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It Came From The Flower Shop Down Under
“She’s beautiful, she’s cunning… and she was made to kill—this Halloween, no one escapes her web.”Australia, 1976. A nightmare is waiting to hatch.
When nineteen-year-old American Ian Thomas is banished to live with relatives in the Adelaide Hills, he expects hard work, sheep shearing, and endless teasing at his expense. What he doesn’t expect is an eight-legged nightmare with flower petals and fangs.
On the run from an abusive ex, brilliant scientist Fiona is offered safe haven by the Thomas family. But she isn’t traveling alone. She carries a Charlie, a genetically altered spider with a mind of her own and a mission written in venom.
When Halloween collides with the town’s annual shearing festival, blood will spill, lives will shatter, and the shadowed bushland around Hahndorf will become a deadly hunting ground. As Fiona witnesses the carnage Charlie unleashes, she’s left with one will anyone survive?
Steeped in retro ’70s culture, black humor, and creeping dread, It Came From the Flower Shop Down Under blends horror and suspense into a nightmare that will make you laugh, shiver, and think twice before stepping into your local florist—because some bouquets bite back.
When nineteen-year-old American Ian Thomas is banished to live with relatives in the Adelaide Hills, he expects hard work, sheep shearing, and endless teasing at his expense. What he doesn’t expect is an eight-legged nightmare with flower petals and fangs.
On the run from an abusive ex, brilliant scientist Fiona is offered safe haven by the Thomas family. But she isn’t traveling alone. She carries a Charlie, a genetically altered spider with a mind of her own and a mission written in venom.
When Halloween collides with the town’s annual shearing festival, blood will spill, lives will shatter, and the shadowed bushland around Hahndorf will become a deadly hunting ground. As Fiona witnesses the carnage Charlie unleashes, she’s left with one will anyone survive?
Steeped in retro ’70s culture, black humor, and creeping dread, It Came From the Flower Shop Down Under blends horror and suspense into a nightmare that will make you laugh, shiver, and think twice before stepping into your local florist—because some bouquets bite back.
- GenresHorror
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2025
5 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
Chris Heinicke
29 books56 followersAlthough working as a baker for many years, writing has been a passion for Chris for some time, starting in high school and reigniting again in 2006, when he first got the inspiration to begin writing 'The Man In Black.'
After completing that project eight years later, he took part in NaNoWriMo in November 2014, culminating into a project named 5PM. Deciding to self-publish, 5PM came out in February 2015, and then The Man In Black in August.
2016 saw the release of 7PM, and in that same year, his writing path met with that of Canadian author Kate Reedwood. A mutual respect of each other's work ignited an interest in working together, creating the Legacy Hunter series, the first of which to come out in July 2017.
Apart from writing, Chris enjoys travelling, reading, watching movies and all things geeky. He resides in Coffs Harbour with his wife and three children.
Chris will be at Nexus Con on July 29 celebrating the release of the first book in his Legacy Hunter series.
After completing that project eight years later, he took part in NaNoWriMo in November 2014, culminating into a project named 5PM. Deciding to self-publish, 5PM came out in February 2015, and then The Man In Black in August.
2016 saw the release of 7PM, and in that same year, his writing path met with that of Canadian author Kate Reedwood. A mutual respect of each other's work ignited an interest in working together, creating the Legacy Hunter series, the first of which to come out in July 2017.
Apart from writing, Chris enjoys travelling, reading, watching movies and all things geeky. He resides in Coffs Harbour with his wife and three children.
Chris will be at Nexus Con on July 29 celebrating the release of the first book in his Legacy Hunter series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 2, 2025
Now in my top 10 reads of 2025!
This was outstanding. As someone who is petrified of spiders, this had my skin crawling!
Chris & Kate rope you into the story with the loving, charismatic, funny and wholesome characters, especially Bruce & Venus who become everyone's favourite mum & dad/aunt & uncle.
There's a feeling of doom throughout the entire story and a level of gore that I wasn't expecting.
Wanna feel afraid? Read this.
This was outstanding. As someone who is petrified of spiders, this had my skin crawling!
Chris & Kate rope you into the story with the loving, charismatic, funny and wholesome characters, especially Bruce & Venus who become everyone's favourite mum & dad/aunt & uncle.
There's a feeling of doom throughout the entire story and a level of gore that I wasn't expecting.
Wanna feel afraid? Read this.
October 8, 2025
I was kindly sent this ARC as part of the Indie-Tron event.
Set in Australia, this novel follows both Fiona and Ian, along with 2 federal agents who are hunting Fiona down.
Fiona is a scientist running away from the government with a spider in tow.
While Ian has been sent to live at his Aunt’s and Uncle’s farm in Australia for getting in trouble with the law.
