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Backwoods
When successful entrepreneur Nick Alexander visits his reclusive grandfather's remote Georgia property, he's hoping to convince the old man to sell nearly a thousand acres for millions. What should be a simple family discussion becomes a nightmare when Nick and his girlfriend Amiya discover they're not alone in these primeval woods.
Hidden deep within the forest lies a dark secret that has festered for generations—a place where people vanish without a trace, where terrified voices whisper about an entity known only as "The Overseer," and where strange marks branded into flesh hold a power that defies explanation.
As darkness falls, Nick realizes his grandfather has been keeping deadly secrets. The land that's been in their family for over a century harbors something evil, something that feeds on suffering and traps souls in an endless cycle of torment.
Now, with Amiya captured and innocent people imprisoned in unimaginable conditions, Nick must confront a horrifying family legacy. Some burdens pass from father to son. Some curses demand blood. And in these backwoods, the sins of the past are very much alive.
From bestselling author Brandon Massey comes a chilling tale of family secrets, supernatural horror, and the price of breaking generational chains.
Hidden deep within the forest lies a dark secret that has festered for generations—a place where people vanish without a trace, where terrified voices whisper about an entity known only as "The Overseer," and where strange marks branded into flesh hold a power that defies explanation.
As darkness falls, Nick realizes his grandfather has been keeping deadly secrets. The land that's been in their family for over a century harbors something evil, something that feeds on suffering and traps souls in an endless cycle of torment.
Now, with Amiya captured and innocent people imprisoned in unimaginable conditions, Nick must confront a horrifying family legacy. Some burdens pass from father to son. Some curses demand blood. And in these backwoods, the sins of the past are very much alive.
From bestselling author Brandon Massey comes a chilling tale of family secrets, supernatural horror, and the price of breaking generational chains.
Audible Audio
Published October 3, 2025
About the author
Brandon Massey
56 books995 followersHere’s a little about me, Brandon Massey. (“Massey” is not pronounced “macy,” by the way. Think of “mass” instead.)
I was born June 9, 1973, in Waukegan, Illinois. I grew up in Zion, a suburb north of Chicago.
I originally self-published Thunderland, my first novel, in 1999. After managing to sell a few thousand copies on my own, Kensington Publishing Corp. in New York offered me a two-book contract, and published a new, revised edition of Thunderland in December 2002.
Since then, I’ve published up to three books a year, ranging from thriller novels such as The Other Brother, to short story collections such as Twisted Tales, and anthologies such as Dark Dreams.
My newest suspense thriller, Covenant, was published in November 2010.
I’ve got plenty more stories in the works that I’ll publish in the coming years.
I live with my family near Atlanta, GA.
I was born June 9, 1973, in Waukegan, Illinois. I grew up in Zion, a suburb north of Chicago.
I originally self-published Thunderland, my first novel, in 1999. After managing to sell a few thousand copies on my own, Kensington Publishing Corp. in New York offered me a two-book contract, and published a new, revised edition of Thunderland in December 2002.
Since then, I’ve published up to three books a year, ranging from thriller novels such as The Other Brother, to short story collections such as Twisted Tales, and anthologies such as Dark Dreams.
My newest suspense thriller, Covenant, was published in November 2010.
I’ve got plenty more stories in the works that I’ll publish in the coming years.
I live with my family near Atlanta, GA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 22, 2025
This is my first and favorite book by the author I can’t wait to read more‼️Based on the title my first thoughts were haunted woods maybe a few ghosts. But turns out it was soooooooo much more.
Nick Alexander was your typical family member you didn’t hear from him til he needed something. It’s been years since he visited his grandfathers home out in Georgia but Nick was in trouble and needed money fast. He conjured the perfect scheme to solve all his problems and brung his girlfriend Amiya along for the ride. Upon arrival things seem cool but nothing goes as planned leaving them both. . . SCREWED‼️
I enjoyed every moment of this book I honestly didn’t know what we’d find lurking in the woods. But the twist was so clever it’s the last thing I would have expected. They encounter an evil force that could trap them forever and once you’re captured there’s no escaping. Just know this one will have you hooked and invested from beginning to end. There was never a dull moment and I was so intrigued by Nick’s family history.
Nick was hands down the most annoying character in the book the man didn’t listen. I loved Amiya she wasn’t going down without a fight. We get so much with this one from cursed land, a dark family secret, some things from the past, sacrifices, survival, a few immortal beings and a whole lot of weird stuff in between. The plot was unpredictable and the author perfectly captures the chaos that transports readers back in time. If you’re looking for a fast-paced supernatural horror I highly recommend this book.
