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Funerals Are for the Living
Not yet published
Expected 21 Jul 26New from the author of Dead Girls Walking comes a YA horror about a girl kidnapped by a racist cult after investigating the supernatural happenings at her sister’s gravesite
A month ago, Junie Daniels was in a car crash that left her with a dead sister, fragmented memories of the accident, and a mother too checked-out to plan a funeral. The cheapest grave plot Junie can find is in the next town over. Sure, Williamsville is still proudly named after a slave master who was rumored to dabble in dark magic—but this North Carolina, after all.
When unexplained occurrences start happening at the graveyard, though, Junie and her best friend, Omari, investigate. And it’s not long before Junie and Omari are taken...
Williamsville wants both Daniels girls. But Junie will do anything to protect her sister—even if it's only her corpse.
A month ago, Junie Daniels was in a car crash that left her with a dead sister, fragmented memories of the accident, and a mother too checked-out to plan a funeral. The cheapest grave plot Junie can find is in the next town over. Sure, Williamsville is still proudly named after a slave master who was rumored to dabble in dark magic—but this North Carolina, after all.
When unexplained occurrences start happening at the graveyard, though, Junie and her best friend, Omari, investigate. And it’s not long before Junie and Omari are taken...
Williamsville wants both Daniels girls. But Junie will do anything to protect her sister—even if it's only her corpse.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published June 21, 2026
About the author
Sami Ellis
4 books108 followersSami Ellis is a queer horror writer inspired by the horrific nature of Black fears and the culture’s relation to the supernatural. When she's not the single auntie with a good job, she spends her time not writing. You can follow her @themoosef on Twitter, or check out her words in her debut novel Dead Girls Walking (2024).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
November 7, 2025
This is a very loaded and very culty horror/thriller. I feel so-so about it. 3.5 stars!
I read a lot of horror novels, and this one managed to be pretty unique in comparison to a lot of the others, so I applaud it for that.
I think there are some overall really good plot points, super chilling scenes and some nice characters.
I think that rural North Carolina was a good location for this to take place, and it added some realness/believability to the story.
This sort of grabbed me at the beginning and I was invested.
Unfortunately, around the 60% mark, I think I started to loose stamina- and became a little bit less interested.
There is sort of a “magical” element introduced at some point in this, which for some reason I just didn’t vibe with much. I think I’m just not very into magic and horror combined together.
With this being said, there are some interesting points in this.
The overall racial element was pretty insane, and I think it brought a lot of depth into it, especially for a YA. (TW: Racism)
This has the ability to evoke some strong emotions. From major sympathy for the Junie, to major anger at the bad guys.
I definitely think you have to feel something here.
Basically, I think this was okay! It is not a bad story, and there are some really creepy points and elements mixed into it! I only wish that I would have been able to stay focused and invested in it for a bit longer.
Thank you to Netgalley, Abram’s kids and author Sami Ellis, for providing me with the eARC of “Funerals Are for the living” in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: July 21, 2026
I read a lot of horror novels, and this one managed to be pretty unique in comparison to a lot of the others, so I applaud it for that.
I think there are some overall really good plot points, super chilling scenes and some nice characters.
I think that rural North Carolina was a good location for this to take place, and it added some realness/believability to the story.
This sort of grabbed me at the beginning and I was invested.
Unfortunately, around the 60% mark, I think I started to loose stamina- and became a little bit less interested.
There is sort of a “magical” element introduced at some point in this, which for some reason I just didn’t vibe with much. I think I’m just not very into magic and horror combined together.
With this being said, there are some interesting points in this.
The overall racial element was pretty insane, and I think it brought a lot of depth into it, especially for a YA. (TW: Racism)
This has the ability to evoke some strong emotions. From major sympathy for the Junie, to major anger at the bad guys.
I definitely think you have to feel something here.
Basically, I think this was okay! It is not a bad story, and there are some really creepy points and elements mixed into it! I only wish that I would have been able to stay focused and invested in it for a bit longer.
Thank you to Netgalley, Abram’s kids and author Sami Ellis, for providing me with the eARC of “Funerals Are for the living” in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: July 21, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was an amazing read! I wanted to know everything when the story kept unfolding so I kept reading, even though I had to go to sleep. It's a mystery, horror and an intriguing heartbreakung read all at once. Even though it is fiction, it still shows the difficulties of real-life racism. Beautifully done!
July 8, 2026
well that was gruesome !
- thank you for the audiobook NetGalley
- thank you for the audiobook NetGalley
June 10, 2026
Despite the overall dark and sometimes depressing tone of the book, there’s still some great moments of dark humor. I laughed out loud when Junie yelled that the church scammed her with a “Temu Grave,” or when she worried that the white cult would turn her and Omari into chili with no seasoning. I personally felt the book had a few pacing issues and could drag in some parts, but when it hit its stride, it really hit its stride and I found I couldn’t put it down. The mystery element of the book is really gripping, and I never knew what was going to happen next. I did feel like the supernatural parts of the story were kind of shoehorned in, and I’m not sure if they were strictly necessary since the book was chilling enough with just the racist cult. They didn’t necessarily detract from the story, I just don’t think they really added anything either. Overall, Funerals are for the Living is a well-crafted and moving piece of young adult fiction that doesn’t speak down to its young audience and trusts them with heavy topics.
