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Monster
A trip to the mountains takes a terrifying turn for Karis Donegan and her daughter, Quinlan, when Karis swerves to miss a deer and careens off the road, down a steep embankment.
Unable to climb back up the hill, Karis and Quinlan decide to hike through the woods in an attempt to find the lodge where they are staying.
But as they journey through the deep forest, they discover they are not alone. Someone, or something, is stalking them.
As a severe snowstorm moves into the area, the women are forced to find shelter.
Coming across a hunting cabin deep in the woods, they take refuse, only to discover the cabin has an occupant.
Tytus Riggs.
Now, the three of them are trapped inside the cabin together, with a deadly predator lurking just outside the door.
Tytus tells of a horrible monster, the Grun’nuk, that haunts the mountain, killing all those who cross paths with it.
Soon, eerie calls and menacing howls echo through the woods around them.
Whatever is out there is hungry.
It needs to eat.
So it watches.
And waits.
Never giving up until its hunger is satisfied.
Unable to climb back up the hill, Karis and Quinlan decide to hike through the woods in an attempt to find the lodge where they are staying.
But as they journey through the deep forest, they discover they are not alone. Someone, or something, is stalking them.
As a severe snowstorm moves into the area, the women are forced to find shelter.
Coming across a hunting cabin deep in the woods, they take refuse, only to discover the cabin has an occupant.
Tytus Riggs.
Now, the three of them are trapped inside the cabin together, with a deadly predator lurking just outside the door.
Tytus tells of a horrible monster, the Grun’nuk, that haunts the mountain, killing all those who cross paths with it.
Soon, eerie calls and menacing howls echo through the woods around them.
Whatever is out there is hungry.
It needs to eat.
So it watches.
And waits.
Never giving up until its hunger is satisfied.
Audible Audio
Published October 20, 2024
9 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
Carol Hall
11 books92 followersCarol Hall is an American author who was born and raised in Chester, West Virginia, but currently resides in southern West Virginia with her husband and three cats.
Her writing career began with her first book, Disappeared, in November 2019. Since then she has written several more books including The Journey North, The Inheritance, Full Moon Rising, The Witch of Broenwyck, Saving Grace and A King's Ransom.
Carol's love of writing has spread across several different genres including, action/adventure, mystery, horror, and drama.
When she's not writing, Carol enjoys hiking, reading and hanging out with her friends and family.
Her writing career began with her first book, Disappeared, in November 2019. Since then she has written several more books including The Journey North, The Inheritance, Full Moon Rising, The Witch of Broenwyck, Saving Grace and A King's Ransom.
Carol's love of writing has spread across several different genres including, action/adventure, mystery, horror, and drama.
When she's not writing, Carol enjoys hiking, reading and hanging out with her friends and family.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 19, 2024
4.5⭐️ - All Karis wanted for herself along with her daughter, Quinlan, was a little getaway from everyday life. When they have a car accident in the snowy, mountainous woods, they realize that’s not their only problem.
I don’t think I’ll ever be able to be in the woods without thinking about this story. It was pretty adrenaline pumping.
I don’t think I’ll ever be able to be in the woods without thinking about this story. It was pretty adrenaline pumping.
December 30, 2024
This was my first carol hall book. I read 97% in one sitting. It’s a fast, easy read. I was in a major reading slump for a couple of months and this helped bring me out of it.
Reasoning for 3 stars ⭐️ some of the dialogue was very out of pocket, and very simply written. As in real people don’t talk that way lol. That’s the only way I can explain it.
The first half of this book I really enjoyed. The middle was very unnecessary, a lot of pointless scenes to pass time, a lot of repetition in action scenes. The last quarter was very rushed and seemed to be written in a fashion to just get the book over with. The ending was very unrealistic. This book had no business being over 400 pages.
Overall: I liked this book. I didn’t have a moment where I wanted to DNF until the last 15 pages, but I figured “well I need to know how it ends” lol.
Honorable mention: two VERY shameless plugs for the actual authors other book “Full Moon Rising” in this book. I admit it made me laugh out loud. But hey more power to ya!