Rating: 4.5/5⭐️
Nick Alexander was your typical family member you didn’t hear from him til he needed something. It’s been years since he visited his grandfathers home out in Georgia but Nick was in trouble and needed money fast. He conjured the perfect scheme to solve all his problems and brung his girlfriend Amiya along for the ride. Upon arrival things seem cool but nothing goes as planned leaving them both. . . SCREWED‼️
I enjoyed every moment of this book I honestly didn’t know what we’d find lurking in the woods. But the twist was so clever it’s the last thing I would have expected. They encounter an evil force that could trap them forever and once you’re captured there’s no escaping. Just know this one will have you hooked and invested from beginning to end. There was never a dull moment and I was so intrigued by Nick’s family history.
Nick was hands down the most annoying character in the book the man didn’t listen. I loved Amiya she wasn’t going down without a fight. We get so much with this one from cursed land, a dark family secret, some things from the past, sacrifices, survival, a few immortal beings and a whole lot of weird stuff in between. The plot was unpredictable and the author perfectly captures the chaos that transports readers back in time. If you’re looking for a fast-paced supernatural horror I highly recommend this book.
Rating: 4.5/5⭐️
October 20, 2025
Loved it!
This story came out swinging and didn't stop. It was a gripping tale that held my attention from beginning to end. I was sad it ended and can't wait til the next read!!
This story came out swinging and didn't stop. It was a gripping tale that held my attention from beginning to end. I was sad it ended and can't wait til the next read!!
October 7, 2025
I highly recommend this horror thriller because it was entertaining and kept me wondering what would happen next. I usually want to shake Brandon’s male characters, but the M.C. in this story didn’t annoy me. I can’t wait to tell others about this book.
June 21, 2026
Brandon Massey reminded me exactly why he’s one of my go-to authors when I want horror that actually feels unsettling.
Backwoods pulled me in almost immediately and kept me invested the entire way through. The atmosphere was easily one of my favorite parts of this book. There were multiple moments where I found myself looking over my shoulder thinking, “Absolutely not.” The sense of dread builds steadily, and once things start unfolding, the story doesn’t really let up.
What I appreciated most was how much the setting felt like a character itself. The woods carried their own presence, and every new revelation added another layer of tension. Massey does a great job creating that feeling that something is wrong long before you fully understand what you’re dealing with.
And can we talk about Miss Lulu? That woman is an absolute force. Every time she appeared on the page, she commanded attention. She quickly became one of the most memorable characters in the entire story for me.
My only complaint is that I wanted more of the family history. I found myself especially interested in the grandfather and would have loved additional insight into his past and the experiences that shaped him. There was so much there that I wanted to explore further.
Backwoods pulled me in almost immediately and kept me invested the entire way through. The atmosphere was easily one of my favorite parts of this book. There were multiple moments where I found myself looking over my shoulder thinking, “Absolutely not.” The sense of dread builds steadily, and once things start unfolding, the story doesn’t really let up.
What I appreciated most was how much the setting felt like a character itself. The woods carried their own presence, and every new revelation added another layer of tension. Massey does a great job creating that feeling that something is wrong long before you fully understand what you’re dealing with.
And can we talk about Miss Lulu? That woman is an absolute force. Every time she appeared on the page, she commanded attention. She quickly became one of the most memorable characters in the entire story for me.
My only complaint is that I wanted more of the family history. I found myself especially interested in the grandfather and would have loved additional insight into his past and the experiences that shaped him. There was so much there that I wanted to explore further.
April 10, 2026
Brandon Massey is such a great writer. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the second I’ve read by him (“Nana” was the first and it was sooo goood). This book was mysterious, creepy, and ultimately action packed. It felt very cinematic to me.
With “Backwoods” it was a super page turner. The chapters were the perfect length for the parts of the story unfolding at each time, some a little longer, some super short, but matching what it does in the plot perfectly.
The characters are really great, especially Raven and Amiya. Ossie too. Nick was annoying most of the book but Raven and Amiya, as well as some of his choices, won me over.
The characters at the beginning were all compelling. Shango was especially intriguing and I think it’s would be interesting to see him come back around as a villain in another story or perhaps even the main character with some backstory. He was creepy in the S.A. Cosby book villain kind of way. lol
If I had one issue it was that I don’t think the backstory of Nick’s family was unpacked enough. Otherwise, great and so still a 5⭐️ read for me. I will of course be reading more of Massey’s work and already have some in my library.
With “Backwoods” it was a super page turner. The chapters were the perfect length for the parts of the story unfolding at each time, some a little longer, some super short, but matching what it does in the plot perfectly.