November 22, 2025
Sami Ellis’ Funerals Are For The Living is a beautifully layered novel that delves into the raw, complex emotions of grief, self-doubt, depression, and feelings of inadequacy through the eyes of its main character, Junie Daniels. From the very first page, Ellis pulls you into Junie’s fractured world—a world marked by the tragic loss of her sister Jay, a car crash that haunts her memories, and a mother who has emotionally checked out, leaving Junie to navigate the storm largely on her own.
What makes this book so compelling is how it weaves together the personal and the historical. Ellis doesn’t shy away from confronting the painful legacies of slavery and racism, grounding the supernatural elements in real, systemic wounds that ripple through generations. The town of Williamsville, proudly named after a slave master rumored to practice dark magic, becomes a character in its own right, symbolizing the shadows of the past that still loom large over the present.
Junie’s journey is at once intensely personal and broadly resonant. Ellis gives us a protagonist who is deeply human—flawed, vulnerable, sometimes unsure, but always striving. Junie’s growth is subtle and realistic; she takes baby steps forward, often stumbling but never giving up. Alongside her is Omari, her steadfast best friend, whose support and friendship are vital to Junie’s ability to face the darkness both around and within her. The town of Daniels, with its varied and vibrant community, adds further depth to the narrative, showing how collective support can make even the heaviest burdens more bearable.
Ellis’s characters are beautifully diverse, reflecting a spectrum of identities and experiences—Black, Hispanic, gay, bi, loners, the popular crowd—you name it. This diversity enriches the story, making it feel authentic and inclusive without ever feeling forced. Each character comes with their own strength and depth, contributing to the novel’s rich tapestry.
The novel is also full of twists and turns that demand careful attention. The timeline shifts in ways that initially keep you guessing but eventually reveal a carefully crafted puzzle. This structure adds to the suspense and keeps the reader fully engaged, making every revelation all the more impactful.
From the author of Dead Girls Walking, Ellis delivers a YA horror story that is as much about supernatural terror as it is about the very real horrors of racism, loss, and trauma. The kidnapping by a racist cult and the eerie happenings at the gravesite add layers of tension and horror, but it’s the emotional truth at the heart of the story that truly stays with you.
Funerals Are For The Living is a testament to resilience—the resilience of a girl who refuses to let go of her sister, of a community that stands together, and of a spirit that, even when broken, continues to fight. This book is a powerful, haunting, and ultimately hopeful read that I would recommend to anyone who appreciates nuanced characters and stories that don’t shy away from life’s darkest moments but find light within them.
Sami Ellis has once again proven her ability to craft unforgettable characters and stories that resonate on many levels. This novel stayed with me long after I turned the last page, and I look forward to whatever she writes next.
What makes this book so compelling is how it weaves together the personal and the historical. Ellis doesn’t shy away from confronting the painful legacies of slavery and racism, grounding the supernatural elements in real, systemic wounds that ripple through generations. The town of Williamsville, proudly named after a slave master rumored to practice dark magic, becomes a character in its own right, symbolizing the shadows of the past that still loom large over the present.
Junie’s journey is at once intensely personal and broadly resonant. Ellis gives us a protagonist who is deeply human—flawed, vulnerable, sometimes unsure, but always striving. Junie’s growth is subtle and realistic; she takes baby steps forward, often stumbling but never giving up. Alongside her is Omari, her steadfast best friend, whose support and friendship are vital to Junie’s ability to face the darkness both around and within her. The town of Daniels, with its varied and vibrant community, adds further depth to the narrative, showing how collective support can make even the heaviest burdens more bearable.
Ellis’s characters are beautifully diverse, reflecting a spectrum of identities and experiences—Black, Hispanic, gay, bi, loners, the popular crowd—you name it. This diversity enriches the story, making it feel authentic and inclusive without ever feeling forced. Each character comes with their own strength and depth, contributing to the novel’s rich tapestry.
The novel is also full of twists and turns that demand careful attention. The timeline shifts in ways that initially keep you guessing but eventually reveal a carefully crafted puzzle. This structure adds to the suspense and keeps the reader fully engaged, making every revelation all the more impactful.
From the author of Dead Girls Walking, Ellis delivers a YA horror story that is as much about supernatural terror as it is about the very real horrors of racism, loss, and trauma. The kidnapping by a racist cult and the eerie happenings at the gravesite add layers of tension and horror, but it’s the emotional truth at the heart of the story that truly stays with you.
Funerals Are For The Living is a testament to resilience—the resilience of a girl who refuses to let go of her sister, of a community that stands together, and of a spirit that, even when broken, continues to fight. This book is a powerful, haunting, and ultimately hopeful read that I would recommend to anyone who appreciates nuanced characters and stories that don’t shy away from life’s darkest moments but find light within them.
Sami Ellis has once again proven her ability to craft unforgettable characters and stories that resonate on many levels. This novel stayed with me long after I turned the last page, and I look forward to whatever she writes next.
November 13, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Amulet Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Sami Ellis’s “Funerals Are for the Living” is a haunting, genre-bending YA debut that combines Southern Gothic horror, magical realism, and social commentary into a story that is as emotionally raw as it is unsettling. Set in rural North Carolina, the story explores grief, legacy, and survival through the eyes of Junie, a young Black girl trying to hold her fractured family together after her sister’s tragic death until she uncovers the dark, supernatural truth lurking in her community as well as her own family’s history.
