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Creepy Crawlies
Something creepy hides in the cracks... It's watching you, waiting to crawl out
In this unsettling anthology of psychological and supernatural horror, the line between the living and the demonic blurs, boundaries between nightmare and reality collapse, and sanity is only a mirage.
A boy returns from the asylum after years, and his neighbour's infant goes missing.
A reclusive homeowner begins to suspect the spiders in his house aren't intruders, but guardians.
In a chilling psychiatric interview, a young girl recounts why her brother had to die.
The darkly audacious stories in Creepy Crawlies twist the familiar into the grotesque. Drawing inspiration from ancient folklore, urban legends and the darkest corners of the human mind, this collection dares readers to peek behind the curtain with a fair warning that they may find something sinister watching from the dark.
In this unsettling anthology of psychological and supernatural horror, the line between the living and the demonic blurs, boundaries between nightmare and reality collapse, and sanity is only a mirage.
A boy returns from the asylum after years, and his neighbour's infant goes missing.
A reclusive homeowner begins to suspect the spiders in his house aren't intruders, but guardians.
In a chilling psychiatric interview, a young girl recounts why her brother had to die.
The darkly audacious stories in Creepy Crawlies twist the familiar into the grotesque. Drawing inspiration from ancient folklore, urban legends and the darkest corners of the human mind, this collection dares readers to peek behind the curtain with a fair warning that they may find something sinister watching from the dark.
- GenresHorror
116 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2025
About the author
Kanika Sharma
77 books22 followersHR Professional by the Day, Author by the Night. Kanika is a passed out of premium colleges like Sri Ram College of Commerce and Hindu College. She is also a Three time-Published Hachette Author, who recently cracked the code of traditional publishing when Hachette India selected her pitch for a collection of Short Horror Stories based on folklores from around the world called Creepy Crawlies (Kolkata Bookworm's ReaderChooce Winner) that too solely on merit without any Literary Agent.
She also an accomplished open mic artist, who has performed open verse and poetry on prestigious platforms like Spill Poetry, unErase, Habitat, Ghar , TaT, IndieOwl, Social House and Poems and Kahaniyan.
Her first novel was out, 'Bikram and Vithhal by Bluerose, in midst of Pandemic, in September 2020'. It was a horror novella and was well appreciated within the genre community
Her Second book MEMOIRS is out now since August Platform and is available in paperback and Kindle format. Unlike the last time, the theme of this book is musings. It is a collection of stories, Flash-Fictions, Poems, and Personal essays. All of these are musings of the author that are sure to strike a chord with you.
She is further the Co-Author of five bestseller anthologies:- Select Poetry Collection (Select Reads), Days and Nights (Notion Press India), Around the World (Notion Press India), The Great Indian Anthology: Express Edition-Vol 2 (Half-Baked Beans) and Tales of Love (Flairs and Glairs). And few of her anthologies are in pipe, including a global project.
She has also been featured on numerous platforms like Delhi Poetry Slam, The IINK Magzine, Inkspire, Bindas Befikre, Abode of Artists.
She is also a book reviewer with platforms like Half-Baked Beans, Delhi Poetry Slam.
She also an accomplished open mic artist, who has performed open verse and poetry on prestigious platforms like Spill Poetry, unErase, Habitat, Ghar , TaT, IndieOwl, Social House and Poems and Kahaniyan.
Her first novel was out, 'Bikram and Vithhal by Bluerose, in midst of Pandemic, in September 2020'. It was a horror novella and was well appreciated within the genre community
Her Second book MEMOIRS is out now since August Platform and is available in paperback and Kindle format. Unlike the last time, the theme of this book is musings. It is a collection of stories, Flash-Fictions, Poems, and Personal essays. All of these are musings of the author that are sure to strike a chord with you.
She is further the Co-Author of five bestseller anthologies:- Select Poetry Collection (Select Reads), Days and Nights (Notion Press India), Around the World (Notion Press India), The Great Indian Anthology: Express Edition-Vol 2 (Half-Baked Beans) and Tales of Love (Flairs and Glairs). And few of her anthologies are in pipe, including a global project.
She has also been featured on numerous platforms like Delhi Poetry Slam, The IINK Magzine, Inkspire, Bindas Befikre, Abode of Artists.
She is also a book reviewer with platforms like Half-Baked Beans, Delhi Poetry Slam.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 1, 2025
Book Review: Creepy Crawlies
Author: Kanika Sharma
This is a book of short stories containing ten spine chilling narratives. No two stories dwell on the same theme but the common thread is the fear they invoke. In the prologue the author clearly explains about the collection thus:
"The collection of stories delves into the darkest recesses of human emotion, where every creek, whisper, and shadow could herald impending doom. Each tale is a testament to the power of fear, a reminder that sometimes the greatest horrors are the ones we carry within."
In almost every story, the ending is beautifully carved out. Alongwith fear, we are also left with wonder on how each story is closed.
It is difficult to write a review on a bunch of short stories and more so if the short stories are spine chilling narratives like this. You can not share what exactly and why exactly you liked a story without trespassing the boundaries of what the reviewers call as
" spoilers."
So, I would just confine to introduce only the flavour of the stories but not the taste.
Author has used the names of different kinds of spirits from across the globe to name titles to her stories. Chalawa, Dybbuk,Jorogumo, Zombies,Ghoul, Shakchunni,Chupacabra,Kappa,Ifrit and Chitouli. I wonder how many of this you are familiar with. If you have time, I suggest you to search for those terms in internet and you will be surprised.
In reading any book of stories one gets attracted to a particular story. Thus, I fell in love with the stories IFRIT and CHITAULI, though I loved all the well narrated stories. You are free to pick your own favourites.