The characters are really great, especially Raven and Amiya. Ossie too. Nick was annoying most of the book but Raven and Amiya, as well as some of his choices, won me over.
The characters at the beginning were all compelling. Shango was especially intriguing and I think it’s would be interesting to see him come back around as a villain in another story or perhaps even the main character with some backstory. He was creepy in the S.A. Cosby book villain kind of way. lol
If I had one issue it was that I don’t think the backstory of Nick’s family was unpacked enough. Otherwise, great and so still a 5⭐️ read for me. I will of course be reading more of Massey’s work and already have some in my library.
October 6, 2025
Hey, hey, my favorites 😁💚. #annieethebookiee is back with another book review!
📖 Book: Backwoods by Brandon Massey
📅 Published: 2025
⭐ Rating: 4/5
If you’ve been craving a suspenseful horror story that pulls you deep into the woods and refuses to let go, Backwoods delivers! Brandon Massey takes the idea of a family trip to the country and twists it into something dark, atmospheric, and unsettling in all the right ways.
From the very first chapter, you can feel that something isn’t quite right, and that tension never really lets up. The setting plays a huge role here , it’s eerie, isolated, and gives the story this slow-burn creepiness that sticks with you. I love how Massey blends emotional stakes with supernatural vibes without overdoing it.
The pacing kept me turning pages, and the writing style made it super easy to picture everything playing out like a movie. My only tiny critique? A few moments were a little predictable if you read a lot of horror, but it didn’t take away from how enjoyable the journey was.
Overall, Backwoods is a strong, chilling read that proves why Brandon Massey continues to stand out in the horror genre. It’s suspenseful, mysterious, and just the right amount of scary, perfect for anyone looking for their next dark, thrilling escape.
📖 Book: Backwoods by Brandon Massey
📅 Published: 2025
⭐ Rating: 4/5
If you’ve been craving a suspenseful horror story that pulls you deep into the woods and refuses to let go, Backwoods delivers! Brandon Massey takes the idea of a family trip to the country and twists it into something dark, atmospheric, and unsettling in all the right ways.
From the very first chapter, you can feel that something isn’t quite right, and that tension never really lets up. The setting plays a huge role here , it’s eerie, isolated, and gives the story this slow-burn creepiness that sticks with you. I love how Massey blends emotional stakes with supernatural vibes without overdoing it.
The pacing kept me turning pages, and the writing style made it super easy to picture everything playing out like a movie. My only tiny critique? A few moments were a little predictable if you read a lot of horror, but it didn’t take away from how enjoyable the journey was.
Overall, Backwoods is a strong, chilling read that proves why Brandon Massey continues to stand out in the horror genre. It’s suspenseful, mysterious, and just the right amount of scary, perfect for anyone looking for their next dark, thrilling escape.
December 11, 2025
Now, where was this book when I was looking for something frightful during October?
Backwoods really hit the spot! Nick and his girlfriend Amiyah visits his grandfather’s home in the backwoods. It’s secluded and grandpa likes to clear the scene before dark.
When Nick and Amiyah end up lost back up in the woods, they wind up trapped and fighting for their lives! Evil lurks when the darkness comes! Just knowing they were stuck in the unknown had me feeling chills, and the closer it got to nightfall the more my nerves got the best of me.
When I saw litvibrations post about this book I knew I had to read it! It was an insanely good, out the box plot! I’ve read a few of Brandon Massey’s books but he really dove deep into his creative ideas with this one and upped the ante. It was oh so good and creepy! I liked how Amiyah used her quick thinking and feminine wiles to her benefit.
The narration was spot on! I was tuned in and glued in place, highly entertained. It felt as though I was watching the scenes unfold before my eyes. Definitely worth the audible credit I used 📌
Backwoods really hit the spot! Nick and his girlfriend Amiyah visits his grandfather’s home in the backwoods. It’s secluded and grandpa likes to clear the scene before dark.
When Nick and Amiyah end up lost back up in the woods, they wind up trapped and fighting for their lives! Evil lurks when the darkness comes! Just knowing they were stuck in the unknown had me feeling chills, and the closer it got to nightfall the more my nerves got the best of me.
When I saw litvibrations post about this book I knew I had to read it! It was an insanely good, out the box plot! I’ve read a few of Brandon Massey’s books but he really dove deep into his creative ideas with this one and upped the ante. It was oh so good and creepy! I liked how Amiyah used her quick thinking and feminine wiles to her benefit.
