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Santa's Little Helper
He shows up in a white box, with a bright red book under his arm... He wears a jolly grin and hat, a suit with gold bells and green yarn... He watches you for Santa, or so his red book claims... But though his grin is jolly, he's not here for fun and games...
The children have been chosen, such precious little souls they are... And may the Gods be with them, if they wish to make it very far... For Santa's Little Helper does not say, but knows important things... He knows when you've been bad or good, and what monsters stalk your dreams... He knows when you are sleeping, he knows when you're awake...He's picking out his presents...He's got some souls to take.
Note to the Santa's Little Helper is a very different genre from most of H. D. Gordon's other books, so if you are a diehard niche reader of books exclusively in the urban fantasy/paranormal genres, be aware that Santa's Little Helper is written with more of a thriller/horror tone. Also, this book contains very strong language and intense, disturbing themes and situations. Readers should take this into consideration before purchasing.
The children have been chosen, such precious little souls they are... And may the Gods be with them, if they wish to make it very far... For Santa's Little Helper does not say, but knows important things... He knows when you've been bad or good, and what monsters stalk your dreams... He knows when you are sleeping, he knows when you're awake...He's picking out his presents...He's got some souls to take.
Note to the Santa's Little Helper is a very different genre from most of H. D. Gordon's other books, so if you are a diehard niche reader of books exclusively in the urban fantasy/paranormal genres, be aware that Santa's Little Helper is written with more of a thriller/horror tone. Also, this book contains very strong language and intense, disturbing themes and situations. Readers should take this into consideration before purchasing.
- GenresHorror
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2014
310 people want to read
About the author
H.D. Gordon
46 books623 followersH. D. Gordon is the author of several fantasy series with strong female leads.
She is the mother of two amazing daughters, and a lover of nature. She believes our actions have ripple effects, and in the interconnectedness of all things.
H. D. spends her time with family, eating desserts, and taking strolls through the forests of New Jersey.
Please visit hdgordonbooks.com for more details.
She is the mother of two amazing daughters, and a lover of nature. She believes our actions have ripple effects, and in the interconnectedness of all things.
H. D. spends her time with family, eating desserts, and taking strolls through the forests of New Jersey.
Please visit hdgordonbooks.com for more details.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 22, 2015
4.5 stars.
SANTA'S LITTLE HELPER is the first novel I've read by author H. D. Gordon, and I was very impressed with her writing style. The story centers around a group of five-year-old children, from different family backgrounds. The unifying factor that draws these characters together is that they are all "chosen" to receive a box--each box containing a hideous parody of an elf, entitled "Santa's Little Helper". Unfortunately for the children, these elves are anything BUT jolly, and the evil that inhibits each has chosen them to feed upon, to sate its unholy appetites...
Gordon's characterization of the children and their parent(s) is so "real" that I had no problems getting into this story immediately. The fact that the main characters are such young children really intensifies and brings to life the pervading sense of fear and terror that is drenched in each page of this novel. The chapters were broken into sections that focused on each, individual child's situation, and effortlessly led on to the next section.
I simply can't say enough about how well the dread, apprehension and all consuming horror transferred from these children to the reader. There were several scenes that actually gave me chills!
The smooth writing style and fantastic way of transmitting emotions will have me actively searching out other stories by this author.
4.5 blood-soaked jingle bells for SANTA'S LITTLE HELPER!
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
SANTA'S LITTLE HELPER is the first novel I've read by author H. D. Gordon, and I was very impressed with her writing style. The story centers around a group of five-year-old children, from different family backgrounds. The unifying factor that draws these characters together is that they are all "chosen" to receive a box--each box containing a hideous parody of an elf, entitled "Santa's Little Helper". Unfortunately for the children, these elves are anything BUT jolly, and the evil that inhibits each has chosen them to feed upon, to sate its unholy appetites...
Gordon's characterization of the children and their parent(s) is so "real" that I had no problems getting into this story immediately. The fact that the main characters are such young children really intensifies and brings to life the pervading sense of fear and terror that is drenched in each page of this novel. The chapters were broken into sections that focused on each, individual child's situation, and effortlessly led on to the next section.
I simply can't say enough about how well the dread, apprehension and all consuming horror transferred from these children to the reader. There were several scenes that actually gave me chills!
The smooth writing style and fantastic way of transmitting emotions will have me actively searching out other stories by this author.
4.5 blood-soaked jingle bells for SANTA'S LITTLE HELPER!
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
December 7, 2014
5*s
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Santa’s Little Helper is a fab read and something a little different for author H D Gordon. I don’t really want to say too much about the plot but I will have to try and not make it too spoilery.
The story revolves around 5 children – Manny, Michael, Emily, Benny & Tuck – all 4 or 5 yrs of age and from various families backgrounds which includes some issues such as domestic violence, single mother bringing up a child alone, a father that works away and a child whose parents think he has special needs. They make an interesting bunch of characters and I wasn’t the only one interested in them….. Out of the blue, each child receives a white box… and in that box is a red book that tells the story of the Elf that accompanies the book in the box. For some reason, when each child is given the gift…they all want to be as far away as possible from it but are each made to keep it in one way or another. Each child knows that this elf is not what it seems, its sinister smile broadens, it moves unaided when you’re asleep and there is a tangible sense of evil infecting each family….the children are scared as the elf terrorises each child…. And each child knows that the teeth hidden under the façade of a jolly face are used to eat more than candy canes… he eats children! And these 5 are his prey… will they make it to Christmas day?
So, I loved this book and it definitely had a Stephen King feel to it. I was a bit dubious about reading a book with 5yr old characters as the main focus but one thing the author is good at, is her younger characters - they all have an old soul feel to them and it’s clear to see how they would come to the attention of such evil. Their voices, feelings, thoughts and actions came across very well and they did indeed make for a great read. I loved the storyline and it is different to anything this author has done in the past but shows how she can put her hand to any genre. I liked the way the children’s chapters came across and were interspersed with chapters from their parents, giving the viewpoint of the child who was living the drama and the parent who was watching their child succumb to a living nightmare. We also got some good views of their home life which in some cases, is just as messed up as the situation they’re in. It all builds a very detailed picture of the way the evil affects each household. The Elf was a great way to inject the horror/suspense into the story, Elves are meant to be happy, cheery and super psyched for Christmas – well, you can forget that here – this elf is a force to be reckoned with and knows just how to pull on these children’s fears and the adults too. The atmosphere of the book is palpable and steadily gets darker & more sinister as each part passes, this is not a fluffy Christmas tale, it has horror, fear, anxiety, suspense and death all focussed around a group of kids that will hopefully beat their demons. Great read!
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Santa’s Little Helper is a fab read and something a little different for author H D Gordon. I don’t really want to say too much about the plot but I will have to try and not make it too spoilery.
The story revolves around 5 children – Manny, Michael, Emily, Benny & Tuck – all 4 or 5 yrs of age and from various families backgrounds which includes some issues such as domestic violence, single mother bringing up a child alone, a father that works away and a child whose parents think he has special needs. They make an interesting bunch of characters and I wasn’t the only one interested in them….. Out of the blue, each child receives a white box… and in that box is a red book that tells the story of the Elf that accompanies the book in the box. For some reason, when each child is given the gift…they all want to be as far away as possible from it but are each made to keep it in one way or another. Each child knows that this elf is not what it seems, its sinister smile broadens, it moves unaided when you’re asleep and there is a tangible sense of evil infecting each family….the children are scared as the elf terrorises each child…. And each child knows that the teeth hidden under the façade of a jolly face are used to eat more than candy canes… he eats children! And these 5 are his prey… will they make it to Christmas day?
So, I loved this book and it definitely had a Stephen King feel to it. I was a bit dubious about reading a book with 5yr old characters as the main focus but one thing the author is good at, is her younger characters - they all have an old soul feel to them and it’s clear to see how they would come to the attention of such evil. Their voices, feelings, thoughts and actions came across very well and they did indeed make for a great read. I loved the storyline and it is different to anything this author has done in the past but shows how she can put her hand to any genre. I liked the way the children’s chapters came across and were interspersed with chapters from their parents, giving the viewpoint of the child who was living the drama and the parent who was watching their child succumb to a living nightmare. We also got some good views of their home life which in some cases, is just as messed up as the situation they’re in. It all builds a very detailed picture of the way the evil affects each household. The Elf was a great way to inject the horror/suspense into the story, Elves are meant to be happy, cheery and super psyched for Christmas – well, you can forget that here – this elf is a force to be reckoned with and knows just how to pull on these children’s fears and the adults too. The atmosphere of the book is palpable and steadily gets darker & more sinister as each part passes, this is not a fluffy Christmas tale, it has horror, fear, anxiety, suspense and death all focussed around a group of kids that will hopefully beat their demons. Great read!
December 14, 2014
I couldn't give 4 1/2 stars for this ,so I am awarding the full 5 stars, which is really rare. I felt that going to 4 would be an injustice. I loved the story and the characters and found it to be a fast read. I couldn't put it down! It was, from start to finish, an eerie, creeping horror story that grabs you like a Steven King novel. In fact, Santa's Little Helper does bring to mind shades of young Danny in the Shining. The protagonists in this story are also a group of 5 year olds being menaced by an evil entity in the form of a Christmas elf. Where the story fell a little for me, is the interaction and dialogue between the kindergarten children and their parents and siblings. As much as I want to suspend belief, I can't see a 5 year old using the vocabulary and reading at the level that these children in the story seem to be doing. Yes it is a given that they are special and I could even accept that one of them would maybe reach the level of maturity displayed, but even little brother Tucker, at 4 years of age, seems to be more on the level of a 10 year old. But truly, if this is my only issue, I can let it go. It really comes down to the fact that the story is well written and exciting and I loved it. I look forward to checking out some other works from this author and recommend that if you want a scary little Christmas story, this is the one for you.
I received a free copy of this eBook in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this eBook in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2014
4.5 stars
*Note I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This book will be released Oct 31 & can be pre-ordered now*
When I saw H.D. Gordon had a new horror book coming out, Santa's Little Helper, I was so excited. I might have done a happy dance around the room. Okay who am I kidding, I did do a happy dance. I couldn't wait to read it as I just knew it would be amazing. I mean the fact that it is a creepy Christmas book alone is enough for me to do a little jump for joy. I love creepy Christmas things. They are the best! Second it is written by H.D. Gordon. After reading her Joe Knowe series and loving them, loving how intense they were, I knew this book would be just as good. While they are not horror they did show how the author can really write some scenes that keep me on the edge of my seat. Thankfully I was not disappointed.
If you like horror stories then this is the book for you. I love horror. Movies, books, anything creepy/scary/whatever I love. Unfortunately I usually find them disappointing, which is why I don't read a lot of them. I pretty much cannot find anything that I think is actually scary, like keep me up at night can't read in the dark kind of scary. I just want a great story that is not lame. I want it to be suspenseful and sinister and unnerving and just something that embodies that horror spirit that would terrify a child. That is what I want. It is hard to come by for me.
H.D. Gordon, however, does this very well. In this book she has such an amazing way of describing everything that it just left these very vivid pictures in my head. I kept having to put the book aside and try and get them down on paper as they were way too cool not to exist. If only I were a better artist. The whole time reading this book I was also imagining it was in a children's book format. You know one of those large hardback books for kids with the bright, cheerful covers. It would be amazing. The brightly colored red and green Christmas book with creepy as all get out pictures besides the wonderful text would...I could just see myself curled up in a chair by the fireplace reading it aloud with the stockings on the mantel and the tree in the corner. I know it would be problematic to actually do that as it is a full length book, but the image won't leave my head. The authors imagery is so awesome that I just can't help but visualize everything that went on in the story in great detail and I loved that.
This book really was so much fun. I know this might sound strange but I read this book with this huge smile on my face, just like yes! Give me more of this gross/shiver inducing/creepy scenes. Even now thinking about it I am just giddy. Super smiley, eeee, fan girl like. That is how I know I have found a good horror book. When I am just like this is so much fun! This is so creepy! This makes me shudder just a little bit thinking about it! That is this book.
Santa's Little Helper was just a great read. Creepy elf shows up at multiple kids houses to apparently watch them for Santa, though all is not as it seems. Everything that happens, how you get all of the kids and parents stories, how this evil little elf is just not the happy little dude the parents think it is, was just great. The tension, especially with the kids and how they had to deal with this evil thing, was just perfect. It really just has that something is not right what is going to happen how are they going to get out of this alive?!? vibe. That stressful, nervous vibe you get with good creepy things. Perfect. I had heard of the Elf on the Shelf before, but didn't actually know what it was. When I found out I thought oh, what a great idea for a horror book. If you like scary stories you should definitely check this book out. I loved it. It is a new holiday favorite for me!
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
*Note I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This book will be released Oct 31 & can be pre-ordered now*
When I saw H.D. Gordon had a new horror book coming out, Santa's Little Helper, I was so excited. I might have done a happy dance around the room. Okay who am I kidding, I did do a happy dance. I couldn't wait to read it as I just knew it would be amazing. I mean the fact that it is a creepy Christmas book alone is enough for me to do a little jump for joy. I love creepy Christmas things. They are the best! Second it is written by H.D. Gordon. After reading her Joe Knowe series and loving them, loving how intense they were, I knew this book would be just as good. While they are not horror they did show how the author can really write some scenes that keep me on the edge of my seat. Thankfully I was not disappointed.
If you like horror stories then this is the book for you. I love horror. Movies, books, anything creepy/scary/whatever I love. Unfortunately I usually find them disappointing, which is why I don't read a lot of them. I pretty much cannot find anything that I think is actually scary, like keep me up at night can't read in the dark kind of scary. I just want a great story that is not lame. I want it to be suspenseful and sinister and unnerving and just something that embodies that horror spirit that would terrify a child. That is what I want. It is hard to come by for me.
H.D. Gordon, however, does this very well. In this book she has such an amazing way of describing everything that it just left these very vivid pictures in my head. I kept having to put the book aside and try and get them down on paper as they were way too cool not to exist. If only I were a better artist. The whole time reading this book I was also imagining it was in a children's book format. You know one of those large hardback books for kids with the bright, cheerful covers. It would be amazing. The brightly colored red and green Christmas book with creepy as all get out pictures besides the wonderful text would...I could just see myself curled up in a chair by the fireplace reading it aloud with the stockings on the mantel and the tree in the corner. I know it would be problematic to actually do that as it is a full length book, but the image won't leave my head. The authors imagery is so awesome that I just can't help but visualize everything that went on in the story in great detail and I loved that.
This book really was so much fun. I know this might sound strange but I read this book with this huge smile on my face, just like yes! Give me more of this gross/shiver inducing/creepy scenes. Even now thinking about it I am just giddy. Super smiley, eeee, fan girl like. That is how I know I have found a good horror book. When I am just like this is so much fun! This is so creepy! This makes me shudder just a little bit thinking about it! That is this book.
Santa's Little Helper was just a great read. Creepy elf shows up at multiple kids houses to apparently watch them for Santa, though all is not as it seems. Everything that happens, how you get all of the kids and parents stories, how this evil little elf is just not the happy little dude the parents think it is, was just great. The tension, especially with the kids and how they had to deal with this evil thing, was just perfect. It really just has that something is not right what is going to happen how are they going to get out of this alive?!? vibe. That stressful, nervous vibe you get with good creepy things. Perfect. I had heard of the Elf on the Shelf before, but didn't actually know what it was. When I found out I thought oh, what a great idea for a horror book. If you like scary stories you should definitely check this book out. I loved it. It is a new holiday favorite for me!
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
December 13, 2014
Let me start by stating that I don’t normally do horror/thrillers. I’ve never been good with them and as a child I had (and still to this day I would say probably have) a very over active imagination and was up with nightmares quite often. However, I will not rate this book entirely based on how much it freaked me out (my children will NEVER have Santa’s helper elves) but also on the content of it as a story. It was well done from start to finish. In fact, I had to put this book down when I first started reading because sleep and if I continued reading there was no way I was going to. That is how you know a good story in general.
I was impressed with how quickly this story got rolling and how fast it actually went by. There was no warming up period, we were instantly thrust into this world of horrible monsters that preyed on children with a strong imagination. The nature of destroying the innocence of these children and their families had me double checking that all the doors in my apartment were closed. I started at every creaking noise as well as the bells out on the street, my mind instantly imagining a white box with a red smily face sitting outside my door. H.D. Gordon really has a way with words. The extreme amount of detail she placed in every scene brought the picture to life in my head. She had me on the edge of my chair throughout.
This book was a terrific horror and I will enjoy rereading it with the lights on. I will refrain from commenting on the ending in hopes that you will also give it a try and I recommend this for anyone who enjoys a bit of a chilly Christmas horror story. I gave this book 4 of 5 beans. I received this book from Goodreads for an honest review.
I was impressed with how quickly this story got rolling and how fast it actually went by. There was no warming up period, we were instantly thrust into this world of horrible monsters that preyed on children with a strong imagination. The nature of destroying the innocence of these children and their families had me double checking that all the doors in my apartment were closed. I started at every creaking noise as well as the bells out on the street, my mind instantly imagining a white box with a red smily face sitting outside my door. H.D. Gordon really has a way with words. The extreme amount of detail she placed in every scene brought the picture to life in my head. She had me on the edge of my chair throughout.
This book was a terrific horror and I will enjoy rereading it with the lights on. I will refrain from commenting on the ending in hopes that you will also give it a try and I recommend this for anyone who enjoys a bit of a chilly Christmas horror story. I gave this book 4 of 5 beans. I received this book from Goodreads for an honest review.
November 23, 2014
See this review on The Bookwhore Diaries
Is it really weird of me to want to see one of----
Yeah, I'll be taking back and putting a hold on that thought.
I'd really rather not see one.
Santa's Little Helper reminds me of the cute little elves we see in the movies.
They're so cute right?
Well, get ready to have your images shattered, only to be replaced by something that will and can possibly haunt your dreams forever (or for at least a little while).
Unassuming yet utterly disturbing, the little doll is truly something you wouldn't want to get for Christmas. Unluckily enough, four children where chosen to get the doll. The reason of their choosing, for me, is still a little bit unclear even when I've already finished the book. Moving on, the doll brings terror not only to the children but also to their families. It has caused so much pain, both physical and psychological, that it blurred the line between fantasy and reality.
Santa's Little Helper shows the power of imagination. So believe, even for a little bit, the supernatural and paranormal and prepare yourself. You might not know but right at this moment, somebody, or rather, something, has already put you on it's naughty list.
Is it really weird of me to want to see one of----
Yeah, I'll be taking back and putting a hold on that thought.
I'd really rather not see one.
Santa's Little Helper reminds me of the cute little elves we see in the movies.
They're so cute right?
Well, get ready to have your images shattered, only to be replaced by something that will and can possibly haunt your dreams forever (or for at least a little while).
Unassuming yet utterly disturbing, the little doll is truly something you wouldn't want to get for Christmas. Unluckily enough, four children where chosen to get the doll. The reason of their choosing, for me, is still a little bit unclear even when I've already finished the book. Moving on, the doll brings terror not only to the children but also to their families. It has caused so much pain, both physical and psychological, that it blurred the line between fantasy and reality.
Santa's Little Helper shows the power of imagination. So believe, even for a little bit, the supernatural and paranormal and prepare yourself. You might not know but right at this moment, somebody, or rather, something, has already put you on it's naughty list.
December 15, 2014
A special little gift sent to four little kids. Sent to watch over them till Christmas to see who is naughty or nice. But Santa's Little Helper is nothing like the sweet innocent gift it appears to be. What is lurking inside the little elves innermost being will bring nightmares to life for these children. This book will bring you a Christmas story unlike the traditional one of children nestled in their beds while visions of sugarplums danced in their heads. If you enjoy reading a creepy bedtime story then you will love this book. The writing grabs you from the beginning and moves at a pace that keeps you turning the pages and not wanting to put the book down. I enjoyed the story and give this book at least 4 stars. I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you to the author for sharing this with me!
December 25, 2014
I read this book because Erica liked it (and I like Erica). I DID like the book, but gave it a rather low rating because I am not into horror. I'd still recommend it to those who enjoy(?) this genre.
January 15, 2015
I was actually incredibly surprised about this book . . . I honestly wasn't expecting much, but it kept me on the edge of my seat and I enjoyed it until the last page.
October 31, 2014
When H.D. told me she had a new story and did I want to read it, I was so excited. When I found out the title and what it was about, I couldn’t wait to get started. A Christmas Horror story. How cool is that!
I’ve read all of her books, and her writing is incredible so I was sure this would scare me. Be one that would make me afraid to read it at night, alone, in the dark. It takes a lot to do that, and when I find an author who can scare me that good, I want to scream from the rooftops, “This book scared me!”
Horror has always been my first love, even when I was young. Books or movies, I devour it. My DVD collection and bookshelves are overflowing with the stuff. With all of those to choose from, you’d be surprised to know that a lot of them didn’t really scare me. Sure, they have there moments, but a really good scare, not that many.
Santa’s Little Helper scared me, a lot. I think part of it was the kids. There are several of them in this story and you’ll get each of their stories as they deal with the surprise.
The surprises mysteriously appear on each of their doorsteps, nothing saying where they came from. Upon opening the white boxes, they each discover a doll, one of Santa’s elves, along with a little red book saying the doll was there to watch over them for Santa.
Right away the kids sense something’s off, wrong about the elves. They each try to get rid of it and some succeed. But they know. The doll will be back.
The terror begins quickly. The elves get to work right away, terrorizing the kids, and scaring me too. A few scenes had me pulling the covers up to my chin, with my hands peeking out to hold my kindle. My elbows were drawn in close to my sides. I was almost in a fetal position, making myself as small as possible.
Then my imagination stepped in. I put myself in their shoes. The were frustrated that the adults didn’t get it. Didn’t feel the wrongness settle into their homes. They didn’t want to come home from school, afraid of what awaited them.
There was one particular scene that reminded of the movie Legion. If you’ve seen it you’ll recall the scene where the ice cream man shows up and transforms. It was scary and the scene in this book is even more so for two young brothers.
They tried reaching out for help and that went very bad for one person. So now they each have to face a doll alone. And there’s a storm coming. Peculiar, Missouri has never seen one like this. It’s almost Christmas. Santa’s little helpers are about to get busy.
How will they fight something that can’t be killed? What do can they do when the one person who can save them doesn’t exist?
H.D. Gordon has proven she can write horror with the best of them. Don’t think because the main characters are young kids that this won’t scare you. Remember Stephen King’s IT? That one still scares me and this book will sit right next to it on my bookshelf. Where it belongs. In the “Scared the s#!t out of me section.”
I received an ARC for my honest review.
I’ve read all of her books, and her writing is incredible so I was sure this would scare me. Be one that would make me afraid to read it at night, alone, in the dark. It takes a lot to do that, and when I find an author who can scare me that good, I want to scream from the rooftops, “This book scared me!”
Horror has always been my first love, even when I was young. Books or movies, I devour it. My DVD collection and bookshelves are overflowing with the stuff. With all of those to choose from, you’d be surprised to know that a lot of them didn’t really scare me. Sure, they have there moments, but a really good scare, not that many.
Santa’s Little Helper scared me, a lot. I think part of it was the kids. There are several of them in this story and you’ll get each of their stories as they deal with the surprise.
The surprises mysteriously appear on each of their doorsteps, nothing saying where they came from. Upon opening the white boxes, they each discover a doll, one of Santa’s elves, along with a little red book saying the doll was there to watch over them for Santa.
Right away the kids sense something’s off, wrong about the elves. They each try to get rid of it and some succeed. But they know. The doll will be back.
The terror begins quickly. The elves get to work right away, terrorizing the kids, and scaring me too. A few scenes had me pulling the covers up to my chin, with my hands peeking out to hold my kindle. My elbows were drawn in close to my sides. I was almost in a fetal position, making myself as small as possible.
Then my imagination stepped in. I put myself in their shoes. The were frustrated that the adults didn’t get it. Didn’t feel the wrongness settle into their homes. They didn’t want to come home from school, afraid of what awaited them.
There was one particular scene that reminded of the movie Legion. If you’ve seen it you’ll recall the scene where the ice cream man shows up and transforms. It was scary and the scene in this book is even more so for two young brothers.
They tried reaching out for help and that went very bad for one person. So now they each have to face a doll alone. And there’s a storm coming. Peculiar, Missouri has never seen one like this. It’s almost Christmas. Santa’s little helpers are about to get busy.
How will they fight something that can’t be killed? What do can they do when the one person who can save them doesn’t exist?
H.D. Gordon has proven she can write horror with the best of them. Don’t think because the main characters are young kids that this won’t scare you. Remember Stephen King’s IT? That one still scares me and this book will sit right next to it on my bookshelf. Where it belongs. In the “Scared the s#!t out of me section.”
I received an ARC for my honest review.
December 25, 2014
I usually choose books to read based on the season, and try to read a Christmas-themed horror novel each December. This year I read Santa's Little Helper by H.D. Gordon. The Elf on a Shelf is already disturbing - watching you and reporting back to Santa - and this novel takes it to a whole new level of creepy with a demonic version.
Santa's Little Helper is a toy elf and book that appear on the doorsteps of four families in a small town called Peculiar. The children in each family quickly realize there's something sinister about the elf and get rid of it. But they find out it's not that easy to get rid of him when he comes back to terrorize their families.
The book has some unsettling scenes with Santa's Little Helper taking the shape of the children's worst fears including an abusive father and Special Ed (a corpse named Ed which I found to be pretty scary). The chapters involving being snowed in with Santa's Little Helper were also creepy - especially when the power went out.
There were a few too many characters. I had difficulty keeping track of which child belonged to which family. And since each chapter features a different family, it took a while for me to remember what happened four chapters ago. I think the novel would've been more effective with just one or two families. It was also unrealistic that each of the 5-year-olds could use such a large vocabulary - it would've been easier to believe if the kids had been older.
The ending feels abrupt and I wish there had been a better explanation of the origins of Santa's Little Helper. There's a bit of backstory about how Peculiar is a town where strange things happen, but I still wanted to know more about the origins of Santa's Little Helper.
Despite those few complaints, Santa's Little Helper is a good Christmas horror read.
Santa's Little Helper is a toy elf and book that appear on the doorsteps of four families in a small town called Peculiar. The children in each family quickly realize there's something sinister about the elf and get rid of it. But they find out it's not that easy to get rid of him when he comes back to terrorize their families.
The book has some unsettling scenes with Santa's Little Helper taking the shape of the children's worst fears including an abusive father and Special Ed (a corpse named Ed which I found to be pretty scary). The chapters involving being snowed in with Santa's Little Helper were also creepy - especially when the power went out.
There were a few too many characters. I had difficulty keeping track of which child belonged to which family. And since each chapter features a different family, it took a while for me to remember what happened four chapters ago. I think the novel would've been more effective with just one or two families. It was also unrealistic that each of the 5-year-olds could use such a large vocabulary - it would've been easier to believe if the kids had been older.
The ending feels abrupt and I wish there had been a better explanation of the origins of Santa's Little Helper. There's a bit of backstory about how Peculiar is a town where strange things happen, but I still wanted to know more about the origins of Santa's Little Helper.
Despite those few complaints, Santa's Little Helper is a good Christmas horror read.
October 31, 2014
*Note I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This book will be released Oct 31*
When I first started reading Santa's Little Helper, I didn't know what to expect. I've never heard of the author but as a blogger my job is to review books no matter if I know the author or not. I love horror books, they're my guilty pleasure. So I jumped at the chance to read this ARC and no matter what, don't let the sweet title fool you!
First of all, who thinks to write a horror book based on Elf on a Shelf... H.D. Gordon does! As far as I can tell without read her other books, she has some serious writing talent. Yes, I can call this book horror but I also see it as some mild form of splatterpunk because it has the potential to be an awesome gory uniquely book. It keeps you on your toes and it's definitely a page turner. It had me staying up and making sure all the closet doors were closed, listening to all the creaking sounds around my old house, and keeping my feet tucked under the covers at all times. Her talent for writing horror/paranormal has me curious to read her other books and believe me, Joe is next on my to read list.
I only had two problems while read Santa's Little Helper, the first was I felt that the author wrote way to much detail in the beginning with the kids background. I did find my self skipping a few pages because I really didn't care much for it, but once the action started I loved every minute of it. The second reason is I really didn't care to much for the cover of the book either, it seemed a bit to plain for this awesome book. I give Santa's Little Helper by H.D. Gordon 4 Stars because this really was an enjoyable read for me and I can't wait to get started on her other books.
When I first started reading Santa's Little Helper, I didn't know what to expect. I've never heard of the author but as a blogger my job is to review books no matter if I know the author or not. I love horror books, they're my guilty pleasure. So I jumped at the chance to read this ARC and no matter what, don't let the sweet title fool you!
First of all, who thinks to write a horror book based on Elf on a Shelf... H.D. Gordon does! As far as I can tell without read her other books, she has some serious writing talent. Yes, I can call this book horror but I also see it as some mild form of splatterpunk because it has the potential to be an awesome gory uniquely book. It keeps you on your toes and it's definitely a page turner. It had me staying up and making sure all the closet doors were closed, listening to all the creaking sounds around my old house, and keeping my feet tucked under the covers at all times. Her talent for writing horror/paranormal has me curious to read her other books and believe me, Joe is next on my to read list.
I only had two problems while read Santa's Little Helper, the first was I felt that the author wrote way to much detail in the beginning with the kids background. I did find my self skipping a few pages because I really didn't care much for it, but once the action started I loved every minute of it. The second reason is I really didn't care to much for the cover of the book either, it seemed a bit to plain for this awesome book. I give Santa's Little Helper by H.D. Gordon 4 Stars because this really was an enjoyable read for me and I can't wait to get started on her other books.
December 23, 2014
Four children, ages 5, have received a little box with a book and an elf in it. The book explains that the elf is Santa’s Helper. That he watches the children and reports back to Santa if they are good or bad. But this is not what you are thinking. This elf has nasty little teeth and eats those that are bad. All the children come from different backgrounds and home lives. But this story is also told from the parents and how the elf gets them too.
First off, every time I see and Elf on the Shelf I get creeped out. Think creepy elf with more bite. Ugh!! I love how you get to see everything from the different perspectives of the children and the parents and how the families are all diverse. All of the children think the elf is bad and don’t want to have anything to do with it but they are all stuck.
If you like the creepy, Stephen King, like stories you will love this. Because it has those creepy elves from shelves in it just makes it better. This is a great story that would be a great addition to every Christmas season.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
First off, every time I see and Elf on the Shelf I get creeped out. Think creepy elf with more bite. Ugh!! I love how you get to see everything from the different perspectives of the children and the parents and how the families are all diverse. All of the children think the elf is bad and don’t want to have anything to do with it but they are all stuck.
If you like the creepy, Stephen King, like stories you will love this. Because it has those creepy elves from shelves in it just makes it better. This is a great story that would be a great addition to every Christmas season.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2015
Originally I started this book as a Mini Holiday Book Club with my coworkers. I was fortunate enough to get a signed copy by the author, as part of the challenge we all had undertaken, Only reading the back description and not being familiar with the author's work I was excited to read the novel. Now I like to think of myself as a rather fearless person with the attitude of the best way to over come your fear of something is by facing it head on. This book actually does that, I have a small fear of dolls. They have always given me pause and unease when around them. This book is about an Elf on the Shelf that is a little more than it seems, and reading it was great. It kept me on the edge of my seat and enthralled during the whole book. The author's take on this Christmas tradition was both original and refreshing. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Now I still have a fear of dolls but this book helped me face that fear when reading it, and eventually I know it will get less the more I face it, after all persistence is a virtue and shows strength when you finally accomplish your goal, no matter how big or how small.
November 10, 2014
When I was asked to review an eARC of Santa's Little Helper and being told it was a horror I agreed as I don't read many horror novels and with it being near to Christmas and it featured those Elf on the Shelf dolls that do look a little scary I thought it would be a fantastic read.
I was right it was a fantastic read, the author writes this book in such a way that I was sucked in and also scared to death too. These Santa's Little Helpers are not those cute little elves that we were all led to believe for all these years, they are pure evil and change into more evilness in front of the children when they are away from their parents.
I really enjoyed this terrifying book although I know these dolls are aimed at young children it was a little disturbing that 4 and 5 year olds were the targets of these elves. Having children of around that age I can honestly say since reading this book I will never bring one of those elves into our home.
December 15, 2014
I was given the book "Santa's Little Helper" written by H. D. Gordon, in exchange for an honest review.
First off, I have a younger son who is having, and had, some serious anxiety issues. The littlest things scare the pants off of him.
Add in this story to my son's fear, makes it pretty difficult to finish this story for me. Not that it's written horribly, it's just I have Riley's face on all the children, seeing Riley being scared out of his mind. Honestly, it freaked me out!
The story is well written, and characters are a little to easy to picture. I also work in a school, so I can easily put any one of my students in the story.
I'm not finished the book, so my review is based on what I have been able to read. It's in small doses, but it's still a good book. I recommend this to any parent who has an Elf on The Shelf, you will see the scary part in the similarities, made it will explain to you why some children get creeped out.
Still giving this a 4 star rating.
First off, I have a younger son who is having, and had, some serious anxiety issues. The littlest things scare the pants off of him.
Add in this story to my son's fear, makes it pretty difficult to finish this story for me. Not that it's written horribly, it's just I have Riley's face on all the children, seeing Riley being scared out of his mind. Honestly, it freaked me out!
The story is well written, and characters are a little to easy to picture. I also work in a school, so I can easily put any one of my students in the story.
I'm not finished the book, so my review is based on what I have been able to read. It's in small doses, but it's still a good book. I recommend this to any parent who has an Elf on The Shelf, you will see the scary part in the similarities, made it will explain to you why some children get creeped out.
Still giving this a 4 star rating.
December 14, 2014
Nicely done H.D. Gordon! I wasn’t sure what to think about a Christmas horror story focusing on elves. I never pictured the little helpers that way, but I can honestly say I won’t be looking at our Elf on the Shelf the same way ever again. In our house the elf presence is fun, but not for the families in this story. Here the doll is more of a catalyst to emphasize everything that the families are suffering through.
This scary Christmas story was a fast, well planned out read. I got drawn in quickly and was eager to see how it would play out. The twists in the story along with the changing perspectives held my attention while giving me goose bumps at times. This is the perfect season to be reading this, especially if you want to have a little holiday fright.
This scary Christmas story was a fast, well planned out read. I got drawn in quickly and was eager to see how it would play out. The twists in the story along with the changing perspectives held my attention while giving me goose bumps at times. This is the perfect season to be reading this, especially if you want to have a little holiday fright.
January 3, 2015
As someone who finds dolls, especially the Elf on a Shelf, I found this book really creepy--in the best of ways. It really plays on primal fears.
It is easy to get pulled into the fears of the children and the families because the characters are believable and well constructed. It was nice to see versatile characters and how the evil affects each of them.
The only thing I wish there had been more of was action. The scariness of the novel is a slow and building creepiness and I usually go for the more action packed--but that is just me. If you like horror, you'll enjoy this book.
It is easy to get pulled into the fears of the children and the families because the characters are believable and well constructed. It was nice to see versatile characters and how the evil affects each of them.
The only thing I wish there had been more of was action. The scariness of the novel is a slow and building creepiness and I usually go for the more action packed--but that is just me. If you like horror, you'll enjoy this book.
December 16, 2014
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
HD Gordon delivers again! Excellent Christmas scary story. She is so descriptive that you feel like you are there...smelling the fear, the stench. Heart hammering. Mind numb with fear. I've never done elf on the shelf and after reading this story, I never will!
HD Gordon delivers again! Excellent Christmas scary story. She is so descriptive that you feel like you are there...smelling the fear, the stench. Heart hammering. Mind numb with fear. I've never done elf on the shelf and after reading this story, I never will!
March 6, 2015
Scary
This book was well written.I read it because I read the Joe Knowes book and liked them and this didn't disappoint. I do think it needs a sequel though as to what happens to all the children.
This book was well written.I read it because I read the Joe Knowes book and liked them and this didn't disappoint. I do think it needs a sequel though as to what happens to all the children.
December 11, 2014
Review coming shortly.
July 6, 2015
Interesting premise. Nicely executed.
August 12, 2016
This review is written by Bob Boze on behalf of Truth About Books
OMG! Doing this review required a lot of thought as to how I would rate this book. I’ll explain in a minute.
Santa’s Little Helper is a horror/occult novel that will have the hair on the back of your neck and arms standing straight up from front cover to back cover. It is by far the creepiest book I have ever read! Also, if you don’t have a phobia about Santa elf dolls by the end, there is something really, really wrong with you.
The story takes place in the small town of Perculiar, Missouri. Several weeks before Christmas, the parents of four, five-year old’s, each find a white box left on their porch. Inside each box is an elf doll and a book titled Santa’s little Helper. Of course, the parents give the doll and book to their children, all believing someone had left a Christmas gift.
However, as they soon learn, the children have been chosen because they are special but the elf dolls are not Christmas presents. Instead they are more like elf versions of Chucky. Elves that stalk each child and their parent or parents so, that they may claim the special children come Christmas day.
At school, the four realize they have all have received an evil elf and, with the help of their teacher, set out to create a plan to rid themselves of the elves. Only, to be foiled by a giant snow storm that traps each of them, their parents and their elf in their house for days. Days that end with a power failure, leaving them in the dark of light and the dark of evil.
Okay, I’ve probably already given away more than I should.
I am not a fan of horror stories. Nor do they normally creep me out but, Santa’s Little Helper got to me! It had me looking over my shoulder, checking doors to make sure they were locked before I turned the lights out: Making sure all night lights were on and had new bulbs.
I’m almost afraid to admit this next part. I actually stopped reading it (Twice) because it creeped me out so much. I just had to walk away from it for several days each time, to get it out of my head! (BTW, I will never, never buy or even look at an elf doll again; as long as I live!)
And, that is what I call outstanding writing! It is still nothing I would pick up to read (especially having now read it) but, if you’re into horror stories? This is your book! The story line is outstanding, the characters well developed and … and …it’s just friggin creepy as hell.
So, why four stars? First because it’s too long. Fifty or so pages worth could easily be deleted with little to no impact on the story. I would also suggest starting that process by deleting “Little” about 10,000 times. (I promise; I will now never use that word in my books.) One reviewer commented on the wonderful editing but I don’t know how they missed a considerable number of errors. Finally, I found the characters being five years old close to impossible to believe. Seven would have worked much better.
All in all though, excellent writing and a fantastic horror story.
OMG! Doing this review required a lot of thought as to how I would rate this book. I’ll explain in a minute.
Santa’s Little Helper is a horror/occult novel that will have the hair on the back of your neck and arms standing straight up from front cover to back cover. It is by far the creepiest book I have ever read! Also, if you don’t have a phobia about Santa elf dolls by the end, there is something really, really wrong with you.
The story takes place in the small town of Perculiar, Missouri. Several weeks before Christmas, the parents of four, five-year old’s, each find a white box left on their porch. Inside each box is an elf doll and a book titled Santa’s little Helper. Of course, the parents give the doll and book to their children, all believing someone had left a Christmas gift.
However, as they soon learn, the children have been chosen because they are special but the elf dolls are not Christmas presents. Instead they are more like elf versions of Chucky. Elves that stalk each child and their parent or parents so, that they may claim the special children come Christmas day.
At school, the four realize they have all have received an evil elf and, with the help of their teacher, set out to create a plan to rid themselves of the elves. Only, to be foiled by a giant snow storm that traps each of them, their parents and their elf in their house for days. Days that end with a power failure, leaving them in the dark of light and the dark of evil.
Okay, I’ve probably already given away more than I should.
I am not a fan of horror stories. Nor do they normally creep me out but, Santa’s Little Helper got to me! It had me looking over my shoulder, checking doors to make sure they were locked before I turned the lights out: Making sure all night lights were on and had new bulbs.
I’m almost afraid to admit this next part. I actually stopped reading it (Twice) because it creeped me out so much. I just had to walk away from it for several days each time, to get it out of my head! (BTW, I will never, never buy or even look at an elf doll again; as long as I live!)
And, that is what I call outstanding writing! It is still nothing I would pick up to read (especially having now read it) but, if you’re into horror stories? This is your book! The story line is outstanding, the characters well developed and … and …it’s just friggin creepy as hell.
So, why four stars? First because it’s too long. Fifty or so pages worth could easily be deleted with little to no impact on the story. I would also suggest starting that process by deleting “Little” about 10,000 times. (I promise; I will now never use that word in my books.) One reviewer commented on the wonderful editing but I don’t know how they missed a considerable number of errors. Finally, I found the characters being five years old close to impossible to believe. Seven would have worked much better.
All in all though, excellent writing and a fantastic horror story.
December 5, 2014
Synopsis: "He shows up in a white box, with a bright red book under his arm... He wears a jolly grin and hat, a suit with gold bells and green yarn... He watches you for Santa, or so his red book claims... But though his grin is jolly, he's not here for fun and games...
The children have been chosen, such precious little souls they are... And may the Gods be with them, if they wish to make it very far... For Santa's Little Helper does not say, but knows important things... He knows when you've been bad or good, and what monsters stalk your dreams... He knows when you are sleeping, he knows when you're awake...He's picking out his presents...He's got some souls to take."
My Review: This book was sent to me in exchange for an honest review. Even though I don't read a lot of suspense or horror books, I decided to pick this one up as something new for the holiday season. I think those elf on a shelf dolls are creepy and this story went right along with that thought. Unfortunately, this tale wasn't as gripping as I had expected, I didn't have a heart pounding experience while reading it. The format kept kicking you out of the story by jumping between too many characters, which also drew the story out far too long. I feel like the author just wanted to make sure there were enough dead people to make it a horror story so extended it to accommodate those deaths. Sadly, it just fell a little flat for me, the creepy factor was already there for me (between elf on a shelf and Chuckie) and this didn't really add to that fear.
The children have been chosen, such precious little souls they are... And may the Gods be with them, if they wish to make it very far... For Santa's Little Helper does not say, but knows important things... He knows when you've been bad or good, and what monsters stalk your dreams... He knows when you are sleeping, he knows when you're awake...He's picking out his presents...He's got some souls to take."
My Review: This book was sent to me in exchange for an honest review. Even though I don't read a lot of suspense or horror books, I decided to pick this one up as something new for the holiday season. I think those elf on a shelf dolls are creepy and this story went right along with that thought. Unfortunately, this tale wasn't as gripping as I had expected, I didn't have a heart pounding experience while reading it. The format kept kicking you out of the story by jumping between too many characters, which also drew the story out far too long. I feel like the author just wanted to make sure there were enough dead people to make it a horror story so extended it to accommodate those deaths. Sadly, it just fell a little flat for me, the creepy factor was already there for me (between elf on a shelf and Chuckie) and this didn't really add to that fear.
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