While reading stories like this reader should be prepared to accept th che blurred distinction between what is real and what is unreal. Be prepared to meet a variety of spirits and learn how they operate.
The language is flawless and stories are crafted in a grand style.
I congratulate the author Kanika Sharma for her excellent work.
Author: Kanika Sharma
This is a book of short stories containing ten spine chilling narratives. No two stories dwell on the same theme but the common thread is the fear they invoke. In the prologue the author clearly explains about the collection thus:
"The collection of stories delves into the darkest recesses of human emotion, where every creek, whisper, and shadow could herald impending doom. Each tale is a testament to the power of fear, a reminder that sometimes the greatest horrors are the ones we carry within."
In almost every story, the ending is beautifully carved out. Alongwith fear, we are also left with wonder on how each story is closed.
It is difficult to write a review on a bunch of short stories and more so if the short stories are spine chilling narratives like this. You can not share what exactly and why exactly you liked a story without trespassing the boundaries of what the reviewers call as
" spoilers."
So, I would just confine to introduce only the flavour of the stories but not the taste.
Author has used the names of different kinds of spirits from across the globe to name titles to her stories. Chalawa, Dybbuk,Jorogumo, Zombies,Ghoul, Shakchunni,Chupacabra,Kappa,Ifrit and Chitouli. I wonder how many of this you are familiar with. If you have time, I suggest you to search for those terms in internet and you will be surprised.
In reading any book of stories one gets attracted to a particular story. Thus, I fell in love with the stories IFRIT and CHITAULI, though I loved all the well narrated stories. You are free to pick your own favourites.
While reading stories like this reader should be prepared to accept th che blurred distinction between what is real and what is unreal. Be prepared to meet a variety of spirits and learn how they operate.
The language is flawless and stories are crafted in a grand style.
I congratulate the author Kanika Sharma for her excellent work.
March 29, 2026
Great ideas, passable execution. The writing is fine, but it occasionally swings between atmospheric/poetic and casual conversational. Some stories feel like fillers compared to the ones that genuinely stand out. The plots sometimes try to pass unfiltered cruelty as horror, but without enough tension building so though the stories feel fun, they don’t exactly hit the “creepy” essence. More like, casual tragedies.
February 10, 2026
An amazing, breathtaking, and beautifully simple anthology of horror stories. Every single tale leaves you pondering long after it ends. A must-read...
March 7, 2026
Horror has always been one of those genres that quietly pulls you in. There is something fascinating about stories that make you uncomfortable, that slowly build a sense of dread while you keep turning the pages. Creepy Crawlies by Kanika Sharma is one such book that explores the unsettling corners of the human mind through a collection of dark and eerie stories.
This anthology brings together psychological and supernatural horror in a way that feels deeply atmospheric. Instead of relying on loud scares or predictable twists, the stories in this book focus more on emotions, fear, and the fragile line between reality and imagination. Each story introduces characters who are dealing with situations that slowly turn disturbing, making the reader question what is real and what might be something far darker hiding beneath the surface.
One thing I appreciated about this collection is the variety of ideas it explores. Every story carries its own mood and intensity. In one story, a boy returns home after spending years in an asylum, only for a strange incident involving a neighbour’s missing infant to create a disturbing sense of mystery. In another, a lonely homeowner begins to believe that the spiders living in his house might not be pests at all, but silent guardians protecting something unknown. There is also a haunting psychiatric interview where a young girl calmly explains the reason behind her brother’s death. Moments like these give the book a chilling psychological depth.
Kanika Sharma’s writing has a way of creating tension through atmosphere rather than action. The stories feel inspired by folklore, urban legends, and the darker aspects of human psychology. There is a constant feeling that something sinister might be lurking just outside the reader’s sight. I enjoyed how the author slowly builds discomfort through subtle details, leaving space for the reader’s imagination to complete the horror.
What makes this anthology interesting is how it plays with the boundary between the supernatural and the human mind. Sometimes the horror feels otherworldly, while at other times it feels frighteningly real. That uncertainty keeps the reader engaged because you never fully know whether the darkness is coming from outside forces or from the characters themselves.
At the same time, some stories felt slightly open-ended, which might leave readers with lingering questions. Personally, I did not mind this because it added to the mysterious tone of the collection. Horror often becomes more powerful when it leaves something unexplained.
Overall, Creepy Crawlies is an intriguing collection for readers who enjoy psychological horror mixed with eerie supernatural elements. It is not just about fear, but also about curiosity and the unsettling feeling that something might be hiding in the quiet corners of everyday life. If you enjoy anthologies that explore dark themes, strange characters, and unsettling possibilities, this book can be a memorable addition to your reading list.
This anthology brings together psychological and supernatural horror in a way that feels deeply atmospheric. Instead of relying on loud scares or predictable twists, the stories in this book focus more on emotions, fear, and the fragile line between reality and imagination. Each story introduces characters who are dealing with situations that slowly turn disturbing, making the reader question what is real and what might be something far darker hiding beneath the surface.
One thing I appreciated about this collection is the variety of ideas it explores. Every story carries its own mood and intensity. In one story, a boy returns home after spending years in an asylum, only for a strange incident involving a neighbour’s missing infant to create a disturbing sense of mystery. In another, a lonely homeowner begins to believe that the spiders living in his house might not be pests at all, but silent guardians protecting something unknown. There is also a haunting psychiatric interview where a young girl calmly explains the reason behind her brother’s death. Moments like these give the book a chilling psychological depth.