After a car crash kills her sister and leaves her mysteriously unharmed, Junie is consumed by guilt and the need to keep her grieving family afloat. But when strange things begin happening in her small town like unexplainable whispers, eerie coincidences, and a cult obsessed with harnessing stolen magic, Junie realizes that the tragedy in her life may not have been an accident. The more she investigates, the more she uncovers a chilling history of racism, exploitation, and generational trauma, where a white cult’s power literally feeds on the descendants of enslaved people.
Ellis crafts this horror with nuance and purpose. The racial and historical undertones aren’t just window dressing; they’re the beating heart of the novel. This is a story about who gets to hold power, whose pain gets erased, and how grief and rage can both destroy and heal. The setting, a small, rural North Carolina town steeped in superstition, adds grit and realism, grounding the more supernatural elements in a world that feels frighteningly plausible.
Junie’s voice is the soul of the story: sharp, funny, angry, and heartbreakingly human. Her journey from numb survivor to fierce truth-seeker feels deeply authentic. Supporting characters like Omari stand out (he was my favorite character as I loved his sense of humor and his dialogue throughout the book) though some of the other side characters could have been more fully fleshed out.
Tonally, “Funerals Are for the Living” straddles an intriguing line between horror and contemporary fiction. The cult elements and magical components are deeply unsettling, while the emotional core, which focuses on grief, guilt, and healing, is profoundly moving. The introduction of overtly magical elements felt a bit jarring as I thought this was mainly going to be a psychological or realistic thriller, but Ellis’s fusion of genres ultimately strengthens the story’s impact.
While the pacing can lag slightly in the middle, the originality and emotional power of the story more than make up for its flaws. It’s rare for a YA horror novel to balance social critique, supernatural horror, and heartfelt emotion this deftly.
Overall, “Funerals Are for the Living” is a bold, thought-provoking debut that redefines what YA horror can be. Equal parts eerie and cathartic, it’s a story about grief, identity, and reclaiming stolen power. Perfect for fans of Black horror that cuts deep while it chills.
Sami Ellis’s “Funerals Are for the Living” is a haunting, genre-bending YA debut that combines Southern Gothic horror, magical realism, and social commentary into a story that is as emotionally raw as it is unsettling. Set in rural North Carolina, the story explores grief, legacy, and survival through the eyes of Junie, a young Black girl trying to hold her fractured family together after her sister’s tragic death until she uncovers the dark, supernatural truth lurking in her community as well as her own family’s history.
After a car crash kills her sister and leaves her mysteriously unharmed, Junie is consumed by guilt and the need to keep her grieving family afloat. But when strange things begin happening in her small town like unexplainable whispers, eerie coincidences, and a cult obsessed with harnessing stolen magic, Junie realizes that the tragedy in her life may not have been an accident. The more she investigates, the more she uncovers a chilling history of racism, exploitation, and generational trauma, where a white cult’s power literally feeds on the descendants of enslaved people.
Ellis crafts this horror with nuance and purpose. The racial and historical undertones aren’t just window dressing; they’re the beating heart of the novel. This is a story about who gets to hold power, whose pain gets erased, and how grief and rage can both destroy and heal. The setting, a small, rural North Carolina town steeped in superstition, adds grit and realism, grounding the more supernatural elements in a world that feels frighteningly plausible.
Junie’s voice is the soul of the story: sharp, funny, angry, and heartbreakingly human. Her journey from numb survivor to fierce truth-seeker feels deeply authentic. Supporting characters like Omari stand out (he was my favorite character as I loved his sense of humor and his dialogue throughout the book) though some of the other side characters could have been more fully fleshed out.
Tonally, “Funerals Are for the Living” straddles an intriguing line between horror and contemporary fiction. The cult elements and magical components are deeply unsettling, while the emotional core, which focuses on grief, guilt, and healing, is profoundly moving. The introduction of overtly magical elements felt a bit jarring as I thought this was mainly going to be a psychological or realistic thriller, but Ellis’s fusion of genres ultimately strengthens the story’s impact.
While the pacing can lag slightly in the middle, the originality and emotional power of the story more than make up for its flaws. It’s rare for a YA horror novel to balance social critique, supernatural horror, and heartfelt emotion this deftly.
Overall, “Funerals Are for the Living” is a bold, thought-provoking debut that redefines what YA horror can be. Equal parts eerie and cathartic, it’s a story about grief, identity, and reclaiming stolen power. Perfect for fans of Black horror that cuts deep while it chills.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley and Sami Ellis for the eARC of 'Funerals are for the living' in exchange for my honest review. Please note that the following review will have spoilers.
3 stars
Im not squeamish about horror or gore and the blurb of this book drew me in. From the beginning Sami Ellis is good at letting us see Junie as a person and building the picture of her life. It was really significant to her personality and felt real to me. You can really emphasis with her and how she goes about her actions. The tone at the start of the book was also good, eerie, setting up the mystery.
I really enjoyed her best friend Omari, nay I loved Omari, chef kiss on all his dialog and sass! Not to be outshone though Junie definitely had sass too. I actually loved that she zoned out every time the bad guys where giving speeches because so would I. OMG I would hate to listen to the droning of hate speech and self-righteousness when I've been kidnapped and about to die! Definitely praising the small bits of dark humour sprinkled throughout.
However I had a lot of ups and downs in the latter half of the book, for me the pacing was a bit off from maybe the 50/60% mark. Sometimes too slow with the mystery and repetition of escape/capture or really really fast with crazy stuff going on, more so the magic. For the most part I liked the twists and turns in the book. I liked the parts that felt more real, because that's scary. The family/home troubles, alcoholism, racism, cult behaviour, kidnapping, violence, cannibalism etc. then the parts with magic. I'm a lover of the paranormal and magic but I need it to be explained and have a purpose/reason. I didn't feel like the magic surrounding the 'bad guy' here was substantial enough or even with Junie herself and by the end it was not mentioned again and everything went back to normal? Yeah didn't add up for me so much.
I do think this book ventured out there for a YA book with its themes I'm just more accustomed to a lot of horror/violence in some of the books I read. I think this book would be a greta read for someone that wants to dip into an atmospheric book with the horror/paranormal elements and not be too overwhelmed.
3 stars
Im not squeamish about horror or gore and the blurb of this book drew me in. From the beginning Sami Ellis is good at letting us see Junie as a person and building the picture of her life. It was really significant to her personality and felt real to me. You can really emphasis with her and how she goes about her actions. The tone at the start of the book was also good, eerie, setting up the mystery.
I really enjoyed her best friend Omari, nay I loved Omari, chef kiss on all his dialog and sass! Not to be outshone though Junie definitely had sass too. I actually loved that she zoned out every time the bad guys where giving speeches because so would I. OMG I would hate to listen to the droning of hate speech and self-righteousness when I've been kidnapped and about to die! Definitely praising the small bits of dark humour sprinkled throughout.
However I had a lot of ups and downs in the latter half of the book, for me the pacing was a bit off from maybe the 50/60% mark. Sometimes too slow with the mystery and repetition of escape/capture or really really fast with crazy stuff going on, more so the magic. For the most part I liked the twists and turns in the book. I liked the parts that felt more real, because that's scary. The family/home troubles, alcoholism, racism, cult behaviour, kidnapping, violence, cannibalism etc. then the parts with magic. I'm a lover of the paranormal and magic but I need it to be explained and have a purpose/reason. I didn't feel like the magic surrounding the 'bad guy' here was substantial enough or even with Junie herself and by the end it was not mentioned again and everything went back to normal? Yeah didn't add up for me so much.
I do think this book ventured out there for a YA book with its themes I'm just more accustomed to a lot of horror/violence in some of the books I read. I think this book would be a greta read for someone that wants to dip into an atmospheric book with the horror/paranormal elements and not be too overwhelmed.
December 1, 2025
A fiercely honest, beautifully written novel about grief, girlhood, and the messy, necessary work of staying alive
Funerals Are for the Living is the kind of book that takes hold of you quietly and then refuses to let go. Sami Ellis writes with a tenderness that feels like being seen and a sharpness that refuses to look away from pain. This novel is a gut-punch, a confession, and ultimately a lifeline for readers who have ever felt the weight of grief settle into their bones.
The story centers on Aria, a Black teen navigating loss, memory, and the complicated landscape of mental health. What sets this book apart is its emotional honesty. Ellis captures the interiority of depression and self-blame with devastating clarity—but she balances it with warmth, humor, and the fierce friendships that help pull Aria back toward the world. This isn’t trauma for trauma’s sake; it’s trauma examined, named, and reclaimed.
Ellis’s prose is lyrical without ever losing its grounding. The writing moves between softness and sharp edges, mirroring Aria’s spiraling thoughts and moments of clarity. The nonlinear memories feel true to grief—slipping in unexpectedly, sometimes tender, sometimes unbearable. The result is a narrative that feels lived-in, full of breath and ache.
The supporting characters shine just as much. Friends, family, mentors—each relationship feels purposeful and real, offering Aria both challenge and comfort. Ellis never simplifies these dynamics, which makes them all the more powerful. Love isn’t a cure, but it’s a tether.
What lingers long after the final page is the book’s central truth: healing is not a straight line, and choosing to live—actively, intentionally—is an act of radical courage. Ellis handles heavy topics with gentleness and respect, offering readers resonance rather than despair.
Raw, compassionate, and gorgeously crafted, Funerals Are for the Living is a profound exploration of what it means to carry grief and still choose the world again and again. It’s a must-read for fans of Elizabeth Acevedo, Nina LaCour, Ashley Woodfolk, and anyone who values YA that treats teens’ emotional lives with the depth they deserve.
Funerals Are for the Living is the kind of book that takes hold of you quietly and then refuses to let go. Sami Ellis writes with a tenderness that feels like being seen and a sharpness that refuses to look away from pain. This novel is a gut-punch, a confession, and ultimately a lifeline for readers who have ever felt the weight of grief settle into their bones.
The story centers on Aria, a Black teen navigating loss, memory, and the complicated landscape of mental health. What sets this book apart is its emotional honesty. Ellis captures the interiority of depression and self-blame with devastating clarity—but she balances it with warmth, humor, and the fierce friendships that help pull Aria back toward the world. This isn’t trauma for trauma’s sake; it’s trauma examined, named, and reclaimed.
Ellis’s prose is lyrical without ever losing its grounding. The writing moves between softness and sharp edges, mirroring Aria’s spiraling thoughts and moments of clarity. The nonlinear memories feel true to grief—slipping in unexpectedly, sometimes tender, sometimes unbearable. The result is a narrative that feels lived-in, full of breath and ache.
The supporting characters shine just as much. Friends, family, mentors—each relationship feels purposeful and real, offering Aria both challenge and comfort. Ellis never simplifies these dynamics, which makes them all the more powerful. Love isn’t a cure, but it’s a tether.
What lingers long after the final page is the book’s central truth: healing is not a straight line, and choosing to live—actively, intentionally—is an act of radical courage. Ellis handles heavy topics with gentleness and respect, offering readers resonance rather than despair.
Raw, compassionate, and gorgeously crafted, Funerals Are for the Living is a profound exploration of what it means to carry grief and still choose the world again and again. It’s a must-read for fans of Elizabeth Acevedo, Nina LaCour, Ashley Woodfolk, and anyone who values YA that treats teens’ emotional lives with the depth they deserve.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5
Sami Ellis's 'Funerals Are for the Living' is a YA horror featuring the fractured life of Junie Daniels after the loss of her sister, Jay, and her mothers crumbling mental health delving into the complex emotions of grief, depression, inadequacy and identity. We follow Junie and her awesome best friend Omari (did I tell you he was awesome) as they get kidnapped by a racist cult after digging into the strange happenings at her sisters grave-site.
The history of race and religion bought a lot of depth to a YA evoking strong emotions, the racial and historical undertones held a pivotal role of the novel.
Junie felt deeply human through her subtle and gradual growth throughout the book and despite everything she didn't give up which is a tragic aspect to her relationship with her sister who she wasn't ready to let go of. A lot of sympathy is crafted for Junie through the mental health representation. I liked her sass such as when she zoned out when the 'villain speeches' were made which I always think should happen in TV when baddies have their dialogue moments.
I liked the casual nature of the background queer relationship but there isn't much focus on it which I don't mind as I was more interested in the horror aspect and Junie's friendship with Omari. Speaking of Omari, I really adored his personality and his later interactions with Nana. His support and friendship was essential to Junie's journey to face the darkness and herself. Though other side characters could have been fleshed out.
Admittedly some of the magical elements was a little confusing but could partially be a me thing and could be helped by a reread at a later date, however it didn't feel very substantial.
It was an okay read with an interesting mystery and horror plot that is more heart breaking as it can show some real life elements about the difficulties of racism and grief.
Sami Ellis's 'Funerals Are for the Living' is a YA horror featuring the fractured life of Junie Daniels after the loss of her sister, Jay, and her mothers crumbling mental health delving into the complex emotions of grief, depression, inadequacy and identity. We follow Junie and her awesome best friend Omari (did I tell you he was awesome) as they get kidnapped by a racist cult after digging into the strange happenings at her sisters grave-site.
The history of race and religion bought a lot of depth to a YA evoking strong emotions, the racial and historical undertones held a pivotal role of the novel.
Junie felt deeply human through her subtle and gradual growth throughout the book and despite everything she didn't give up which is a tragic aspect to her relationship with her sister who she wasn't ready to let go of. A lot of sympathy is crafted for Junie through the mental health representation. I liked her sass such as when she zoned out when the 'villain speeches' were made which I always think should happen in TV when baddies have their dialogue moments.
I liked the casual nature of the background queer relationship but there isn't much focus on it which I don't mind as I was more interested in the horror aspect and Junie's friendship with Omari. Speaking of Omari, I really adored his personality and his later interactions with Nana. His support and friendship was essential to Junie's journey to face the darkness and herself. Though other side characters could have been fleshed out.
Admittedly some of the magical elements was a little confusing but could partially be a me thing and could be helped by a reread at a later date, however it didn't feel very substantial.
It was an okay read with an interesting mystery and horror plot that is more heart breaking as it can show some real life elements about the difficulties of racism and grief.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3 stars
Ellis is definitely bringing the horror to this sinister YA novel! However, there are deeper themes here, too: a little something for all!
Junie is really going through it. Her sister's recent death has been difficult for the expected reasons, but there are also extenuating circumstances. First, the two of them were involved in the fatal accident together. Junie can't remember all of the details, but there's obviously a lasting, terrible impact. Junie is left to deal with this mostly on her own as her mother has checked out. Fortunately, her best pal is also the best character in the novel, so when Junie learns that strange occurrences are afoot at her sister's gravesite, the two of them build a rag tag investigative team. I doubt anyone enters a situation like that and thinks things will be easy or straightforward, but this scenario goes as left as possible.
There are definitely traditional horror elements here, but the social horror aspects are what really creeped me out (and I anticipate this will be a shared feeling among many other readers). While the creepy vibes are there and some of the characterization keeps things moving pretty swiftly, I also found myself wanting some speedier pacing at times.
I was pleasantly surprised to find some meaningful content about grief and acceptance mixed in with all of the gruesome details.
I definitely have students whom I know will really enjoy this, and I look forward to reading more from this author, too.
*Special thanks to NetGalley, Amulet Books, and Recorded Books for this arc and alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Ellis is definitely bringing the horror to this sinister YA novel! However, there are deeper themes here, too: a little something for all!
Junie is really going through it. Her sister's recent death has been difficult for the expected reasons, but there are also extenuating circumstances. First, the two of them were involved in the fatal accident together. Junie can't remember all of the details, but there's obviously a lasting, terrible impact. Junie is left to deal with this mostly on her own as her mother has checked out. Fortunately, her best pal is also the best character in the novel, so when Junie learns that strange occurrences are afoot at her sister's gravesite, the two of them build a rag tag investigative team. I doubt anyone enters a situation like that and thinks things will be easy or straightforward, but this scenario goes as left as possible.
There are definitely traditional horror elements here, but the social horror aspects are what really creeped me out (and I anticipate this will be a shared feeling among many other readers). While the creepy vibes are there and some of the characterization keeps things moving pretty swiftly, I also found myself wanting some speedier pacing at times.
I was pleasantly surprised to find some meaningful content about grief and acceptance mixed in with all of the gruesome details.
I definitely have students whom I know will really enjoy this, and I look forward to reading more from this author, too.
*Special thanks to NetGalley, Amulet Books, and Recorded Books for this arc and alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
March 9, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Funerals Are for the Living by Sami Ellis.
This story follows Junie as she navigates life after losing her sister in a car accident she doesn’t fully remember. The book opens strong, showing Junie and her mom trying to adjust to life after the tragedy. The grief and tension in their household immediately set the tone and pulled me into the story.
Things take a strange turn when Junie receives a visitor one night, and from there the story becomes increasingly unsettling. The atmosphere and social tension put me in a headspace similar to *Get Out*, where you know something is wrong but can’t quite piece together what it is yet. There are several twists and turns throughout the book, and I often found myself questioning what was really happening.
There were a few pacing issues, and at times I wanted the story to move a little faster or get more directly to the point. However, the mystery and eerie tone kept me engaged and curious about how everything would unfold.
Overall, Funerals Are for the Living is a solid pick for readers who enjoy horror with psychological elements and plenty of unsettling moments.
This story follows Junie as she navigates life after losing her sister in a car accident she doesn’t fully remember. The book opens strong, showing Junie and her mom trying to adjust to life after the tragedy. The grief and tension in their household immediately set the tone and pulled me into the story.
Things take a strange turn when Junie receives a visitor one night, and from there the story becomes increasingly unsettling. The atmosphere and social tension put me in a headspace similar to *Get Out*, where you know something is wrong but can’t quite piece together what it is yet. There are several twists and turns throughout the book, and I often found myself questioning what was really happening.
There were a few pacing issues, and at times I wanted the story to move a little faster or get more directly to the point. However, the mystery and eerie tone kept me engaged and curious about how everything would unfold.
Overall, Funerals Are for the Living is a solid pick for readers who enjoy horror with psychological elements and plenty of unsettling moments.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Junie’s sister Jay has been dead for a month now, and her family is still struggling. Her mom is depressed, drinking, and missing work while Junie tries to hold it all together. Junie learns her sister was being stalked, and soon she feels like she’s being watched too. Things escalate when Junie and her best friend Omari visit Jay’s grave and are captured by a strange group of religious girls with dark motives of their own.
Funerals Are for the Living starts off promising, with a family trying to stay afloat with their grief. But the story falters when near the midway point when the mystery of what happened during Julie and Jay’s car crash starts to unravel. I generally love a crazy religious cult angle, but the pacing issues of the latter half of the book made it difficult to stay invested in Junie’s struggle. The magical and historical aspects of the story felt a bit rushed and took me away from Junie’s character arc and agency.
Thank you to ABRAMS Kids and NetGalley for providing the e-arc for my honest review.
Funerals Are for the Living starts off promising, with a family trying to stay afloat with their grief. But the story falters when near the midway point when the mystery of what happened during Julie and Jay’s car crash starts to unravel. I generally love a crazy religious cult angle, but the pacing issues of the latter half of the book made it difficult to stay invested in Junie’s struggle. The magical and historical aspects of the story felt a bit rushed and took me away from Junie’s character arc and agency.
Thank you to ABRAMS Kids and NetGalley for providing the e-arc for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the arc of Funerals Are For The Living by Sami Ellis!!
4.25 ⭐
This book follows Junie, whose sister, Jay, recently died in a car accident. They were both in the car that night, but Junie appeared unscathed miles away from the car a full day after the accident with no memory of how she got there. Following the funeral, Junie’s mum has depression, they’re struggling to pay the rent and Junie wants answers about her sisters death. When she finds a connection to the church in Williamsville, her and her best friend Omari decide to investigate. They quickly get swept up into a 200 year old racist cult, who seem to be powered by magic.
This book was phenomenally written, it pulled me in from page one and took me on the wildest ride. This story was an exploration of grief, depression and its impacts on friends and family. The core of the story weaves together both magical and real historical elements, focusing on the lasting impacts of slavery and racism. The church within the story still worships their towns namesake, Williams the slave and plantation owner from 200 years prior. This story highlights the erasure of Black history to minimise white atrocities. Junie and Omari expose the cult, within the town of Williamsville, who are still devoured to the former slave owner, but with a magical element layered on top.