Reasoning for 3 stars ⭐️ some of the dialogue was very out of pocket, and very simply written. As in real people don’t talk that way lol. That’s the only way I can explain it.
The first half of this book I really enjoyed. The middle was very unnecessary, a lot of pointless scenes to pass time, a lot of repetition in action scenes. The last quarter was very rushed and seemed to be written in a fashion to just get the book over with. The ending was very unrealistic. This book had no business being over 400 pages.
Overall: I liked this book. I didn’t have a moment where I wanted to DNF until the last 15 pages, but I figured “well I need to know how it ends” lol.
Honorable mention: two VERY shameless plugs for the actual authors other book “Full Moon Rising” in this book. I admit it made me laugh out loud. But hey more power to ya!
October 1, 2025
This book was a great read. It was a little creepy but fun to read. One thing to remember from this book is... never take a car trip when a snowstorm is brewing.
Karissa decides to take her daughter on a trip to the mountains, and Quinlin, being the braty teenager she is, doesn't want to go.
On the trip there, there is tension and bickering, and they end up getting into an accident and end up staying in an isolated cabin with a stranger, hoping to get out when the storm dies down.
But not all is cozy in the little cabin in the woods. There are things that go bump in the night. A stalker monster that is hungry roams the dark nights. A stranger, a worried mother, and a teenage daughter that is cranky and needs a time out. All that leads up to the question... Do you need a great spooky read? Are you brave enough to open the pages and get lost in the words? Then I highly recommend this book. It will keep you on the edge of your seat, wanting to know what happens next. I gave it five-stars because I loved it and I thought it was great.
Karissa decides to take her daughter on a trip to the mountains, and Quinlin, being the braty teenager she is, doesn't want to go.
On the trip there, there is tension and bickering, and they end up getting into an accident and end up staying in an isolated cabin with a stranger, hoping to get out when the storm dies down.
But not all is cozy in the little cabin in the woods. There are things that go bump in the night. A stalker monster that is hungry roams the dark nights. A stranger, a worried mother, and a teenage daughter that is cranky and needs a time out. All that leads up to the question... Do you need a great spooky read? Are you brave enough to open the pages and get lost in the words? Then I highly recommend this book. It will keep you on the edge of your seat, wanting to know what happens next. I gave it five-stars because I loved it and I thought it was great.
June 6, 2025
I really wanted to like this book more than I eventually did. I've enjoyed Hall's previous work and the setup sounded interesting.
This book has some very positive aspects. As mentioned, the setup was interesting and Hall has created a really interesting concept for the creature. At first, I thought it was going to be one of the usual suspects, but I was wrong. This was much more creative and interesting. The story is also quite compact, both in setting and the characters that are featured.
And in those aspects mentioned above also lie the story's downsides. The creature was fascinating and had some particular traits that worked well. One of those traits was taken a bit too far, giving it a somewhat comedic element in certain ways. The compactness of the story works well for the most parts, but in some areas, I feel there's a lot of repetition going on. The characters, although well worked out and likeable, sometimes say things or do things that don't really seem in line with the scenario they find themselves in.
I had no problem finishing the book and I never felt the urge to stop reading, but I feel it could've been more than it is.
This book has some very positive aspects. As mentioned, the setup was interesting and Hall has created a really interesting concept for the creature. At first, I thought it was going to be one of the usual suspects, but I was wrong. This was much more creative and interesting. The story is also quite compact, both in setting and the characters that are featured.
And in those aspects mentioned above also lie the story's downsides. The creature was fascinating and had some particular traits that worked well. One of those traits was taken a bit too far, giving it a somewhat comedic element in certain ways. The compactness of the story works well for the most parts, but in some areas, I feel there's a lot of repetition going on. The characters, although well worked out and likeable, sometimes say things or do things that don't really seem in line with the scenario they find themselves in.
I had no problem finishing the book and I never felt the urge to stop reading, but I feel it could've been more than it is.