Kanika Sharma’s writing has a way of creating tension through atmosphere rather than action. The stories feel inspired by folklore, urban legends, and the darker aspects of human psychology. There is a constant feeling that something sinister might be lurking just outside the reader’s sight. I enjoyed how the author slowly builds discomfort through subtle details, leaving space for the reader’s imagination to complete the horror.
What makes this anthology interesting is how it plays with the boundary between the supernatural and the human mind. Sometimes the horror feels otherworldly, while at other times it feels frighteningly real. That uncertainty keeps the reader engaged because you never fully know whether the darkness is coming from outside forces or from the characters themselves.
At the same time, some stories felt slightly open-ended, which might leave readers with lingering questions. Personally, I did not mind this because it added to the mysterious tone of the collection. Horror often becomes more powerful when it leaves something unexplained.
Overall, Creepy Crawlies is an intriguing collection for readers who enjoy psychological horror mixed with eerie supernatural elements. It is not just about fear, but also about curiosity and the unsettling feeling that something might be hiding in the quiet corners of everyday life. If you enjoy anthologies that explore dark themes, strange characters, and unsettling possibilities, this book can be a memorable addition to your reading list.
January 30, 2026
creepy crawlies by kanika sharma
genre: horror short stories
My 💭:
[29/1/26 4.18 PM]
What an awesome fun read after a long time! I know I know that it's a horror genre book and the author forewarned us readers about how spooky the stories are, but you guys know how much I REVEL living in a world of supernatural entities 😍. So, hands down, this was a super mood freshening read for me. 👻
This book is a collection of a few spooky stories that deal with deep psychological or supernatural issues. I absolutely LOVE it when these two worlds blend and a deliciously dark narrative comes out. The first story is a disturbing psychological thriller involving twins and any seasoned horror buffs know this - when there are twins involved, things get REALLY dark. The second story taught me to douse any antique item, especially journals, in holy water before using it, because there's NO WAY I want to end up like that protagonist, thanks to a few new year resolutions 💀. One of the stories featured spiders and it reinforced my hate for insects even more. Thank god it wasn't cockroaches (thank you author!🙏🏻). Another story had a characterless man land in a hotel full of monsters and become their victims and it made me oh so happy 😇 (served him right)! The tale of Shakchunni was probably my favourite story in this book. It was creepy, haunting and perfect - Yet another tale that proves why I always support the ghosts more than disgusting humans. Another story had a devilish goat and as much as I am a super cautious person, even I couldn't have resisted a cute goat 🙈. Of all the types of ghosts, I feel like children ghosts are the worst. One of the stories had an irritating little boy ghost who tortures children who falls asleep in the afternoon - like seriously? I felt so sorry for the protagonist kid though! The second last story had a freaking blood pact and black magic!!! So obviously I lovedd the creepiness of it, especially because it involved two siblings. The last story's protagonist eerily reminded me of Sushant Singh Rajput for some reason. Of course, this story involved alien AI tech ready to take over the humanity!
.
Honestly speaking, I don't get afraid of supernatural stuff anymore because, in truth, it's a human's life that's the most scary. The horror of living and witnessing so much suffering along with loved ones surpasses all other fears to me. Comparatively, supernatural beings almost bring me hope that there might be Something beyond this wretched life. And that is why I love books like this, having creepy stuff.
.
Had an awesome day reading this book. Looking forward to reading more of your works author
genre: horror short stories
My 💭:
[29/1/26 4.18 PM]
What an awesome fun read after a long time! I know I know that it's a horror genre book and the author forewarned us readers about how spooky the stories are, but you guys know how much I REVEL living in a world of supernatural entities 😍. So, hands down, this was a super mood freshening read for me. 👻
This book is a collection of a few spooky stories that deal with deep psychological or supernatural issues. I absolutely LOVE it when these two worlds blend and a deliciously dark narrative comes out. The first story is a disturbing psychological thriller involving twins and any seasoned horror buffs know this - when there are twins involved, things get REALLY dark. The second story taught me to douse any antique item, especially journals, in holy water before using it, because there's NO WAY I want to end up like that protagonist, thanks to a few new year resolutions 💀. One of the stories featured spiders and it reinforced my hate for insects even more. Thank god it wasn't cockroaches (thank you author!🙏🏻). Another story had a characterless man land in a hotel full of monsters and become their victims and it made me oh so happy 😇 (served him right)! The tale of Shakchunni was probably my favourite story in this book. It was creepy, haunting and perfect - Yet another tale that proves why I always support the ghosts more than disgusting humans. Another story had a devilish goat and as much as I am a super cautious person, even I couldn't have resisted a cute goat 🙈. Of all the types of ghosts, I feel like children ghosts are the worst. One of the stories had an irritating little boy ghost who tortures children who falls asleep in the afternoon - like seriously? I felt so sorry for the protagonist kid though! The second last story had a freaking blood pact and black magic!!! So obviously I lovedd the creepiness of it, especially because it involved two siblings. The last story's protagonist eerily reminded me of Sushant Singh Rajput for some reason. Of course, this story involved alien AI tech ready to take over the humanity!
.
Honestly speaking, I don't get afraid of supernatural stuff anymore because, in truth, it's a human's life that's the most scary. The horror of living and witnessing so much suffering along with loved ones surpasses all other fears to me. Comparatively, supernatural beings almost bring me hope that there might be Something beyond this wretched life. And that is why I love books like this, having creepy stuff.
.
Had an awesome day reading this book. Looking forward to reading more of your works author
November 30, 2025
There are two kinds of evil tales I have come across till date. One that usually deals with horrifying visuals and the other where most of the scary stuff happen inside your head. The latter is surely more frightening as it strikes your sensitive nerves and plays havoc with your psyche.