The narration was spot on! I was tuned in and glued in place, highly entertained. It felt as though I was watching the scenes unfold before my eyes. Definitely worth the audible credit I used 📌
March 21, 2026
Excellent
I went in blindly with this novel and was taken on some twists and turns. I was surprised and shocked at the ending. I thought I had it figured out, nope, I was wrong!
I went in blindly with this novel and was taken on some twists and turns. I was surprised and shocked at the ending. I thought I had it figured out, nope, I was wrong!
September 8, 2026
Fun ride
My favorite part of this book was the Pace and how fast it moved. Massey was quite the expert at packing so much into the story in under 300 pages. Anyone looking to take a little ride with some horror mixed on will enjoy.
My favorite part of this book was the Pace and how fast it moved. Massey was quite the expert at packing so much into the story in under 300 pages. Anyone looking to take a little ride with some horror mixed on will enjoy.
November 26, 2025
a new Brandon Massey fan!
i went into this book blindly only knowing that the book was based on a couple being stranded somewhere and the girlfriend potentially having to do things she didn't want to do to make it out alive,with that being said i was extremely pleasantly surprised to see that the book had Mystery, thrill, and some syfy fantasy elements. i will be recommending this book an in the meantime reading more from him
i went into this book blindly only knowing that the book was based on a couple being stranded somewhere and the girlfriend potentially having to do things she didn't want to do to make it out alive,with that being said i was extremely pleasantly surprised to see that the book had Mystery, thrill, and some syfy fantasy elements. i will be recommending this book an in the meantime reading more from him
November 17, 2025
Brandon Massey has done it again. Backwoods was my first experience reading one of his horror-leaning novels, and it exceeded every expectation. The story centers on Westbrook, the secluded family estate of Nick, where his grandfather still resides. Pressured by questionable business dealings and eager to cut ties, Nick returns home with his girlfriend, Amiya, hoping to persuade his grandfather to sell the property. What begins as a simple visit quickly unravels into something far darker, as the couple discovers that nothing at Westbrook is quite what it seems.
Massey masterfully builds suspense, offering twist after twist that keeps the pages turning and the tension high. Backwoods is the kind of story that keeps you guessing until the very end—and keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire way.
Massey masterfully builds suspense, offering twist after twist that keeps the pages turning and the tension high. Backwoods is the kind of story that keeps you guessing until the very end—and keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire way.
March 13, 2026
“Welcome to the Backwoods, baby.”
If you are a fan of movies like “Antebellum” or “12 Years a Slave” or books like “When the Reckoning Comes” by LaTanya McQueen or “Kindred” by Octavia Butler then, this may be the next book to add to your TBR!
-based in Atlanta, GA
-33fmc/40mmc
-Black horror
-dark, supernatural secrets
-foreign woods in the Deep South
-family legacies & generational curses
-6/10 audiobook
-descriptive visuals
-feels like a Black horror movie
This is one of those slow burn stories where you can’t help but to put yourself in the main characters shoes.
Brandon Massey does not miss.
If you are a fan of movies like “Antebellum” or “12 Years a Slave” or books like “When the Reckoning Comes” by LaTanya McQueen or “Kindred” by Octavia Butler then, this may be the next book to add to your TBR!
-based in Atlanta, GA
-33fmc/40mmc
-Black horror
-dark, supernatural secrets
-foreign woods in the Deep South
-family legacies & generational curses
-6/10 audiobook
-descriptive visuals
-feels like a Black horror movie
This is one of those slow burn stories where you can’t help but to put yourself in the main characters shoes.
Brandon Massey does not miss.
July 22, 2026
This was much more than I expected. I like the overall plot and the way it comments on history and present and family and decisions people make. It really kept my analytical mind engaged as I was reading. However, this is not a hard read. This is action packed and keeps the pages turning. I was very skeptical of Nick in the beginning and the author as this was my first read of his. However, I kept reading because the cover was cool and the woods setting fit my mood. Nick did come around and the author was writing him that way on purpose. If you want to read a horror that messes with time and history and responsibility, you will love this one.
October 12, 2025
Nick and Amiya are heading to Grandpa Lee’s secluded shotgun house and sprawling Westbrook property to talk about the future of the land. Grandpa Lee is willing to talk but all conversations must be finished by sundown. What happens at sundown and why does Grandpa seem to be keeping secrets?
When night falls Nick and Amiya begin to understand all the terrors Westbrook holds.
I thoroughly enjoy Brandon Massey’s writing style. This was a creepy, fast paced, Backwoods horror that includes a few twists and turns that I did not see coming.
When night falls Nick and Amiya begin to understand all the terrors Westbrook holds.
