To the author’s credit, she exhibits a notable talent for character development and personality construction. She demonstrates a perceptive understanding of human temperament and certainly captures the tone and attitude of much of the modern American generation, particularly in the manner of their dialogue and interactions. It is evident that there was sincere intent behind the work, and I respect the effort invested in its creation.
For those who enjoy psychological and unsettling twists, this book most certainly delivers in that regard. Although it does not reach full clarity until nearer the conclusion, there are nevertheless clever hints interwoven throughout the chapters which serve to draw the reader onward.
For myself, however, I was rather disappointed by the continual profanity and the portrayal of immature relationships. I cannot honestly say that the villain was any less moral than the remaining characters, which rendered the entire cast rather unappealing. I found myself feeling genuinely disturbed for the fictional children portrayed within these pages.
That being said, if the author intended to awaken readers to the moral decay and fragmentation of the modern family unit, the book achieved that purpose. It is certainly a work that the modern audience of thriller readers, who do not mind profanity or infidelity, would appreciate.
For those who enjoy psychological and unsettling twists, this book most certainly delivers in that regard. Although it does not reach full clarity until nearer the conclusion, there are nevertheless clever hints interwoven throughout the chapters which serve to draw the reader onward.
For myself, however, I was rather disappointed by the continual profanity and the portrayal of immature relationships. I cannot honestly say that the villain was any less moral than the remaining characters, which rendered the entire cast rather unappealing. I found myself feeling genuinely disturbed for the fictional children portrayed within these pages.
That being said, if the author intended to awaken readers to the moral decay and fragmentation of the modern family unit, the book achieved that purpose. It is certainly a work that the modern audience of thriller readers, who do not mind profanity or infidelity, would appreciate.
February 4, 2025
Where do I start? I haven’t read a book this thrilling in years. I basically stick to quick read romance stories, and this is almost the complete opposite of my usual genre, but I LOVED it.
I am so glad I read this book, it was a page-turner that I could not put down. I am certain I will probably have some nightmares from this story, but they will be worth it.
The chapters in this AWESOME book flip between Brooke in the past, and Brooke in the present. As the book goes on another character is introduced, giving readers insight into his past actions.
Then another character is involved and has a few chapters giving more details about the core of this INCREDIBLE story. While reading this book I felt like the author was peeling off layers of an onion, revealing surprises and unveiling mysterious pieces of a psychological puzzle, while keeping me in suspense.
In my opinion, this is a MUST READ book. I am definitely going to be searching for other works from this talented author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am so glad I read this book, it was a page-turner that I could not put down. I am certain I will probably have some nightmares from this story, but they will be worth it.
The chapters in this AWESOME book flip between Brooke in the past, and Brooke in the present. As the book goes on another character is introduced, giving readers insight into his past actions.
Then another character is involved and has a few chapters giving more details about the core of this INCREDIBLE story. While reading this book I felt like the author was peeling off layers of an onion, revealing surprises and unveiling mysterious pieces of a psychological puzzle, while keeping me in suspense.
In my opinion, this is a MUST READ book. I am definitely going to be searching for other works from this talented author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2025
The overall premise kept me engaged and I thought the twists were really interesting and REALLY unique. I felt like the author spent too much time in part one on the mundanity of their time at the camp and it felt super repetitive at times. For me, it felt like the author kept trying to force us to care about the characters when in reality it was just getting repetitive. I didn’t connect with any of the characters enough to be anxious about the story but I was interested enough about the “Now” chapters that I wanted to see where the story went.
I felt like if part one could have been a little shorter so that we could focus more on parts two and three it would have been an all star thriller for me. Unfortunately, the beginning dragged and the ending was good but in my opinion ended too soon to be satisfying.
I would recommend it for an easy thriller with an interesting twist but it has some missing pieces that kept it from shining.
I felt like if part one could have been a little shorter so that we could focus more on parts two and three it would have been an all star thriller for me. Unfortunately, the beginning dragged and the ending was good but in my opinion ended too soon to be satisfying.
I would recommend it for an easy thriller with an interesting twist but it has some missing pieces that kept it from shining.
February 21, 2025
Despite its shorter length, the story packs a punch and doesn’t skimp on suspense or character depth. The twists kept me hooked, and I was never quite sure what would happen next, which made it a lot of fun. It’s a wild ride full of twists and turns that kept me guessing the whole time. This was a quick and easy read, but it still managed to keep me fully engaged from start to finish. The suspense and creepy moments were done so well that I found myself on the edge of my seat at times. The setting really adds to the tension—after reading this, you might think twice about your next camping trip!
I’m giving Camp Sunshine 4 stars. It’s a thrilling, eerie novella that doesn’t hold back, and it’s definitely worth the read if you’re into quick, atmospheric stories with plenty of surprises.
I’m giving Camp Sunshine 4 stars. It’s a thrilling, eerie novella that doesn’t hold back, and it’s definitely worth the read if you’re into quick, atmospheric stories with plenty of surprises.