I absolutely loved this book. I got about halfway through and then binge read the last half of it in one night because I just had to find out what happened. It was twisty, full of gore and as many spiders as someone can fit into a book. There was a couple predictable moments but nothing major. I found both the main and minor characters lovable as well as the relationships they all developed. I loved the ending. And I am definitely going to need the authors to write another novel about their next adventures because I just don’t want it to end!
I would recommend this to everyone who loves a thriller/horror book unless you hate spiders, then it’s a definite no go. The perfect Halloween novel you won’t wanna put down.
5 ✨ all the way
Set in Australia, this novel follows both Fiona and Ian, along with 2 federal agents who are hunting Fiona down.
Fiona is a scientist running away from the government with a spider in tow.
While Ian has been sent to live at his Aunt’s and Uncle’s farm in Australia for getting in trouble with the law.
I absolutely loved this book. I got about halfway through and then binge read the last half of it in one night because I just had to find out what happened. It was twisty, full of gore and as many spiders as someone can fit into a book. There was a couple predictable moments but nothing major. I found both the main and minor characters lovable as well as the relationships they all developed. I loved the ending. And I am definitely going to need the authors to write another novel about their next adventures because I just don’t want it to end!
I would recommend this to everyone who loves a thriller/horror book unless you hate spiders, then it’s a definite no go. The perfect Halloween novel you won’t wanna put down.
5 ✨ all the way
October 31, 2025
Mate, this is a cracker of a read. I thought, "It Came From The Pumpkin Patch " was a ripper read, but this one is even better. It has everything from horrific nasties mixed with the funny ways of Australian culture and just a dash of romance. I absolutely love the crazy universe that is being built with these books. And to think these two authors live on opposite sides of the globe and yet they work so well together. I can't tell you how many times I laughed while reading this. Do yourself a favour and read this. And if you enjoyed it, .then read the rest of their books. I promise you will not be disappointed
November 11, 2025
New faves
I read the pumpkin one first, (seemed appropriate for Halloween). Now I've just finished this. I love it.ineed to read more. I'll start with The Mall Priest then take it from there. Bravo!
I read the pumpkin one first, (seemed appropriate for Halloween). Now I've just finished this. I love it.ineed to read more. I'll start with The Mall Priest then take it from there. Bravo!
October 15, 2025
This is absolutely my favourite KC Stories book ever. It has it all, from fun moments (Australian humor is not to be taken lightly at any moment!) to moments you'd feel your heart is being wrenched out of your chest with pain and shock.
A story that evoques the values of family, friendship, love and courage in any situation.
A narration full of terror and dread that had me skin tingling and check the corners of my room for creepy spiders.
A book that will make you gasp, sigh, cry and laugh, very often on the same page.
A story that evoques the values of family, friendship, love and courage in any situation.
A narration full of terror and dread that had me skin tingling and check the corners of my room for creepy spiders.
A book that will make you gasp, sigh, cry and laugh, very often on the same page.
October 15, 2025
It Came From the Flower Shop Down Under is book 2 in the It Came From series by Chris Heinicke and Kate Reedwood, and once again they have hit it out of the park with this creepy, crawly horror set in 1970s rural Australia. Although it's part of a series, the story is standalone and does not depend on the original. If you've read other horror stories by these authors though, then one or two of the characters will be familiar.
Let me start by saying, if you are an arachnophobe then you'll probably want to skip this book, and if you aren't an arachnophobe when you start this book, then you probably will be by the end.
Fiona is on the run with a top secret creature that she rescued from the clutches of the government…a mind-controlling, venomous spider named Charlie. She ends up on a rural Australian sheep ranch where she meets the Thomas family, and their nephew, Ian who has been sent from the United States to work on his uncle's farm as punishment. When Charlie escapes during a local festival, the real fun begins.
The story starts our relatively slowly, introducing us to all of the characters and setting the scene for us. That's not to say it's boring, it's just not super action packed. Around the halfway mark though, the action starts to ramp up and by the end the story is racing along at breakneck speed with all the chaos I've come to expect from this duo. They know how to draw out the suspense and keep you on the edge of your seat.
In addition to their ability to keep you glued to the pages (or ereader in my case), I love how these authors are able to make you care for a character, even if you've only known them for a page or two. And when it comes to main characters you are always praying that they will be spared, but the authors are not afraid to kill off favourites, so no one is truly safe.
I'm a lightweight when it comes to gory horror, and although there are a few gory scenes that you may be thinking about for a while, there was nothing too over the top in my opinion.
Once again, the authors have been able to include a mix of horror, and humour which makes their story a delight to read. If you're looking for something not too heavy, but that will have you itching every time you feel a light breeze for this spooky season then you can't go wrong with It Came From the Flower Shop Down Under.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Let me start by saying, if you are an arachnophobe then you'll probably want to skip this book, and if you aren't an arachnophobe when you start this book, then you probably will be by the end.
Fiona is on the run with a top secret creature that she rescued from the clutches of the government…a mind-controlling, venomous spider named Charlie. She ends up on a rural Australian sheep ranch where she meets the Thomas family, and their nephew, Ian who has been sent from the United States to work on his uncle's farm as punishment. When Charlie escapes during a local festival, the real fun begins.
The story starts our relatively slowly, introducing us to all of the characters and setting the scene for us. That's not to say it's boring, it's just not super action packed. Around the halfway mark though, the action starts to ramp up and by the end the story is racing along at breakneck speed with all the chaos I've come to expect from this duo. They know how to draw out the suspense and keep you on the edge of your seat.
In addition to their ability to keep you glued to the pages (or ereader in my case), I love how these authors are able to make you care for a character, even if you've only known them for a page or two. And when it comes to main characters you are always praying that they will be spared, but the authors are not afraid to kill off favourites, so no one is truly safe.
I'm a lightweight when it comes to gory horror, and although there are a few gory scenes that you may be thinking about for a while, there was nothing too over the top in my opinion.
Once again, the authors have been able to include a mix of horror, and humour which makes their story a delight to read. If you're looking for something not too heavy, but that will have you itching every time you feel a light breeze for this spooky season then you can't go wrong with It Came From the Flower Shop Down Under.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 24, 2025
I absolutely love these books, this was a ARC read for me, but trust me I was ready to go and have it pre-ordered, yes the special one lol
I know not everyone is into this kind of horror, but there is just something about it that gets me excited and that feeling of nostalgia is great, and then you have the horror part that's well done but does not take itself too seriously.
You have Fiona who of course has saved a very very secret government experiment named Charlie, who to be fair is pretty cool, a mind controlling spider ?? But never fear, she finds a place to hide and its a uh sheep ranch, which I knew was going to be wild and I was invested.
This isn't all fluff and fun though, its much more than that its family, friendship and some danger to keep you going and mixing in horror that makes this really pop.
These books to me are like scenic wonderful stories that I like to soak up every single word for, they are immersive and you find yourself in the story, however I am really concerned about spiders now.
While this is absolutely a creature feature type book, its also heavy on my favorite topic, weird ass small towns and really weird families. The Thomas family is certainly a family lol.
I loved this and it always blows my mind that this is one cohesively written book by two completely different people.
I know not everyone is into this kind of horror, but there is just something about it that gets me excited and that feeling of nostalgia is great, and then you have the horror part that's well done but does not take itself too seriously.
You have Fiona who of course has saved a very very secret government experiment named Charlie, who to be fair is pretty cool, a mind controlling spider ?? But never fear, she finds a place to hide and its a uh sheep ranch, which I knew was going to be wild and I was invested.
This isn't all fluff and fun though, its much more than that its family, friendship and some danger to keep you going and mixing in horror that makes this really pop.
These books to me are like scenic wonderful stories that I like to soak up every single word for, they are immersive and you find yourself in the story, however I am really concerned about spiders now.
While this is absolutely a creature feature type book, its also heavy on my favorite topic, weird ass small towns and really weird families. The Thomas family is certainly a family lol.
I loved this and it always blows my mind that this is one cohesively written book by two completely different people.
December 8, 2025
There are certain things I expect from a horror novel, and I'll tell ya, getting so emotionally invested in characters because of the epic character and world building, is not one of them. There were several heartfelt moments, a lot of memorable quotes and dialogue, and just so much that made me connect with and care for these characters.
Which of course, made me scared for their well-being lol
I wouldn't have thought a jump scare was possible in a book, but I was wrong. So many times I was OH NO-ing, only to realise everything was okay. Or was it? Was I being lured into a false sense of security???
The humour - chefs kiss. As an Aussie I cackled several times over the MCs reaction to our humour.
This book... the book will take you from heartfelt, to funny, to horrifying so fast it'll give you reader-whiplash lol
Smexy to horrifying in 6 seconds - VROOM
How is it possible for Kate's and Chris's books to keep getting better and better? It's happening, and every book makes me crave the next more. I very proudly have all their books (on their own shelf even) and I look forward to adding more.
You have a fan for life Kate and Chris, thank you for your amazing books!
And to any potential readers - pick this one up, you won't regret it!
Which of course, made me scared for their well-being lol
I wouldn't have thought a jump scare was possible in a book, but I was wrong. So many times I was OH NO-ing, only to realise everything was okay. Or was it? Was I being lured into a false sense of security???
The humour - chefs kiss. As an Aussie I cackled several times over the MCs reaction to our humour.
This book... the book will take you from heartfelt, to funny, to horrifying so fast it'll give you reader-whiplash lol
Smexy to horrifying in 6 seconds - VROOM
How is it possible for Kate's and Chris's books to keep getting better and better? It's happening, and every book makes me crave the next more. I very proudly have all their books (on their own shelf even) and I look forward to adding more.
You have a fan for life Kate and Chris, thank you for your amazing books!
And to any potential readers - pick this one up, you won't regret it!
October 21, 2025
You would never know this book was written by two authors. They blend their styles so well together and make the words seamless.
I have a huge fear of spiders but I’m trying to overcome it because I know how beneficial they are, especially as a gardener…
..and then I read this book 😳. It had me feeling legs all over my skin and checking every corner of every room!
The beginning of this read is a little slow which makes me believe if they had cut about 100 pages, the flow of the story would have been better. Some parts dragged a little. The action parts were quick paced and terrifying!
I love a read that’s both scary as hell and makes me laugh. There was even a little romance and spicy bits!
Thank you to the authors for the eARC.
I have a huge fear of spiders but I’m trying to overcome it because I know how beneficial they are, especially as a gardener…
..and then I read this book 😳. It had me feeling legs all over my skin and checking every corner of every room!
The beginning of this read is a little slow which makes me believe if they had cut about 100 pages, the flow of the story would have been better. Some parts dragged a little. The action parts were quick paced and terrifying!
I love a read that’s both scary as hell and makes me laugh. There was even a little romance and spicy bits!
Thank you to the authors for the eARC.
October 27, 2025
when i found out heinicke and reedwood were putting out another book, i knew i needed to have it. The fact that it involves spiders and takes place in Australia was just the cherry on top. this book had it all for me, horror, humor, love, and all the twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. The pair knocked it out of the park again!
December 26, 2025
Received this as an arc and oh my god this was great! It was great to learn things about existing characters. Spiders —- just wow!! Definitely a must read for you to give your own opinion. I am still shaking from it. AMAZING BOOK.
October 25, 2025
I have to admit I am not a fan of spiders and at one point I unlocked a new fear of where spiders laid their eggs. I still get nauseous when I think about it. All that aside, this story is more than spiders causing chaos. We get to meet the Thomas family with all their quirks, charismatic townspeople, a brilliant scientist who has a heart of gold, and for those of you who are familiar with the previous stories of these two authors, you will be pleasantly surprised with the character who is involved in this story.
If you like a story with unique characters, great story telling, humor, and out of control spiders terrorizing a town festival set in Australia, then this is the book for you! Don't worry, there's an HEA. Put any fears aside and pick up this book. Perfect for spooky season!
I received an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.
If you like a story with unique characters, great story telling, humor, and out of control spiders terrorizing a town festival set in Australia, then this is the book for you! Don't worry, there's an HEA. Put any fears aside and pick up this book. Perfect for spooky season!
I received an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.
October 29, 2025
If you're looking for a terrifying, hilarious, and utterly addictive read, look no further than "It Came From the Flower Shop Down Under" by Chris Heinicke and Kate Reedwood. This novel, the second in the It Came From series, is a true horror-comedy gem set in 1970s rural Australia.
The story centers on Fiona, a scientist on the run from the government with a secret weapon in tow venomous spider named Charlie. Her path collides with Ian, a young man sent to his relatives' Australian sheep ranch as punishment for getting into trouble back in the US.
What Makes This Book a Must-Read
Non-Stop Thrills and Gore: This book is an absolute binge-read! While the beginning sets the scene and introduces the endearing cast of characters, the action ramps up around the halfway mark and races to a breakneck, satisfying, and memorable end. The novel is packed with gore and a shocking amount of spiders, all building a palpable sense of terror and dread. The authors are scene painting virtuoso's!
The Perfect Blend of Horror and Humor: The authors expertly balance the horrific elements with dark humor and a large dose of Australian slang and wit. This unique mix makes for a book that will make you gasp, sigh, cry and laugh, very often on the same page.
Characters You'll Love (and Fear For): the vast character set, from the core protagonists and antagonists along with the one off horror genre POV characters are all lovable and easy to root for. However, be warned: the writers are not afraid to kill off favorites, so no one truly feels safe!
Standalone Success: While it's part of a series, the book works perfectly as a standalone novel. It deepens the authors' crazy universe, and some familiar faces appear for those who have read their other works.
Final Verdict: "It Came From the Flower Shop Down Under" is the perfect spooky season read—a dark, action-packed thrill ride with humor, heart, and a whole lot of creepy, crawly nasties. Do yourself a favor and pick up this phenomenal book.
The story centers on Fiona, a scientist on the run from the government with a secret weapon in tow venomous spider named Charlie. Her path collides with Ian, a young man sent to his relatives' Australian sheep ranch as punishment for getting into trouble back in the US.
What Makes This Book a Must-Read
Non-Stop Thrills and Gore: This book is an absolute binge-read! While the beginning sets the scene and introduces the endearing cast of characters, the action ramps up around the halfway mark and races to a breakneck, satisfying, and memorable end. The novel is packed with gore and a shocking amount of spiders, all building a palpable sense of terror and dread. The authors are scene painting virtuoso's!
The Perfect Blend of Horror and Humor: The authors expertly balance the horrific elements with dark humor and a large dose of Australian slang and wit. This unique mix makes for a book that will make you gasp, sigh, cry and laugh, very often on the same page.
Characters You'll Love (and Fear For): the vast character set, from the core protagonists and antagonists along with the one off horror genre POV characters are all lovable and easy to root for. However, be warned: the writers are not afraid to kill off favorites, so no one truly feels safe!
Standalone Success: While it's part of a series, the book works perfectly as a standalone novel. It deepens the authors' crazy universe, and some familiar faces appear for those who have read their other works.
Final Verdict: "It Came From the Flower Shop Down Under" is the perfect spooky season read—a dark, action-packed thrill ride with humor, heart, and a whole lot of creepy, crawly nasties. Do yourself a favor and pick up this phenomenal book.
January 4, 2026
Can you believe i dont like spiders at all yet jumping spiders i think are the best thing ever, there i was scrolling through booksirens and the front cover jumped out at me , great design and i loved it ! It sort of reminded me of the little shop of horrors but with spiders and without the musical element.
This book literally had me in tears of laughter within the first few chapters especially the dinner table scene and Wally. Of course i would have been petrified too of a huntsman but can you believe that Wally isnt the star of the show in this book.
The storyline is brilliant and i loved it, its just what i need to read . The characters are loveable and some not so , but you really get to know everyone in this book, the humour is good and there are serious elements woven throughout.
Of course we cannot forget our main Guest Charlie the pretty spider who has everyone under her spell. She certainly controls whats going on and lets be honest all she wants is a mate and a good meal after ! Literally . Fiona absolutely loves this little spider who is mesmerising in looks and has a personality, everyone who sees her loves her. Ian moves for a fresh start and meets Fiona and the family on a working farm. He cant stand spiders and i cant say i blame him. There a lovely family with their quirks and of course Charlie needs somewhere to live but it seems to attract people and have a profound effect on people too.
Fiona knows how the spider works, she knows how dangerous she can be, but Charlie outsmarts alot of people and it gets dangerous.
A great entertaining read , a good mix of everything in this book and if you dont sit looking around dark corners in your house after reading this i would be surprised.
Thanks to BookSirens for an entertaining read that at times made me howl with laughter shiver and scratch and be aware of anything moving.
This book literally had me in tears of laughter within the first few chapters especially the dinner table scene and Wally. Of course i would have been petrified too of a huntsman but can you believe that Wally isnt the star of the show in this book.
The storyline is brilliant and i loved it, its just what i need to read . The characters are loveable and some not so , but you really get to know everyone in this book, the humour is good and there are serious elements woven throughout.
Of course we cannot forget our main Guest Charlie the pretty spider who has everyone under her spell. She certainly controls whats going on and lets be honest all she wants is a mate and a good meal after ! Literally . Fiona absolutely loves this little spider who is mesmerising in looks and has a personality, everyone who sees her loves her. Ian moves for a fresh start and meets Fiona and the family on a working farm. He cant stand spiders and i cant say i blame him. There a lovely family with their quirks and of course Charlie needs somewhere to live but it seems to attract people and have a profound effect on people too.
Fiona knows how the spider works, she knows how dangerous she can be, but Charlie outsmarts alot of people and it gets dangerous.
A great entertaining read , a good mix of everything in this book and if you dont sit looking around dark corners in your house after reading this i would be surprised.
Thanks to BookSirens for an entertaining read that at times made me howl with laughter shiver and scratch and be aware of anything moving.
October 15, 2025
Thank you to the author and the publisher or publishers for all your hard work! I'm leaving this review voluntarily and happily! Take a look!
Wow, another phenomenal book. Every time I read something from these people its always so good and I cant stop till im done. Its so hard to put down. I mean just look at the cover its stunning and creepy. If your not a fan of spiders I suggest you turn and look the other way. Thus is an action packed book filled with gore, and a lot of death. This book is also in Australia so be ready for all kinds of slang. Even with slang used its not too hard in understanding what is going on in the story. The characters you will easily love and others you will want to squash like the bug they are.
This story was such a fun read though twisted at times. Ive never been disappointed by these people and know everytime they come out with a new book im going to be right there grabbing it once I have the money. Pacing is great. I never got bored or drifted. The details and descriptions of everything were so on point it was like a movie running in the back of my mind the whole time I was reading.
This book has some dark humor as well as some romance if your into that. I think all of it mixed together was done rather well. There are some books out there that its just done too cheesy and this one was just right. Plus its not all sex. A lot of books these days are tending to head in that direction.
Anyway back to the good stuff. If your a fan of Spiders or hate them thus definitely is full of them. Some pretty, dark and definitely unnatural. What's going to happen to these people and will anyone survive? Read and find out what happens. I know i enjoyed it and i know others will too.
Wow, another phenomenal book. Every time I read something from these people its always so good and I cant stop till im done. Its so hard to put down. I mean just look at the cover its stunning and creepy. If your not a fan of spiders I suggest you turn and look the other way. Thus is an action packed book filled with gore, and a lot of death. This book is also in Australia so be ready for all kinds of slang. Even with slang used its not too hard in understanding what is going on in the story. The characters you will easily love and others you will want to squash like the bug they are.
This story was such a fun read though twisted at times. Ive never been disappointed by these people and know everytime they come out with a new book im going to be right there grabbing it once I have the money. Pacing is great. I never got bored or drifted. The details and descriptions of everything were so on point it was like a movie running in the back of my mind the whole time I was reading.
This book has some dark humor as well as some romance if your into that. I think all of it mixed together was done rather well. There are some books out there that its just done too cheesy and this one was just right. Plus its not all sex. A lot of books these days are tending to head in that direction.
Anyway back to the good stuff. If your a fan of Spiders or hate them thus definitely is full of them. Some pretty, dark and definitely unnatural. What's going to happen to these people and will anyone survive? Read and find out what happens. I know i enjoyed it and i know others will too.
October 1, 2025
Okay, I have to come clean by saying I'm not generally a fan of the 'creature feature' genre. I went into this quite blind, and it took me a hot moment to realise that's exactly what I was reading. By the time I did, though, I was having far too much fun to stop, and that's just down to the excellent writing. You can tell the authors were having an absolute hoot.
Poor Ian. Not enough that he's banished to remote Australia to work on a relative's farm. Oh no, his nightmare is just beginning. And this is where the novel really works for me—the characters. They each have a story, something to bring to the table rather than just to serve a plot purpose. You can feel their anguish, their trauma, their fear. At the same time, there's a healthy dose of humour spread throughout, so plenty of light relief. In similar fashion, the writing is spot on, never taking itself too seriously and possessing a great retro, tongue-in-cheek feel (well, it is a book about killer spiders after all)! It felt akin to watching a B-movie from yesteryear.
Environments are well-detailed and brought to life with vivid descriptions and smells. Being set in Australia, you could almost taste the dust and feel the hot breeze on your cheek.
Personally, I love spiders, so the scare factor was minimal. That said, for anyone with a phobia, this book is guaranteed to provide many sleepless (and itchy) nights.
A truly enjoyable yarn with great characters, environments, and plenty of nerve-shredding moments for anyone with the slightest fear of spiders.
Poor Ian. Not enough that he's banished to remote Australia to work on a relative's farm. Oh no, his nightmare is just beginning. And this is where the novel really works for me—the characters. They each have a story, something to bring to the table rather than just to serve a plot purpose. You can feel their anguish, their trauma, their fear. At the same time, there's a healthy dose of humour spread throughout, so plenty of light relief. In similar fashion, the writing is spot on, never taking itself too seriously and possessing a great retro, tongue-in-cheek feel (well, it is a book about killer spiders after all)! It felt akin to watching a B-movie from yesteryear.
Environments are well-detailed and brought to life with vivid descriptions and smells. Being set in Australia, you could almost taste the dust and feel the hot breeze on your cheek.
Personally, I love spiders, so the scare factor was minimal. That said, for anyone with a phobia, this book is guaranteed to provide many sleepless (and itchy) nights.
A truly enjoyable yarn with great characters, environments, and plenty of nerve-shredding moments for anyone with the slightest fear of spiders.
October 29, 2025
The international dynamic duo of Chris Heinicke and Kate Reedwood are back! Last year they treated us to the Halloween favorite, It Came From the Pumpkin Patch, and earlier this year they lured us into the deep with Slasher Cruise. This time, we’re headed to Australia, Chris’s stomping grounds, for a heavy dose of arachnophobia in their latest and greatest novel yet—It Came From the Flower Shop Down Under.
Readers and transported to Australia in the 70s, where teenager Ian Thomas has been shipped off by his strict father to spend a few months with his uncle and eccentric aunt. There’s naked yoga, some heart-warming life lessons, mischievous cousins, and Ian’s biggest fear—spiders. His cousins have a pet spider, but that’s nothing compared to what’s being transported into the city by a rogue scientist intent on keeping her creation away from those who mean to destroy it.
Kate and Chris bring their signature comedy into this spider-fueled floral nightmare. But this isn’t just a horror comedy, this is a character-driven drama unlike anything you’ve read before. Everyone has a full-fleshed out story to tell, taking readers through the gambit of emotions. I had to pace myself on the reading purely because I did not want it to be over. I laughed, cried, screamed, and even threw up a little bit. The emotions are as raw and gritty as the Australian outback.
I already didn’t like spiders, so if that’s you, beware. This book is worth the read, but you’ll never look at those little beasties the same way. I’m pretty sure I’ll only interfere with one if it's on behalf of my kids. This is a creature feature unlike anything you’ve read before. So go on, I double dog dare you to pick this up TODAY!!!!
Readers and transported to Australia in the 70s, where teenager Ian Thomas has been shipped off by his strict father to spend a few months with his uncle and eccentric aunt. There’s naked yoga, some heart-warming life lessons, mischievous cousins, and Ian’s biggest fear—spiders. His cousins have a pet spider, but that’s nothing compared to what’s being transported into the city by a rogue scientist intent on keeping her creation away from those who mean to destroy it.
Kate and Chris bring their signature comedy into this spider-fueled floral nightmare. But this isn’t just a horror comedy, this is a character-driven drama unlike anything you’ve read before. Everyone has a full-fleshed out story to tell, taking readers through the gambit of emotions. I had to pace myself on the reading purely because I did not want it to be over. I laughed, cried, screamed, and even threw up a little bit. The emotions are as raw and gritty as the Australian outback.
I already didn’t like spiders, so if that’s you, beware. This book is worth the read, but you’ll never look at those little beasties the same way. I’m pretty sure I’ll only interfere with one if it's on behalf of my kids. This is a creature feature unlike anything you’ve read before. So go on, I double dog dare you to pick this up TODAY!!!!
October 27, 2025
It Came From the Flower Shop Down Under is a wild romp through the Australian countryside. When American Ian Thomas is sent to live with his Australian family as a punishment for some misadventures, he has no idea how accurate his dad’s warning of killer creatures will turn out to be. Meanwhile, Fiona, a brilliant scientist, is on the run with her beloved, Charlie, a stunningly beautiful spider. When she meets Ian and the Thomas family, a course for a disastrous Halloween in 1976 is set. Because unbeknownst to everyone but Fiona, Charlie is dangerous. And she wants revenge for the wrongs she feels have been inflicted. The annual festivities of the sheepshearing festival will be unlike any in the small town’s history, and one they’d rather forget. If they survive.
I absolutely loved this book! I fell in love with the characters and the relationships they developed with one another. Australia was brought to life through vivid descriptions and local vernacular that were always perfectly placed and never felt overdone. The story was filled with tension that had me cringing with dread and bright moments of humor that made me laugh out loud. This is the perfect read for Halloween!
I absolutely loved this book! I fell in love with the characters and the relationships they developed with one another. Australia was brought to life through vivid descriptions and local vernacular that were always perfectly placed and never felt overdone. The story was filled with tension that had me cringing with dread and bright moments of humor that made me laugh out loud. This is the perfect read for Halloween!
October 1, 2025
I am okay with living with spiders. I say hello and leave them be. Now, after reading this novel, I may think twice if I lived in Australia. I looked up the Huntsman spider and I do not care if they are not dangerous. Their leg span can be 12 inches! 12 inches! I have never seen a spider that big. I mean, here in the USA we have the black widow and the recluse spider but they are so much smaller. Then there is the problem of Charlie being a mutant spider that has special powers and can reproduce. I am shuddering at the thought. This book was beyond terrifying! I shall be looking in corners, jumping at swishy feelings (that of imaginary legs) and sticky webs. I honestly felt anxious as I read this book. The whole time I was reading, my mantra was; nope! Nope! Nope! Then the supposed size of the new spiderlings….nope! What the spiders could to humans……nope! I think I need a shower and a blowtorch!
March 8, 2026
Title: It Came From The Flower Shop Down Under
Authors: Kate Reedwood and Chris Heinicke
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I thought the only Frankenstein-style novels I’d ever love would come from Duncan Ralston (Helloween is one of my favorites). Turns out I was wrong. This book is an absolute masterpiece.
Heinicke and Reedwood lure you in with wholesome, endearing characters, Australian culture, and a warm coming-of-age vibe. You start to feel safe. Comfortable. Like maybe this will be a heartfelt little adventure.
Nah, boss. Sorry to tell ya… this ain’t no cozy, fun, adventure. The book grabs that feeling of safety, snaps its neck, and feeds it to the monsters.
And those monsters? Original, fascinating, and deeply unsettling. They’re not just scary, they have layers. Layers you want to peel back and ask… “What the fuc*?!”
Also, if you hate spiders like I do… congratulations. You’ve just discovered a new form of psychological torture.
Authors: Kate Reedwood and Chris Heinicke
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I thought the only Frankenstein-style novels I’d ever love would come from Duncan Ralston (Helloween is one of my favorites). Turns out I was wrong. This book is an absolute masterpiece.
Heinicke and Reedwood lure you in with wholesome, endearing characters, Australian culture, and a warm coming-of-age vibe. You start to feel safe. Comfortable. Like maybe this will be a heartfelt little adventure.
Nah, boss. Sorry to tell ya… this ain’t no cozy, fun, adventure. The book grabs that feeling of safety, snaps its neck, and feeds it to the monsters.
And those monsters? Original, fascinating, and deeply unsettling. They’re not just scary, they have layers. Layers you want to peel back and ask… “What the fuc*?!”
Also, if you hate spiders like I do… congratulations. You’ve just discovered a new form of psychological torture.
November 28, 2025
First thing you notice about this book is the fantastic cover art done by Jarrod Elvin, and it fits the book perfectly.
If you are scared of spiders, then it will probably give you nightmares, but you will love it anyway.
This book was awesome, lots of creepy moments, some well written wholesome characters, some tense moments, broken up with some funny Australian culture mixed in, to keep the mood from getting too dark.
Although this book is book 2 in a series, the story is standalone and you won’t even notice.
If you love a good creepy crawly story then you are going to love this.
Now if you will excuse me, I now HAVE to go back through all the books these two have written together and add them to my to get pile, oh darn, :-D
If you are scared of spiders, then it will probably give you nightmares, but you will love it anyway.
This book was awesome, lots of creepy moments, some well written wholesome characters, some tense moments, broken up with some funny Australian culture mixed in, to keep the mood from getting too dark.
Although this book is book 2 in a series, the story is standalone and you won’t even notice.
If you love a good creepy crawly story then you are going to love this.
Now if you will excuse me, I now HAVE to go back through all the books these two have written together and add them to my to get pile, oh darn, :-D
October 21, 2025
Australia produces some of the biggest and best as we see in this awesome horror filled romp set there. Chris and Kate bring us to Ian, a young adult sent to live with his relatives in Australia. There he meets Fiona, a scientist on the run with Charlie, a genetically engineered spider. You can guess where the terror and fun goes from there. It's a quick, fun read with blood and gore mixed with scary and dark moments. The humor also stands out as they adapt to what they have to fight and if anyone can survive. This is the second book in their-It Came From-series and now I can't wait to go back and read the first one.
October 29, 2025
Kate Reedwood does an amazing job in creating a great horror thriller novel, it had that comedic element that I was hoping for from the description. I was engaged from start to finish and enjoyed the horror concept in this. It had everything that was promised in the description and enjoyed the overall concept from start to finish. It uses the Australian element in a way that I was looking for and cared about what was happening with the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 10, 2025
This book was awesome. From the hilarious Aussie banter to the plot. The creepy scary spiders will leave your skin crawling. Enter reading at your own risk if you don’t like spiders. I men I already hated the thought of huntsman spiders this book just took it up a notch lol. I found the banter in this book so good you just kept reading. It was entertaining and lighthearted at times but down right scary and nail biting in others. It will keep you entertained and on your toes. If you feel your skin itching you may think again what it could be after this book.
October 24, 2025
The story draws you in from the beginning and the characters are likeable, so you are genuinely invested in their fates. It follows Fiona, on the run from an abusive ex, and Ian, the American sent away after a brush with the law, who both join the Thomas family at their farm in rural Australia. Fiona brings with her a secret of the eight-legged variety, and the result is horrifying!
Highly recommend this one! And it takes place during Halloween, so it’s the perfect time to read it 😉🎃
Highly recommend this one! And it takes place during Halloween, so it’s the perfect time to read it 😉🎃
September 23, 2025
I had such a great time reading this creature feature! It is packed with fun, likable characters, humor, and of course lots of creepy, yet intriguing, spiders! I personally love spiders but I definitely had the creepy crawlies at several points. I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a fun and unique creature feature!
September 24, 2025
Ian is sent to his uncles farm in Australia as punishment. A woman on the run trying to protect herself and a special spider end up there also. This is no ordinary spider it is beautiful and extremely deadly and smart. It has plans. Bloody amazing read full of amazing characters. Moments that will make you cringe others that will have you laughing out loud.
October 12, 2025
This was excellent! A really well written scary adventure, with amusing moments which really added to the reading pleasure. I did really enjoy this, I liked the fact it was set in Australia & the idea was great as well as being well done. I will definitely look for more by this writer, when I want a fun read!
October 18, 2025
A tale about Fiona and her pet spider Charlie.
It was slow at first, the first half of the book was story building that actually leads up to the action. Then it slowly wraps up the book. Feels like the book was longer than it should have been but it wasn’t disappointing. Warning it more adult themed than the book “It Came From the Pumpkin Patch”.
November 26, 2025
Loved the demons in Mall Priests 1 through 3
Thoroughly enjoyed the giant pumpkin zombie rats in It Came from the Pumpkin Patch
Didn’t mind the varying ghost possessions in Slasher Cruise
Was thoroughly bothered out by the evil psychic spiders in It Came from the Flower Shop Down Under
Can’t wait for the next instalment in the Apocalypse Horror franchise
Thoroughly enjoyed the giant pumpkin zombie rats in It Came from the Pumpkin Patch
Didn’t mind the varying ghost possessions in Slasher Cruise
Was thoroughly bothered out by the evil psychic spiders in It Came from the Flower Shop Down Under
Can’t wait for the next instalment in the Apocalypse Horror franchise
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