Kanika is certainly more than a proficient author when it comes to striking that chord and with this collection of crawlies she has taken it a step further.
The book comprises of stories where the creepiness stems from the cruelty of happenings. Things aren't rosy and the characters with whom you feel building like a bond either turns out to be rogue or more often a victim of dire circumstances . There are few tales like Dybbuk where it literally snaps out your soul seeing how the irony of events just destroys someone's life . After this, one thing is certain I am never gonna buy any antique.
Building mysterious circumstances around some random scenarios in a picture perfect articulate manner is the USP of this work. After a long time I have read a collection which is almost perfectly edited and the choice of words is immaculate too. Though there are few things that could have been better. First and foremost is the cover which isn't particularly fascinating. Also few tales are a bit too random and away from realistic flair which might fail to leave a long lasting impression. But nevertheless author has stayed true to how she wanted the stories to be and gave us her piece of mind in the most emphatic manner
All in all shoutout to the writer for showing the courage for trying something different which is not so common in Indian literature diaspora
Kanika is certainly more than a proficient author when it comes to striking that chord and with this collection of crawlies she has taken it a step further.
The book comprises of stories where the creepiness stems from the cruelty of happenings. Things aren't rosy and the characters with whom you feel building like a bond either turns out to be rogue or more often a victim of dire circumstances . There are few tales like Dybbuk where it literally snaps out your soul seeing how the irony of events just destroys someone's life . After this, one thing is certain I am never gonna buy any antique.
Building mysterious circumstances around some random scenarios in a picture perfect articulate manner is the USP of this work. After a long time I have read a collection which is almost perfectly edited and the choice of words is immaculate too. Though there are few things that could have been better. First and foremost is the cover which isn't particularly fascinating. Also few tales are a bit too random and away from realistic flair which might fail to leave a long lasting impression. But nevertheless author has stayed true to how she wanted the stories to be and gave us her piece of mind in the most emphatic manner
All in all shoutout to the writer for showing the courage for trying something different which is not so common in Indian literature diaspora
April 20, 2026
Just finished "Creepy Crawlies" by Kanika Sharma, courtesy of Hachette India. This collection is a fascinating dive into the "internal shadows" of horror, leaning more into a psychological atmosphere than typical jump-scares.
The Standouts: Atmospheric Highs- What I loved about this collection was the way certain stories echoed the "vibes" of classic psychological thrillers:
Chalawa: A brilliant study in perspective. It reminded me of the movie Kaun (1999), where the "timid" persona acts as a mask for a much darker, violent reality.
Kappa: An emotional standout. While it reminded me of the maternal themes in Mama (2013), it flips the script by focusing on the "demon" child's yearning for a mother's love.
Ghoul: This story captured that haunting, luring atmosphere of Talaash—that feeling of being drawn into a truth you aren't sure you're ready to find.
The narrative style is quite unique; rather than a traditional story, it feels like eavesdropping on the raw, internal monologues of the characters. I genuinely loved this concept—it makes the horror feel very intimate and voyeuristic.
However, I found some tropes (like in Zombies) a bit predictable. Because the stories function as a stream of consciousness, they often embrace extreme ambiguity. Many end abruptly without a grounded premise or a clear resolution.
A 4/5 star read. It's a quick, moody collection that excels in atmosphere. Perfect for those who enjoy open-ended folklore, but perhaps a bit too brief for those of us who love a complex, tied-up twist.
The Standouts: Atmospheric Highs- What I loved about this collection was the way certain stories echoed the "vibes" of classic psychological thrillers:
Chalawa: A brilliant study in perspective. It reminded me of the movie Kaun (1999), where the "timid" persona acts as a mask for a much darker, violent reality.
Kappa: An emotional standout. While it reminded me of the maternal themes in Mama (2013), it flips the script by focusing on the "demon" child's yearning for a mother's love.
Ghoul: This story captured that haunting, luring atmosphere of Talaash—that feeling of being drawn into a truth you aren't sure you're ready to find.
The narrative style is quite unique; rather than a traditional story, it feels like eavesdropping on the raw, internal monologues of the characters. I genuinely loved this concept—it makes the horror feel very intimate and voyeuristic.
However, I found some tropes (like in Zombies) a bit predictable. Because the stories function as a stream of consciousness, they often embrace extreme ambiguity. Many end abruptly without a grounded premise or a clear resolution.
A 4/5 star read. It's a quick, moody collection that excels in atmosphere. Perfect for those who enjoy open-ended folklore, but perhaps a bit too brief for those of us who love a complex, tied-up twist.
November 3, 2025
💚💜Vivid imaginative horror stories with many unforeseen twists and turns!💜💚
.
.
.
🕷️The 10 short stories are inspired by the horror folklore of different cultures in the world and the writer's flight of imaginative vivid storytelling that is commendable 👏
🕷️Each story has twists and turns that take you by surprise, unforseen and often tragic.
🕷️There are elements of the bizzare, surreal, horrific, dystopian, haunting...spirits possessing bodies, so be prepared for some very sick and dark scenes and also blood and gore scenes.
My 💜favourite story : Ghoul
🕷️I read the kindle edition.
🕷️Those who like horror and short stories should check it out.
A 4.2/ 5 star read for me.⭐⭐⭐⭐➕
A Trigger ⚠️warning: there are references to pet and animal cruelty/violence, suicidal ideations and marital abuse/rape.
.
.
.
