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That Which Feeds Us
A native Hawaiian teen travels to a luxury island resort in search of her missing twin and uncovers the dark side of paradise, in this YA supernatural thriller that's Mexican Gothic meets She is a Haunting.
For the world’s wealthiest, Kōpaʻa Island Resort is more than a destination. It’s the ultimate escape. With no cell service or Wi-Fi, the Hawaiian island is a coveted wellness retreat renowned for its persimmon orchard and promises of rejuvenation.
But their dream vacation is Lehua’s nightmare. When her twin sister, Ohia, goes missing, Lehua follows her trail to Kōpaʻa to find her. Instead, Lehua is cut off from civilization—and help—after the island’s boat leaves without her, stranding her with the resort’s lavish guests and enigmatic staff.
As Lehua investigates Ohia’s disappearance, she discovers her missing sister isn’t the island’s only mystery. Kōpaʻa’s rich exterior and sweet persimmons hide its dark plantation past. And Lehua can’t ignore the dreams haunting her each night—nor the warning telling her to leave the island at once. To uncover what happened to Ohia, Lehua will have to unearth the island’s bloody history and face the horrors that lurk within its sugarcane fields—or risk being consumed by them.
Sharply observed and gorgeously written, That Which Feeds Us explores the true cost of paradise as Lehua must fight to reclaim the land, the stories, and the very souls of her people.
For the world’s wealthiest, Kōpaʻa Island Resort is more than a destination. It’s the ultimate escape. With no cell service or Wi-Fi, the Hawaiian island is a coveted wellness retreat renowned for its persimmon orchard and promises of rejuvenation.
But their dream vacation is Lehua’s nightmare. When her twin sister, Ohia, goes missing, Lehua follows her trail to Kōpaʻa to find her. Instead, Lehua is cut off from civilization—and help—after the island’s boat leaves without her, stranding her with the resort’s lavish guests and enigmatic staff.
As Lehua investigates Ohia’s disappearance, she discovers her missing sister isn’t the island’s only mystery. Kōpaʻa’s rich exterior and sweet persimmons hide its dark plantation past. And Lehua can’t ignore the dreams haunting her each night—nor the warning telling her to leave the island at once. To uncover what happened to Ohia, Lehua will have to unearth the island’s bloody history and face the horrors that lurk within its sugarcane fields—or risk being consumed by them.
Sharply observed and gorgeously written, That Which Feeds Us explores the true cost of paradise as Lehua must fight to reclaim the land, the stories, and the very souls of her people.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2026
59 people are currently reading
3553 people want to read
About the author
Keala Kendall
5 books95 followersKeala Kendall (pronounced: kay-ah-luh) is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of How Far I’ll Go and Nobody Gets Left Behind in Disney's A Twisted Tales series, and That Which Feeds Us: A Hawaiian Gothic. Hapa Native Hawaiian, she is a cofounder of Pacific Islanders in Publishing and a past organizer of the Books for Maui charity auction.
Born in Honolulu, raised on Molokaʻi, she now lives as part of the Native Hawaiian diaspora in Los Angeles. To learn more about Keala, visit her at kealakendall.com or @kealakendall on Instagram and TikTok.
Born in Honolulu, raised on Molokaʻi, she now lives as part of the Native Hawaiian diaspora in Los Angeles. To learn more about Keala, visit her at kealakendall.com or @kealakendall on Instagram and TikTok.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
March 24, 2026
This book was the best I’ve read in a while!!! Cannot wait to get my hardcover and re read when it comes back. Thank you to netgalley and Keala Kendall for letting me have this early ebook. I need to read more Hawaiian gothic tales. The story rocks
December 5, 2025
You’re in for a serious treat with this book (and you will never look at persimmons the same way again).
This is a horror debut that deftly balances colonial atrocities with their lingering specter in modern day—the exploitation of Hawai’i and its people, the mistreatment of the land, and the people who rewrite history for their own benefit. It’s like White Lotus meets Mexican Gothic, with forays into real and terrifying histories. It’s elegantly written, haunting, and will keep you awake at night long after you’ve finished it.
But in some ways, it’s also fun. From Lehua’s descent into the dark underbelly of an idyllic resort and the ugly secrets its guests conceal, to unsettling encounters with what might be supernatural, it’s a book that hit the perfect amount of creepy for me.
Put everything Keala writes on your TBR forever. I’m early awaiting her next Hawaiian haunting!
This is a horror debut that deftly balances colonial atrocities with their lingering specter in modern day—the exploitation of Hawai’i and its people, the mistreatment of the land, and the people who rewrite history for their own benefit. It’s like White Lotus meets Mexican Gothic, with forays into real and terrifying histories. It’s elegantly written, haunting, and will keep you awake at night long after you’ve finished it.
But in some ways, it’s also fun. From Lehua’s descent into the dark underbelly of an idyllic resort and the ugly secrets its guests conceal, to unsettling encounters with what might be supernatural, it’s a book that hit the perfect amount of creepy for me.
Put everything Keala writes on your TBR forever. I’m early awaiting her next Hawaiian haunting!
May 5, 2026
before I get into my review, I just want to say that I when I got this book in the mail I was a little emotional to hold an arc of a book from an islander. it’s so rare to see islander stories traditionally published and it just feels so special to have a copy. (a note: i’m not Native Hawaiian, but I am CHamoru and while these islands are not close to eachother and the culture is not the same, i see some of Guam in this book— in the talks of colonization and land being taken and disrespected, in the mythology, in the respect for the land).
okay a review!!
where to start??? 1) this book is CREEPY AF. and just when I thought we were at peak creepy Keala Kendall amped it up (to my dismay/horror/delight). in this story we follow Lehua, a Native Hawaiian, as she returns to her homeland to search for her missing twin sister, Ohia. oh man, i loved unraveling the mysteries of this island and also the suspense of WILL WE FIND OHIA??? and WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON HERE??? and also: WHY ARE WHITE PEOPLE SO FUCKING WEIRD???
ALSO!! LEHUA!!! I loved following her and hearing her thoughts. she was so easy to root for and I loved how smart and determined she was. also, her feelings of disconnect from her culture felt so relatable 🥺😭.
the writing! was! so! lush! i really got a feel for the resort and the island and also it was lush in really creepy ways (like the smells?? why am i smelling rotten fruit as i read?? help!!!) (also why does it feel kinda humid and sweaty in here?? just me?) but it all added to the unsettling ambiance that immersed me in this book.
something that really stood out to me was the way that some guests of the island look at islanders and don’t see them as equals. instead of viewing them as the rightful custodians of the land, they see them as workers, savages, and/or an experienced to be had. it’s so gross, but also felt so real.
tl;dr— such a fun (???), beautifully written, unsettling read that i thoroughly enjoyed and highly rec!!
thank you to Get Underlined for the ARC!
okay a review!!
where to start??? 1) this book is CREEPY AF. and just when I thought we were at peak creepy Keala Kendall amped it up (to my dismay/horror/delight). in this story we follow Lehua, a Native Hawaiian, as she returns to her homeland to search for her missing twin sister, Ohia. oh man, i loved unraveling the mysteries of this island and also the suspense of WILL WE FIND OHIA??? and WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON HERE??? and also: WHY ARE WHITE PEOPLE SO FUCKING WEIRD???
ALSO!! LEHUA!!! I loved following her and hearing her thoughts. she was so easy to root for and I loved how smart and determined she was. also, her feelings of disconnect from her culture felt so relatable 🥺😭.
the writing! was! so! lush! i really got a feel for the resort and the island and also it was lush in really creepy ways (like the smells?? why am i smelling rotten fruit as i read?? help!!!) (also why does it feel kinda humid and sweaty in here?? just me?) but it all added to the unsettling ambiance that immersed me in this book.
something that really stood out to me was the way that some guests of the island look at islanders and don’t see them as equals. instead of viewing them as the rightful custodians of the land, they see them as workers, savages, and/or an experienced to be had. it’s so gross, but also felt so real.
tl;dr— such a fun (???), beautifully written, unsettling read that i thoroughly enjoyed and highly rec!!
thank you to Get Underlined for the ARC!
Want to Read
January 15, 2026A Pacific Islander/YA thriller suspense thriller set in Hawaii.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Random House Children’s Books and the author, Keala Kendall for the early eARC!
Publication date: May 26, 2026
Many thanks to NetGalley, Random House Children’s Books and the author, Keala Kendall for the early eARC!
Publication date: May 26, 2026
January 27, 2026
That Which Feeds Us is a masterclass in survival, colonial, and eco horror that follows a teen twin, Lehua, as she searches for her sister Ohia after disappearing from a job she took in their native Hawaiian homeland. The resort Lehua investigates is populated by rich White people who find new and increasingly disturbing ways to feed off the land and people they’re occupying… to the detriment of everyone. This text is heavy on indigenous people and stories, and is an incredibly rich story because of it. The loss, justice, and sense of "home' are all key aspects that are explored and I thought this book did a phenomenal job tackling all those items in a way that can resonate with ALL readers. I stayed up late to finish this in one sitting - the horrors and character complexities rival most adult horror I read, so I think fans of Andrew Joseph White and Ryan LaSala would enjoy this work by Keala Kendall.