I thoroughly enjoy Brandon Massey’s writing style. This was a creepy, fast paced, Backwoods horror that includes a few twists and turns that I did not see coming.
December 7, 2025
This is what I’m here for. Supernatural horror told by a skilled storyteller. I love how the setting starts in a luxurious modern life and rolls right into the backwoods. This is an immersive, suspenseful and entertaining story from the beginning to the very end. No dull moments. I’m also currently reading “Dark Corner” by this author and love that book as well.
April 8, 2026
This was my first time reading a book by Mr. Massey, and I must say that I am impressed. I've had several of his books on my tbr list for years and I finally decided to read one. This story definitely was not what I thought it what be, but it worked out well. I enjoyed the twists and the seamless flow of the story from start to finish. I look forward to reading other books by this author.
October 2, 2026
Something in the Backwoods!
A Masterpiece of a novel! Backwoods is a haunting, very eerie and read! Initially Brandon Massey slowly builds momentum and the story completely takes off into something unworldly! Imagine being desperate need to pay off a debt 💸 but ended addressing a long awaited curse!
A Masterpiece of a novel! Backwoods is a haunting, very eerie and read! Initially Brandon Massey slowly builds momentum and the story completely takes off into something unworldly! Imagine being desperate need to pay off a debt 💸 but ended addressing a long awaited curse!
October 14, 2025
excellent
So good! Could not put it down! Could not put it down! Gripping, chilling, and full of twists that keep you on edge. This needs to be made into a movie. A perfect mix of suspense and horror.
So good! Could not put it down! Could not put it down! Gripping, chilling, and full of twists that keep you on edge. This needs to be made into a movie. A perfect mix of suspense and horror.
October 16, 2025
Backwoods had me captured from start to finish! Brandon Massey delivers a gripping, atmospheric thriller full of suspense, mystery, and just the right touch of the supernatural. The twists kept me hooked, and the pacing was spot-on. A chilling, unputdownable read. I highly recommend it!
February 20, 2026
Whoa!!!!!!
Great read!!!!! This was my first time reading one of Brandon Massey's books and I have a lot of catching up to do. This was a page turner. I couldn't put this book down.
Great read!!!!! This was my first time reading one of Brandon Massey's books and I have a lot of catching up to do. This was a page turner. I couldn't put this book down.
April 24, 2026
Idk if it’s because the description has a comparison to Antebellum or how it was written but a lot of the story was predictable. I enjoyed this author’s writing so I’ll def read another book but this one just wasn’t for me.
June 12, 2026
Incredible!!!
I did not expect to enjoy this reading to the point I did not see this coming from this author right here. I really enjoy the reading especially it had kept me on my toes.
I did not expect to enjoy this reading to the point I did not see this coming from this author right here. I really enjoy the reading especially it had kept me on my toes.
Read
September 12, 2026Wow
This was it, honey. 10/10 recommend. Enjoyed the emotional rollercoaster 🎢. I was mad, frustrated, a little creeped out only because I read and listened at the same time. The book narrative voice was deep lol. Great great book
This was it, honey. 10/10 recommend. Enjoyed the emotional rollercoaster 🎢. I was mad, frustrated, a little creeped out only because I read and listened at the same time. The book narrative voice was deep lol. Great great book
October 1, 2026
A Thriller
I was disappointed with the ending as it left out more about Omar and Shango and their relationship.
I am not clear with the intended message of this book except freedom is often complicated.
I was disappointed with the ending as it left out more about Omar and Shango and their relationship.
I am not clear with the intended message of this book except freedom is often complicated.
October 9, 2025
Massey doesn't miss
I enjoyed this book. Brandon Massey is a great writer. The way he describes things made me feel like I was there myself. I'd give it 3.5 -4 stars
I enjoyed this book. Brandon Massey is a great writer. The way he describes things made me feel like I was there myself. I'd give it 3.5 -4 stars
October 14, 2025
Brandon Massey has done it again. I love this author's style. He always tells a great story mixed with history, a little humor and just simple suspense.
October 14, 2025
Great Read!
I’ve been reading this author since I was in high school and decades later, he still doesn’t disappoint. Can’t wait for the next book
I’ve been reading this author since I was in high school and decades later, he still doesn’t disappoint. Can’t wait for the next book
October 16, 2025
This would be a decent popcorn horror movie. It’s a bit flat and two dimensional as a book though.
October 21, 2025
A true thriller !
I had to read this thriller with the lights on! One of Brandon Massey's best story. Nick learned the hard way that all money isn't always good money.
I had to read this thriller with the lights on! One of Brandon Massey's best story. Nick learned the hard way that all money isn't always good money.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews