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Angry Hornet Nest
Some things in Dryton should’ve stayed buried.
There’s not much to do in the dying mining town of Dryton, California. Especially for outcasts like Francis and Bodie. But when a bonfire prank goes too far, humiliation turns into horror.
Fleeing into the woods, Bodie stumbles upon something ancient, a book pulsing with dark power. And with every page, his thirst for revenge grows.
As accidents begin to spread through the town, Francis realizes his best friend isn’t himself anymore. Something inside Bodie is watching. Waiting.
The shadow in Dryton is awake. And it’s hungry.
Perfect for fans of Grady Hendrix and Stephen Graham Jones, Angry Hornet Nest is a chilling horror thriller about friendship, possession, and the price of revenge.
There’s not much to do in the dying mining town of Dryton, California. Especially for outcasts like Francis and Bodie. But when a bonfire prank goes too far, humiliation turns into horror.
Fleeing into the woods, Bodie stumbles upon something ancient, a book pulsing with dark power. And with every page, his thirst for revenge grows.
As accidents begin to spread through the town, Francis realizes his best friend isn’t himself anymore. Something inside Bodie is watching. Waiting.
The shadow in Dryton is awake. And it’s hungry.
Perfect for fans of Grady Hendrix and Stephen Graham Jones, Angry Hornet Nest is a chilling horror thriller about friendship, possession, and the price of revenge.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 13, 2025
7 people are currently reading
22 people want to read
About the author
Stoney Brooks
2 books10 followersStoney Brooks is a good old fashioned SoCal boy, with a healthy touch of Gypsy blood. After multiple moves, he’s landed back in his childhood stomping grounds of San Bernardino County, dragging along his wife, two kids, and smattering of barnyard critters.
A finance professional by day, he holds multiple distinguishing titles. By night, he crafts dark stories tinged with just a touch of humor to cut the tension. Stoney is an active member of the Horror Writers Association and the Horror Authors Guild.
A finance professional by day, he holds multiple distinguishing titles. By night, he crafts dark stories tinged with just a touch of humor to cut the tension. Stoney is an active member of the Horror Writers Association and the Horror Authors Guild.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 17, 2025
So this book started out a little slow for me, BUT once it picked up I didn’t want to put it down. This book has supernatural elements and a small town with bullying. The story was wild and the ending had me wanting more! I hope there is another book or something because I have questions.
October 30, 2025
This was a strong start to the Angry Hornet Nest series, it had that horror element that I wanted and thought was a strong opening chapter to this world. Stoney Brooks has a strong style for the genre and was glad it was so well written. I was invested in the characters and thought worked well in the world, and enjoyed the supernatural element that I was looking for and I’m excited to read more in this world and author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 13, 2025
In the small mining town of Dryton California, there's not much to do, especially for high school outcasts Francis and Bodie. So they decide to break from their typical routine of video games and pizza, and they head out to a bonfire party where they slip into the pack and mingle with ease. At least that is, the class bully and his band of goons play a cruel prank on Bodie, leaving him ripping through the woods alone, terrified, and fearing for his life.
Bodie hears something calling to him from a derelict building that lures him into its depths. It's there that he discovers this ancient book that's buried in the rotted floorboards. Bodie can feel the power that's radiating off the thing, and he vows revenge after years of being harassed. Slowly, a series of crimes and accidents begins to plague the group of bullies. Bodie's power continues to grow with every attack, as does his brazenness and bloodlust.
The connections are too strong for him to ignore, and slowly the gears in Francis’s mind begin to turn after one gruesome event at the annual harvest festival. Francis starts to realize that there's something that has Bodie in its grip, and Francis knows that he's going to have to do whatever it takes to save his best friend before the looming shadow inside him swallows the entire town.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Small Town Horror, Bullies Getting What’s Coming To Them, Friendship Tested By Darkness, A Harvest Festival Gone Gruesome, and One Boy Has To Decide If Saving His Best Friend Means Destroying Him.
Angry Hornet Nest by Stoney Brooks.
In the small forgotten mining town of Dryton, California best friends Francis and Bodie, high school outcasts have lived their lives on the outskirts of society – always more comfortable playing their video games with late-night pizza over trying to fit in. But, the one night they decided to go out and attend a bonfire with everyone else would find their lives changed forever.
When they first arrive at the bonfire, both Bodie and Francis can slip into the group and fit in with complete ease. But, then the school bully and his gang of hooligans show up and spot Bodie and zero in on Bodie. After the school bully pulls a cruel prank on Bodie, Bodie takes off into the woods and feels pulled towards a decaying building. Entering the building he finds an ancient book that he feels an ancient power thrumming through it. Bodie feels the book calling to him, the power in it pulsing with a dark, intoxicating power that he feels crawling from the book into him.
When the bullies started to face strange accidents some with violent ends, it seemed like they were finally facing some form of justice. But, Bodie starts to grow bolder and bolder and more dangerous at the same time. And Francis starts to realize that this is no longer about justice or revenge – this is now about bloodlust.
In horror, Francis can't help but watch as Bodie, his best friend, continues to get lost in the book and its control. By the time the annual harvest festival rolls around Francis watches in horror as it turns into a nightmare. And with a new certainty, Francis knows without a doubt that he has to find a way to stop Bodie and pull the darkness from him before Bodie and the entire town and not only consumed but destroyed.
Angry Hornet Nest blends a coming-of-age friendship and this supernatural horror, in ways it gave me these strong Stephen King vibes – small-town setting, bullied kids, along with this sinister ancient force that comes creeping into their lives. For me, what really stood out was the strong friendship between Francis and Bodie: there is one boy who is desperate for the power to get vengeance after years of being tormented, the other boy who is torn between loyalty to his friend and the absolutely terrifying truth about what his friend is really becoming.
Stoney Brooks did an amazing job in writing this book maintaining a steady pacing, it all starts with the typical teenage angst, along with high school struggles, suddenly plunging everyone into increasingly violent and unsettling events. Stoney really doesn't hold anything back with the atmosphere – the abandoned buildings, eerie discoveries, a gruesome festival scene, it all works together to amplify the dread that Stoney was working towards.
The heart of this book though, the real question this book asks is: If you're best friend is in deadly trouble, how far will you go to protect and save them? Is there ever a time when loyalty ever becomes too dangerous?
I can honestly say that this story is both a horror and a tragedy. You're going to be reminded that sometimes the scariest monsters will often start off as the very people that we know the best and love and never thought could hurt anyone.
Angry Hornet Nest is a book that I think you should read for the reminders about humanity and human nature it tells.
Bodie hears something calling to him from a derelict building that lures him into its depths. It's there that he discovers this ancient book that's buried in the rotted floorboards. Bodie can feel the power that's radiating off the thing, and he vows revenge after years of being harassed. Slowly, a series of crimes and accidents begins to plague the group of bullies. Bodie's power continues to grow with every attack, as does his brazenness and bloodlust.
The connections are too strong for him to ignore, and slowly the gears in Francis’s mind begin to turn after one gruesome event at the annual harvest festival. Francis starts to realize that there's something that has Bodie in its grip, and Francis knows that he's going to have to do whatever it takes to save his best friend before the looming shadow inside him swallows the entire town.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Small Town Horror, Bullies Getting What’s Coming To Them, Friendship Tested By Darkness, A Harvest Festival Gone Gruesome, and One Boy Has To Decide If Saving His Best Friend Means Destroying Him.
Angry Hornet Nest by Stoney Brooks.
In the small forgotten mining town of Dryton, California best friends Francis and Bodie, high school outcasts have lived their lives on the outskirts of society – always more comfortable playing their video games with late-night pizza over trying to fit in. But, the one night they decided to go out and attend a bonfire with everyone else would find their lives changed forever.
When they first arrive at the bonfire, both Bodie and Francis can slip into the group and fit in with complete ease. But, then the school bully and his gang of hooligans show up and spot Bodie and zero in on Bodie. After the school bully pulls a cruel prank on Bodie, Bodie takes off into the woods and feels pulled towards a decaying building. Entering the building he finds an ancient book that he feels an ancient power thrumming through it. Bodie feels the book calling to him, the power in it pulsing with a dark, intoxicating power that he feels crawling from the book into him.
When the bullies started to face strange accidents some with violent ends, it seemed like they were finally facing some form of justice. But, Bodie starts to grow bolder and bolder and more dangerous at the same time. And Francis starts to realize that this is no longer about justice or revenge – this is now about bloodlust.
In horror, Francis can't help but watch as Bodie, his best friend, continues to get lost in the book and its control. By the time the annual harvest festival rolls around Francis watches in horror as it turns into a nightmare. And with a new certainty, Francis knows without a doubt that he has to find a way to stop Bodie and pull the darkness from him before Bodie and the entire town and not only consumed but destroyed.
Angry Hornet Nest blends a coming-of-age friendship and this supernatural horror, in ways it gave me these strong Stephen King vibes – small-town setting, bullied kids, along with this sinister ancient force that comes creeping into their lives. For me, what really stood out was the strong friendship between Francis and Bodie: there is one boy who is desperate for the power to get vengeance after years of being tormented, the other boy who is torn between loyalty to his friend and the absolutely terrifying truth about what his friend is really becoming.
Stoney Brooks did an amazing job in writing this book maintaining a steady pacing, it all starts with the typical teenage angst, along with high school struggles, suddenly plunging everyone into increasingly violent and unsettling events. Stoney really doesn't hold anything back with the atmosphere – the abandoned buildings, eerie discoveries, a gruesome festival scene, it all works together to amplify the dread that Stoney was working towards.
The heart of this book though, the real question this book asks is: If you're best friend is in deadly trouble, how far will you go to protect and save them? Is there ever a time when loyalty ever becomes too dangerous?
I can honestly say that this story is both a horror and a tragedy. You're going to be reminded that sometimes the scariest monsters will often start off as the very people that we know the best and love and never thought could hurt anyone.
Angry Hornet Nest is a book that I think you should read for the reminders about humanity and human nature it tells.
October 2, 2025
I got an early copy of this book, through book sirens, for a fair and honest review.
What happens when a person gets pushed to far by bullies and happens to stumble upon an evil looking book one fateful night, well you get the book Angry Hornets Nest by Stoney Brooks.
Book revolves primarily around the main Character Francis and his friend Bodie, Francis being the kind of middle of the pack person in high school crowds, and Bodie being the unfortunate kid we all either where at some point in our lives, or knew someone who was like this, that gets picked on a lot, and take the fact its set in small town California and well that gets amplified to 100.
After a fateful party where some bad things go down with some bullies, Bodie runs away from the party and ends up stumbling upon the aforementioned book that seems to have an answer to all his problems, except with one giant catch.
And that's pretty much the set up for the book, Seen mostly through the eyes of Francis through said events, and then he watches the slow decent of his friend his friend into madness, and ends up in a do or die situation trying to get rid of the book and save his friend before its too late.
Francis as a character was pretty likeable, Mr Brooks did a good job of writing him, allowing you to feel through the words and actually become pretty invested in him, which for me was a pleasant surprise.
Bodie on the other hand, started off as a pretty strong character as the story began, but as the novel went on, i felt he started to run out of energy, and almost everything he did lacked any real impact, its was just simply happening because it had to, and as one of the focal points of the book that was off putting.
The side characters for the most part where serviceable, if nothing that hasn't been seen somewhere before, and while playing it safe isn't always a bad thing, I was hoping for a little less predictability.
The pacing of the story started fine, but as I started to really get into the book, it started to loose some steam for me, becoming a little bit of a slog for me, when it could have been used to really set up the ending better then it was.