April 26, 2026
4.5 stars
Kaela Kendall is a new author to me. I have not read any of the Disney books and that seems to be what this author has previously written. BUTTTT I really enjoyed her writing so much I might actually have to pick them up! That Which Feeds Us is a gothic ya horror about two twins. One who goes to a resort to work and then disappears and then our main character, Lehua, who goes in search of what actually happened to her and see if she can find her. In this we get not only a fantastic story but history and also some Hawaiian folklore all mixed into a captivating tale that refuses to let you go until the very end.
At the Kōpa’a Island Resort there is no wifi, no cell phone service and when Kaela gets there is search of her sister she is welcome as a guest. Her sister was a worker and no one can talk to the workers. There are rules, this is a resort that is for people who are the wealthiest of them all. But also there really is no escape once Kaela gets there.
I really enjoyed the writting it was captivating. It sucked me in. It read very fast and the pacing never seem to let us. It propelled me forward the entire time and I really couldn’t stop. Yes, I read things in one sitting a lot of the time but this one is so easy to do you need to know what happens next! I really will never looked and persimmons the same ever again…I will say though it was easy to tell where some of this was going. The bread crumbs were easy to pick up but I sitll found it very satisfying. The colonization of the island and the murder and usage of its people was heartbreaking. I really want to find more books and even more, hopefully gothic, from Native Hawaiians.
Thank you to Random House for Young Readers for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Kaela Kendall is a new author to me. I have not read any of the Disney books and that seems to be what this author has previously written. BUTTTT I really enjoyed her writing so much I might actually have to pick them up! That Which Feeds Us is a gothic ya horror about two twins. One who goes to a resort to work and then disappears and then our main character, Lehua, who goes in search of what actually happened to her and see if she can find her. In this we get not only a fantastic story but history and also some Hawaiian folklore all mixed into a captivating tale that refuses to let you go until the very end.
At the Kōpa’a Island Resort there is no wifi, no cell phone service and when Kaela gets there is search of her sister she is welcome as a guest. Her sister was a worker and no one can talk to the workers. There are rules, this is a resort that is for people who are the wealthiest of them all. But also there really is no escape once Kaela gets there.
I really enjoyed the writting it was captivating. It sucked me in. It read very fast and the pacing never seem to let us. It propelled me forward the entire time and I really couldn’t stop. Yes, I read things in one sitting a lot of the time but this one is so easy to do you need to know what happens next! I really will never looked and persimmons the same ever again…I will say though it was easy to tell where some of this was going. The bread crumbs were easy to pick up but I sitll found it very satisfying. The colonization of the island and the murder and usage of its people was heartbreaking. I really want to find more books and even more, hopefully gothic, from Native Hawaiians.
Thank you to Random House for Young Readers for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 5, 2026
✨✨✨You had me at Hawaiian Gothic!!!✨✨✨
That Which Feeds Us is a beautiful YA gothic horror/thriller with a powerful message about the atrocities committed against native Hawaiians that you won’t soon forget!!
I loved this story! I don’t think I’ve ever read a horror novel set in Hawaii before. A gothic book set in Hawaii is definitely unique and right up my alley! The atmosphere in this book is so spot on. I enjoyed this one so much!
I really liked the FMC Lehua and felt for her while she was searching for her missing twin. I absolutely LOVED the blend of Hawaiian folklore and a bit of supernatural, mixed with such a poignant and important message. I absolutely LOVED the ending too!!!
I am so impressed with how well the author tackled some major topics all wrapped up in such an entertaining and well done book and without being preachy. 👏
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free ebook copy in exchange for an honest review. This book is expected to be released May 5, 2026.
That Which Feeds Us is a beautiful YA gothic horror/thriller with a powerful message about the atrocities committed against native Hawaiians that you won’t soon forget!!
I loved this story! I don’t think I’ve ever read a horror novel set in Hawaii before. A gothic book set in Hawaii is definitely unique and right up my alley! The atmosphere in this book is so spot on. I enjoyed this one so much!
I really liked the FMC Lehua and felt for her while she was searching for her missing twin. I absolutely LOVED the blend of Hawaiian folklore and a bit of supernatural, mixed with such a poignant and important message. I absolutely LOVED the ending too!!!
I am so impressed with how well the author tackled some major topics all wrapped up in such an entertaining and well done book and without being preachy. 👏
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free ebook copy in exchange for an honest review. This book is expected to be released May 5, 2026.
May 7, 2026
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars.
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC of That Which Feeds Us!
I took away half a star because Lehua was THIRSTY in the beginning. She’s looking for her missing twin and has spent paychecks just to go to where she may have last been, yet still finds the time for two flirtations? It just made her seem a bit distracted and desperate. But that’s okay. Also, wanting to tie your life to someone you’ve known for 3 days? Very sapphic U-Haul of you, girlie.
Otherwise, the background was amazing, the lore and myths were engrossing. Learning some of the language and superstitions really added to the setting. If you want unsettling island vibes, this book has it. If you want talks of cannibalism, this book has it. If you want cute messages written on mirrors with shower steam, this book kind of has that too! A very wonderful YA horror that tackles colonialism, racism, and fetishizing race.
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC of That Which Feeds Us!
I took away half a star because Lehua was THIRSTY in the beginning. She’s looking for her missing twin and has spent paychecks just to go to where she may have last been, yet still finds the time for two flirtations? It just made her seem a bit distracted and desperate. But that’s okay. Also, wanting to tie your life to someone you’ve known for 3 days? Very sapphic U-Haul of you, girlie.
Otherwise, the background was amazing, the lore and myths were engrossing. Learning some of the language and superstitions really added to the setting. If you want unsettling island vibes, this book has it. If you want talks of cannibalism, this book has it. If you want cute messages written on mirrors with shower steam, this book kind of has that too! A very wonderful YA horror that tackles colonialism, racism, and fetishizing race.
April 30, 2026
Got an arc through the Penguin audiobook app
I love a horror with atmosphere, especially one that can maintain the creepiness after it reveals its hand, so PROPS to this for being deeply chilling until the very end. This is an absolutely gut wrenching, stomach churning horror where the colonialism is just as haunting as the ghost stuff. Thank god I never liked persimmons because I don’t think I’d be able to look at them the same way again.
So yeah, had a really good time with this one!
I love a horror with atmosphere, especially one that can maintain the creepiness after it reveals its hand, so PROPS to this for being deeply chilling until the very end. This is an absolutely gut wrenching, stomach churning horror where the colonialism is just as haunting as the ghost stuff. Thank god I never liked persimmons because I don’t think I’d be able to look at them the same way again.
So yeah, had a really good time with this one!
March 3, 2026
*thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free early copy in exchange for an honest review!
This honestly might be my favorite book of the year so far, and I do not say that lightly.
That Which Feeds Us follows Lehua as she travels to a luxury Hawaiian resort in search of her missing twin sister. But when she gets there, she learns the island of Kōpa’a is more than just a retreat for the wealthy, and is hiding more than just her sister.
Lehua has to risk uncovering the islands secrets, or risk being consumed by them.
This book blends the horror elements with the Hawaiian history and landscape so perfectly I felt as if I were there experiencing everything Lehua was. Kendall does an amazing job in her writing of immersing you into the heart of the story. From Lehua seeing her homeland for the first time to seeing the horrors that greed, selfishness, and colonialism brings I was sold.
Page after page, I hungered for more and couldn’t wait to see where the story would go next. I would say this book is an upper YA to New Adult, as Lehua is 19 and the story gets pretty dark. It does not shy away from the darkness that is Kōpa’a Island Resort.
I don’t want to give away too much, but I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys horror, especially botanical and ones that focus on colonialism. And maybe make sure to stay away from persimmons while eating.
This honestly might be my favorite book of the year so far, and I do not say that lightly.
That Which Feeds Us follows Lehua as she travels to a luxury Hawaiian resort in search of her missing twin sister. But when she gets there, she learns the island of Kōpa’a is more than just a retreat for the wealthy, and is hiding more than just her sister.
Lehua has to risk uncovering the islands secrets, or risk being consumed by them.
This book blends the horror elements with the Hawaiian history and landscape so perfectly I felt as if I were there experiencing everything Lehua was. Kendall does an amazing job in her writing of immersing you into the heart of the story. From Lehua seeing her homeland for the first time to seeing the horrors that greed, selfishness, and colonialism brings I was sold.
Page after page, I hungered for more and couldn’t wait to see where the story would go next. I would say this book is an upper YA to New Adult, as Lehua is 19 and the story gets pretty dark. It does not shy away from the darkness that is Kōpa’a Island Resort.
I don’t want to give away too much, but I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys horror, especially botanical and ones that focus on colonialism. And maybe make sure to stay away from persimmons while eating.
April 21, 2026
Oh this was absolutely horrifying. I don’t think I can look at persimmons for a while- especially with how they’re only best close to rotting, and associating them with the squelching that happens in this book. That Which Feeds Us isn’t just about persimmons, however- it’s a post-colonial horror story. Set in a resort cursed by the spirits of the indigenous Hawaiians who died there, it’s spooky, gory, and based off of history that is all too real.