This was one of the most graphic horror stories I’ve ever read, especially for a young adult book!! I could not predict a single plot twist or turn in this entire story. Junie’s character was brilliant, and Ellis’ writing showed the depth of the character through depictions of mental health, resilience and strength! I loved all the characters, Omari and Junie’s friendship was my absolute favourite! I’m not usually a massive fan of magic inside horror stories but Ellis balanced it so brilliantly. This was a deeply diverse story!!!
I can’t recommend this story enough, for a twisty, shocking horror and phenomenal depth!!
4.25 ⭐
This book follows Junie, whose sister, Jay, recently died in a car accident. They were both in the car that night, but Junie appeared unscathed miles away from the car a full day after the accident with no memory of how she got there. Following the funeral, Junie’s mum has depression, they’re struggling to pay the rent and Junie wants answers about her sisters death. When she finds a connection to the church in Williamsville, her and her best friend Omari decide to investigate. They quickly get swept up into a 200 year old racist cult, who seem to be powered by magic.
This book was phenomenally written, it pulled me in from page one and took me on the wildest ride. This story was an exploration of grief, depression and its impacts on friends and family. The core of the story weaves together both magical and real historical elements, focusing on the lasting impacts of slavery and racism. The church within the story still worships their towns namesake, Williams the slave and plantation owner from 200 years prior. This story highlights the erasure of Black history to minimise white atrocities. Junie and Omari expose the cult, within the town of Williamsville, who are still devoured to the former slave owner, but with a magical element layered on top.
This was one of the most graphic horror stories I’ve ever read, especially for a young adult book!! I could not predict a single plot twist or turn in this entire story. Junie’s character was brilliant, and Ellis’ writing showed the depth of the character through depictions of mental health, resilience and strength! I loved all the characters, Omari and Junie’s friendship was my absolute favourite! I’m not usually a massive fan of magic inside horror stories but Ellis balanced it so brilliantly. This was a deeply diverse story!!!
I can’t recommend this story enough, for a twisty, shocking horror and phenomenal depth!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
2.5
Thank you to Netgalley and Sammi Ellis for the ARC in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
There is a section at the beginning of the acknowledgements that needs to be at the beginning. If it would have been here, the book would have been much easier to understand.
Without reading it though, it was confusing and underdeveloped. There is no rational explanation for what is taking place. Racism is brought up a few times in dialogue and the slave portrait on the chapel, but not clear in the actions of what is going on.
The book had a very strong beginning with the humor of the "temu grave" and I could understand Junie's grief and presence in the cemetery. However from there it was a deep downhill slide.
I may not be the right audience for this because while I love horror, I'm not a fan of predominantly people on people torture based books. I couldn't stay interested or invested.
Thank you to Netgalley and Sammi Ellis for the ARC in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
There is a section at the beginning of the acknowledgements that needs to be at the beginning. If it would have been here, the book would have been much easier to understand.
Without reading it though, it was confusing and underdeveloped. There is no rational explanation for what is taking place. Racism is brought up a few times in dialogue and the slave portrait on the chapel, but not clear in the actions of what is going on.
The book had a very strong beginning with the humor of the "temu grave" and I could understand Junie's grief and presence in the cemetery. However from there it was a deep downhill slide.
I may not be the right audience for this because while I love horror, I'm not a fan of predominantly people on people torture based books. I couldn't stay interested or invested.
November 18, 2025
Junie Daniels has spent the last month trying to put her life back together after a terrible car accident killed her sister. Junie only has fragments of memories from that night, and she is desperate to remember what exactly happened. Her mother has spiraled into a deep depression and Junie is trying everything she can to keep a roof other their heads. She is repeatedly pulled back to her sister's grave (in the next town over since it was the cheapest plot available) and soon unusual things start happening at the grave. The cemetery is on the site of a plantation that was owned by a man who reportedly used dark magic, so when Junie and her best friend Omari try to investigate what is happening, they are taken and are forced to fight for their lives. Very well crafted horror story, with plenty of twists and turns.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I found this to be a unique horror read!
I found the setting of rural North Carolina to be an interesting choice, in a good way! It felt realistic and believable, which made this a good location for the story to take place.
Especially for the racial element, which added depth to the story. There were definitely some interesting and compelling points made when it came to racism. And the way they tied in with the creepy horror elements certainly got my attention.
I think the introduction of the magical element into the horror story could have been a bit better, as I didn’t really resonate with it. But I still enjoyed the story for the most part, and would recommend that horror readers give this story a chance.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and RBmedia for allowing me to listen to the audiobook!
November 9, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley and Penguin Teen, for the gifted copy!
Funerals Are for the Living is an unforgettable, heart-wrenching debut that captures what it means to survive grief and rediscover yourself. Sami Ellis writes with honesty and tenderness, giving voice to emotions that are often hard to put into words.
This story feels raw yet healing, equal parts aching and hopeful. It’s one of those reads that makes you stop, think, and breathe a little deeper when you’re done. A powerful addition to YA contemporary fiction.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Funerals Are for the Living is an unforgettable, heart-wrenching debut that captures what it means to survive grief and rediscover yourself. Sami Ellis writes with honesty and tenderness, giving voice to emotions that are often hard to put into words.
This story feels raw yet healing, equal parts aching and hopeful. It’s one of those reads that makes you stop, think, and breathe a little deeper when you’re done. A powerful addition to YA contemporary fiction.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 13, 2025
Amazing.
I'm not typically into horror, but this story slapped so hard. A white cult stealing lives and magic from the descendants of their former slaves being destroyed by not only the community said slave descendants created but also being torn apart from the inside by the slave owners own descendants and their need to be superior was fantastic. Junie's character arc as she learns to deal with grief and move on was also amazing. Everything worked so well in this book. If you want to enjoy Black Horror this is a great place to start.
(I received a free copy for review)
I'm not typically into horror, but this story slapped so hard. A white cult stealing lives and magic from the descendants of their former slaves being destroyed by not only the community said slave descendants created but also being torn apart from the inside by the slave owners own descendants and their need to be superior was fantastic. Junie's character arc as she learns to deal with grief and move on was also amazing. Everything worked so well in this book. If you want to enjoy Black Horror this is a great place to start.
(I received a free copy for review)
November 30, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. I always appreciate being able to read advanced copies.
——
This is one of my favorite books of the year. I wasn’t sure at first, as I felt the first few chapters were slow. As I got to understand Junie and the chaos that had unfolded in her life I got invested. Interweaving Junie and Omari’s friendship with Junie’s life tragedies set the book up to hook readers in.
Then bringing in the history and horror of Williamsville and its relation to Daniels to showcase the real horror of the story was excellent.
I highly recommend this YA horror.
——
This is one of my favorite books of the year. I wasn’t sure at first, as I felt the first few chapters were slow. As I got to understand Junie and the chaos that had unfolded in her life I got invested. Interweaving Junie and Omari’s friendship with Junie’s life tragedies set the book up to hook readers in.
Then bringing in the history and horror of Williamsville and its relation to Daniels to showcase the real horror of the story was excellent.
I highly recommend this YA horror.
Want to Read
January 22, 2026𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 by Sami Ellis
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: YA, Grief, Southern Gothic horror, magical realism, social commentary, Cults
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: Creepy, emotional, and honestly just such an amazing read. I flew through this while constantly thinking “oh that’s messed up” in the best way. It’s fast-paced, unsettling, and doesn’t waste time getting into the action. The characters feel messy and chaotic in a very believable way, and the story never drags. I finished this wanting more!
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: YA, Grief, Southern Gothic horror, magical realism, social commentary, Cults
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: Creepy, emotional, and honestly just such an amazing read. I flew through this while constantly thinking “oh that’s messed up” in the best way. It’s fast-paced, unsettling, and doesn’t waste time getting into the action. The characters feel messy and chaotic in a very believable way, and the story never drags. I finished this wanting more!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to ABRAMS Kids | Amulet Books, the author and NetGalley for a DRC in return for an honest review.
I was really intrigued by the blurb for this book, but on reading this ARC I felt decidedly meh about it. I normally like YA books but this one just didn't do it for me. The story was ok but there were pacing issues for me. Not a bad book, just not for me.
#FuneralsArefortheLiving #NetGalley
I was really intrigued by the blurb for this book, but on reading this ARC I felt decidedly meh about it. I normally like YA books but this one just didn't do it for me. The story was ok but there were pacing issues for me. Not a bad book, just not for me.
#FuneralsArefortheLiving #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 by Sami Ellis
Creepy, emotional, and honestly just such an amazing read. I flew through this while constantly thinking “oh that’s messed up” in the best way. It’s fast-paced, unsettling, and doesn’t waste time getting into the action. The characters feel messy and chaotic in a very believable way, and the story never drags. I finished this wanting more!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wormy.books/
Creepy, emotional, and honestly just such an amazing read. I flew through this while constantly thinking “oh that’s messed up” in the best way. It’s fast-paced, unsettling, and doesn’t waste time getting into the action. The characters feel messy and chaotic in a very believable way, and the story never drags. I finished this wanting more!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wormy.books/
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I did feel a slight lull in the middle and wanted her to fight back a little harder but once I got to the end I understood why she couldn’t before. I really enjoyed this book. It was a nice change of pace from all of the romantasy I have been reading. I will definitely have to get the rest of the books by Sami Ellis.
July 9, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC of this novel.
I really enjoyed this story. Junie was an amazing character, and the story of overcoming grief while going through what she went through was very well done. I feel like the romance wasn’t really relevant to the story, so I didn’t care much for that aspect of it. Overall a very well written cult horror.
I really enjoyed this story. Junie was an amazing character, and the story of overcoming grief while going through what she went through was very well done. I feel like the romance wasn’t really relevant to the story, so I didn’t care much for that aspect of it. Overall a very well written cult horror.
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November 25, 2025This was unhinged and a delight.
Read
January 6, 2026tfw ur junie daniels
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgBxZ...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgBxZ...
Read
January 30, 2026Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC ahead of publication.
This book was a wild ride! I can't say I understood all of it, but it was unlike anything else I've ever read.
This book was a wild ride! I can't say I understood all of it, but it was unlike anything else I've ever read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time! Very horror/cult like! Highly recommend reading this book. Thanks NetGalley!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you netgalley for allowing me to read this arc in return for an honest review.
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