June 30, 2025
This story pulled me in from the very first page. The setting was vivid and immersive—and as someone who camps with my family in our travel trailer, I loved how the backdrop echoed familiar memories while layering in something a little more thrilling. That personal connection made the whole experience even more engaging.
I genuinely really enjoyed this book. It had that special something that makes you want to keep reading “just one more chapter”—and then realize you’ve finished the whole thing. Heather’s writing is sharp, emotionally grounded, and thoughtfully crafted. Her pacing was spot-on, the characters well-drawn, and the story flowed effortlessly. And the twist? Total whiplash—in the best possible way. I was absolutely caught off guard, and it made the ending all the more satisfying.
I genuinely really enjoyed this book. It had that special something that makes you want to keep reading “just one more chapter”—and then realize you’ve finished the whole thing. Heather’s writing is sharp, emotionally grounded, and thoughtfully crafted. Her pacing was spot-on, the characters well-drawn, and the story flowed effortlessly. And the twist? Total whiplash—in the best possible way. I was absolutely caught off guard, and it made the ending all the more satisfying.
March 6, 2025
3.5
It's not a bad book but it starts a bit too slow for my taste and it's very short and it might feels rushed at the end. I didn't identify with the characters and that's ok. I also found the main character too naive for her own good
I got hooked when Part 2 started. It surprised me. You know when you pick it up something is meant to happen, but you don't know what. The last part of the book is the twist you don't expect.
I think this is a debut book, so congrats to the author! If she writes more of the same genre, I will keep reading.
It's not a bad book but it starts a bit too slow for my taste and it's very short and it might feels rushed at the end. I didn't identify with the characters and that's ok. I also found the main character too naive for her own good
I got hooked when Part 2 started. It surprised me. You know when you pick it up something is meant to happen, but you don't know what. The last part of the book is the twist you don't expect.
I think this is a debut book, so congrats to the author! If she writes more of the same genre, I will keep reading.
July 8, 2025
This novella is about a group of friends and their dynamics and about being in the wrong place at the wrong time. I found the beginning to be a bit slow but it was all character development that was needed to set up the “event”. The characters were interesting and their relationships were wild. It was nerve-wracking reading the beginning, just knowing something awful was about to happen and it amped up my anxiety and kept me on edge throughout the book. I really enjoyed the main character Brooke and felt like I could relate to her. The ending left me with unanswered questions though and I felt like it needed more explanation. Overall I enjoyed this book and it was an entertaining and exciting read that I would recommend to others!
September 17, 2025
“Camp Sunshine” turns a simple camping trip into a fast-paced nightmare. When three couples and two kids visit Pleasant Valley Campground, their weekend spirals into chaos after a murder occurs.
The isolated setting creates perfect tension as secrets surface and suspicion tears the group apart.
Once it kicks into gear, it rarely lets up. Rather than just focusing on “who did it,” it explores how ordinary people react when trust evaporates. The “then” and “now” writing style also made the book more appealing and keeping you guessing on how it was going to end.
Perfect for thriller fans who enjoy contained settings and psychological suspense. It had a very good ending that was very unexpected!
I definitely recommend reading this book
The isolated setting creates perfect tension as secrets surface and suspicion tears the group apart.
Once it kicks into gear, it rarely lets up. Rather than just focusing on “who did it,” it explores how ordinary people react when trust evaporates. The “then” and “now” writing style also made the book more appealing and keeping you guessing on how it was going to end.
Perfect for thriller fans who enjoy contained settings and psychological suspense. It had a very good ending that was very unexpected!
I definitely recommend reading this book
February 18, 2025
So, this was actually my first book by the author. The blurb, title and cover drew me in, and I am glad the story did not disappoint! Love stories playing on campsites - still enjoy going camping now and then - and the rather short chapters made my fly through the book, as well.
I was on the edge all the time, trying to figure out why this camping trip of a couple of friends had ended in murder, and why the MFC Brooke took the fall for it and it now locked in a mental health facility. Surely going to keep an eye on other releases for the author from now on!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was on the edge all the time, trying to figure out why this camping trip of a couple of friends had ended in murder, and why the MFC Brooke took the fall for it and it now locked in a mental health facility. Surely going to keep an eye on other releases for the author from now on!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2025
This was unfortunately not for me. I had a hard time connecting to any of the characters, and I found the book lacked necessary depth, leaving out details that would have made the story something more. An example would be her interactions with the psychologist. It is mentioned that she has sessions and that she learned from them enough to be able to play his mind games. But there is nothing in the form of details about what actually took place in those sessions. In summary, the author stops where the thriller aspect could have begun.
I would say that this is not really a thriller at all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I would say that this is not really a thriller at all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2025
Camp Sunshine may be a Novella but hold on tight, don't let that fool you, it was a wild ride. So many twist and turns that kept me guessing the whole time. This was a quick and easy read that kept me engaged the whole time. The writing is atmospheric, really tapping into your feelings, especially the creepy vibes. You may think twice about your next camping trip!