When Lehua’s twin sister Ohia vanishes, the only clue she has is that she’s working on a farm in Maui. But upon chasing after her lost sister, Lehua finds out that Ohia had been working on a private resort- and that she had quit her job a week before her own arrival. Stranded on the island until Monday, Lehua can’t help but get the feeling that something is very, very wrong with Kopa’a. All she has are the few clues Ohia left behind, and the help of Melia, the newest worker to come to the island.
But the island smells rotten, and the guests staying on it may be even more so.
This book was terrifying, it was gory, a ghost story, but at the end of the day, it drove its main points home. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Thank you so much to Random House and Netgalley for the e-arc! That Which Feeds Us releases on May 5!
When Lehua’s twin sister Ohia vanishes, the only clue she has is that she’s working on a farm in Maui. But upon chasing after her lost sister, Lehua finds out that Ohia had been working on a private resort- and that she had quit her job a week before her own arrival. Stranded on the island until Monday, Lehua can’t help but get the feeling that something is very, very wrong with Kopa’a. All she has are the few clues Ohia left behind, and the help of Melia, the newest worker to come to the island.
But the island smells rotten, and the guests staying on it may be even more so.
This book was terrifying, it was gory, a ghost story, but at the end of the day, it drove its main points home. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Thank you so much to Random House and Netgalley for the e-arc! That Which Feeds Us releases on May 5!
May 8, 2026
A girl is in search of her twin sister on a remote vacation island with no phone reception. That is usually, my type of book.
Reminded me of The Reformatory mixed with Doctor Moreau’s Daughter. I liked this one more than Do for Moreau’s Daughter, but less than The Reformatory (it’s hard to beat that one for me). The horror aspects were not as bad as I was thinking, so that was good. It was giving me serious “get out” vibes. Everything that happened I was not expecting, so that was nice, but at the same time it didn’t blow me away.
Reminded me of The Reformatory mixed with Doctor Moreau’s Daughter. I liked this one more than Do for Moreau’s Daughter, but less than The Reformatory (it’s hard to beat that one for me). The horror aspects were not as bad as I was thinking, so that was good. It was giving me serious “get out” vibes. Everything that happened I was not expecting, so that was nice, but at the same time it didn’t blow me away.
March 26, 2026
Received an advanced copy from NetGalley- many thanks!
4.5 -YA
First and foremost, I was awestruck by the cover art - kudos !
In brief summary, the story was both engrossing and eerie. I recommended reading without too much background information. Somehow, author Kendall was able to perfect the fusion of Hawaiian beauty with gothic undertones.
Further, the author did a fantastic job “painting a picture for the viewer” - I was able to visualize the sugar cane fields, the details of the resort, the people, the persimmons etc with such clarity. It really added to why this book was so good.
Last, author Kendall also mastered weaving some historic elements and culture of the indigenous people of Hawaii throughout the story in a meaningful way.
4.5 -YA
First and foremost, I was awestruck by the cover art - kudos !
In brief summary, the story was both engrossing and eerie. I recommended reading without too much background information. Somehow, author Kendall was able to perfect the fusion of Hawaiian beauty with gothic undertones.
Further, the author did a fantastic job “painting a picture for the viewer” - I was able to visualize the sugar cane fields, the details of the resort, the people, the persimmons etc with such clarity. It really added to why this book was so good.
Last, author Kendall also mastered weaving some historic elements and culture of the indigenous people of Hawaii throughout the story in a meaningful way.
April 4, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
That Which Feeds Us is a haunting, propulsive, and captivating YA thriller.
I had a blast with this one. The characters were compelling and well-developed, and Lehua was a wonderful main character. I loved the exploration of family and sisterhood. I also adored the sapphic romance between Lehua and Melia. Keala Kendall beautifully celebrated Hawaiian culture, folklore, and resilience while emphasizing Hawai’i’s oft-forgotten colonial history and the pain and exploitation inflicted on Hawai’i to create “paradise” for tourists. The horror elements brilliantly built on and depicted these themes and folklore, presenting chilling and powerful imagery. The settings were vivid, immersive, and haunting. Keala Kendall’s prose was beautifully fierce, raw, and sweeping. Although the pacing felt a bit choppy at times, the story flowed nicely overall, and I enjoyed the thrilling mystery. I highly recommend this spectacular story!
Thank you to the publisher for the free ARC!
That Which Feeds Us is a haunting, propulsive, and captivating YA thriller.
I had a blast with this one. The characters were compelling and well-developed, and Lehua was a wonderful main character. I loved the exploration of family and sisterhood. I also adored the sapphic romance between Lehua and Melia. Keala Kendall beautifully celebrated Hawaiian culture, folklore, and resilience while emphasizing Hawai’i’s oft-forgotten colonial history and the pain and exploitation inflicted on Hawai’i to create “paradise” for tourists. The horror elements brilliantly built on and depicted these themes and folklore, presenting chilling and powerful imagery. The settings were vivid, immersive, and haunting. Keala Kendall’s prose was beautifully fierce, raw, and sweeping. Although the pacing felt a bit choppy at times, the story flowed nicely overall, and I enjoyed the thrilling mystery. I highly recommend this spectacular story!
Thank you to the publisher for the free ARC!
March 7, 2026
So eerie, so creepy, but most of history is. This is a horror novel, but truly embodies, colonialism and imperialism at its worst. The writing in the story is beautifully woven, thorough, and captivating. This is truly a book that I could not put down!
May 6, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for the ebook copy of That Which Feeds Us by Keala Kendall.
📝 Short Summary
Lehua travels to Kōpaʻa Island Resort after her twin sister Ohia goes missing, but what looks like a luxury wellness escape quickly turns into something much darker. Cut off from the outside world, surrounded by wealthy guests, strange staff, eerie dreams, and a resort built over a painful history, Lehua has to uncover what happened to her sister before the island consumes her too.
Review
Wow. I absolutely loved this book.
This was my first time reading a horror story set in Hawaii, and honestly, I need more immediately. The setting alone made this book stand out so much for me. Kōpaʻa Island Resort has that beautiful on the outside, deeply wrong underneath feeling that I love in gothic horror. You have this luxury wellness resort, persimmon orchards, wealthy guests trying to escape their lives, and then underneath all of that is this dark, rotting history that refuses to stay buried. That contrast was so good.
Lehua was superb. I loved how determined she was, but also how human she felt. She is not just walking into danger for fun. She is there because her twin sister is missing, and that emotional pull gives the whole story this urgency that never lets up. You feel her fear, her anger, her grief, and her refusal to leave without answers. I loved that she had strength, but it wasn’t written in that fake perfect heroine way. She felt real, scared, brave, and completely locked in on finding Ohia.
The gothic atmosphere in this book was everything. The isolated resort, the no cell service, the strange dreams, the sugarcane fields, the island’s secrets, the feeling that the land itself remembers what people tried to erase. It had that slow creeping dread I love, where the horror does not just jump out at you, it settles around you. The more Lehua discovers, the more the island feels alive with grief, warning, and rage.
I also found the Hawaiian folklore so interesting. That was one of my favorite parts of the book because it gave the horror such a strong cultural and emotional foundation. It did not feel like folklore was just tossed in for atmosphere. It felt connected to land, memory, history, and survival. The supernatural elements had weight because they were tied to something much deeper than simple scares.
What really made this book hit for me was how it explored the cost of paradise. I loved that it looked at luxury, wellness culture, wealth, tourism, and beauty through a darker lens. The resort is marketed as healing and escape, but the truth underneath is ugly. That made the horror feel sharper because it was not just about what is haunting the island, but what people have taken from it, ignored, profited from, and tried to cover up.
This book also had that rich gothic feeling I love, where the setting becomes a character. The island, the orchard, the fields, the resort, all of it felt like it was watching Lehua. There was such a strong sense of place, and I could picture everything so vividly. It was beautiful and eerie at the same time, which is my favorite kind of atmosphere.
For me, this was a must read. It gave me horror, mystery, gothic atmosphere, folklore, emotional stakes, and a main character I truly wanted to follow. It felt fresh, haunting, and powerful. I went in interested, but I came out obsessed. This is absolutely one of those books that reminds me why I love horror when it is done with meaning behind the fear.
✅ Would I Recommend It?
Yes, completely. If you love gothic horror, supernatural thrillers, isolated settings, missing sister stories, folklore, eerie resorts, and books that are beautiful but also deeply unsettling, this one needs to be on your list.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for the ebook copy of That Which Feeds Us by Keala Kendall.
📝 Short Summary
Lehua travels to Kōpaʻa Island Resort after her twin sister Ohia goes missing, but what looks like a luxury wellness escape quickly turns into something much darker. Cut off from the outside world, surrounded by wealthy guests, strange staff, eerie dreams, and a resort built over a painful history, Lehua has to uncover what happened to her sister before the island consumes her too.
Review
Wow. I absolutely loved this book.