🤔❓The 2nd story : "DYBBUK A demon from Jewish folklore, a dybbuk often clings to antique boxes and objects. But what if it clings to you?" This is the definition given in the book but on researching I found these definitions :
(dybbuk, in Jewish folklore, a disembodied human spirit that, because of former sins, wanders restlessly until it finds a haven in the body of a living person
dybbuk boxes are wine cabinets claimed to be haunted by a dybbuk, a malicious demon said to hold the power to invade and possess a living person.)
🤔❓JORŌGUMO and Ghoul definitions given in the book were also different from my search, so I guess the definitions are not meant literally but inspired takes on the orginal meaning/folklore.
.
.
.
🕷️The 10 short stories are inspired by the horror folklore of different cultures in the world and the writer's flight of imaginative vivid storytelling that is commendable 👏
🕷️Each story has twists and turns that take you by surprise, unforseen and often tragic.
🕷️There are elements of the bizzare, surreal, horrific, dystopian, haunting...spirits possessing bodies, so be prepared for some very sick and dark scenes and also blood and gore scenes.
My 💜favourite story : Ghoul
🕷️I read the kindle edition.
🕷️Those who like horror and short stories should check it out.
A 4.2/ 5 star read for me.⭐⭐⭐⭐➕
A Trigger ⚠️warning: there are references to pet and animal cruelty/violence, suicidal ideations and marital abuse/rape.
.
.
.
🤔❓The 2nd story : "DYBBUK A demon from Jewish folklore, a dybbuk often clings to antique boxes and objects. But what if it clings to you?" This is the definition given in the book but on researching I found these definitions :
(dybbuk, in Jewish folklore, a disembodied human spirit that, because of former sins, wanders restlessly until it finds a haven in the body of a living person
dybbuk boxes are wine cabinets claimed to be haunted by a dybbuk, a malicious demon said to hold the power to invade and possess a living person.)
🤔❓JORŌGUMO and Ghoul definitions given in the book were also different from my search, so I guess the definitions are not meant literally but inspired takes on the orginal meaning/folklore.
January 9, 2026
Rating: 4 out of 5 🌺
Creepy Crawlies is a collection of short horror stories that slither through everyday fears, it’s based on urban legends!!
-The pace is brisk and gore-lite enough to keep you flipping pages. It’s short, fast-paced and fun to read! Exactly what a beginner horror reader might love without getting weighed down.
-The author leans into the psychological and uncanny, not gonna spoil but you have one story which features a psychiatric interview, another a man haunted by his own home’s spiders, etc. The blur between nightmare and reality is teased.
-For someone who wants a quick adrenaline dip rather than a full plunge into dread, this book delivers.
One aspect was a slight miss for me (the book was still VERY VERY great!!) and it’s this— As a horror dork (yours truly), I found the impact a little muted but that’s solely because I’m a big horror enthusiast.
Final Cauldron Verdict:
If I were brewing a potion: I’d say dip your toe in the shadows with this book 😉. It’s perfect if you’re a beginner horror reader wanting a quick, fun fix. I would recommend it 10000%!! It will drag you out of your reading slump and I absolutely adored its fast pace. But if you’re a seasoned horror witch (or warlock), you might feel a little under-enchanted by the horror🙂↕️, but still you’ll enjoy it, so definitely go grab it!
🪄✨ May your nights be haunted in just the right way.✨
Creepy Crawlies is a collection of short horror stories that slither through everyday fears, it’s based on urban legends!!
-The pace is brisk and gore-lite enough to keep you flipping pages. It’s short, fast-paced and fun to read! Exactly what a beginner horror reader might love without getting weighed down.
-The author leans into the psychological and uncanny, not gonna spoil but you have one story which features a psychiatric interview, another a man haunted by his own home’s spiders, etc. The blur between nightmare and reality is teased.
-For someone who wants a quick adrenaline dip rather than a full plunge into dread, this book delivers.
One aspect was a slight miss for me (the book was still VERY VERY great!!) and it’s this— As a horror dork (yours truly), I found the impact a little muted but that’s solely because I’m a big horror enthusiast.
Final Cauldron Verdict:
If I were brewing a potion: I’d say dip your toe in the shadows with this book 😉. It’s perfect if you’re a beginner horror reader wanting a quick, fun fix. I would recommend it 10000%!! It will drag you out of your reading slump and I absolutely adored its fast pace. But if you’re a seasoned horror witch (or warlock), you might feel a little under-enchanted by the horror🙂↕️, but still you’ll enjoy it, so definitely go grab it!
🪄✨ May your nights be haunted in just the right way.✨
November 1, 2025
If you’re looking for something beyond spooky the kind of horror that seeps under your skin, follows you into your dreams, and makes you glance twice at the shadows then Creepy Crawlies by Kanika Sharma is the perfect pick.
This short novella, barely 128 pages, is packed with chilling stories that explore our deepest fears through entities like the Chalawa, Zombies, Ghouls (my personal nightmare fuel!), Chupacabra, and Shakchunni which happens to be my favorite from the collection. Each story grips you differently, leaving behind a lingering unease that you can almost feel crawling over your skin.
What really stood out to me was the prologue. The author beautifully explains how we can manifest our fears how what we believe in can sometimes take shape and stare back at us. It’s a concept that feels hauntingly real once you dive into the stories.
By the time I turned the last page, my heart was heavy, my goosebumps had goosebumps, and I couldn’t help but look around to make sure I wasn’t alone.
Reading this on Halloween felt like fate as if this book was meant to be experienced in this eerie season. If you’re craving short, spine-tingling tales that will linger in your mind long after you finish, Creepy Crawlies is the perfect Halloween treat… or maybe trick. 🎃
This short novella, barely 128 pages, is packed with chilling stories that explore our deepest fears through entities like the Chalawa, Zombies, Ghouls (my personal nightmare fuel!), Chupacabra, and Shakchunni which happens to be my favorite from the collection. Each story grips you differently, leaving behind a lingering unease that you can almost feel crawling over your skin.
What really stood out to me was the prologue. The author beautifully explains how we can manifest our fears how what we believe in can sometimes take shape and stare back at us. It’s a concept that feels hauntingly real once you dive into the stories.
By the time I turned the last page, my heart was heavy, my goosebumps had goosebumps, and I couldn’t help but look around to make sure I wasn’t alone.
Reading this on Halloween felt like fate as if this book was meant to be experienced in this eerie season. If you’re craving short, spine-tingling tales that will linger in your mind long after you finish, Creepy Crawlies is the perfect Halloween treat… or maybe trick. 🎃
March 5, 2026
Creepy Crawlies is written in an interesting concept where Kanika takes 10 paranormal entities across folklores and weaves a story around them in the Indian context. Kanika’s storytelling is interesting and keeps you hooked in the stories one after the other. Another aspect of the book that works is the concept of the book, and how the idea of these paranormal entities has been woven into seemingly normal stories. Kanika’s writing will keep you guessing what is going to happen in the end. The story about Dybbuk stood out for me for the fact that the author uses the idea of the paranormal entity and a diary in a good manner and while the perpetrator is quite visible, you keep turning the pages to see what happens in the end. Similarly, the story with the Ghoul was another that I liked for the manner in which Kanika treats the concept. What did not work for me in the book, however, was the length of the stories. I think that with the concept that Kanika brought in, and with her storytelling, the characters needed a bit more of space and time for the creep and thrill to blossom. While the stories kept me turning the pages, the spine-chilling fear that I had expected somehow did not materialize completely. That being said, I loved the way each of the stories end.
November 15, 2025
This book is a collection of some spine chilling horror stories that will make you feel the chill in the air and a horrific sensation within
Let's talk about the cover first, it's simple yet terrifying.
It also reminds me of Cursed Bunny which had a similar concept. I have never read anything like this by an Indian author. Short stories are trending these days but Indian authors are not writing anything close to it, they're focusing on the success formula which includes the genres like romance, historical fiction, or a modern retelling of Indian mythology. But Kanika has broken all such barriers and wrote something that is beyond the standard genres in the Indian bookish community.
There are elements/entities from different folktales or mythology in the book but the author has done a great job incorporating the same in the Indian community within the book. I love short stories, topped with something horror and gothic, now that's an absolute treat. I skimmed through the book and was more spooked with every passing page.
So, if you're also a fan of such spooky short stories then don't forget to check out Creepy Crawlies!
Happy reading!
Let's talk about the cover first, it's simple yet terrifying.
It also reminds me of Cursed Bunny which had a similar concept. I have never read anything like this by an Indian author. Short stories are trending these days but Indian authors are not writing anything close to it, they're focusing on the success formula which includes the genres like romance, historical fiction, or a modern retelling of Indian mythology. But Kanika has broken all such barriers and wrote something that is beyond the standard genres in the Indian bookish community.
There are elements/entities from different folktales or mythology in the book but the author has done a great job incorporating the same in the Indian community within the book. I love short stories, topped with something horror and gothic, now that's an absolute treat. I skimmed through the book and was more spooked with every passing page.
So, if you're also a fan of such spooky short stories then don't forget to check out Creepy Crawlies!
Happy reading!
March 26, 2026
Creepy Crawlies is collection of short horror stories that lean into psychological and supernatural themes blurring the line between reality and imagination.
Most of these stories left me questioning what was real and what wasn't. A few of them ended in ways that made me pause and think... and also left me wanting to know more.
The first story, Chalawa, actually shocked me. Even thinking about it now makes me feel bad for D'souza family. It set the eerie, unsettling tone of the collection.
I loved how each story has a fitting title inspired by ghost folklore from around the world.
These stories make you question uncomfortable things. One of them asks: what if dead actually came back from the grave? Would we still want them back?
The stories gave off eerie, creepy and unsettling vibes that make you question if it's true or not, Chalawa and Ifrit stood out as my favorites! These stories stayed with me long after I finished reading it.
If Kanika ever write a full-length horror novel, I'd definitely read it.
Overall, it's a eerie, unsettling and chilling collection that plays with your mind than with quick scares.
Most of these stories left me questioning what was real and what wasn't. A few of them ended in ways that made me pause and think... and also left me wanting to know more.
The first story, Chalawa, actually shocked me. Even thinking about it now makes me feel bad for D'souza family. It set the eerie, unsettling tone of the collection.
I loved how each story has a fitting title inspired by ghost folklore from around the world.
These stories make you question uncomfortable things. One of them asks: what if dead actually came back from the grave? Would we still want them back?
The stories gave off eerie, creepy and unsettling vibes that make you question if it's true or not, Chalawa and Ifrit stood out as my favorites! These stories stayed with me long after I finished reading it.
If Kanika ever write a full-length horror novel, I'd definitely read it.
Overall, it's a eerie, unsettling and chilling collection that plays with your mind than with quick scares.
November 10, 2025
A perfect horror book!!!
This book is a collection of 10 short stories, filled with suspense, thrill, horror. It is a testament to the fear, a horrific reminder that the greatest fear and horror is what we carry within ourselves. Each story is based on a particular horror folklore across the world. Some of them which we might already heard of and might also believe in them. Chalawa, Dybbuk, Shakchunni, Zombies and many more.
Each short story is filled with utmost fear and horrific tales what will make you question everything. The characters in each story is vividly written that we can relate with their story and life. The experience and fear that we face in our own lives. You'll be able to relate your own deepest darkest fear in these short stories.
Kanika has written this book with such excellence that not a single page is boring. You'll find yourself hooked to this book in no time. And being a short book you can probably finish it in one sitting and stare at the wall. Every story is capable to send you chill spines.
I personally haven't really read a horror book before and this book completely made me fell in love with the genre. Definitely going to pick up more horror books.
This book is a collection of 10 short stories, filled with suspense, thrill, horror. It is a testament to the fear, a horrific reminder that the greatest fear and horror is what we carry within ourselves. Each story is based on a particular horror folklore across the world. Some of them which we might already heard of and might also believe in them. Chalawa, Dybbuk, Shakchunni, Zombies and many more.
Each short story is filled with utmost fear and horrific tales what will make you question everything. The characters in each story is vividly written that we can relate with their story and life. The experience and fear that we face in our own lives. You'll be able to relate your own deepest darkest fear in these short stories.
Kanika has written this book with such excellence that not a single page is boring. You'll find yourself hooked to this book in no time. And being a short book you can probably finish it in one sitting and stare at the wall. Every story is capable to send you chill spines.
I personally haven't really read a horror book before and this book completely made me fell in love with the genre. Definitely going to pick up more horror books.
March 22, 2026
Ramsay's son Christian visited his home to spend time with his family. But, he was visiting them from a mental asylum. Christian looked innocent but he might not be innocent as he seems.
Why did Christian get admitted to the mental asylum? What chaos was he planning this time?
Found this story interesting?Then you are definitely going to enjoy this book!
Thank you Hachette for sending me this amazing book. The horror fan in me was super happy with this gift.
This book is a collection of 10 spine chilling short horror stories. Each and every story was a different kind of horror experience. From spine chilling folk stories to realistic paranormal experiences everything can be found here. All the 10 stories introduce a different sort of paranormal entity, and it was actually new information for me. Kanika Sharma has done an amazing job with this book, her writing is impeccable and quite engaging. I finished the book in just a day, I really hope there will be more parts to this book! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I hope you guys will enjoy it too!
Why did Christian get admitted to the mental asylum? What chaos was he planning this time?
Found this story interesting?Then you are definitely going to enjoy this book!
Thank you Hachette for sending me this amazing book. The horror fan in me was super happy with this gift.
This book is a collection of 10 spine chilling short horror stories. Each and every story was a different kind of horror experience. From spine chilling folk stories to realistic paranormal experiences everything can be found here. All the 10 stories introduce a different sort of paranormal entity, and it was actually new information for me. Kanika Sharma has done an amazing job with this book, her writing is impeccable and quite engaging. I finished the book in just a day, I really hope there will be more parts to this book! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I hope you guys will enjoy it too!
December 26, 2025
"Creepy Crowlies" is a chilling collection of horror stories by Kanika that draws inspiration from folklore, weaving a dark and eerie narrative that will leave you sleeping with the lights on. Kanika Sharma 's writing is masterful, crafting an atmosphere of creeping creachers that steps into your heart and mind, makes you bit scared.
The stories are well written, drawing from various folklores/mythologies to create a sense of unease and restlessness to finish the story to know its end. The characters in each stories are limited but well-developed, making it easy to understand their terrifying journeys.
The book's strength lies in its ability to balance horror, suspense, length of the storyline, keeping you on the edge of your sofa or bed as you navigate the twisted world of "Creepy Crowlies".
If you're a fan of horror and folklore, this collection is a must-read.
Rating: 4.5/5 star
The stories are well written, drawing from various folklores/mythologies to create a sense of unease and restlessness to finish the story to know its end. The characters in each stories are limited but well-developed, making it easy to understand their terrifying journeys.
The book's strength lies in its ability to balance horror, suspense, length of the storyline, keeping you on the edge of your sofa or bed as you navigate the twisted world of "Creepy Crowlies".
If you're a fan of horror and folklore, this collection is a must-read.
Rating: 4.5/5 star
November 3, 2025
I just had to pick it up! I mean, just look at the cover!! It's spookingly- inviting!!
A collection of 10 spine chilling and unnerving stories which will make your hair stand!!!
The stories uncovers ancient folk tales and myths and makes you wonder if what you are reading is entirely a work of fiction or inspired from real stories?
These tales talk about the folklores - Chalawa ,Dybbuk, Jorogumo, Zombies, Ghoul, Shakchunni, Chupacabbra, Kappa, Ifrit & Chitauli . Most of us have probably heard at least a few of these stories.
The incredible hours the author dedicated to researching these figures and myths truly amazed me;
She has narrated each tale with stunning brilliance.
My personal favourite remains the first one, Chalawa!!
& Although I could not register a few of them, but overall the stories were successfully able to creep me out!
Spook mission accomplished!!!
A collection of 10 spine chilling and unnerving stories which will make your hair stand!!!
The stories uncovers ancient folk tales and myths and makes you wonder if what you are reading is entirely a work of fiction or inspired from real stories?
These tales talk about the folklores - Chalawa ,Dybbuk, Jorogumo, Zombies, Ghoul, Shakchunni, Chupacabbra, Kappa, Ifrit & Chitauli . Most of us have probably heard at least a few of these stories.
The incredible hours the author dedicated to researching these figures and myths truly amazed me;
She has narrated each tale with stunning brilliance.
My personal favourite remains the first one, Chalawa!!
& Although I could not register a few of them, but overall the stories were successfully able to creep me out!
Spook mission accomplished!!!
November 5, 2025
Creepy Crawlies is a collection of short horror stories that slither through everyday fears, it’s based on urban legends!!
-The pace is brisk and gore-lite enough to keep you flipping pages. It’s short, fast-paced and fun to read! Exactly what a beginner horror reader might love without getting weighed down.
-The author leans into the psychological and uncanny, not gonna spoil but you have one story which features a psychiatric interview, another a man haunted by his own home’s spiders, etc. The blur between nightmare and reality is teased.
-For someone who wants a quick adrenaline dip rather than a full plunge into dread, this book delivers.
-The pace is brisk and gore-lite enough to keep you flipping pages. It’s short, fast-paced and fun to read! Exactly what a beginner horror reader might love without getting weighed down.
-The author leans into the psychological and uncanny, not gonna spoil but you have one story which features a psychiatric interview, another a man haunted by his own home’s spiders, etc. The blur between nightmare and reality is teased.
-For someone who wants a quick adrenaline dip rather than a full plunge into dread, this book delivers.
November 14, 2025
Foooof! What a read!
Ok, this book was a total wildcard entry for my reading list!
Worth It!!!
So the book is written at a fast pace and talks about different kinds of urban or mythical entities. Like Ghoul, Zombies, Chupacabra, Shakchunni and many more. Evil and malevolent entities of different cultures. The unconventional take on these entities that the author has laced with our daily lives... Wow!
All of the stories are Brilliant... But the last one... I would like mention thanks to the author... For penning the last story so so brilliantly.
If you like the paranormal, unexplained, 'believe it or not stories... this is your absolute pick.
Ok, this book was a total wildcard entry for my reading list!
Worth It!!!
So the book is written at a fast pace and talks about different kinds of urban or mythical entities. Like Ghoul, Zombies, Chupacabra, Shakchunni and many more. Evil and malevolent entities of different cultures. The unconventional take on these entities that the author has laced with our daily lives... Wow!
All of the stories are Brilliant... But the last one... I would like mention thanks to the author... For penning the last story so so brilliantly.
If you like the paranormal, unexplained, 'believe it or not stories... this is your absolute pick.
December 12, 2025
Creepy Crawlies by Kanika Sharma is a collection of short horror stories inspired by folklore from all over the world. I absolutely love the concept of this book and as brilliant as it was, I felt it had strong potential to be a 5-star read but fell a little short as a couple of chapters were predictable in the beginning. But, as if went on, I was extremely enthralled and was completely spooked out by the time I reached the second last chapter.
I would definitely recommend this if you are interested in folklore from different cultures and want to experience a quick horror read in one sitting <3
I would definitely recommend this if you are interested in folklore from different cultures and want to experience a quick horror read in one sitting <3
January 22, 2026
A spooky, hair-raising read
My rating: 4.5/5
The 10 stories in this horror fiction are creepy, hair-raising and anxiety-inducing, sure to give you sleepless nights or even cause you to have eerie dreams around 'What if this happened to me?'. Besides being scary, the thing that stands out most in this anthology is that the stories are based around legends we may have heard or come across ourselves, or are inspired by events that may very well be routine but those that lead to unforeseen consequences; which is the very bit that makes the tales even more fearsome.
My rating: 4.5/5
The 10 stories in this horror fiction are creepy, hair-raising and anxiety-inducing, sure to give you sleepless nights or even cause you to have eerie dreams around 'What if this happened to me?'. Besides being scary, the thing that stands out most in this anthology is that the stories are based around legends we may have heard or come across ourselves, or are inspired by events that may very well be routine but those that lead to unforeseen consequences; which is the very bit that makes the tales even more fearsome.
December 31, 2025
If you really want to have a different view towards Horror this is the book. Given the fact these are short stories makes it more appealing in a fast pace world. What I loved about the concept that each story is a different global folklores or mythology or urban legends belonging to different country so every story you read you reach a different continent while the story step is still firmly rooted in Indian setting and landscape
January 2, 2026
From tales of the dybbuk to zombies, from horror I’ve grown up with in the South to chilling narratives rooted in Spanish folklore - this book was a constant surprise. Each short story packs a punch: impactful, unsettling, and genuinely creepy. A word of warning - if you’re reading this before bed, be prepared for a long, sleepless night. 👀🌙
January 9, 2026
One of the amazing books I have read by Kanika. It is a spine-chilling book with stories that will scare the hell out of you. I loved the research about various terms that author has done in the book. A must read for thriller and horror readers.
January 9, 2026
Creepy Crawlies genuinely got under my skin. The way you build tension around tiny, everyday fears is brilliant—by the end, even silence feels threatening. It’s creepy without trying too hard, intense without being loud, and it lingers in the best (and worst) way. Really well done
January 9, 2026
I loved the book
All short stories are different
Very indormative and intelligent read
A must read i mist say
Climax of every story is so good
All short stories are different
Very indormative and intelligent read
A must read i mist say
Climax of every story is so good
Did Not Finish
January 15, 2026DNF 10% clunky writing style
December 15, 2025
These stories border the dead and undead. The demonic and supernatural elements are so vividly described, that I couldn't stop myself from completing them. Being short with an added hauntingness makes you anticipate the ending, but you still can't get enough of the twist at the end!
Not only the folklore, they also narrate horrifying stories on spiders, sheep (yep, you probably wouldn't have heard any such). I knew if I enjoyed the Horror/Thriller genre, but only after reading 'Creepy Crawlies' which is actually my first in the horror genre, was that I understood that this is going to be my favourite genre for a long time.
Not only the folklore, they also narrate horrifying stories on spiders, sheep (yep, you probably wouldn't have heard any such). I knew if I enjoyed the Horror/Thriller genre, but only after reading 'Creepy Crawlies' which is actually my first in the horror genre, was that I understood that this is going to be my favourite genre for a long time.
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