August 7, 2024
I could not put this book down! When I wasn't reading about it, I was thinking about it. And the next time I go hiking in the mountains? Yeah, I will be looking over my shoulder and listening to the sounds of the forest, hoping to not hear the monster tracking me!
If you enjoy spooky tales, ones where the tension is high and the characters are well crafted and relatable, check this out. Carol Hall will make the hair on the back of your neck rise, but wont overwhelm your senses with a ton of graphic gore. Pacing is solid, chapters are hard to stop at. Once I got going, I stayed up all night to finish. EEP. A total five star read. I just loved it.
If you enjoy spooky tales, ones where the tension is high and the characters are well crafted and relatable, check this out. Carol Hall will make the hair on the back of your neck rise, but wont overwhelm your senses with a ton of graphic gore. Pacing is solid, chapters are hard to stop at. Once I got going, I stayed up all night to finish. EEP. A total five star read. I just loved it.
July 22, 2025
A small getaway to reconnect with her daughter after her divorce turns deadly.
First, they get into a car accident and travel through the Neverending snowstorm with something growling and howling every step of the way. Karis and her daughter finally reach a cabin meeting Tytus, who tells them about the monster that lives in the woods and is currently hunting them.
The monster is relentless on its attacks for the trio just trying to make it out alive. Little by little, they figure out what the monster is, what hurts it, and where it comes from.
This book was so easy to read and pulled you in right from the start! Another fantastic thriller book written by Carol Hall!
First, they get into a car accident and travel through the Neverending snowstorm with something growling and howling every step of the way. Karis and her daughter finally reach a cabin meeting Tytus, who tells them about the monster that lives in the woods and is currently hunting them.
The monster is relentless on its attacks for the trio just trying to make it out alive. Little by little, they figure out what the monster is, what hurts it, and where it comes from.
This book was so easy to read and pulled you in right from the start! Another fantastic thriller book written by Carol Hall!
March 4, 2025
An absolutely entertaining horror romp. Although not particularly scary, this is a fun, fast paced creature feature with a lot of good suspense as well as humor. The characters are well written and the story flows nicely. The author has created a monster that is unique and original along with a little mythology and backstory behind where it came from. If you're a fan of stories involving people on the run from a relentless predator, you will enjoy this one!
August 2, 2024
Monster Will have you on the edge of your seat!
This book was such a thrill ride! I loved every second of it. I devoured it so fast. It is full of character and the plot was very well crafted. The ending wrapped everything up nicely as well. Who knew a bit of love would sprout among the chaos. Thank you for writing such an amazing book!
This book was such a thrill ride! I loved every second of it. I devoured it so fast. It is full of character and the plot was very well crafted. The ending wrapped everything up nicely as well. Who knew a bit of love would sprout among the chaos. Thank you for writing such an amazing book!
September 12, 2024
Fast paced scary thriller! It centers around 3 people who happen to meet trying to escape the clutches of the monster in the woods.
It is filled with adventure, harrowing escapes and great banter between the characters. I really liked them!
Without giving too much away , I recommend for spooky season!
It is filled with adventure, harrowing escapes and great banter between the characters. I really liked them!
Without giving too much away , I recommend for spooky season!
November 20, 2024
Monster by Carol Hall is an absolute gem of a read! The writing pulls you in instantly, balancing dark humor and heartfelt moments in a way that feels so unique. The characters are vivid and complex, making it impossible not to root for them. Every chapter delivers something unexpected, keeping you glued to the page. It’s sharp, thought-provoking, and deeply satisfying a story I’ll be thinking about for a long time. Highly recommend to anyone who loves clever, character-driven tales with a twist!
January 26, 2025
I can finally breath!
This book did not stop! The monster kept on and on and on. If you thought the main characters were going to catch a break, you were quickly proven wrong. Even though this is a horror book, there's some humor sprinkled throughout. And a little love story. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading more by Carol Hall.
This book did not stop! The monster kept on and on and on. If you thought the main characters were going to catch a break, you were quickly proven wrong. Even though this is a horror book, there's some humor sprinkled throughout. And a little love story. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading more by Carol Hall.