This was my first time reading a horror story set in Hawaii, and honestly, I need more immediately. The setting alone made this book stand out so much for me. Kōpaʻa Island Resort has that beautiful on the outside, deeply wrong underneath feeling that I love in gothic horror. You have this luxury wellness resort, persimmon orchards, wealthy guests trying to escape their lives, and then underneath all of that is this dark, rotting history that refuses to stay buried. That contrast was so good.
Lehua was superb. I loved how determined she was, but also how human she felt. She is not just walking into danger for fun. She is there because her twin sister is missing, and that emotional pull gives the whole story this urgency that never lets up. You feel her fear, her anger, her grief, and her refusal to leave without answers. I loved that she had strength, but it wasn’t written in that fake perfect heroine way. She felt real, scared, brave, and completely locked in on finding Ohia.
The gothic atmosphere in this book was everything. The isolated resort, the no cell service, the strange dreams, the sugarcane fields, the island’s secrets, the feeling that the land itself remembers what people tried to erase. It had that slow creeping dread I love, where the horror does not just jump out at you, it settles around you. The more Lehua discovers, the more the island feels alive with grief, warning, and rage.
I also found the Hawaiian folklore so interesting. That was one of my favorite parts of the book because it gave the horror such a strong cultural and emotional foundation. It did not feel like folklore was just tossed in for atmosphere. It felt connected to land, memory, history, and survival. The supernatural elements had weight because they were tied to something much deeper than simple scares.
What really made this book hit for me was how it explored the cost of paradise. I loved that it looked at luxury, wellness culture, wealth, tourism, and beauty through a darker lens. The resort is marketed as healing and escape, but the truth underneath is ugly. That made the horror feel sharper because it was not just about what is haunting the island, but what people have taken from it, ignored, profited from, and tried to cover up.
This book also had that rich gothic feeling I love, where the setting becomes a character. The island, the orchard, the fields, the resort, all of it felt like it was watching Lehua. There was such a strong sense of place, and I could picture everything so vividly. It was beautiful and eerie at the same time, which is my favorite kind of atmosphere.
For me, this was a must read. It gave me horror, mystery, gothic atmosphere, folklore, emotional stakes, and a main character I truly wanted to follow. It felt fresh, haunting, and powerful. I went in interested, but I came out obsessed. This is absolutely one of those books that reminds me why I love horror when it is done with meaning behind the fear.
✅ Would I Recommend It?
Yes, completely. If you love gothic horror, supernatural thrillers, isolated settings, missing sister stories, folklore, eerie resorts, and books that are beautiful but also deeply unsettling, this one needs to be on your list.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Books for Young Readers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“That Which Feeds Us” by Keala Kendall is a haunting, furious, and beautifully written debut that exposes the rot beneath the fantasy of paradise. Set on a secluded luxury resort in Hawaiʻi, the story combines horror, history, and folklore to confront the violence of colonialism and the ghosts it leaves behind, both literal and figurative. There is some blood and gore in this book (mainly at the end). With the MC being 19, I recommend this book for older YA readers; this book may be considered NA as well.
When nineteen-year-old Lehua’s twin sister, Ohia, goes missing, Lehua follows her trail to Kōpaʻa Island Resort, an ultra-exclusive wellness retreat for the world’s wealthiest elite. With no cell service, no Wi-Fi, and only one boat in and out, the island promises peace and rejuvenation to its guests. For Lehua, it becomes a trap. When she is stranded on the island, she is forced to search for her sister among indulgent tourists, guarded staff, and a landscape that feels increasingly hostile and alive.
As Lehua digs deeper, the island’s beauty curdles. Human bones surface in the sugarcane fields, ghosts of Native Hawaiian laborers walk the land, and Lehua begins seeing and hearing things that defy explanation. The supernatural elements are chilling and visceral, with moments of blood and gore that provide a brutal message. Kendall’s depiction of ghosts is especially striking: corporeal, present, and bound to the land they were brutalized for defending. These spirits are not just haunting; they are demanding to be remembered.
The story is steeped in Hawaiian history and folklore, with an author’s note that grounds the story in real atrocities committed against Native Hawaiians. Kendall makes it painfully clear that what happened on Kōpaʻa reflects real patterns of land theft, racism, and erasure that persist today. The resort’s persimmon orchard, which is sweet, cultivated, and deeply unsettling, becomes a potent symbol of how paradise is built on suffering.
Lehua is a compelling protagonist, driven by grief, rage, and an unbreakable bond with her sister. Her bisexual identity is thoughtfully included, and while a brief love triangle feels rushed and somewhat out of place given the urgency of her search, it never overtakes the core of the story. At its heart, this is a story about sisterhood, legacy, and the lengths one will go to reclaim what was stolen. Lehua’s willingness to risk her own life to find Ohia gives the story its emotional backbone.
Atmospheric and deliberate in its pacing, this book is infused with Hawaiian myth and righteous fury. Kendall’s prose is lyrical and unsettling, allowing you to almost taste the decay beneath the island’s lush beauty. The multiple plot threads, from colonial violence to supernatural vengeance, gradually braid together, culminating in a powerful, cathartic ending centered on reclamation, justice, and togetherness.
This is horror with teeth and purpose: a brutal, unflinching examination of the true cost of paradise and a reminder that land remembers. “That Which Feeds Us” is not just a ghost story; it is a reckoning, and one that lingers long after the final page.
“That Which Feeds Us” by Keala Kendall is a haunting, furious, and beautifully written debut that exposes the rot beneath the fantasy of paradise. Set on a secluded luxury resort in Hawaiʻi, the story combines horror, history, and folklore to confront the violence of colonialism and the ghosts it leaves behind, both literal and figurative. There is some blood and gore in this book (mainly at the end). With the MC being 19, I recommend this book for older YA readers; this book may be considered NA as well.
When nineteen-year-old Lehua’s twin sister, Ohia, goes missing, Lehua follows her trail to Kōpaʻa Island Resort, an ultra-exclusive wellness retreat for the world’s wealthiest elite. With no cell service, no Wi-Fi, and only one boat in and out, the island promises peace and rejuvenation to its guests. For Lehua, it becomes a trap. When she is stranded on the island, she is forced to search for her sister among indulgent tourists, guarded staff, and a landscape that feels increasingly hostile and alive.
As Lehua digs deeper, the island’s beauty curdles. Human bones surface in the sugarcane fields, ghosts of Native Hawaiian laborers walk the land, and Lehua begins seeing and hearing things that defy explanation. The supernatural elements are chilling and visceral, with moments of blood and gore that provide a brutal message. Kendall’s depiction of ghosts is especially striking: corporeal, present, and bound to the land they were brutalized for defending. These spirits are not just haunting; they are demanding to be remembered.
The story is steeped in Hawaiian history and folklore, with an author’s note that grounds the story in real atrocities committed against Native Hawaiians. Kendall makes it painfully clear that what happened on Kōpaʻa reflects real patterns of land theft, racism, and erasure that persist today. The resort’s persimmon orchard, which is sweet, cultivated, and deeply unsettling, becomes a potent symbol of how paradise is built on suffering.
Lehua is a compelling protagonist, driven by grief, rage, and an unbreakable bond with her sister. Her bisexual identity is thoughtfully included, and while a brief love triangle feels rushed and somewhat out of place given the urgency of her search, it never overtakes the core of the story. At its heart, this is a story about sisterhood, legacy, and the lengths one will go to reclaim what was stolen. Lehua’s willingness to risk her own life to find Ohia gives the story its emotional backbone.
Atmospheric and deliberate in its pacing, this book is infused with Hawaiian myth and righteous fury. Kendall’s prose is lyrical and unsettling, allowing you to almost taste the decay beneath the island’s lush beauty. The multiple plot threads, from colonial violence to supernatural vengeance, gradually braid together, culminating in a powerful, cathartic ending centered on reclamation, justice, and togetherness.
This is horror with teeth and purpose: a brutal, unflinching examination of the true cost of paradise and a reminder that land remembers. “That Which Feeds Us” is not just a ghost story; it is a reckoning, and one that lingers long after the final page.
May 5, 2026
Lehua, a Pacific Islander, grew up in Arizona with her twin Ohia -- not by choice, mind you. Her family moved away from Hawaii because the tourist industry forced them out. When their mom took off, Lehua and Ohia had their grandparents until they passed. Then they entered the foster system until college and track scholarships gave them an escape. Lehua dropped out to work at a mortuary, but her twin, Ohia, stayed on, looking forward to Olympic trials. The sisters went their separate ways.
The book begins when Lehua gets word that Ohia has dropped everything to work on an island farm near Maui. While uncharacteristic, the choice couldn't affect Lehua much, not after the fight that led to their estrangement. But when Ohia's coach calls, looking for her, Lehua knows there must be something wrong. Lehua heads to Maui, where she meets Melia, who heard of the same work program. They sail to the exclusive resort island, Kopa'a. The tiny, ramshackle port town is uninhabited and creepy, and the girls must walk a dusty red trail flanked by native ti leaf plants to the the historic (read aged) resort where the manager, Chiyo Amaya, is stunned to see Lehua, thinking she is her twin.