Truthfully, I need more of Dr. G please, a full on story!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Truthfully, I need more of Dr. G please, a full on story!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 11, 2025
This short book is full of thrilling twists and turns, and it's a compelling dive into the psychology of multiple characters. You'll find yourself rooting for the FMC and will be constantly guessing what will happen next. I really enjoy the structure of the novel, the way it weaves together different points of view, leaving the reader to predict how future interactions with the characters will play out. While there are a few "lulls" as far as pacing is concerned, the overall journey is worthwhile. I look forward to reading more from this author!
February 25, 2025
I picked up this book expecting a light, entertaining read. Boy, was I wrong—in the best way possible. The prologue grabbed me by the collar and didn't let go until I'd devoured the entire book in one sitting. It's a gripping tale full of unexpected twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. If you're looking for a story that surprises you at every turn, Camp Sunshine delivers. Highly recommend!
Note: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Note: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2025
This was the perfect quick thriller to finish up my February TBR. I love when it clicks in my head when an author reveals why they named a book a certain way. The way I gasped when I figured out what Camp Sunshine was and did not see it coming. I’m truly not sure what I would have done in Brooke’s situation and can’t imagine missing out so much on my children’s lives. For the sake of not revealing spoilers I’ll just say this. Read this book 💙
April 27, 2025
Camp sunshine
I really liked this book and the story was great. The details going into the main characters were so realistic about how some people are in life. The twist at the end I didn't see coming. My only thing that I didn't enjoy was the very ending with the doctor sessions. I felt it needed a few more before ending in my opinion without any spoilers. I would like to know the original ending you had planned before you changed it.
I really liked this book and the story was great. The details going into the main characters were so realistic about how some people are in life. The twist at the end I didn't see coming. My only thing that I didn't enjoy was the very ending with the doctor sessions. I felt it needed a few more before ending in my opinion without any spoilers. I would like to know the original ending you had planned before you changed it.
May 5, 2025
“Camp Sunshine” by Heather S. Chauvin is a gripping, twisty thriller that had me hooked from the first page. What starts off feeling like a simple, fun camping trip with friends quickly unravels into something far darker and more suspenseful. I couldn’t put it down—the pacing is tight, the tension builds perfectly, and the plot twist completely caught me off guard. If you love thrillers that keep you guessing, this one’s definitely worth the read!
May 13, 2025
I purchased this book at a craft show to show support for a beginning author. This is the first book I have read in many years as it is not one of my usual hobbies.
I enjoyed the thorough background for each character. I was very interested throughout the entire book. I would have loved to see a more in depth explanation of Brooke’s freedom and how it came to that point. Regardless, I enjoyed the read and think that it is an easy starter novel.
I enjoyed the thorough background for each character. I was very interested throughout the entire book. I would have loved to see a more in depth explanation of Brooke’s freedom and how it came to that point. Regardless, I enjoyed the read and think that it is an easy starter novel.
April 15, 2025
This book started slow but kept my attention. Towards the end, huge plot twist, but seemed like the ending of the book was rushed. There didn’t seem to be a description of how the person involved in the crime was caught-instead the books ended. I gave it 4 starts because of the plot and that it kept my attention.
April 28, 2025
This was a good read. And quick. I only took so long because something’s in life came up. There are some areas in the storyline that I wanted more info on. It wad like the author wanted to build suspense but after spending so much time developing the character the parts that seemed rushed seemed out of place from the rest of the story if that makes sense.
April 30, 2025
Let's go camping!!
Nothing better than time away camping. As Brooke (FMC) her family, neighbors and their friends take a weekend to get away. Unknown to them their fun filled trip would soon turn tragic.
I found that I could relate to Brooke in many ways. Making this story heartbreaking for me.
Nothing better than time away camping. As Brooke (FMC) her family, neighbors and their friends take a weekend to get away. Unknown to them their fun filled trip would soon turn tragic.
I found that I could relate to Brooke in many ways. Making this story heartbreaking for me.
May 16, 2025
Camp Sunshine is a chilling psychological novella that follows Brooke, a woman institutionalized after a camping trip ends in murder. Told through fragmented memories and unreliable narration, the story explores trauma, truth, and identity. Chauvin delivers a tense, emotional read that lingers long after it ends—perfect for fans of dark, character-driven suspense.
January 11, 2025
What a phenomenal read! Twist at the end you would never in a million years guess! It’s not who you think it is, and this doesn’t go where you thought it would. This is easily a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read! Blessed to have been chosen as an ARC reader!!! Can’t wait for future books from this author!!!!!
January 18, 2025
I was lucky enough to get an early released copy and WOW!!! You won’t put this book down. Did not disappoint. I can’t wait for this author’s next book. I felt like I was part of the book at some points. I could see the things described. Couldn’t put it down.
March 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this novella. It was a quick read with thrilling twists. I loved how the story was told from different viewpoints from the past and present.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 13, 2025
This was a good one. I'm glad it had the back and forth to explain things as well. Made things very interesting. Glad I picked this up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews