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Body Count
Not yet published
Expected 5 May 26In this sapphic slasher novel, Sundae Valentine made a deal with a monster in Wildwood, N.J., when she was a child, and barely escaped with her life. Six years later, Sundae’s braving Wildwood again for a killer beach party to celebrate prom with the cheerleaders and the football team. But the monster is back, too, and this time he’ll stop at nothing to make sure she pays her debts.
304 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication May 5, 2026
562 people want to read
About the author
Codie Crowley
2 books357 followersCodie Crowley once told a scary story that caused mass hysteria at a slumber party, and she’s been chasing that high ever since. When she isn't writing chilling fiction, she's probably out looking for ghosts in Salem, Massachusetts, where she lives with her husband, their cat, and a collection of creepy dolls.
Her debut novel, Here Lies a Vengeful Bitch, is coming August 2024 from Disney-Hyperion.
Her debut novel, Here Lies a Vengeful Bitch, is coming August 2024 from Disney-Hyperion.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 14, 2025
2.5 stars rounded up (with skepticism) “Feminist horror” is an interesting description for this. Not saying it wrong, because everyone has their own unique perspective on things, and what makes a story feminist coded. But, it’s interesting.
I am not sure this should be marketed the way that it is.
Granted, the main character is 18. So, technically not a minor- but still young enough to fall into the “teens and YA” category (12-18)
But, there is a lot of sex talk, girls referring to themselves as "sluts", wearing "pleasers" (which I assume are those heels commonly worn by women in the adult industry), among a few other things that I won't list.
It is not just about the age of the characters- but also the age of the intended audience.
Because of this, I think “new adult” category would be a better fit.
I don't want to judge the entire book based on what I think is a marketing oversight- but please do take notice of this.
As for the plot, I do think it was interesting.
Here we meet Sundae, a girl that had a run in with a ghost, and received 3 wishes.
But, those 3 wishes did not come without a price. A price that she hasn’t yet paid.
Fast forward years later, the ghost is ready to collect his due, and he will hurt anyone to get it.
This starts to pick up around the 40-50% mark, and becomes filled with a lot of action and some ghostly energy.
At one point a character says that the situation feels super “Wes Craven”, to which I say- kind of?
I am a horror fanatic, so I think thats quite the statement. And we should probably leave Wes Craven out of this.
But I can see the modern twist on the classic teenage slasher theme coming through in several aspects of the story.
This gives it some bonus points in my book, because I do like those vibes.
Another selling point for me has to be the romantic subplot.
There is some sapphic romance going on here, with the main characters Sundae and Lia- who also spend much of the story working together to survive and take down the ghost.
This, I liked!
A fun and romantic twist on the typical “best friends teaming up to catch the killer” thing that we see a lot in stuff like this.
Overall, the plot of this book has a lot of potential.
Though, it was a bit difficult for me to see past the sexualization that I mentioned at the beginning of this review.
I think with some minor tweaks to this story and its marketing, it could be pretty decent.
Thank you to Netgalley, Disney Publishing Worldwide | Disney Hyperion and author Codie Crowley for providing me with the eARC of “Body Count”, in exchange for my honest review.
Publication date: May 05, 2025
I am not sure this should be marketed the way that it is.
Granted, the main character is 18. So, technically not a minor- but still young enough to fall into the “teens and YA” category (12-18)
But, there is a lot of sex talk, girls referring to themselves as "sluts", wearing "pleasers" (which I assume are those heels commonly worn by women in the adult industry), among a few other things that I won't list.
It is not just about the age of the characters- but also the age of the intended audience.
Because of this, I think “new adult” category would be a better fit.
I don't want to judge the entire book based on what I think is a marketing oversight- but please do take notice of this.
As for the plot, I do think it was interesting.
Here we meet Sundae, a girl that had a run in with a ghost, and received 3 wishes.
But, those 3 wishes did not come without a price. A price that she hasn’t yet paid.
Fast forward years later, the ghost is ready to collect his due, and he will hurt anyone to get it.
This starts to pick up around the 40-50% mark, and becomes filled with a lot of action and some ghostly energy.
At one point a character says that the situation feels super “Wes Craven”, to which I say- kind of?
I am a horror fanatic, so I think thats quite the statement. And we should probably leave Wes Craven out of this.
But I can see the modern twist on the classic teenage slasher theme coming through in several aspects of the story.
This gives it some bonus points in my book, because I do like those vibes.
Another selling point for me has to be the romantic subplot.
There is some sapphic romance going on here, with the main characters Sundae and Lia- who also spend much of the story working together to survive and take down the ghost.
This, I liked!
A fun and romantic twist on the typical “best friends teaming up to catch the killer” thing that we see a lot in stuff like this.
Overall, the plot of this book has a lot of potential.
Though, it was a bit difficult for me to see past the sexualization that I mentioned at the beginning of this review.
I think with some minor tweaks to this story and its marketing, it could be pretty decent.
Thank you to Netgalley, Disney Publishing Worldwide | Disney Hyperion and author Codie Crowley for providing me with the eARC of “Body Count”, in exchange for my honest review.
Publication date: May 05, 2025
Want to read
January 15, 2025Excited!
November 5, 2025
4.5/5
Pure lesbian chaos. What if, by wishing you had asked out that hot girl that was flirting with you... you accidentally release a killer ghost hellbent on vengeance against her? That's the dilemma Lia and Sundae face in this novel.
Sundae stayed in Wildwood as a young girl, when she and her mother were fleeing her abusive father. One nigh Sundae met a being in the pool that said it could grant her three wishes. After he first wish, a hotel employee and friend dies, but Sundae is too young to connect the dots, the second wish leads to another attempted murder before Sundae and her mom get out of dodge yet again. Years down the line, Sundae and her friends are going back to Wildwood for their prom weekend, making her nervous of what ghosts may arise. The weekend starts out tame, with Sundae and her friends focused on their hookup game and having fun, and Sundae meeting Lia, a cute singer for a band playing at the motel. But when a third wish is finally made by someone Sundae knows, all hell is unleashed upon Wildwood, and no one at the Coral Cove Motel is safe. Can Lia and Sundae save themselves and their friends? & More importantly, will they get a second date?
Very Gen Z Mean Girls humor, I can easily picture a film version of this, but the cringe may not be for everyone.
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC of this novel.
Pure lesbian chaos. What if, by wishing you had asked out that hot girl that was flirting with you... you accidentally release a killer ghost hellbent on vengeance against her? That's the dilemma Lia and Sundae face in this novel.
Sundae stayed in Wildwood as a young girl, when she and her mother were fleeing her abusive father. One nigh Sundae met a being in the pool that said it could grant her three wishes. After he first wish, a hotel employee and friend dies, but Sundae is too young to connect the dots, the second wish leads to another attempted murder before Sundae and her mom get out of dodge yet again. Years down the line, Sundae and her friends are going back to Wildwood for their prom weekend, making her nervous of what ghosts may arise. The weekend starts out tame, with Sundae and her friends focused on their hookup game and having fun, and Sundae meeting Lia, a cute singer for a band playing at the motel. But when a third wish is finally made by someone Sundae knows, all hell is unleashed upon Wildwood, and no one at the Coral Cove Motel is safe. Can Lia and Sundae save themselves and their friends? & More importantly, will they get a second date?
Very Gen Z Mean Girls humor, I can easily picture a film version of this, but the cringe may not be for everyone.
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC of this novel.
December 3, 2025
3.5/4
This book felt like a fever dream of lesbian, kick-ass, chaotic horror. I honestly don’t even know how to fully describe it except to say it was creepy, wild, and completely addictive. I could not put it down and I had a good time.
I will say, I wouldn’t classify this as YA for younger teens. Definitely not 12–15. There’s a lot of sex talk—these girls even have a “Slut Cup” competition for the highest body count of the weekend and win a Slut Crown. How fun is that?! 🤫🤭 For my 12-year-old? Absolutely not.
Codie Crowley gives you gore, queer chaos, beach-town dread, and a monster that feels like it’s always breathing down your neck. Sundae was such an interesting character to follow as she’s forced to face the thing she’s been running from for years…and the Jersey Shore setting adds this gritty, neon-lit edge that I loved. Truly a creepy little gem.
Sundae Valentine once made a deadly deal with a monster lurking in a motel pool—and she still owes him a final wish that will cost her life. Now, returning to the Jersey Shore for prom weekend, she tries to drown her fears in parties, rides, and a girl who’s impossible to ignore. But the monster hasn’t forgotten. And he’s ready to collect…no matter who he has to kill along the way.
This book felt like a fever dream of lesbian, kick-ass, chaotic horror. I honestly don’t even know how to fully describe it except to say it was creepy, wild, and completely addictive. I could not put it down and I had a good time.
I will say, I wouldn’t classify this as YA for younger teens. Definitely not 12–15. There’s a lot of sex talk—these girls even have a “Slut Cup” competition for the highest body count of the weekend and win a Slut Crown. How fun is that?! 🤫🤭 For my 12-year-old? Absolutely not.
Codie Crowley gives you gore, queer chaos, beach-town dread, and a monster that feels like it’s always breathing down your neck. Sundae was such an interesting character to follow as she’s forced to face the thing she’s been running from for years…and the Jersey Shore setting adds this gritty, neon-lit edge that I loved. Truly a creepy little gem.
Sundae Valentine once made a deadly deal with a monster lurking in a motel pool—and she still owes him a final wish that will cost her life. Now, returning to the Jersey Shore for prom weekend, she tries to drown her fears in parties, rides, and a girl who’s impossible to ignore. But the monster hasn’t forgotten. And he’s ready to collect…no matter who he has to kill along the way.
November 4, 2025
3.5 Stars
It was both oddly slow and fast paced. It's entertaining and fun enough to keep me locked in till the end. It honestly felt like one of those early 2000's teen horror comedies. The dialogue both cringe (in a way that WORKS and was actually funny) while being snappy and sarcastic. Kind of a bit like a Diablo Cody screenplay. Not really one of those books you need to think too hard with, just crack it open and enjoy the ride.
My complaint is that some of the themes and topics feels like it should be marketed as adult or new adult rather than young adult but what do I know. I think once this releases I'm going to give it another go because it DOES feel like at least a four star read for me, but it was hard to focus because the quality of the arc was a nightmare for my terrible eyes. I really wanted this one so bad I suffered through a PDF lmao
Thank you to Disney Hyperion and netgalley for the arc.
It was both oddly slow and fast paced. It's entertaining and fun enough to keep me locked in till the end. It honestly felt like one of those early 2000's teen horror comedies. The dialogue both cringe (in a way that WORKS and was actually funny) while being snappy and sarcastic. Kind of a bit like a Diablo Cody screenplay. Not really one of those books you need to think too hard with, just crack it open and enjoy the ride.
My complaint is that some of the themes and topics feels like it should be marketed as adult or new adult rather than young adult but what do I know. I think once this releases I'm going to give it another go because it DOES feel like at least a four star read for me, but it was hard to focus because the quality of the arc was a nightmare for my terrible eyes. I really wanted this one so bad I suffered through a PDF lmao
Thank you to Disney Hyperion and netgalley for the arc.
November 6, 2025
Codie Crowley is a Horror Writing Queen!! This was one of the best books I read this year. I fell in love with her first book Here Lies a Vengeful Bitch and I learned that I loved her writing style. In her new book she brings the best form of campy horror movies to the page. Codie is now my instantly add to cart author. Not only did I get to meet her in Salem, MA but she signed my copy of HLVB. But back to the Body Count loves! This book will keep you hanging on your seat! I couldnt put it down, the need to know what happens next will have you in a choke hold. I fell in love with Sundae and Lia. I want a book two!! This message is for Codie only haha: when I was reading Body Count all I could picture was you as Sundae and your voice in my head as I was reading for her character! I love you and your writing!!
November 9, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
I love horror novels for girls! This was so fun!
The setting really sets this story apart from most because there aren’t many thrillers that take place on a vibrant beach. The boardwalk/motel descriptions also add a nice pop of colour to the otherwise dark storyline. The use of saltwater taffy was also a really nice touch. I will say, however, that I wish the story had just a little bit more build up, because it felt like the story peaked a little too early with how fast and chaotic everything was right from the beginning of the book. The chaos was very entertaining though! There was almost never a dull moment!
Ty NetGalley for the early access x
I love horror novels for girls! This was so fun!
The setting really sets this story apart from most because there aren’t many thrillers that take place on a vibrant beach. The boardwalk/motel descriptions also add a nice pop of colour to the otherwise dark storyline. The use of saltwater taffy was also a really nice touch. I will say, however, that I wish the story had just a little bit more build up, because it felt like the story peaked a little too early with how fast and chaotic everything was right from the beginning of the book. The chaos was very entertaining though! There was almost never a dull moment!
Ty NetGalley for the early access x
November 23, 2025
BEGGING teachers to read this book before adding it to their library. I would not count this as YA.
October 23, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Disney Hyperion for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Codie Crowley’s “Body Count” is a blood-soaked, chaotic, and unapologetically feminist take on the classic slasher with a supernatural twist and a sapphic heartbeat pulsing underneath all the gore. This upper YA (though I also can consider this a New Adult) horror story embraces both camp and carnage as it explores sexuality, trauma, and revenge through the intertwined perspectives of Sundae and Lia.
At its core, “Body Count follows” Sundae, a girl who once made a deal with a demon in exchange for three innocent childhood wishes, each of which came with devastating consequences. Now, years later, that same demon is back to collect what he’s owed, leaving a trail of blood, bodies, and chaos in his wake. Alongside Lia, a musician who may be on the verge of repeating Sundae’s mistakes, she must confront her past and the monstrous masculinity that lurks both within the demon and the world around her.
Crowley doesn’t shy away from violence or sexuality—two forces that often intertwine throughout the book. Sundae’s unapologetic embrace of her sexuality and the story’s exploration of slut-shaming and toxic masculinity make it a sharp, if at times uneven, example of “feminist horror.” The sapphic romance between Sundae and Lia adds a softer counterpoint to the carnage, grounding the mayhem in moments of intimacy and resilience.
The story’s pacing is intense. Once it hits the halfway mark, it explodes into a nonstop sequence of grotesque, vividly written action scenes that read like a neon-soaked fever dream. Crowley’s descriptive prose and knack for dialogue make the characters feel alive (and, often, painfully doomed). The vivid imagery of carnival settings, demonic hauntings, and revenge-fueled chaos immerses you in an atmosphere that’s both gruesome and strangely exhilarating.
Still, “Body Count” isn’t without its flaws. Since it’s subjective, the humor may feel cringy or forced at times, and the tonal shifts between dark comedy, gore, and heartfelt reflection can feel jarring. The villain’s backstory occasionally strains logic as I wanted more development of who he really was as that was really unique.
Despite its uneven execution, “Body Count” stands out for its ambition and voice. It’s a bold, bloody, and bizarre slasher that wears its feminist themes on its sleeve and revels in horror’s messy, transgressive power. Crowley’s writing shines brightest when it leans into its darkly comedic, self-aware energy.
Overall, “Body Count” is a wild and gory ride with heart and bite. It’s part feminist manifesto, part haunted carnival from hell. “Body Count” doesn’t always hit the mark, but it’s impossible to look away from the spectacle.
Codie Crowley’s “Body Count” is a blood-soaked, chaotic, and unapologetically feminist take on the classic slasher with a supernatural twist and a sapphic heartbeat pulsing underneath all the gore. This upper YA (though I also can consider this a New Adult) horror story embraces both camp and carnage as it explores sexuality, trauma, and revenge through the intertwined perspectives of Sundae and Lia.
At its core, “Body Count follows” Sundae, a girl who once made a deal with a demon in exchange for three innocent childhood wishes, each of which came with devastating consequences. Now, years later, that same demon is back to collect what he’s owed, leaving a trail of blood, bodies, and chaos in his wake. Alongside Lia, a musician who may be on the verge of repeating Sundae’s mistakes, she must confront her past and the monstrous masculinity that lurks both within the demon and the world around her.
Crowley doesn’t shy away from violence or sexuality—two forces that often intertwine throughout the book. Sundae’s unapologetic embrace of her sexuality and the story’s exploration of slut-shaming and toxic masculinity make it a sharp, if at times uneven, example of “feminist horror.” The sapphic romance between Sundae and Lia adds a softer counterpoint to the carnage, grounding the mayhem in moments of intimacy and resilience.
The story’s pacing is intense. Once it hits the halfway mark, it explodes into a nonstop sequence of grotesque, vividly written action scenes that read like a neon-soaked fever dream. Crowley’s descriptive prose and knack for dialogue make the characters feel alive (and, often, painfully doomed). The vivid imagery of carnival settings, demonic hauntings, and revenge-fueled chaos immerses you in an atmosphere that’s both gruesome and strangely exhilarating.
Still, “Body Count” isn’t without its flaws. Since it’s subjective, the humor may feel cringy or forced at times, and the tonal shifts between dark comedy, gore, and heartfelt reflection can feel jarring. The villain’s backstory occasionally strains logic as I wanted more development of who he really was as that was really unique.
Despite its uneven execution, “Body Count” stands out for its ambition and voice. It’s a bold, bloody, and bizarre slasher that wears its feminist themes on its sleeve and revels in horror’s messy, transgressive power. Crowley’s writing shines brightest when it leans into its darkly comedic, self-aware energy.
Overall, “Body Count” is a wild and gory ride with heart and bite. It’s part feminist manifesto, part haunted carnival from hell. “Body Count” doesn’t always hit the mark, but it’s impossible to look away from the spectacle.
October 19, 2025
Let us walk in sapphic longing together in the haunted forest! A blood splattering slashing of a fun time with Codie Crawley’s latest, Body Count. Crawley’s slasher is gratifying, comedic, with the balance of spice and chills! Do not be fooled by the pink cover - the vivacious descriptions in Crawley’s writing are abrasively chilling with a dark comedic edge. Millennial readers will catch the horror and pop culture references throughout the narrative.
Crawley is a masteress of writing dialogue and making the readers feel like they are a part of an active conversation. The character’s personality come alive through dialogue and set a strong sense of scene in this spooky carnival adventure. I can feel the character’s anxieties, their hopes, and their screams. Make sure you have some cotton candy to enjoy while you read a horror that blends Scream Queens and Halloween.
The Rob Zombie reference was my favorite throughout the entire narrative. Crawley clearly understands the depth of the horror genre. And I agree with the commentary that you will read in that passage. There is something about horror writers that truly know how to make a sub-genre of horror truly their own. What Crawley makes her own is keeping things fresh, real, and eerie with the right amount of description to get the blood flowing through your veins. The Cube reference is very niche. All I can think of is my spouse having me watch each and every cube one single night.
Amusement park thrills that pack a chilling crisp punch in Autumn. A descriptive scene setting that stays consistent in Crawley’s writing. I appreciate her commitment to fully understanding the vibes of fall that blow the cold through your bones and essence of being. A grotesque love letter that creates dynamic personalities that gives depth and love to the slasher genre. Thank you Crawley, Disney, and Netgalley for this advanced digital arc.
Read more reviews, recommendations, and impressions on my blog https://brujerialibrary.wordpress.com
Crawley is a masteress of writing dialogue and making the readers feel like they are a part of an active conversation. The character’s personality come alive through dialogue and set a strong sense of scene in this spooky carnival adventure. I can feel the character’s anxieties, their hopes, and their screams. Make sure you have some cotton candy to enjoy while you read a horror that blends Scream Queens and Halloween.
The Rob Zombie reference was my favorite throughout the entire narrative. Crawley clearly understands the depth of the horror genre. And I agree with the commentary that you will read in that passage. There is something about horror writers that truly know how to make a sub-genre of horror truly their own. What Crawley makes her own is keeping things fresh, real, and eerie with the right amount of description to get the blood flowing through your veins. The Cube reference is very niche. All I can think of is my spouse having me watch each and every cube one single night.
Amusement park thrills that pack a chilling crisp punch in Autumn. A descriptive scene setting that stays consistent in Crawley’s writing. I appreciate her commitment to fully understanding the vibes of fall that blow the cold through your bones and essence of being. A grotesque love letter that creates dynamic personalities that gives depth and love to the slasher genre. Thank you Crawley, Disney, and Netgalley for this advanced digital arc.
Read more reviews, recommendations, and impressions on my blog https://brujerialibrary.wordpress.com
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Body Count — 4.75 ⭐️
Sundae Valentine is a little girl staying at a motel with her mom when she notices a rule scribbled in red at the bottom of the pool sign: “Don’t open your eyes underwater.” Naturally, she breaks it — only to see a monster. The ghost of Holly Jolly, who offers her 3 wishes in the form of candy. One deal later, we flash forward to prom weekend, where Sundae and her cheerleader friends head to Wildwood, NJ to play a slutty little game to see who can rack up the highest “body count.”
As the sluttiest girl in school, Sundae has no problem winning… except she’s uneasy about returning to Wildwood, where something traumatic happened seven years ago — something everyone sort of knows about but not really. It’s about to get wild in Wildwood this weekend, and this game they’re playing won’t be the only “body count” for these cheerleaders.
Campy, queer, messy, slasher/monster vibes. It’s giving I Know What You Did Last Summer.
I loved this. It’s so much fun and doesn’t take itself too seriously. Sundae is my new favorite chaotic gay icon, and this entire story is exactly the kind of unhinged horror camp I want more of.
And I’m sorry…but I need a sequel.
A Holly Jolly Christmas? 🎄
Give me Black Christmas energy! Since this book is prom, it makes sense that next for Sundae would be college. A snowed-in sorority house, Sundae climbing the college social ladder while Holly Jolly returns to grant her “one final wish.” 👀 🤷♂️
Thank you NetGalley and Disney Hyperion for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Sundae Valentine is a little girl staying at a motel with her mom when she notices a rule scribbled in red at the bottom of the pool sign: “Don’t open your eyes underwater.” Naturally, she breaks it — only to see a monster. The ghost of Holly Jolly, who offers her 3 wishes in the form of candy. One deal later, we flash forward to prom weekend, where Sundae and her cheerleader friends head to Wildwood, NJ to play a slutty little game to see who can rack up the highest “body count.”