Once the confusion clears, Chiyo drops the bomb that Ohia (known to her by the assumed name Alana Holt), has left. Lehua is understandably upset and tries to head back to the dock, but the boat has left early due to an incoming storm. Chiyo separates the girls. Melia will go to the workers' bunkhouse and Lehua will stay at the resort until the next boat comes to the island. Chiyo gives a brief orientation: Kopa'a resort is the original 1890s home of Horace Ira Jacobs, founder. His grandson, Ira, heads the resort now, but is sickly and particular, and leaves the running of things to Chiyo. There is no cellular access, and computer use is strictly limited. Chiyo must ask Mr. Jacobs for permission to allow Lehua to send an email. Then there is the list of the resort rules. As you can imagine, the rules are odd, to say the least: no straying off the ti leaf path into the fields, no interacting with the workers, no going out after sundown, etc. As Lehua gets ready for dinner, a notification on her phone shows a nearby hotspot available. It's Ohia's. But she left the island! What's going on here? As Lehua has learned from time in the foster system, some rules are meant to be broken, despite the consequences. Finding her sister will mean bending and breaking all of them, and the repercussions will expose Lehua to grisly truths better left buried beneath the sugarcane.
This book read like Scooby Doo for young adults (gore and death), replete with lots of creepy ghouls on repeat. The mystery behind the nighttime workers and their relationship to the jaded resort guests left me guessing. I imagine many of my high school freshmen will really enjoy this book and I look forward to adding it to our library.
Thanks to Random House and NetGalley for access to the digital ARC in exchange for my review.
The book begins when Lehua gets word that Ohia has dropped everything to work on an island farm near Maui. While uncharacteristic, the choice couldn't affect Lehua much, not after the fight that led to their estrangement. But when Ohia's coach calls, looking for her, Lehua knows there must be something wrong. Lehua heads to Maui, where she meets Melia, who heard of the same work program. They sail to the exclusive resort island, Kopa'a. The tiny, ramshackle port town is uninhabited and creepy, and the girls must walk a dusty red trail flanked by native ti leaf plants to the the historic (read aged) resort where the manager, Chiyo Amaya, is stunned to see Lehua, thinking she is her twin.
Once the confusion clears, Chiyo drops the bomb that Ohia (known to her by the assumed name Alana Holt), has left. Lehua is understandably upset and tries to head back to the dock, but the boat has left early due to an incoming storm. Chiyo separates the girls. Melia will go to the workers' bunkhouse and Lehua will stay at the resort until the next boat comes to the island. Chiyo gives a brief orientation: Kopa'a resort is the original 1890s home of Horace Ira Jacobs, founder. His grandson, Ira, heads the resort now, but is sickly and particular, and leaves the running of things to Chiyo. There is no cellular access, and computer use is strictly limited. Chiyo must ask Mr. Jacobs for permission to allow Lehua to send an email. Then there is the list of the resort rules. As you can imagine, the rules are odd, to say the least: no straying off the ti leaf path into the fields, no interacting with the workers, no going out after sundown, etc. As Lehua gets ready for dinner, a notification on her phone shows a nearby hotspot available. It's Ohia's. But she left the island! What's going on here? As Lehua has learned from time in the foster system, some rules are meant to be broken, despite the consequences. Finding her sister will mean bending and breaking all of them, and the repercussions will expose Lehua to grisly truths better left buried beneath the sugarcane.
This book read like Scooby Doo for young adults (gore and death), replete with lots of creepy ghouls on repeat. The mystery behind the nighttime workers and their relationship to the jaded resort guests left me guessing. I imagine many of my high school freshmen will really enjoy this book and I look forward to adding it to our library.
Thanks to Random House and NetGalley for access to the digital ARC in exchange for my review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.
Keala Kendall is a native Hawaiian, and has given us a tale based on native culture and some real events. I found this book to be fascinating, and it has me interested in reading up on Hawaiian history.
Lehua's sister, Ohia, is missing. Not just sister, but twin sister! Ohia has allegedly just left school to go work at a resort in Hawaii, their home. The resort is on one of the smaller, less-populated islands. Lehua can't get Ohia to answer any phone calls or texts, so she takes some time off from her job at a mortuary to go find her sister.
As soon as she arrives at the Kopa'a resort, something feels off. But Lehua is persistent. And that's as much plot as I'll give away, here. This most definitely falls in the genre of horror, and there is plenty of supernatural content in the story. But there is also some tragic racism in the tale as well, and some description of Hawaiian history along the way, which is not terribly kind about the way the U.S. acquired Hawaii.
The history behind the resort that Ohia went to work at, and Lehua winds up staying at for a few days (because she "missed" the boat back to Maui) is quite tainted, and the more Lehua finds out, the worse it is. I like that the author provides a lot of background to the story, both before it begins and after it is over. She also provides a small bibliography, with some suggested books to read on the history of the island.
I can't really go into any more detail without giving spoilers, and I don't want to do that. I will say that I did enjoy the book, and see that the author has written a couple of "twisted tales" for the Disney people, and I have been interested in reading some of those. I see them quite frequently, as I work at a library.
I found it interesting that, at the beginning of the book, it is under "Random House Children's Books," but then has the imprint as Random House BFYR, which apparently stands for "Books For Young Readers." It is listed on other sites as "YA," which sounds better. It is most definitely not a "children's book," as there are some pretty gruesome parts in it, even borderline cannibalism. Borderline, but not quite. That probably doesn't make sense, but that's the best way I know to say it.
I will say that, had I encountered this book as a "young adult" or teen, I would probably have loved it. I was reading Lovecraft when I was in high school, and already a fan of horror, so I do think I would have really enjoyed this book at that age. I feel like Ms. Kendall has done justice to her home and its culture with this supernatural tale of horror and suspense.
I recommend it to fans of horror and indigenous history (combined . . . if you're just interested in history, you might not like this).
Keala Kendall is a native Hawaiian, and has given us a tale based on native culture and some real events. I found this book to be fascinating, and it has me interested in reading up on Hawaiian history.
Lehua's sister, Ohia, is missing. Not just sister, but twin sister! Ohia has allegedly just left school to go work at a resort in Hawaii, their home. The resort is on one of the smaller, less-populated islands. Lehua can't get Ohia to answer any phone calls or texts, so she takes some time off from her job at a mortuary to go find her sister.
As soon as she arrives at the Kopa'a resort, something feels off. But Lehua is persistent. And that's as much plot as I'll give away, here. This most definitely falls in the genre of horror, and there is plenty of supernatural content in the story. But there is also some tragic racism in the tale as well, and some description of Hawaiian history along the way, which is not terribly kind about the way the U.S. acquired Hawaii.
The history behind the resort that Ohia went to work at, and Lehua winds up staying at for a few days (because she "missed" the boat back to Maui) is quite tainted, and the more Lehua finds out, the worse it is. I like that the author provides a lot of background to the story, both before it begins and after it is over. She also provides a small bibliography, with some suggested books to read on the history of the island.
I can't really go into any more detail without giving spoilers, and I don't want to do that. I will say that I did enjoy the book, and see that the author has written a couple of "twisted tales" for the Disney people, and I have been interested in reading some of those. I see them quite frequently, as I work at a library.
I found it interesting that, at the beginning of the book, it is under "Random House Children's Books," but then has the imprint as Random House BFYR, which apparently stands for "Books For Young Readers." It is listed on other sites as "YA," which sounds better. It is most definitely not a "children's book," as there are some pretty gruesome parts in it, even borderline cannibalism. Borderline, but not quite. That probably doesn't make sense, but that's the best way I know to say it.
I will say that, had I encountered this book as a "young adult" or teen, I would probably have loved it. I was reading Lovecraft when I was in high school, and already a fan of horror, so I do think I would have really enjoyed this book at that age. I feel like Ms. Kendall has done justice to her home and its culture with this supernatural tale of horror and suspense.
I recommend it to fans of horror and indigenous history (combined . . . if you're just interested in history, you might not like this).
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When I saw this book was compared to She is a Haunting, I immediately rushed to NetGalley to request an ARC. Upon reflection, I realize the double-edged sword of comparison: I had certain expectations of the book before going in which may have clouded my reading experience, but also without the initial marketed comparison, I may not have been interested in picking this up early.
In any case, as someone who has only begun to dabble in Gothic Horror thanks to Trang Thanh Tran's two latest books, That Which Feeds Us was a stark difference in terms of character building and plot pacing. It felt as though each character revealed their "true" personas rather quickly and without much prompting, though this did make sense given the entire plot took place in a relatively short amount of time.
Additionally, I think in fiction books that touch upon histories of racism, colonization, misogyny, etc, I enjoy a balance of explicit and implicit references that makes me pause to think "Wait... was that a reference for *insert historical event and/or sociopolitical discrimination here*?" -- but more often than not, this book didn't give me the time to think, and would spell out the explicit meanings of events via internal/external dialogues. However, the explicit naming of events & stories whether fictional or not, would definitely be useful for readers who might have little to no context about how the U.S. illegally stole Hawai'i and centuries long of negative systemtic impacts as a result.
I did appreciate the queer sapphic representation, especially when considering how cisgender heterosexual norms were also imposed upon indigenous communities by settler colonialism. Additionally, I enjoyed how the author's deep research on different Indigenous/Native Hawai'i cultural practices (and bringing in her own family's stories / identities) is present in her ability to interweave these throughout the book. Keala Kendall explicitly says in her author's note "I am sure there are those that will deplore the cultural deviations I chose to utilize; all I can say is that That Which Feeds Us is a contemporary horror novel. It should not be mistaken for a cultural text or scholarly work." I am of personal belief that supporting Own Voices authors means allowing them the creative freedom to interpret their communities past/present/future experiences.
Overall, I enjoyed this telling about "forgotten" (i.e. erased by colonization) stories and ways the lives of those "forgotten" should never be lost, but honored. (Also, acknowledging that indigenous people are still living today!! Very much thinking of the saying: "honor the dead & fight like hell for the living" upon finishing.)
In any case, as someone who has only begun to dabble in Gothic Horror thanks to Trang Thanh Tran's two latest books, That Which Feeds Us was a stark difference in terms of character building and plot pacing. It felt as though each character revealed their "true" personas rather quickly and without much prompting, though this did make sense given the entire plot took place in a relatively short amount of time.
Additionally, I think in fiction books that touch upon histories of racism, colonization, misogyny, etc, I enjoy a balance of explicit and implicit references that makes me pause to think "Wait... was that a reference for *insert historical event and/or sociopolitical discrimination here*?" -- but more often than not, this book didn't give me the time to think, and would spell out the explicit meanings of events via internal/external dialogues. However, the explicit naming of events & stories whether fictional or not, would definitely be useful for readers who might have little to no context about how the U.S. illegally stole Hawai'i and centuries long of negative systemtic impacts as a result.
I did appreciate the queer sapphic representation, especially when considering how cisgender heterosexual norms were also imposed upon indigenous communities by settler colonialism. Additionally, I enjoyed how the author's deep research on different Indigenous/Native Hawai'i cultural practices (and bringing in her own family's stories / identities) is present in her ability to interweave these throughout the book. Keala Kendall explicitly says in her author's note "I am sure there are those that will deplore the cultural deviations I chose to utilize; all I can say is that That Which Feeds Us is a contemporary horror novel. It should not be mistaken for a cultural text or scholarly work." I am of personal belief that supporting Own Voices authors means allowing them the creative freedom to interpret their communities past/present/future experiences.
Overall, I enjoyed this telling about "forgotten" (i.e. erased by colonization) stories and ways the lives of those "forgotten" should never be lost, but honored. (Also, acknowledging that indigenous people are still living today!! Very much thinking of the saying: "honor the dead & fight like hell for the living" upon finishing.)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Hawaiian Gothic novel had my very intrigued I've never read anything like that before so i was very interested to see how it would read. What made it even better though was the fact that this was a YA novel so I knew that it wouldn't be too dark but just enough to move the plot and still give lots of depth. I went into this book completely blind to the author or the subject however something about the blurb kept calling me. Right from the first page however I knew that this would be unlike anything I had read before and I was fascinated by the plot. I was quickly drawn into the world and the intensity that the author brought to this story was very fascinating. When our main character, Lehua's, twin sister, Ohia goes missing she decides to find her and follows her trail to a luxury resort in Hawaii. However the resort is anything like it seems on paper as unmistakable horrors lie hidden beneath it's luxurious surface. I really liked how the author got straight into the mystery and there wasn't a lot of build up. You got just enough to lean the characters before you were thrust into the plot. While normally I do like a bit more background information I found that with this story it was perfect because it really left the reader just as confused as Lehua, on what was going on and you got to find things at the same time as her. I loved all of the mystery but also the sense that something was always waiting around the corner was enough that it made me gasp and turn the pages at lightening speed I couldn't get enough. This book was dark, mysterious, and had such a sinister atmospheric feel to it that it really grabbed me in a way that I never expected it to. I'm amazed that such a complex read was targeted as a teen novel however at the same time it was written with such simplicity that you were able to easily get into the plot and characters however not be overwhelmed by all of the horror that was happening around them. While it is normally the characters that make or break a book for me it was the plot and the vibe of this one that had me up all night with a flashlight. I was completely obsessed with finding out what was going to happen but at the same time I didn't want it to end and that is how I know that I loved this story. I can't say enough good things about this book but it is for sure one that you shouldn't sleep on. If you love horror this is one for you and if you don't love horror then you just haven't read the right one and you should check it out.
January 17, 2026
A horror story twisted with folklore that lures you in with promises of new opportunities in paradise but once in its grasp you may find it hard to leave.
“That Which Feeds Us” begins with desperation as Lehua searches for her twin sister settling on an island in Hawaii where she learns her sister faked her identity to obtain a job before disappearing altogether. Out of element, Lehua struggles to find answers and with her knowledge of local culture lacking she finds looks to an employee Melia to fill the gaps but with time is running out she must uncover what lurks both in and outside of the resort otherwise she may find herself in the crosshairs of something far darker than she could have ever imagined.
This is such an interesting and truly frightening book and I felt completely consumed with each page. The author makes mention of the lack of resources regarding the Indigenous Hawaiians and their their history in a special note and I know I have not heard a lot about such things especially the folklore when that is a subject I have always been so interested in. There were so many elements that touched on spirituality and familiar connection as well as elements torn out of your worst nightmares and I would love nothing more than to see more on this subject.
The story itself draws you in with the mystery of Ohia and how far a sister will go to bring her home. The slow creep of dread as you move through the plot only heightens both of the moments of peace with the whisper of romance as well as the terror in whatever lurks off the path. Lehua is just a girl trying her best but she is ultimately searching for the connection with her family and the foundations of a home in a way that makes her the perfect subject to stick around even if it means putting herself at risk. You root for her but it may be those roots that keep her still.
Not for the faint of heart this story isn’t afraid to go there and show the horrors of over indulgence and the way people will strip something pure and good to the bones if it means they get one more moment of power along with the hollow ache of never being satisfied.
** special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review **
“That Which Feeds Us” begins with desperation as Lehua searches for her twin sister settling on an island in Hawaii where she learns her sister faked her identity to obtain a job before disappearing altogether. Out of element, Lehua struggles to find answers and with her knowledge of local culture lacking she finds looks to an employee Melia to fill the gaps but with time is running out she must uncover what lurks both in and outside of the resort otherwise she may find herself in the crosshairs of something far darker than she could have ever imagined.
This is such an interesting and truly frightening book and I felt completely consumed with each page. The author makes mention of the lack of resources regarding the Indigenous Hawaiians and their their history in a special note and I know I have not heard a lot about such things especially the folklore when that is a subject I have always been so interested in. There were so many elements that touched on spirituality and familiar connection as well as elements torn out of your worst nightmares and I would love nothing more than to see more on this subject.
The story itself draws you in with the mystery of Ohia and how far a sister will go to bring her home. The slow creep of dread as you move through the plot only heightens both of the moments of peace with the whisper of romance as well as the terror in whatever lurks off the path. Lehua is just a girl trying her best but she is ultimately searching for the connection with her family and the foundations of a home in a way that makes her the perfect subject to stick around even if it means putting herself at risk. You root for her but it may be those roots that keep her still.
Not for the faint of heart this story isn’t afraid to go there and show the horrors of over indulgence and the way people will strip something pure and good to the bones if it means they get one more moment of power along with the hollow ache of never being satisfied.
** special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review **
May 8, 2026
Kōpaʻa Island Resort is the ultimate escape for the world's wealthy, with no cell service or Wi-Fi, a famous persimmon orchard, and promises of rejuvenation. This dream location is Lehua’s nightmare. Her twin sister, Ohia, is missing and was last seen at Kōpaʻa. The Hawaiian island’s boat leaves without her, stranding her with the resort’s lavish guests and enigmatic staff. Lehua soon finds that her missing sister isn't the only mystery on the resort. It has a dark plantation past, and Lehua has dreams haunting her every night. To uncover what happened to Ohia, Lehua will have to unearth the island’s bloody history and face the horrors that lurk within its sugarcane fields—or risk being consumed by them.
The resort is an elite digital detox with a limited roster of guests and staff. Ohia supposedly worked there for a week under an assumed name, and no one knows what happened to her. Lehua knows it's not like her usually overachiever sister, so something terrible had to have happened. There are strict rules and odd things happening in the fields at night. There are just enough clues to keep her going, and the creepy sense of wrongness gets more intense as she does. The resort is built on the bones of a plantation, with uprisings and illness in its history that are reflected in the spirits around them. Those spirits are talking to Lehua, and the skeletons are literally coming out of the ground.
Like Hawai'i itself, the book is full of stories about the past that shift in response to the perspective of the teller. Like many diaspora children, Lehua knows little of the culture and history she comes from. The fragments haunt her as much as her missing sister and the loss of family before the book even opens. The grief and anger are an undercurrent that fuels her search for Ohia, even when warned away. The stories of spirits and the traditional practices are somewhat modified to fuel the horror aspect of the novel, but there are very real horrors baked into the story: privilege, manipulation, and taking advantage of those who couldn't fight back. It weaves together perfectly and pulls you in to experience the horrors along with Lehua.
The resort is an elite digital detox with a limited roster of guests and staff. Ohia supposedly worked there for a week under an assumed name, and no one knows what happened to her. Lehua knows it's not like her usually overachiever sister, so something terrible had to have happened. There are strict rules and odd things happening in the fields at night. There are just enough clues to keep her going, and the creepy sense of wrongness gets more intense as she does. The resort is built on the bones of a plantation, with uprisings and illness in its history that are reflected in the spirits around them. Those spirits are talking to Lehua, and the skeletons are literally coming out of the ground.
Like Hawai'i itself, the book is full of stories about the past that shift in response to the perspective of the teller. Like many diaspora children, Lehua knows little of the culture and history she comes from. The fragments haunt her as much as her missing sister and the loss of family before the book even opens. The grief and anger are an undercurrent that fuels her search for Ohia, even when warned away. The stories of spirits and the traditional practices are somewhat modified to fuel the horror aspect of the novel, but there are very real horrors baked into the story: privilege, manipulation, and taking advantage of those who couldn't fight back. It weaves together perfectly and pulls you in to experience the horrors along with Lehua.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wow. What a journey of a read this was. I love horror novels, so when I read the synopsis for this on NetGalley, I automatically requested it. That Which Feeds Us follows Lehua as she searches for her missing twin sister, Ohia, at the luxury island resort in Hawai'i where she was last seen. The story combines the dark history of colonialism, cultural traditions, and pure creepy horror to create this masterpiece of a story which will simultaneously haunt you and make you think deeply.
Honestly, I went into this expecting the horror. I didn't expect as much history as I got, and that made the story significantly better. Admittedly, I don't know much at all about the history of Hawai'i or the various cultures and traditions, but I was thoroughly drawn in and captivated nonetheless. The conversations around the colonialism of Hawai'i were truly haunting in a very different way from the horror - history is often bloody, and the author embraces that truth here.
Aside from that, the supernatural and more horror-esque moments of the novel are just chilling and haunting. My annotations throughout read along the lines of, "wow, I really hate this" and "really really don't like this". The descriptions of the field workers particularly - I could picture them in my mind perfectly, and I didn't like what I imagined! But that's what made it so good to me - the writing is so perfectly visual and descriptive.
And the ending - wow. I guessed a couple of things along the way, but had absolutely no clue what the real end game was. Honestly, I felt a bit nauseous, but the plot and ending were very well thought out and the story leads up to the ending so well. I finished the story feeling satisfied, and incredibly sad at the same time.
Overall, I would recommend this to anyone looking for a solid horror read, especially if you're interested in historical aspects as well!
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly, I went into this expecting the horror. I didn't expect as much history as I got, and that made the story significantly better. Admittedly, I don't know much at all about the history of Hawai'i or the various cultures and traditions, but I was thoroughly drawn in and captivated nonetheless. The conversations around the colonialism of Hawai'i were truly haunting in a very different way from the horror - history is often bloody, and the author embraces that truth here.
Aside from that, the supernatural and more horror-esque moments of the novel are just chilling and haunting. My annotations throughout read along the lines of, "wow, I really hate this" and "really really don't like this". The descriptions of the field workers particularly - I could picture them in my mind perfectly, and I didn't like what I imagined! But that's what made it so good to me - the writing is so perfectly visual and descriptive.
And the ending - wow. I guessed a couple of things along the way, but had absolutely no clue what the real end game was. Honestly, I felt a bit nauseous, but the plot and ending were very well thought out and the story leads up to the ending so well. I finished the story feeling satisfied, and incredibly sad at the same time.
Overall, I would recommend this to anyone looking for a solid horror read, especially if you're interested in historical aspects as well!
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
That Which Feeds Us by Keala Kendall is one of those rare reads that manages to be deeply unsettling, emotionally resonant, and eerily beautiful all at once. This YA gothic horror delivers far more than just chills—it’s a sharp, haunting exploration of colonialism, exploitation, and what it truly means to belong to a place.
The story follows Lehua as she searches for her missing twin, Ohia, at an exclusive Hawaiian resort that quickly reveals itself to be far more sinister than it appears. The atmosphere is absolutely immaculate. It's lush, isolating, and crawling with unease. From the moment Lehua arrives, there’s a sense that something is deeply wrong, and that tension never lets up.
What really sets this book apart is how seamlessly Kendall weaves Indigenous Hawaiian history, folklore, and contemporary issues into the narrative. The horror here isn’t just supernatural—it’s rooted in very real atrocities and ongoing injustices. The result is a story that feels both intimate and expansive, balancing personal grief with larger cultural truths in a way that never feels heavy-handed.
And yes, this book is genuinely creepy. There’s a slow, creeping dread that builds into something deeply disturbing, with moments that will absolutely stick with you (and ruin persimmons forever). At the same time, it’s incredibly readable—fast-paced, gripping, and nearly impossible to put down.
If I had one small critique, it’s that some plot beats felt a bit predictable. But honestly, the execution, atmosphere, and emotional depth more than make up for it. The ending is powerful and deeply satisfying.
Fans of gothic horror, eco-horror, and stories that blend the supernatural with real-world commentary will find a lot to love here. This is a stunning, memorable debut that lingers long after the final page and I’ll absolutely be reading whatever Keala Kendall writes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for the ARC!
That Which Feeds Us by Keala Kendall is one of those rare reads that manages to be deeply unsettling, emotionally resonant, and eerily beautiful all at once. This YA gothic horror delivers far more than just chills—it’s a sharp, haunting exploration of colonialism, exploitation, and what it truly means to belong to a place.
The story follows Lehua as she searches for her missing twin, Ohia, at an exclusive Hawaiian resort that quickly reveals itself to be far more sinister than it appears. The atmosphere is absolutely immaculate. It's lush, isolating, and crawling with unease. From the moment Lehua arrives, there’s a sense that something is deeply wrong, and that tension never lets up.
What really sets this book apart is how seamlessly Kendall weaves Indigenous Hawaiian history, folklore, and contemporary issues into the narrative. The horror here isn’t just supernatural—it’s rooted in very real atrocities and ongoing injustices. The result is a story that feels both intimate and expansive, balancing personal grief with larger cultural truths in a way that never feels heavy-handed.
And yes, this book is genuinely creepy. There’s a slow, creeping dread that builds into something deeply disturbing, with moments that will absolutely stick with you (and ruin persimmons forever). At the same time, it’s incredibly readable—fast-paced, gripping, and nearly impossible to put down.
If I had one small critique, it’s that some plot beats felt a bit predictable. But honestly, the execution, atmosphere, and emotional depth more than make up for it. The ending is powerful and deeply satisfying.
Fans of gothic horror, eco-horror, and stories that blend the supernatural with real-world commentary will find a lot to love here. This is a stunning, memorable debut that lingers long after the final page and I’ll absolutely be reading whatever Keala Kendall writes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Gothic horror is SO BACK! And decolonized, at that. That Which Feeds Us is a lush and atmospheric glimpse into Native Hawaiian culture and history where the colonizers are spared no benefit of the doubt.
Lehua was probably the most realistic YA character I've read in a long time. She is not infantilized, given the autonomy someone her age and experiences should have, but also removed enough to give her a believable and satisfying character arc. I found it so interesting that her inner-monologues in the first half of the book were reminiscing about her time with her grandparents where they taught her their belief systems, but she actively rejected them as something not worth reifying. And part of her arc is learning how deeply rooted her Native Hawaiian culture and belief systems are with the land.
The inherently voyeuristic gothic lens was the perfect way to frame the concept of Indigeneity in this novel. Fetishization is a prominent theme in this novel and I appreciated the way Kendall explores power dynamics between colonizer/colonized. The characters all have complicated relationships with their identities which I think speaks to the historical and intergenerational trauma that many displaced people grapple with daily. This is, at it's core, a story about the MMIP crisis and the ongoing genocide Native people face today.
There are so many nuanced levels of this novel that spoke to me and I'm so thankful to be around to read the reclamation of horror as anti-colonial genre, especially for YA! The fruit symbolism is something I could write a dissertation on, honestly.
I'd recommend That Which Feeds Us to folks who enjoy fresh takes on gothic horror, fans of atmospheric (CREEPY) horror, and to those who would cheer if they witnessed what happened to James Cook on 2/14/1779.
Lehua was probably the most realistic YA character I've read in a long time. She is not infantilized, given the autonomy someone her age and experiences should have, but also removed enough to give her a believable and satisfying character arc. I found it so interesting that her inner-monologues in the first half of the book were reminiscing about her time with her grandparents where they taught her their belief systems, but she actively rejected them as something not worth reifying. And part of her arc is learning how deeply rooted her Native Hawaiian culture and belief systems are with the land.
The inherently voyeuristic gothic lens was the perfect way to frame the concept of Indigeneity in this novel. Fetishization is a prominent theme in this novel and I appreciated the way Kendall explores power dynamics between colonizer/colonized. The characters all have complicated relationships with their identities which I think speaks to the historical and intergenerational trauma that many displaced people grapple with daily. This is, at it's core, a story about the MMIP crisis and the ongoing genocide Native people face today.
There are so many nuanced levels of this novel that spoke to me and I'm so thankful to be around to read the reclamation of horror as anti-colonial genre, especially for YA! The fruit symbolism is something I could write a dissertation on, honestly.
I'd recommend That Which Feeds Us to folks who enjoy fresh takes on gothic horror, fans of atmospheric (CREEPY) horror, and to those who would cheer if they witnessed what happened to James Cook on 2/14/1779.
May 6, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children’s Books| Random House Books for Young Readers, as well as the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
#NetGalley #RandomHouseChildrensBooksRandomHouseBooksForYoungReaders #KealaKendall #ThatWhichFeedsUs #YoungAdult #Horror #Fiction #BookReviews #reading
Title: That Which Feeds Us
Author: Keala Kendall
Format: eBook
Publisher: Random House Children’s Books| Random House Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: May 5, 2026
Rating: 5 Stars
Themes: Young Adult, paranormal, gothic, folk horror, survival
Trigger Warnings: Survival, ghosts, gore, violence
This atmospheric horror novel is my first by this author. The Kopa’a is a Hawaiian luxury resort. It’s a wellness retreat with no internet or cell service. It seems like any person’s dream getaway, except for Lehua. Ohia, her sister, has gone missing, and Lehua has traced her to Kopa’a. Lehua discovers that her sister isn’t the only mysterious thing that has happened at this resort. What could it be hiding?
This is a beautifully written novel set in a beautiful setting. The author has a gift for imagery. This book was a gift for the senses in addition to being a very creepy horror novel. I could practically smell the lush landscape and taste the persimmons, which I don’t know that I will ever taste again, if I’m honest. I enjoyed hearing stories about Hawaiian folklore and learning about the people indigenous to the area. The pacing was perfect, and I couldn’t put it down!
I’m looking forward to reading more of Ms. Kendall’s work.
#NetGalley #RandomHouseChildrensBooksRandomHouseBooksForYoungReaders #KealaKendall #ThatWhichFeedsUs #YoungAdult #Horror #Fiction #BookReviews #reading
Title: That Which Feeds Us
Author: Keala Kendall
Format: eBook
Publisher: Random House Children’s Books| Random House Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: May 5, 2026
Rating: 5 Stars
Themes: Young Adult, paranormal, gothic, folk horror, survival
Trigger Warnings: Survival, ghosts, gore, violence
This atmospheric horror novel is my first by this author. The Kopa’a is a Hawaiian luxury resort. It’s a wellness retreat with no internet or cell service. It seems like any person’s dream getaway, except for Lehua. Ohia, her sister, has gone missing, and Lehua has traced her to Kopa’a. Lehua discovers that her sister isn’t the only mysterious thing that has happened at this resort. What could it be hiding?
This is a beautifully written novel set in a beautiful setting. The author has a gift for imagery. This book was a gift for the senses in addition to being a very creepy horror novel. I could practically smell the lush landscape and taste the persimmons, which I don’t know that I will ever taste again, if I’m honest. I enjoyed hearing stories about Hawaiian folklore and learning about the people indigenous to the area. The pacing was perfect, and I couldn’t put it down!
I’m looking forward to reading more of Ms. Kendall’s work.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4 stars
There is SO much to love about this book! YA horror in Hawaii? Count me in! And that cover? Wow.
Lehua and Ohia are native Hawaiian twins who are currently vacationing in Hawaii, but something goes very wrong. Ohia goes missing, and though she is completely isolated from the outside world and any sort of help, Lehua is determined to come to her rescue. This is where things get weird...immediately. Let's just say the comparison to _Mexican Gothic_ is totally fair. There's something unusual about the land, and there's an equally odd obsession with, of all things, persimmons (which I used to really enjoy prior to this book, but that's okay. It was worth it/no regrets).
Lehua begins encountering so many sus individuals, and she also takes note of prominent aspects of colonization AND those that are perhaps more insidious. Through Lehua's burgeoning awareness and understanding, Kendall does an expert job of entertaining with the horror but also of informing readers about various sociocultural issues that are likely lesser known to them. All of this happens without seeming didactic or detracting from the central terrifying throughline, which really evidences Kendall's skill.
Obviously, I enjoyed this very much, and I'm really looking forward to recommending it to students AND to reading much more from this author.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Random House for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
There is SO much to love about this book! YA horror in Hawaii? Count me in! And that cover? Wow.
Lehua and Ohia are native Hawaiian twins who are currently vacationing in Hawaii, but something goes very wrong. Ohia goes missing, and though she is completely isolated from the outside world and any sort of help, Lehua is determined to come to her rescue. This is where things get weird...immediately. Let's just say the comparison to _Mexican Gothic_ is totally fair. There's something unusual about the land, and there's an equally odd obsession with, of all things, persimmons (which I used to really enjoy prior to this book, but that's okay. It was worth it/no regrets).
Lehua begins encountering so many sus individuals, and she also takes note of prominent aspects of colonization AND those that are perhaps more insidious. Through Lehua's burgeoning awareness and understanding, Kendall does an expert job of entertaining with the horror but also of informing readers about various sociocultural issues that are likely lesser known to them. All of this happens without seeming didactic or detracting from the central terrifying throughline, which really evidences Kendall's skill.
Obviously, I enjoyed this very much, and I'm really looking forward to recommending it to students AND to reading much more from this author.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Random House for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
March 9, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are my own. 3.5 stars rounding to 4
What I absolutely loved about it this book was the inclusion of Hawaiian folk lore. I know absolutely nothing about it and this book made me want to deep dive into it. The horror wasn’t so much scary monsters as it was a commentary on the lasting effects of colonialism told through a horror lens.
Our story follows Lehua, a young native Hawaiian woman looking for her missing twin. She had previously lost contact with her, and then the twin leaves a concerning message prompting Lehua to take off after her. She follows the twin to an upscale resort where only the super rich are allowed in. Lehua gets stranded over the weekend and becomes an unofficial guest while she searches for her twin.
What then unravels is a story of Hawaiian lore and colonialism’s lasting effects blended with eco horror. The book was very interesting on that front.
The one critique I have is that though it has these elements, it still reads somewhat at a YA level. It is upper YA for sure, but YA hasn’t really piqued my interest in sometime. This one was fun, but I almost wish it was even more horrific at some points. Most of the horror elements were fairly predictable with the saving grace being the Hawaiian take on it. I would love more Hawaiian lore based horror novels. The setting really added to the plot and I’d love an adult horror-forward novel steeped in Hawaiian lore.
What I absolutely loved about it this book was the inclusion of Hawaiian folk lore. I know absolutely nothing about it and this book made me want to deep dive into it. The horror wasn’t so much scary monsters as it was a commentary on the lasting effects of colonialism told through a horror lens.
Our story follows Lehua, a young native Hawaiian woman looking for her missing twin. She had previously lost contact with her, and then the twin leaves a concerning message prompting Lehua to take off after her. She follows the twin to an upscale resort where only the super rich are allowed in. Lehua gets stranded over the weekend and becomes an unofficial guest while she searches for her twin.
What then unravels is a story of Hawaiian lore and colonialism’s lasting effects blended with eco horror. The book was very interesting on that front.
The one critique I have is that though it has these elements, it still reads somewhat at a YA level. It is upper YA for sure, but YA hasn’t really piqued my interest in sometime. This one was fun, but I almost wish it was even more horrific at some points. Most of the horror elements were fairly predictable with the saving grace being the Hawaiian take on it. I would love more Hawaiian lore based horror novels. The setting really added to the plot and I’d love an adult horror-forward novel steeped in Hawaiian lore.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 | This was a great YA horror that is mixed with Hawaiian folklore and history! We follow our main character Lehua in her search for her twin sister, Ohia, who went missing while in Hawai’i. This leads her to Kōpaʻan Island Resort, a luxury wellness resort for the uber-rich. When Lehua arrives on a Friday, she finds herself stranded on the island until the following Monday and suddenly is taken in as a guest among people very different from her. But the island is much more than it seems and finding her sister is not going to be easy.
This has a very creepy and tense atmosphere, very much gothic. While Lehua does not believe in the supernatural, being on the island for that short period of time is slowly changing her mind. This story, however, is more than just a horror novel but also weaves in history of the violence committed against Native Hawaiians by colonizers. It makes clear commentary too on how this history has resulted in the living conditions that Native Hawaiians now face on their own land: being priced out and pushed out to accommodate colonizers and vacationers. There is more to this novel too with the sisters’ relationship.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story: its atmosphere, characters, history, and commentary. I feel like there is more I can say the more time I spend reflecting on it, but for now, I highly recommend!
______
Thank you NetGalley and Random House for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This has a very creepy and tense atmosphere, very much gothic. While Lehua does not believe in the supernatural, being on the island for that short period of time is slowly changing her mind. This story, however, is more than just a horror novel but also weaves in history of the violence committed against Native Hawaiians by colonizers. It makes clear commentary too on how this history has resulted in the living conditions that Native Hawaiians now face on their own land: being priced out and pushed out to accommodate colonizers and vacationers. There is more to this novel too with the sisters’ relationship.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story: its atmosphere, characters, history, and commentary. I feel like there is more I can say the more time I spend reflecting on it, but for now, I highly recommend!
______
Thank you NetGalley and Random House for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
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