And when the end of the book came, everything felt a little rushed, and while it was fine for what it was, I was left wanting a little more, because the book had built my expectations to expect more, and it just didn't get there.
The Novel as a whole was also helped by a prologue at the beginning, that helped set up what would be the main focal point of the book, and the Native American elements that where weaved into it was a nice touch that gave it a little extra bite.
All in All Mr Brooks, didn't do a bad job with the story, i enjoyed my time with it, seeing how Francis's story played out, but from his friend not being written as strongly as him, to the pacing and finale of the story not matching what my expectations had been built up for, i got to give it a 3, not the worst thing I read by far, but I feel it could have been much much better.
What happens when a person gets pushed to far by bullies and happens to stumble upon an evil looking book one fateful night, well you get the book Angry Hornets Nest by Stoney Brooks.
Book revolves primarily around the main Character Francis and his friend Bodie, Francis being the kind of middle of the pack person in high school crowds, and Bodie being the unfortunate kid we all either where at some point in our lives, or knew someone who was like this, that gets picked on a lot, and take the fact its set in small town California and well that gets amplified to 100.
After a fateful party where some bad things go down with some bullies, Bodie runs away from the party and ends up stumbling upon the aforementioned book that seems to have an answer to all his problems, except with one giant catch.
And that's pretty much the set up for the book, Seen mostly through the eyes of Francis through said events, and then he watches the slow decent of his friend his friend into madness, and ends up in a do or die situation trying to get rid of the book and save his friend before its too late.
Francis as a character was pretty likeable, Mr Brooks did a good job of writing him, allowing you to feel through the words and actually become pretty invested in him, which for me was a pleasant surprise.
Bodie on the other hand, started off as a pretty strong character as the story began, but as the novel went on, i felt he started to run out of energy, and almost everything he did lacked any real impact, its was just simply happening because it had to, and as one of the focal points of the book that was off putting.
The side characters for the most part where serviceable, if nothing that hasn't been seen somewhere before, and while playing it safe isn't always a bad thing, I was hoping for a little less predictability.
The pacing of the story started fine, but as I started to really get into the book, it started to loose some steam for me, becoming a little bit of a slog for me, when it could have been used to really set up the ending better then it was.
And when the end of the book came, everything felt a little rushed, and while it was fine for what it was, I was left wanting a little more, because the book had built my expectations to expect more, and it just didn't get there.
The Novel as a whole was also helped by a prologue at the beginning, that helped set up what would be the main focal point of the book, and the Native American elements that where weaved into it was a nice touch that gave it a little extra bite.
All in All Mr Brooks, didn't do a bad job with the story, i enjoyed my time with it, seeing how Francis's story played out, but from his friend not being written as strongly as him, to the pacing and finale of the story not matching what my expectations had been built up for, i got to give it a 3, not the worst thing I read by far, but I feel it could have been much much better.
September 24, 2025
Release:
Oct 13, 2025
In the forgotten mining town of Dryton, California, best friends Francis and Bodie have always lived on the outskirts—more comfortable with video games and late-night pizza than trying to fit in. But one reckless choice to attend a bonfire changes everything. When a cruel prank by the town bully drives Bodie into the woods, he stumbles upon a decaying building and an ancient book hidden beneath the floorboards. The book calls to him, pulsing with a dark, intoxicating power.
At first, it seems like justice when the bullies start facing strange accidents and violent ends. But as Bodie grows bolder and more dangerous, it becomes clear that this isn’t revenge anymore—it’s bloodlust. Francis watches in horror as his best friend slips further under the book’s control. By the time the annual harvest festival turns into a nightmare, Francis knows it’s up to him to stop the darkness before Bodie—and the entire town—are consumed.
This story blends coming-of-age friendship with supernatural horror, giving strong Stephen King vibes—small-town setting, bullied kids, and a sinister ancient force creeping into their lives. What makes it stand out is the relationship between Francis and Bodie: one boy desperate for power after years of torment, the other torn between loyalty and the terrifying truth about what his friend is becoming.
The pacing builds steadily, starting with teenage angst and familiar high school struggles, then plunging into increasingly violent, unsettling events. The author doesn’t hold back when it comes to atmosphere—abandoned buildings, eerie discoveries, and gruesome festival scenes all amplify the dread.
At its heart, it asks: How far would you go to protect your best friend? And when does loyalty become dangerous? It’s both a horror story and a tragedy, reminding readers that the scariest monsters often start out as people we know and love.
🔥 Small town horror.
🔥 Bullies getting what’s coming to them.
🔥 Friendship tested by darkness.
🔥 A harvest festival gone gruesome.
🔥 One boy has to decide if saving his best friend means destroying him.
Favorite quote:
Heavy metal music thundered through the air, the double bass pedal sending a volley of stuccato gunfire toward the circle of cars. The group let out a collective sigh of relief. The cops wouldn't be blasting tunes if they were intent on sneaking up on the group, though Francis thought that it would be a good tactic to catch them off guard. They'd be totally unaware, lulled into a false sense of security as they listened to the wailing of guitar solos.
Oct 13, 2025
In the forgotten mining town of Dryton, California, best friends Francis and Bodie have always lived on the outskirts—more comfortable with video games and late-night pizza than trying to fit in. But one reckless choice to attend a bonfire changes everything. When a cruel prank by the town bully drives Bodie into the woods, he stumbles upon a decaying building and an ancient book hidden beneath the floorboards. The book calls to him, pulsing with a dark, intoxicating power.
At first, it seems like justice when the bullies start facing strange accidents and violent ends. But as Bodie grows bolder and more dangerous, it becomes clear that this isn’t revenge anymore—it’s bloodlust. Francis watches in horror as his best friend slips further under the book’s control. By the time the annual harvest festival turns into a nightmare, Francis knows it’s up to him to stop the darkness before Bodie—and the entire town—are consumed.
This story blends coming-of-age friendship with supernatural horror, giving strong Stephen King vibes—small-town setting, bullied kids, and a sinister ancient force creeping into their lives. What makes it stand out is the relationship between Francis and Bodie: one boy desperate for power after years of torment, the other torn between loyalty and the terrifying truth about what his friend is becoming.
The pacing builds steadily, starting with teenage angst and familiar high school struggles, then plunging into increasingly violent, unsettling events. The author doesn’t hold back when it comes to atmosphere—abandoned buildings, eerie discoveries, and gruesome festival scenes all amplify the dread.
At its heart, it asks: How far would you go to protect your best friend? And when does loyalty become dangerous? It’s both a horror story and a tragedy, reminding readers that the scariest monsters often start out as people we know and love.
🔥 Small town horror.
🔥 Bullies getting what’s coming to them.
🔥 Friendship tested by darkness.
🔥 A harvest festival gone gruesome.
🔥 One boy has to decide if saving his best friend means destroying him.
Favorite quote:
Heavy metal music thundered through the air, the double bass pedal sending a volley of stuccato gunfire toward the circle of cars. The group let out a collective sigh of relief. The cops wouldn't be blasting tunes if they were intent on sneaking up on the group, though Francis thought that it would be a good tactic to catch them off guard. They'd be totally unaware, lulled into a false sense of security as they listened to the wailing of guitar solos.
October 22, 2025
!! ARC REVIEW !!
Angry Hornet Nest by Stoney Brooks
There’s a certain kind of small-town horror that crawls under your skin, not because of monsters lurking in the dark, but because you’ve known people like this your whole life. Angry Hornet Nest captures that feeling perfectly.
Francis and Bodie are two outcasts in the nowhere town of Dryton, California, bored, bruised, and invisible until a cruel prank changes everything. What follows isn’t a supernatural gore fest, but something far more human and unsettling: the way anger festers, how revenge reshapes people, and how quickly friendship can curdle when something dark gets a foothold.
What I loved most is how real it all feels. Stoney Brooks doesn’t rely on cheap scares, he builds dread through guilt, loyalty, and the slow rot of obsession. Bodie’s descent is tragic, inevitable, and deeply personal. Francis’s helplessness feels like standing on the edge of a mine shaft, watching your best friend slip further into the dark. The story doesn’t glamorize violence, it studies it, quietly, through the lens of boyhood gone wrong.
The writing is stripped-down but cinematic, gritty realism with flashes of raw emotion. It reminded me of early Stephen King meets Stand by Me, if that story took a left turn into something far bleaker. And the title? Perfect. Because once this nest is stirred, nothing in Dryton is safe.
A haunting, intimate exploration of rage, loyalty, and what happens when grief gets teeth. I couldn’t look away.
Angry Hornet Nest by Stoney Brooks
There’s a certain kind of small-town horror that crawls under your skin, not because of monsters lurking in the dark, but because you’ve known people like this your whole life. Angry Hornet Nest captures that feeling perfectly.
Francis and Bodie are two outcasts in the nowhere town of Dryton, California, bored, bruised, and invisible until a cruel prank changes everything. What follows isn’t a supernatural gore fest, but something far more human and unsettling: the way anger festers, how revenge reshapes people, and how quickly friendship can curdle when something dark gets a foothold.
What I loved most is how real it all feels. Stoney Brooks doesn’t rely on cheap scares, he builds dread through guilt, loyalty, and the slow rot of obsession. Bodie’s descent is tragic, inevitable, and deeply personal. Francis’s helplessness feels like standing on the edge of a mine shaft, watching your best friend slip further into the dark. The story doesn’t glamorize violence, it studies it, quietly, through the lens of boyhood gone wrong.
The writing is stripped-down but cinematic, gritty realism with flashes of raw emotion. It reminded me of early Stephen King meets Stand by Me, if that story took a left turn into something far bleaker. And the title? Perfect. Because once this nest is stirred, nothing in Dryton is safe.
A haunting, intimate exploration of rage, loyalty, and what happens when grief gets teeth. I couldn’t look away.
October 28, 2025
Angry Hornet Nest, my first book by author Stoney Brooks, is a supernatural horror. This definitely fits in with the handful of spooky season reads I am diving into this year. Brooks mixes the challenges and struggles of adolescence with the horrifying ability to change everything using magic.
The book focuses on high school misfits Bodie and Francis. These two have been the target of bullying for years. When the two work up enough courage to attend a party, Bodie falls victim to a horrible prank that causes Brodie to spook and run deep into the woods. He discovers a run-down building to seek shelter in. Once inside, he finds a book under some decaying floorboards. This is not just a regular book; this is filled with sinister magic. When Bodie discovers he can use this magic to become popular and slowly deal with his bullies, Francis will stop at nothing to help save his friend and save the town from this ancient curse.
I love how Brooks mixed the chilling past and the present to set the stage for the curse. I loved Francis and Bodie and how realistic they were. The challenges they faced as outcasts and the suffering they endured at the hands of bullies. It is very relatable - a little too close to home for me! Lol. I didn’t have an ancient book of magic to seek revenge. The downside was that I found the book slow, and I often set it down, returning to it later when my attention span could handle it.
Thanks to Stoney Brooks for gifting me an eARC of Angry Hornet Nest. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The book focuses on high school misfits Bodie and Francis. These two have been the target of bullying for years. When the two work up enough courage to attend a party, Bodie falls victim to a horrible prank that causes Brodie to spook and run deep into the woods. He discovers a run-down building to seek shelter in. Once inside, he finds a book under some decaying floorboards. This is not just a regular book; this is filled with sinister magic. When Bodie discovers he can use this magic to become popular and slowly deal with his bullies, Francis will stop at nothing to help save his friend and save the town from this ancient curse.
I love how Brooks mixed the chilling past and the present to set the stage for the curse. I loved Francis and Bodie and how realistic they were. The challenges they faced as outcasts and the suffering they endured at the hands of bullies. It is very relatable - a little too close to home for me! Lol. I didn’t have an ancient book of magic to seek revenge. The downside was that I found the book slow, and I often set it down, returning to it later when my attention span could handle it.
Thanks to Stoney Brooks for gifting me an eARC of Angry Hornet Nest. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 25, 2025
I love small town horror stories. Just in time for Halloween! This was fantastic.
The author does a great job with describing details and setting the scene/atmosphere. The prologue alone gave me chills. The emotional roller coaster I felt throughout this. Ugh. You ever read a book and wish you could become part of the story just to shake some people? Yea..
The creep/ spook factor was fantastic. I don't want to do any spoilers so I'll just stick with it was really good and made my eyes pop and jaw drop. movie worthy. I'm pretty sure I held my breath the entire time while I was getting towards the end. The ending was mind blowing.
This book goes into teenage struggles, family dynamics, haunting magical forces, and the biggest question of all.. how far will you go to save your best friend.. on a much deeper level it goes through how each decision people make has a ripple effect that can have a negative impact with the future. Actions have consequences. Also, how much are you willing to give for revenge? It's creepy, tragic, jaw dropping. This book is brilliant. Highly reccomend.
Thank you for the opportunity! I received an advanced copy for free in return for my honest review.
The author does a great job with describing details and setting the scene/atmosphere. The prologue alone gave me chills. The emotional roller coaster I felt throughout this. Ugh. You ever read a book and wish you could become part of the story just to shake some people? Yea..
The creep/ spook factor was fantastic. I don't want to do any spoilers so I'll just stick with it was really good and made my eyes pop and jaw drop. movie worthy. I'm pretty sure I held my breath the entire time while I was getting towards the end. The ending was mind blowing.
This book goes into teenage struggles, family dynamics, haunting magical forces, and the biggest question of all.. how far will you go to save your best friend.. on a much deeper level it goes through how each decision people make has a ripple effect that can have a negative impact with the future. Actions have consequences. Also, how much are you willing to give for revenge? It's creepy, tragic, jaw dropping. This book is brilliant. Highly reccomend.
Thank you for the opportunity! I received an advanced copy for free in return for my honest review.
October 15, 2025
First, wow.
Getting an ARC of this book was wildly exciting. Once I started the book, I had some hesitations because I couldn't quite put my finger on how I felt. But then I kept reading. The more I read, the less I understood, which THRILLED me. Not being able to understand out of the gate makes me immediately like a book more. Then, as I started to understand, I began to love the book.
The characters were mostly interesting (personally, I could have done without Kim, but again, that's personal preference), and the lead antagonist had me in a chokehold, wondering how he would up the ante in each situation. Francis is definitely a new favorite character of mine. I enjoyed how he was written - nonchalant, but also not. He doesn't really seem like he is the kid to take a beating, but he does. I really loved him.
I enjoyed the third-person point of view with the focus on Francis. I think the pacing of the book was written well. I wish there were a bit more between the ending and the epilogue, but the epilogue was good! This book met the mark for horror as well as a tragedy.
***I received an advance reader copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily***
Getting an ARC of this book was wildly exciting. Once I started the book, I had some hesitations because I couldn't quite put my finger on how I felt. But then I kept reading. The more I read, the less I understood, which THRILLED me. Not being able to understand out of the gate makes me immediately like a book more. Then, as I started to understand, I began to love the book.
The characters were mostly interesting (personally, I could have done without Kim, but again, that's personal preference), and the lead antagonist had me in a chokehold, wondering how he would up the ante in each situation. Francis is definitely a new favorite character of mine. I enjoyed how he was written - nonchalant, but also not. He doesn't really seem like he is the kid to take a beating, but he does. I really loved him.
I enjoyed the third-person point of view with the focus on Francis. I think the pacing of the book was written well. I wish there were a bit more between the ending and the epilogue, but the epilogue was good! This book met the mark for horror as well as a tragedy.
***I received an advance reader copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily***
December 31, 2025
Interesting, Angry Hornet Nest gave me vibes of a Stephen King novel especially Salems lot with the views from multiples towns people, though not as many so it was a bit easier to keep track. Thank you book sirens and Stoney Brooks for giving me a copy to review, all thoughts are my own I and I choose to give them. I enjoyed this story it was very intriguing, the only thing I didn’t like was the name of the entity “Angry Hornets Nest” I don’t think it went with the theme of it being Native American. I am a small town California girl and you don’t find many books about California that aren’t LA or coastal based. It shows that there is way more to this state like where I live. The story was good, the build up was the perfect pacing, I think there could have been a little more from Bodie’s POV on what he did to himself with the book. I feel bad for Bodie as all he wanted was to put the bullies in their places but it was an evil he couldn’t control and just controlled him instead. Francis gave me Ben Mears vibes. He just wanted the only friend he has known to come back to him and to save the town.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Five Stars: Visceral, Satisfying Small-Town Horror!
I want to start by sincerely thanking the author for giving me the privilege of receiving this Advanced Reader Copy (ARC).
This was my very first time reading anything by Stoney Brooks, and I am genuinely impressed and completely satisfied with this story. It's a classic setup: a dark, intense story set in a small town where everyone has secrets.
The creepy atmosphere was perfect; it grabbed me right from the beginning and held my attention until the very last page. The tension surrounding the characters, Bodie and Francis, and the challenges they face are truly unforgettable.
This story explores the painful issue of bullying, but in my opinion, the author delivers a narrative where everyone absolutely gets what they deserve. This is pure, unadulterated horror—exactly the kind I love.
Without a doubt, this book instantly earns a solid 5-star rating without a second thought. Stoney Brooks is a mandatory addition to my horror reading list!
I want to start by sincerely thanking the author for giving me the privilege of receiving this Advanced Reader Copy (ARC).
This was my very first time reading anything by Stoney Brooks, and I am genuinely impressed and completely satisfied with this story. It's a classic setup: a dark, intense story set in a small town where everyone has secrets.
The creepy atmosphere was perfect; it grabbed me right from the beginning and held my attention until the very last page. The tension surrounding the characters, Bodie and Francis, and the challenges they face are truly unforgettable.
This story explores the painful issue of bullying, but in my opinion, the author delivers a narrative where everyone absolutely gets what they deserve. This is pure, unadulterated horror—exactly the kind I love.
Without a doubt, this book instantly earns a solid 5-star rating without a second thought. Stoney Brooks is a mandatory addition to my horror reading list!
October 24, 2025
I just finished Angry Hornet Nest by Stoney Brooks, and it honestly surprised me in the best way. The story follows two friends, Francis and Bodie, total outcasts in their small town, just trying to survive high school and all the garbage that comes with it. But when something strange happens after a rough night, things start spiraling fast, and their friendship gets tested in some seriously dark ways.
What I loved most is how real the characters feel. Francis is the kind of loyal friend you cannot help but root for, while Bodie’s slow shift from awkward teen to something different is both sad and fascinating to watch. The mix of real emotion and creeping horror works so well here.
It is quick-paced, a little twisted, and has that perfect “small town hiding big secrets” vibe. If you like stories about friendship, revenge, and things that go very wrong in the dark, definitely give this one a shot.
*I received a free copy of this book, but this review is of my own wording and accord.*
What I loved most is how real the characters feel. Francis is the kind of loyal friend you cannot help but root for, while Bodie’s slow shift from awkward teen to something different is both sad and fascinating to watch. The mix of real emotion and creeping horror works so well here.
It is quick-paced, a little twisted, and has that perfect “small town hiding big secrets” vibe. If you like stories about friendship, revenge, and things that go very wrong in the dark, definitely give this one a shot.
*I received a free copy of this book, but this review is of my own wording and accord.*
November 24, 2025
✨ BOOK REVIEW — Angry Hornet Nest by Stoney Brooks ✨
⭐️ 4 stars
This one is dark, eerie, and full of that slow-building dread that creeps under your skin. From the first chapter, you’re dropped right into Dryton — a town that feels haunted even before the real horror begins. And when Francis and Bodie stumble onto that cursed book in the woods? Everything spirals fast.
Here’s what you’re getting into:
💀 Supernatural horror wrapped in real, emotional trauma
🔥 A friendship that slowly unravels as darkness takes over
🌲 Small-town atmosphere that feels heavy, gritty, and claustrophobic
📖 A cursed object that turns vengeance into something terrifying
⏳ A few slower chapters, but the tension pays off
The fear here isn’t just monsters — it’s anger, grief, and what happens when someone finally gives in to the darkness waiting for them. It’s unsettling, tragic, and hard to look away from.
Overall? A haunting, emotional horror read. 4 stars — and definitely worth picking up if you like supernatural chills with a strong character punch.
⭐️ 4 stars
This one is dark, eerie, and full of that slow-building dread that creeps under your skin. From the first chapter, you’re dropped right into Dryton — a town that feels haunted even before the real horror begins. And when Francis and Bodie stumble onto that cursed book in the woods? Everything spirals fast.
Here’s what you’re getting into:
💀 Supernatural horror wrapped in real, emotional trauma
🔥 A friendship that slowly unravels as darkness takes over
🌲 Small-town atmosphere that feels heavy, gritty, and claustrophobic
📖 A cursed object that turns vengeance into something terrifying
⏳ A few slower chapters, but the tension pays off
The fear here isn’t just monsters — it’s anger, grief, and what happens when someone finally gives in to the darkness waiting for them. It’s unsettling, tragic, and hard to look away from.
Overall? A haunting, emotional horror read. 4 stars — and definitely worth picking up if you like supernatural chills with a strong character punch.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2025
Oh so this one surprised me. It’s qualified as YA, as it should be, but was way grittier-which I hugely appreciated!
An ancient book of curses/spells. Would you use it for good or to finally have the revenge you so desperately are seeking?
Francis and Bodie have been friends forever. They’re always the misfits, the nerdy duo-that never fit in. A particular group of town bullies are constantly lurking and harassing the boys.
One night, the boys go to a party and from that moment on-no one will be the same. The boys, the bullies, the entire town-are all affected by that one night.
A creature is lying in wait-ready to be awoken from its slumber. The only way this happens is to use the book.
Things go from bad to worse, and Francis ends up not even recognizing Bodie anymore. Can he save him, before it’s too late?
A great, quick read! I was provided a copy by the author but this has no sway of my opinion on this read.
Fantastic!!!!
An ancient book of curses/spells. Would you use it for good or to finally have the revenge you so desperately are seeking?
Francis and Bodie have been friends forever. They’re always the misfits, the nerdy duo-that never fit in. A particular group of town bullies are constantly lurking and harassing the boys.
One night, the boys go to a party and from that moment on-no one will be the same. The boys, the bullies, the entire town-are all affected by that one night.
A creature is lying in wait-ready to be awoken from its slumber. The only way this happens is to use the book.
Things go from bad to worse, and Francis ends up not even recognizing Bodie anymore. Can he save him, before it’s too late?
A great, quick read! I was provided a copy by the author but this has no sway of my opinion on this read.
Fantastic!!!!
December 18, 2025
This book really took me for a ride! The plot was unique and even unsettling at times, which is fine by me—I actually enjoyed those parts. The dialogue was well-written, the humor wasn’t forced, and the “effects” of the book were both suspenseful and gory. You didn’t know what to expect next! Even the cover of the book is spooky.
I loved the main characters, and even liked/hated some of the side characters. It covered themes like grief, bullying, and adolescence in general very well.
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because I wish the background of the book and the natives had been expanded on more. It was only briefly touched on, which was a shame, especially because I wanted to know more about the magic and the character related to the book.
I'd still recommend it overall, and I'm glad I was able to read it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the main characters, and even liked/hated some of the side characters. It covered themes like grief, bullying, and adolescence in general very well.
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because I wish the background of the book and the natives had been expanded on more. It was only briefly touched on, which was a shame, especially because I wanted to know more about the magic and the character related to the book.
I'd still recommend it overall, and I'm glad I was able to read it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 16, 2025
The Dark Storm You Never See Coming
I was lucky enough to get an early read of Angry Hornet Nest before release, and I’m still reeling from it. This book is not just a story, it’s a full-body experience. From the chilling opening in the snowy forest to the cruel, small-town secrets that unfold later, Stoney Brooks delivers a dark, emotional masterpiece that grips you by the throat and doesn’t let go.
What stood out most to me was the realness, the way fear, grief, and revenge are written with such raw honesty. You can feel every heartbeat, every tremor of rage and sorrow. Brooks doesn’t just write horror; he writes humanity in its most fragile, dangerous form.
If you love atmospheric, character-driven thrillers that push emotional boundaries and leave you haunted long after the last page, this one’s for you. It’s disturbing, beautiful, and unforgettable.
I was lucky enough to get an early read of Angry Hornet Nest before release, and I’m still reeling from it. This book is not just a story, it’s a full-body experience. From the chilling opening in the snowy forest to the cruel, small-town secrets that unfold later, Stoney Brooks delivers a dark, emotional masterpiece that grips you by the throat and doesn’t let go.
What stood out most to me was the realness, the way fear, grief, and revenge are written with such raw honesty. You can feel every heartbeat, every tremor of rage and sorrow. Brooks doesn’t just write horror; he writes humanity in its most fragile, dangerous form.
If you love atmospheric, character-driven thrillers that push emotional boundaries and leave you haunted long after the last page, this one’s for you. It’s disturbing, beautiful, and unforgettable.
December 14, 2025
Audiobook Review:
Angry Hornet Nest: Intense Storytelling Brought to Life by Sean Walpole
Stoney Brooks' Angry Hornet Nest is an unforgettable audiobook that instantly hooks the listener with a sharp, unexpected plot twist. The emotional arc is complex: you start with genuine sympathy for the characters, which gives way to a fascinating conflict—you despise one character's choices, yet simultaneously understand the painful logic behind them.
This is a perfect listen for fans who crave chilling thrillers infused with a touch of horror and magic. It's a dark tale about friendship, possession, and the cost of revenge.
Narrator Sean Walpole does an exceptional job, ensuring the storytelling remains engaging and keeps your attention locked on the unfolding events.
(Please note: As a horror thriller, listener discretion is advised.)
Angry Hornet Nest: Intense Storytelling Brought to Life by Sean Walpole
Stoney Brooks' Angry Hornet Nest is an unforgettable audiobook that instantly hooks the listener with a sharp, unexpected plot twist. The emotional arc is complex: you start with genuine sympathy for the characters, which gives way to a fascinating conflict—you despise one character's choices, yet simultaneously understand the painful logic behind them.
This is a perfect listen for fans who crave chilling thrillers infused with a touch of horror and magic. It's a dark tale about friendship, possession, and the cost of revenge.
Narrator Sean Walpole does an exceptional job, ensuring the storytelling remains engaging and keeps your attention locked on the unfolding events.
(Please note: As a horror thriller, listener discretion is advised.)
October 16, 2025
I love stumbling across new-to-me authors, and this one? What a little gem of a find! We follow Francis and Bodie — your typical high school misfits just trying to survive bullies, social suicide, and the general hellscape that is teenage life. Everything’s business as usual until one awful prank flips their world upside down… and Bodie ends up finding something in the woods that maybe should have stayed buried.
This one had all the good stuff — friendship, revenge, and the classic “why-are-you-reading-from-the-creepy-book-you-just-found” horror moment. Bodie, babe, come on.
Creepy, fun, and surprisingly heartfelt. I’m definitely going to be picking up more from this author — he’s got something special going on here.
This one had all the good stuff — friendship, revenge, and the classic “why-are-you-reading-from-the-creepy-book-you-just-found” horror moment. Bodie, babe, come on.
Creepy, fun, and surprisingly heartfelt. I’m definitely going to be picking up more from this author — he’s got something special going on here.
October 10, 2025
Francis finds himself in the middle of a paranormal horror show lead by his once best friend Bodie.
3rd person, multi POV
Tw: There are multiple instances of racism and homophobia.
If it weren’t for the main characters being seniors in high school I would never guess this one to be YA.
It’s got the horror, including on page death, the gripping paranormal.
It felt a little slow going, though not boring, at first. But it was a page turner by the end.
Although 15 years didn’t seem like enough time for MCs in the epilogue to act so grizzled lol
Love the end though. So well done.
Thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to arc read this novel!!
3rd person, multi POV
Tw: There are multiple instances of racism and homophobia.
If it weren’t for the main characters being seniors in high school I would never guess this one to be YA.
It’s got the horror, including on page death, the gripping paranormal.
It felt a little slow going, though not boring, at first. But it was a page turner by the end.
Although 15 years didn’t seem like enough time for MCs in the epilogue to act so grizzled lol
Love the end though. So well done.
Thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to arc read this novel!!
October 1, 2025
The author describes the scenes so vividly setting the atmosphere of the story. It add to the creepiness of the story angry hornet nest is a dark & gripping, creepy, bloody tale of friendship. It’s a suspenseful small town horror story with a supernatural twist.
A small mining town horror book. Francis & Bodie high school outcast. Decide to break from their typical routine so they head out to a bonfire party. All was good until the class bully & friends spot Brodie & decide to play a cruel prank on Bodie. Then things get twisted around and the bullies slowly get what they deserve.
A small mining town horror book. Francis & Bodie high school outcast. Decide to break from their typical routine so they head out to a bonfire party. All was good until the class bully & friends spot Brodie & decide to play a cruel prank on Bodie. Then things get twisted around and the bullies slowly get what they deserve.
October 10, 2025
📚✨ Angry Hornet Nest by Stoney Brooks
⭐️ 3/5 | 💀 4/5
This story feels like a slow crawl into madness, small-town secrets, cursed objects, and a friendship tested by something much darker than either of them can handle.
It’s part horror, part tragedy, and completely unsettling. The pacing had a few dips, but the atmosphere? Perfectly eerie. The kind of book you read with a blanket, a candle, and rain hitting the window.
🍂 Reading mood: cozy-but-creepy autumn night; spooky, emotional, and unsettling.
⭐️ 3/5 | 💀 4/5
This story feels like a slow crawl into madness, small-town secrets, cursed objects, and a friendship tested by something much darker than either of them can handle.
It’s part horror, part tragedy, and completely unsettling. The pacing had a few dips, but the atmosphere? Perfectly eerie. The kind of book you read with a blanket, a candle, and rain hitting the window.
🍂 Reading mood: cozy-but-creepy autumn night; spooky, emotional, and unsettling.
October 13, 2025
Scary good book! Such an original story. Both Francis and Bodie were awesome characters. Best friends. But when bad things happen, boy do they happen.
I loved the small town vibe, and the back story. I want to say so much but I'd give the story away! But it was sooooo good! I read it in one sitting. The characters were amazing, the story idea was so cool. And it was written perfectly. Just the right amount of scary.
The end left me wondering what the heck!? Is this going to be a series? I need answers. I need more story!
I loved the small town vibe, and the back story. I want to say so much but I'd give the story away! But it was sooooo good! I read it in one sitting. The characters were amazing, the story idea was so cool. And it was written perfectly. Just the right amount of scary.
The end left me wondering what the heck!? Is this going to be a series? I need answers. I need more story!
October 6, 2025
Read this book if you like…
•Small town
•Horror
•Bullies get what they deserve
•did I mention horror?
This book is definitely interesting to say the very least (without giving any spoilers) at some points I was like WTF, others I was sitting on the edge of my seat and some points I was checking behind me. This story is perfect for you if you are wanting spooky. I don’t usually get spooked easily but this did it for me!
•Small town
•Horror
•Bullies get what they deserve
•did I mention horror?
This book is definitely interesting to say the very least (without giving any spoilers) at some points I was like WTF, others I was sitting on the edge of my seat and some points I was checking behind me. This story is perfect for you if you are wanting spooky. I don’t usually get spooked easily but this did it for me!
October 11, 2025
A dark, twisted gripping tale of friendship and vengeance. This story follows two
outcast teens in a dying California
mining town. Bodie goes to a party where the bully is at the same time. Bodie makes a run for it and discovers a building. Inside that building, he finds a mysterious book. After that, strange accidents and brutal revenge spiral out of control. I won't say too much, but I 100% recommend this book to anyone..
outcast teens in a dying California
mining town. Bodie goes to a party where the bully is at the same time. Bodie makes a run for it and discovers a building. Inside that building, he finds a mysterious book. After that, strange accidents and brutal revenge spiral out of control. I won't say too much, but I 100% recommend this book to anyone..
October 21, 2025
Stoney Brook is a new author to me and how delighted am I to have received a copy of this book via the author and BookSirens. I often read YA stories to see who is out there and what they are doing. I'm happy to say that although I am a few decades outside of the target reader I very much enjoyed the read and am voluntarily leaving my opinion of the tale. Nice spooky horror/thriller/revenge tale. Nicely done.
September 25, 2025
A dark, gripping tale of friendship and vengeance, this story follows two outcast teens in a dying California mining town. When Bodie discovers a mysterious book, strange accidents and brutal revenge spiral out of control, testing the limits of loyalty and morality. Creepy, suspenseful, and impossible to put down—perfect for fans of small-town horror with a supernatural twist.
October 11, 2025
Wow! This book was amazing. Once I got to about chapter three, I couldn’t put it down! It keeps your attention from the beginning, for sure!
Two teenage boys, nerdy, constantly getting bullied. One finds a magic book and starts taking revenge, while the other has to try and stop him.
Definitely a 5 star review!
Two teenage boys, nerdy, constantly getting bullied. One finds a magic book and starts taking revenge, while the other has to try and stop him.
Definitely a 5 star review!
October 13, 2025
This was something a little different and i liked it. A decent story and well written i think i just needed that bit extra to pull me in and never found it. The ending was a bit anticlimactic i wanted a big showdown but didnt get it.
But overall a good read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
But overall a good read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 16, 2025
Must Read!
Stoney came out swinging with this novel. From the prologue until the last page this book is a page turner. A beautifully written story of bullying turning to revenge with supernatural powers involved. Hauntingly beautiful execution of what happens when a bullied kid finally hits his breaking point.
Emotional and thought provoking from beginning to end.
Stoney came out swinging with this novel. From the prologue until the last page this book is a page turner. A beautifully written story of bullying turning to revenge with supernatural powers involved. Hauntingly beautiful execution of what happens when a bullied kid finally hits his breaking point.
Emotional and thought provoking from beginning to end.
December 18, 2025
This is a great debut from Stoney Brooks. The writing is excellent. Brooks' descriptions are amazing. I love the writing style and word choice. But beyond that I believe that this was a well crafted story. It was a quick, easy read, had a logical, unique premise that was fantasy/horror esque but written in a modern day setting. The town of Dryton felt like a real California town (it seemed that it is either an actual town or based off one)—the people, their interactions, the characters from the place, the setting—all immersed me into that little city. It made the book so much more having that setting. And when coupled with the good story and and the word choice and strong prose this makes for a great read.
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