As the sluttiest girl in school, Sundae has no problem winning… except she’s uneasy about returning to Wildwood, where something traumatic happened seven years ago — something everyone sort of knows about but not really. It’s about to get wild in Wildwood this weekend, and this game they’re playing won’t be the only “body count” for these cheerleaders.
Campy, queer, messy, slasher/monster vibes. It’s giving I Know What You Did Last Summer.
I loved this. It’s so much fun and doesn’t take itself too seriously. Sundae is my new favorite chaotic gay icon, and this entire story is exactly the kind of unhinged horror camp I want more of.
And I’m sorry…but I need a sequel.
A Holly Jolly Christmas? 🎄
Give me Black Christmas energy! Since this book is prom, it makes sense that next for Sundae would be college. A snowed-in sorority house, Sundae climbing the college social ladder while Holly Jolly returns to grant her “one final wish.” 👀 🤷♂️
Thank you NetGalley and Disney Hyperion for the opportunity to read this ARC.
December 2, 2025
🌴Arc book review 🌴
𝐵𝑜𝑑𝑦 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡 𝐵𝑦: 𝐶𝑜𝑑𝑖𝑒 𝐶𝑟𝑜𝑤𝑙𝑒𝑦 🦩🏩
Rating: 3.75 rounded up ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sapphic, YA, horror all rolled up into one. Perfect for my ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑟𝑜𝑟 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑔𝑖𝑟𝑙𝑠, 𝑔𝑎𝑦𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦𝑠!
I loved the writing style of this book so much! I had moments where I felt at unease and uncertainty, dread and that scary prickling feeling you get when something is lurking at the deep end of the pool.
This was a fun, medium paced sapphic, horror/thriller/paranormal read. At 11 years old on the run Sundae and her mom flee to a motel. There she meets 𝐻𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝐽𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑦, a monster who grants her 3 wishes but she soon realizes those wishes come with a price.
Seven years later Sundae’s school is headed back to the Jersey Shore for Prom and she has no choice but to return. While there she meets a guitar playing, rock band baddie who gives off a leather jacket Winona Ryder type of vibe. I also see like a Wednesday/Enid vibe if it was sapphic.
Sundae still owes her debt and the monster will do anything to collect..
Highly recommend this book! It would be super fun to read during the summer as it gives like creepy spring break slasher! I loved loved the relationship between Sundae and Lia. You could literally feel the energy they had leaping off the pages!
Oh and the police car scene… my jaw came unhinged. The way it played out in my head was like a scene from a horror movie. There was nothing YA about it! I’m still thinking about it long after the book.
Thank you so much NETGALLEY & Disney Publishing for the arc! This was fun from beginning to end and really took me out of my reading slump
𝑃𝑢𝑏 𝐷𝑎𝑡𝑒: 𝟶𝟻.𝟶𝟻.𝟸𝟼
𝐵𝑜𝑑𝑦 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡 𝐵𝑦: 𝐶𝑜𝑑𝑖𝑒 𝐶𝑟𝑜𝑤𝑙𝑒𝑦 🦩🏩
Rating: 3.75 rounded up ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sapphic, YA, horror all rolled up into one. Perfect for my ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑟𝑜𝑟 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑔𝑖𝑟𝑙𝑠, 𝑔𝑎𝑦𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦𝑠!
I loved the writing style of this book so much! I had moments where I felt at unease and uncertainty, dread and that scary prickling feeling you get when something is lurking at the deep end of the pool.
This was a fun, medium paced sapphic, horror/thriller/paranormal read. At 11 years old on the run Sundae and her mom flee to a motel. There she meets 𝐻𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝐽𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑦, a monster who grants her 3 wishes but she soon realizes those wishes come with a price.
Seven years later Sundae’s school is headed back to the Jersey Shore for Prom and she has no choice but to return. While there she meets a guitar playing, rock band baddie who gives off a leather jacket Winona Ryder type of vibe. I also see like a Wednesday/Enid vibe if it was sapphic.
Sundae still owes her debt and the monster will do anything to collect..
Highly recommend this book! It would be super fun to read during the summer as it gives like creepy spring break slasher! I loved loved the relationship between Sundae and Lia. You could literally feel the energy they had leaping off the pages!
Oh and the police car scene… my jaw came unhinged. The way it played out in my head was like a scene from a horror movie. There was nothing YA about it! I’m still thinking about it long after the book.
Thank you so much NETGALLEY & Disney Publishing for the arc! This was fun from beginning to end and really took me out of my reading slump
𝑃𝑢𝑏 𝐷𝑎𝑡𝑒: 𝟶𝟻.𝟶𝟻.𝟸𝟼
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC Review!!
Body Count - Double Meaning - How many sexual partners you have had. - How many dead bodies at a scene of a crime. -
We get both in this rollercoaster ride of a book. While I will admit that I am likely not the target audience of this book, I had a really good time reading this. We follow Sundae as she returns to a place on prom weekend, that she has a traumatic past with. While on this weekend trip, the Slut Cup is in full effect. Also coming into town is Lia and her band, and this is Lia's first time preforming since the "Incident" in Philly.
Overall I really enjoyed the story, it was pretty fast paced after getting a few chapters in. I did get a little annoyed at a couple of scenes that had some buzz phrases, and that did bring my experience down some. Once things kick off, the action is pretty non stop. I felt the panic with the characters as they navigated this brutal story. I wouldn't say that I loved any of the characters with the exception of Neeli, Edison and Dallas, and they aren't even main characters. The way the entity in this is crafted is really well done, and a fun idea at that. I also love so much of the craziness taking place at the boardwalk.
Great fun story, a lot to keep you interested and the last 60% becomes very hard to put down. Highly recommend.
Body Count - Double Meaning - How many sexual partners you have had. - How many dead bodies at a scene of a crime. -
We get both in this rollercoaster ride of a book. While I will admit that I am likely not the target audience of this book, I had a really good time reading this. We follow Sundae as she returns to a place on prom weekend, that she has a traumatic past with. While on this weekend trip, the Slut Cup is in full effect. Also coming into town is Lia and her band, and this is Lia's first time preforming since the "Incident" in Philly.
Overall I really enjoyed the story, it was pretty fast paced after getting a few chapters in. I did get a little annoyed at a couple of scenes that had some buzz phrases, and that did bring my experience down some. Once things kick off, the action is pretty non stop. I felt the panic with the characters as they navigated this brutal story. I wouldn't say that I loved any of the characters with the exception of Neeli, Edison and Dallas, and they aren't even main characters. The way the entity in this is crafted is really well done, and a fun idea at that. I also love so much of the craziness taking place at the boardwalk.
Great fun story, a lot to keep you interested and the last 60% becomes very hard to put down. Highly recommend.
November 16, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! Being from New Jersey myself, I thought the setting was well down, I felt like I was right there at Wildwood (especially because there did used to be a horror ride, although not one displaying the previous kills of a demon, I think). Sundae, our protagonist, made a deal with a devil back when she and her mother were staying at the Coral Cove Motel, in which she received 3 wishes. Little girl Sundae wishes her hair would turn pink in the sun and then that she could have whatever she wanted without paying, but has yet to make her third wish as she realizes that there is a cost. She has stayed away from Wildwood ever since, but her friends want to go back their for their prom weekend. Sundae tries to opt out but is convinced to join them. While there, she meets the punk rocker Lia and her friends, who are playing a show at the Velvet Room, where Sundae and her friends are staying. Unfortunately, the demon she bargained with is coming for her, and Sundae may not be able to escape him this time. There is a lot of high school banter, and the action is fast-paced and reminiscent of a slasher movie. I thought this was a great story, and I really enjoyed it!
November 13, 2025
4.5/5⭐️
YA, Sapphic, Thriller, Horror.
Ah this book was so good!
First off, I loved the characters, they were honest and relatable. Lia, who is dealing with some anxiety especially with her recent attempts at debuting her songs on a big stage failing miserably, is flustered, funny and relatable. And of course Sundae. (Now albeit, I came into this book thinking two things.. “Wow this sounds like a really interesting plot” and “Who names their characters Sundae”) However I loved all the characters and their dynamics felt honest and not too cliche.
As for the horror/thriller part of the book, it was fast paced and kept me engaged and wanted to know more. It’s not fully mystery to what the monster was or why he was doing it but theres definitely an edge of suspense as the plot begins to unravel itself. There was a perfect balance between funny, romantic, and intense moments that all wraped together into a nice balance that kept me hooked and satisfied my thriller cravings. (Also I loved the Pansexual rep! Definitely not as common as it should be)
THANK YOU TO PUBLISHER AND NETGALLEY FOR THE EARLY ACCESS IN EXCHANGE FOR HONEST REVIEW!
YA, Sapphic, Thriller, Horror.
Ah this book was so good!
First off, I loved the characters, they were honest and relatable. Lia, who is dealing with some anxiety especially with her recent attempts at debuting her songs on a big stage failing miserably, is flustered, funny and relatable. And of course Sundae. (Now albeit, I came into this book thinking two things.. “Wow this sounds like a really interesting plot” and “Who names their characters Sundae”) However I loved all the characters and their dynamics felt honest and not too cliche.
As for the horror/thriller part of the book, it was fast paced and kept me engaged and wanted to know more. It’s not fully mystery to what the monster was or why he was doing it but theres definitely an edge of suspense as the plot begins to unravel itself. There was a perfect balance between funny, romantic, and intense moments that all wraped together into a nice balance that kept me hooked and satisfied my thriller cravings. (Also I loved the Pansexual rep! Definitely not as common as it should be)
THANK YOU TO PUBLISHER AND NETGALLEY FOR THE EARLY ACCESS IN EXCHANGE FOR HONEST REVIEW!
October 19, 2025
The concept of a paranormal Jersey Shore slasher really appealed to me, but unfortunately this didn’t fully live up to my expectations. The humor was so cringy it kept taking me out of the story. Also, the bad guy’s backstory just didn’t make sense.
The pace of the story was fast moving, so you get action the whole time without any filler which I appreciate.
There were a few things I liked but overall this one was a miss for me.
I received an ARC of this ebook from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
The pace of the story was fast moving, so you get action the whole time without any filler which I appreciate.
There were a few things I liked but overall this one was a miss for me.
I received an ARC of this ebook from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
October 26, 2025
this was so much fun!! definitely more intense (and graphic) than here lies a vengeful bitch and I loved every second of it! I loved sundae and the rest of the main characters (harper and luke can eat concrete). once again codie does a great job creating an atmosphere that's somehow cozy despite everything going on. I don't want to say much more so I don't spoil anything, but if you're looking for a fun sapphic slasher then this book is for you!!
October 30, 2025
Unfortunately this was a bit of a let down for me. I loved the authors debut and loved the emotions that book made me feel, but this just felt like too much and not in a way that was engaging to me. It took almost half the book for it to finally pick up and by the time it did, I just wasn’t that interested anymore. I think once the physical copy is released, I will get this book another try because the layout of the e-book I received was a little jacked up.
November 7, 2025
An wild and crazy read and I couldn't get enough of it! I love campy horror stories and this is probably one of the best subgenre of horror I've read in a while. The characters interactions with each other are great and the author's writing style is so unique, it definitely made the story more enjoyable!
I would like to thank the author, publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC book in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to thank the author, publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC book in exchange for an honest review.
Read
October 16, 2025The story had a good idea but didn’t hook me. It was slow in the beginning and felt a bit confusing on who it was written for. I liked the ghost parts and the romance, but it just didn’t hit the way I hoped 🥺
November 1, 2025
This was an absolute fun read! Thrilling paranormal horror, with smart and enigmatic characters you hope to figure it all out and survive! Could not put the book down as I also wanted to understand the mystery and wondered who might be next to die. Thank you to netgalley for the arc.
November 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! It was a very unique story! I felt like the tension was really well written. There were a few characters (like Lia and her band mates) who I really didn’t care for, but I enjoyed Sundae as a main character! She was very interesting!
November 29, 2025
ok this was SO FUN and i feel like i need to go watch/read more campy horror now
December 18, 2025
Thanks to Disney Publishing Worldwide and NetGalley for a copy of this book
Body count is a self aware book who knows exactly who its audience is.
Sure a little scandalous in way much ya is not these day but it also points to a world were girls the same age of the characters in this book are surrounded by horror with much of the same subject mater but this time written from their perspective.
Its fun irreverent but also manages to sneak in some emotional gut punches and splashes of social commentary.
Defiantly on the older side of Ya but perfect for bridging that gap between teen horror and adult horror.
Body count is a self aware book who knows exactly who its audience is.
Sure a little scandalous in way much ya is not these day but it also points to a world were girls the same age of the characters in this book are surrounded by horror with much of the same subject mater but this time written from their perspective.
Its fun irreverent but also manages to sneak in some emotional gut punches and splashes of social commentary.
Defiantly on the older side of Ya but perfect for bridging that gap between teen horror and adult horror.
October 31, 2025
looks promising!!
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