June 8, 2025
Fast-paced, very suspenseful & creepy! Not only do natural dangers abound in this isolated
wintry forest setting, but there is also something lurking in the deep shadows that is utterly
unnatural and consumed with relentless malice and hunger! I thoroughly enjoyed this story
and look forward to reading more of Carol Hall's novels.
wintry forest setting, but there is also something lurking in the deep shadows that is utterly
unnatural and consumed with relentless malice and hunger! I thoroughly enjoyed this story
and look forward to reading more of Carol Hall's novels.
October 5, 2024
OMG!! This book was so good and detailed. If you have issues with graphic detail of attacks, this may not be the book for you. I really enjoyed it. I admit that I may no longer go into the mountains. LOL
October 20, 2024
The author of this book recommended I read this book during the spooky month! Read this book in October...at night.... in a pop-up camper during a wind storm. Freaked myself out... great spooky read. I wish the ending wasn't so rushed, but the story needed an ending
May 13, 2024
Monster!! Couldn't put it down!!
Carol Hall is fast becoming one of my favourite authors, her story telling keeps you hooked from the start, another 5 star book by Carol.
Carol Hall is fast becoming one of my favourite authors, her story telling keeps you hooked from the start, another 5 star book by Carol.
June 3, 2024
Monster
A fast paced story of adventure based on an encounter with a relentless monster. I couldn’t wait to read what happened next in this thrilling and unique book.
A fast paced story of adventure based on an encounter with a relentless monster. I couldn’t wait to read what happened next in this thrilling and unique book.
June 10, 2024
Great story that had my heart racing!!! I was on edge following the characters as they fought to survive the Monster. I was hooked from the beginning.
July 26, 2024
Another awesome book by her!!!! Kept me interested and wanting more the whole time... It felt like I was with the characters in the book!!!!
August 1, 2024
This is a fast-paced thrilling adventure about a small family being stalked by a monster. This book makes me think twice about ever going camping in the woods!
October 12, 2024
This was an extremely fast paced thriller! I couldn't put it down.
December 24, 2024
This book was not something I normally read but it was good nonetheless. It was kind of creepy at times which kept me interested.
April 9, 2025
Could not put it down!
This was my first book by Carol Hall. I could not put it down. I had to know what happened next. Knock knock! Who's there?"Eeeeeee chewwww" He he he he ......
This was my first book by Carol Hall. I could not put it down. I had to know what happened next. Knock knock! Who's there?"Eeeeeee chewwww" He he he he ......
April 16, 2025
Monster is probably my favorite book from Carol though I do love them all!! Definitely recommend if you want a suspenseful read!! SO GOOD!!
January 1, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It drew me into the story, i couldn’t put the book down it was so good!
October 9, 2025
Exciting and thrilling. Can't wait to read more from the author Carol Hall
January 26, 2025
I recently finished reading this book, and initially, I had high hopes for, but unfortunately, it didn't quite resonate with me. While it was marketed as a horror/thriller novel, I found it leaned more towards black comedy. The monster, rather than being terrifying, came off as somewhat goofy, which detracted from the overall suspense I was expecting. But it did leave me in stitches, especially when picturing it licking a window.
Additionally, several syntax errors scattered throughout the text that pulled me out of the moment while reading. Some of the word choices were also quite odd, like describing a torch as gyrating, which felt out of place and confusing.
That said, I want to emphasize that while this book wasn't my cup of tea, the writing style was easy to follow, which will appeal to other readers.
Additionally, several syntax errors scattered throughout the text that pulled me out of the moment while reading. Some of the word choices were also quite odd, like describing a torch as gyrating, which felt out of place and confusing.
That said, I want to emphasize that while this book wasn't my cup of tea, the writing style was easy to follow, which will appeal to other readers.
January 15, 2025
My rating would really be a 3.5.
The story and premise was good however I found the writing a little repetitive. All together it was a fun little scary story.
The story and premise was good however I found the writing a little repetitive. All together it was a fun little scary story.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews