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Slasher Summer
In this campy love letter to the slasher films of the 1980s, seven friends reunite for a weekend of fun—only to be hunted down by a cold-blooded killer. But the real horror is not being able to escape who you were in high school...
The sleepy town of Cedar Lake Falls is best known as the shooting location of the campy ’80s horror flick Slasher. In high school, preppy Patrick, jock Jason, cheerleader Tiffany, stoner Freddy, goth Jennifer, and nerdy Michael had played the cast of Slasher during midnight showings, with virginal Carrie as the Final Girl, of course.
Years later, the friends reunite at the remote cabin where Slasher was filmed. They've changed since high school—Patrick came out, Mikey bulked up, and, well, Freddy's still stoned—and they're looking forward to a weekend to catch up. But when night falls, and the eponymous masked killer is spotted, the reunion takes a deadly turn. The friends discover their tires deflated and the phone line disconnected, and soon they’re being stalked by a mysterious assailant. Is someone trying to make their Slasher experience as authentic as possible?
One thing is for sure. Before the night is over, they each will have to take on the role they thought they'd left behind.
The sleepy town of Cedar Lake Falls is best known as the shooting location of the campy ’80s horror flick Slasher. In high school, preppy Patrick, jock Jason, cheerleader Tiffany, stoner Freddy, goth Jennifer, and nerdy Michael had played the cast of Slasher during midnight showings, with virginal Carrie as the Final Girl, of course.
Years later, the friends reunite at the remote cabin where Slasher was filmed. They've changed since high school—Patrick came out, Mikey bulked up, and, well, Freddy's still stoned—and they're looking forward to a weekend to catch up. But when night falls, and the eponymous masked killer is spotted, the reunion takes a deadly turn. The friends discover their tires deflated and the phone line disconnected, and soon they’re being stalked by a mysterious assailant. Is someone trying to make their Slasher experience as authentic as possible?
One thing is for sure. Before the night is over, they each will have to take on the role they thought they'd left behind.
304 pages, Paperback
First published June 23, 2026
About the author
E.L. Chen
12 books63 followersE. L. Chen is the author of Summerwood/Winterwood, Sweetside Motel, Slasher Summer, and One of Us Is Already Dead. She lives in Toronto, Canada with her son and many TBR piles. Find more about her at elainechen.com.
**Disclaimer: I resurrected this account to support my fellow writers, so everyone gets 4 or 5 stars.**
**Disclaimer: I resurrected this account to support my fellow writers, so everyone gets 4 or 5 stars.**
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June 24, 2026
The description of this book isn't misleading, Slasher Summer is a love letter to 1980's horror films. In this book seven friends from high school reunite to catch up and have some fun, but find it isn't too much fun when someone is trying to kill you!!!!!! Before the you-know-what hits the fan, I could not help but notice that the friends are made up of characters which reminded me of the movie, The Breakfast Club. Yes, this book is very much a love letter to the '80's.
Cedar Lake Fall (does this remind you of Camp Crystal Lake from Friday the 13th?) was the location where the SLASHER, the 80's campy horror movie, was filmed. The seven friends not only were in a group called "The Jumpscare Society", but they also played the cast of SLASHER during midnight showings. Yes, if you are getting strong Scream 2 vibes you are not alone. So, when their friends get together at the cabin where SLASHER was filmed. They hope to reminisce, have fun, and talk about their lives since high school, but instead find themselves in a horrific situation...
This book reads like a movie and the author brought on the thrills and chills in this campy horror book. It's entertaining, full of characters who love horror films and trying not to repeat mistakes their "character" made in horror films. The entire book I was trying to figure out who the killer might be and was shocked at the reveal. I love it when this happens. Plus, the ending!
This book is not titled a YA book, but at times this did feel like a YA novel. That is not necessarily a bad thing; I just wanted to point that out. This book does have some horrific scenes, but I didn't find any of them to be that bad or that gory.
Thank you to Crown Publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Cedar Lake Fall (does this remind you of Camp Crystal Lake from Friday the 13th?) was the location where the SLASHER, the 80's campy horror movie, was filmed. The seven friends not only were in a group called "The Jumpscare Society", but they also played the cast of SLASHER during midnight showings. Yes, if you are getting strong Scream 2 vibes you are not alone. So, when their friends get together at the cabin where SLASHER was filmed. They hope to reminisce, have fun, and talk about their lives since high school, but instead find themselves in a horrific situation...
This book reads like a movie and the author brought on the thrills and chills in this campy horror book. It's entertaining, full of characters who love horror films and trying not to repeat mistakes their "character" made in horror films. The entire book I was trying to figure out who the killer might be and was shocked at the reveal. I love it when this happens. Plus, the ending!
This book is not titled a YA book, but at times this did feel like a YA novel. That is not necessarily a bad thing; I just wanted to point that out. This book does have some horrific scenes, but I didn't find any of them to be that bad or that gory.
Thank you to Crown Publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
this was the perfect slasher novel for me aka someone who adores horror stories but has no ability to actually watch horror movies 🔪
slasher summer: the annual festival in otherwise-sleepy cedar lake, celebrating the cult-classic 80s horror flick, slasher, which was filmed at a local cottage deep in the forest. this year, seven friends reunite four years after their high school graduation for one last hurrah at the slasher cottage.
they are the former members of the jumpscare society, a club that coalesced in high school school over a mutual love for horror films. back then, they'd play the shadow cast of the slasher film at their local theatre, spraying the audience with super soakers filled with reddish water. patrick is the preppy straight-A student. jason is the handsome jock. tiffany is the queen bee cheerleader. jen is the rebellious goth. michael is the bumbling nerd. freddy is the goofy stoner. and carrie, she's the Final Girl—virginal, demure, and inspiring of all sympathy.
but the group didn't part on good terms, four years ago. and when they receive a phone call in the cabin—You're all going to die tonight—and discover all their cars' tires slashed, the seven of them must figure out a way to survive the night... or suffer the same fates their shadow characters did.
🔪 ◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️
i thoroughly enjoyed this novel and devoured it over two days. slasher summer riffs on classic tropes in a dark and campy manner—a convenient lack of cell service; incapacitating the killer without checking to see if they're dead dead; the wide-eyed final girl; and all the characters named after iconic horror movie protagonists—while still allowing space for subversion. it's a self-aware book, with the characters commenting on their own identities as people of colour, as queer people, as women—and how they'd typically be treated in horror films: eliminated, early on. i appreciated this self-awareness, which allows us readers to relish in the tropes without them feeling too overdone.
moreover, seven characters can easily become an unwieldy cast, but slasher summer tackles it formidably. each chapter of the novel alternates between a different character's POV, so we get glimpses into everyone's heads and backstories. (it's another layer of subversion, in my opinion: that we get to see the nuances that lend individuality and humanity to each person.) and i found myself invested in everyone. and although i was able to predict a key part of the ending, that didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book—because we're thrown off and misled just enough that i started to doubt myself, too.
lastly, it was very fun reading horror by a fellow chinese canadian who's based in toronto! this was my first story by e.l. chen, and i already know it won't be my last.
many thanks to crown publishing and netgalley for an advanced e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
slasher summer: the annual festival in otherwise-sleepy cedar lake, celebrating the cult-classic 80s horror flick, slasher, which was filmed at a local cottage deep in the forest. this year, seven friends reunite four years after their high school graduation for one last hurrah at the slasher cottage.
they are the former members of the jumpscare society, a club that coalesced in high school school over a mutual love for horror films. back then, they'd play the shadow cast of the slasher film at their local theatre, spraying the audience with super soakers filled with reddish water. patrick is the preppy straight-A student. jason is the handsome jock. tiffany is the queen bee cheerleader. jen is the rebellious goth. michael is the bumbling nerd. freddy is the goofy stoner. and carrie, she's the Final Girl—virginal, demure, and inspiring of all sympathy.
but the group didn't part on good terms, four years ago. and when they receive a phone call in the cabin—You're all going to die tonight—and discover all their cars' tires slashed, the seven of them must figure out a way to survive the night... or suffer the same fates their shadow characters did.
🔪 ◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️
i thoroughly enjoyed this novel and devoured it over two days. slasher summer riffs on classic tropes in a dark and campy manner—a convenient lack of cell service; incapacitating the killer without checking to see if they're dead dead; the wide-eyed final girl; and all the characters named after iconic horror movie protagonists—while still allowing space for subversion. it's a self-aware book, with the characters commenting on their own identities as people of colour, as queer people, as women—and how they'd typically be treated in horror films: eliminated, early on. i appreciated this self-awareness, which allows us readers to relish in the tropes without them feeling too overdone.
moreover, seven characters can easily become an unwieldy cast, but slasher summer tackles it formidably. each chapter of the novel alternates between a different character's POV, so we get glimpses into everyone's heads and backstories. (it's another layer of subversion, in my opinion: that we get to see the nuances that lend individuality and humanity to each person.) and i found myself invested in everyone. and although i was able to predict a key part of the ending, that didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book—because we're thrown off and misled just enough that i started to doubt myself, too.
lastly, it was very fun reading horror by a fellow chinese canadian who's based in toronto! this was my first story by e.l. chen, and i already know it won't be my last.
many thanks to crown publishing and netgalley for an advanced e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2026
In high school, seven students who all were in different cliques formed a theater group called The Jumpscare Society where they reenacted a horror film called Slasher each year.
After not seeing each other since graduating high school, they meet up for a weekend in the house where the original movies was filmed before it’s scheduled to be torn down.
What they end up experiencing is anything but a relaxing weekend catching up.
This book played on a lot of the stereotypical cast members in slasher flicks and I also liked that each of the characters were named after a prominent character from a horror film:
Jason the jock
Tiffany the cheerleader
Patrick the prep
Jen the goth girl
Freddy the stoner
Mikey (Michael) the nerd
Carrie the virgin
Another thing that I appreciated with the casting was using characters of different ethnicities and sexual orientations to make it more reflective of the times (well, at least modern times up until the past year and a half).
It also mentions a neighboring city called Fairvale, which I’m assuming was a reference to the fictional city in Psycho.
I try my best not to judge a book by its cover (both literally and figuratively), but I will admit that in this case the cover was definitely a selling point.
What’s not to love about a retro looking VHS cover that gives both 80’s horror and Stranger Things vibes?
Whoever designed this deserves an award!
I think that this book will provide a lot of nostalgia for some Gen Xers and Millennials who enjoyed 80’s, 90’s and early 00’s horror flicks like Scream and I Know What You Did Last Summer.
It’s marketed as a remake of 80’s movies, but felt more like 90’s to me since I wasn’t allowed to watch “scary” movies until the mid 90’s.
This was definitely written to be more satirical and nostalgic than scary.
A horror aficionado looking for something scary enough to keep them up at night may be disappointed.
The first half of this book was a slow burn, but the second half was all popcorn thriller with a great ending.
I definitely had fun with this one…it read just like watching one of my slasher movies from the 90’s.
Thanks to Crown Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC to review in exchange for my honest review.
Pub Date: June 23, 2026
After not seeing each other since graduating high school, they meet up for a weekend in the house where the original movies was filmed before it’s scheduled to be torn down.
What they end up experiencing is anything but a relaxing weekend catching up.
This book played on a lot of the stereotypical cast members in slasher flicks and I also liked that each of the characters were named after a prominent character from a horror film:
Jason the jock
Tiffany the cheerleader
Patrick the prep
Jen the goth girl
Freddy the stoner
Mikey (Michael) the nerd
Carrie the virgin
Another thing that I appreciated with the casting was using characters of different ethnicities and sexual orientations to make it more reflective of the times (well, at least modern times up until the past year and a half).
It also mentions a neighboring city called Fairvale, which I’m assuming was a reference to the fictional city in Psycho.
I try my best not to judge a book by its cover (both literally and figuratively), but I will admit that in this case the cover was definitely a selling point.
What’s not to love about a retro looking VHS cover that gives both 80’s horror and Stranger Things vibes?
Whoever designed this deserves an award!
I think that this book will provide a lot of nostalgia for some Gen Xers and Millennials who enjoyed 80’s, 90’s and early 00’s horror flicks like Scream and I Know What You Did Last Summer.
It’s marketed as a remake of 80’s movies, but felt more like 90’s to me since I wasn’t allowed to watch “scary” movies until the mid 90’s.
This was definitely written to be more satirical and nostalgic than scary.
A horror aficionado looking for something scary enough to keep them up at night may be disappointed.
The first half of this book was a slow burn, but the second half was all popcorn thriller with a great ending.
I definitely had fun with this one…it read just like watching one of my slasher movies from the 90’s.
Thanks to Crown Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC to review in exchange for my honest review.
Pub Date: June 23, 2026
March 27, 2026
If Scary Movie were turned into a book, this is exactly how it would feel… cheesy, self-aware, and full of nostalgic humor. It doesn’t take itself seriously, which makes it an easy, fun read.
Thank you to the publisher for the eARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher for the eARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up. I COULD NOT PUT THIS DOWNNNN!!! Felt like a classicccc summer slasher/horror story and it was so funny but also had my heart literally racinggggg! I really enjoyed all the POVs too!!
February 25, 2026
ARC Review - 4.75/5 WOW. WOW. WOW!
The book’s slasher references feel authentic sprinkled throughout, homages fitting for members of a high school horror club. It will keep you guessing and doubting your own judgement as you try to unmask the Slasher alongside the Jumpscare Society, as they are picked off one-by-one.
The members of the J.S play into typical 80s archetypes and the group themselves are well aware of their Breakfast Club. Yes, cliché and obvious, but at no point does it feel tired or over-used. It works perfectly, and often feels meta. Preppy Patrick, goth Jennifer, popular Tiffany, jock Jason, innocent Carrie, geek Michael and stoner Freddy have secrets and reflections to come to terms with when reuniting for the first time since high school. These are sometimes unexpectedly thought provoking and give insight to the characters that upon some deaths, leave you wanting more that you can't have. Their inner voices are distinctive and well written, leaving you annoyed and humoured by Tiffany's selfishness, rolling your eyes at Patrick's need for control and laughing out loud at Jen's bold quips - to name a few.
Some of the deaths really do hit hard, which was unexpected as I try to never get invested in slasher characters (due to the genre rules that no one is safe - aside from the final girl, as the book literally reminds you throughout). This is real testament to how Chen wrote the group and their individual dynamics. I was pining for a certain duo to get together.
I could see this playing out in all it's campy, gory glory in my head. The ending had me gagged and gutted (just like some of the characters) and I will be reading more from this author, "XOXO".
The book’s slasher references feel authentic sprinkled throughout, homages fitting for members of a high school horror club. It will keep you guessing and doubting your own judgement as you try to unmask the Slasher alongside the Jumpscare Society, as they are picked off one-by-one.
The members of the J.S play into typical 80s archetypes and the group themselves are well aware of their Breakfast Club. Yes, cliché and obvious, but at no point does it feel tired or over-used. It works perfectly, and often feels meta. Preppy Patrick, goth Jennifer, popular Tiffany, jock Jason, innocent Carrie, geek Michael and stoner Freddy have secrets and reflections to come to terms with when reuniting for the first time since high school. These are sometimes unexpectedly thought provoking and give insight to the characters that upon some deaths, leave you wanting more that you can't have. Their inner voices are distinctive and well written, leaving you annoyed and humoured by Tiffany's selfishness, rolling your eyes at Patrick's need for control and laughing out loud at Jen's bold quips - to name a few.
Some of the deaths really do hit hard, which was unexpected as I try to never get invested in slasher characters (due to the genre rules that no one is safe - aside from the final girl, as the book literally reminds you throughout). This is real testament to how Chen wrote the group and their individual dynamics. I was pining for a certain duo to get together.
I could see this playing out in all it's campy, gory glory in my head. The ending had me gagged and gutted (just like some of the characters) and I will be reading more from this author, "XOXO".
April 12, 2026
as a horror movie obsessed girlie this is exactly what i needed.
this book is as if Randy from Scream wrote a book. i LOVE all the cliches and all the horror movie references throughout. love love the cover art and guessing throughout who the Slasher could be. this book comes out just in time for summerween 🧡
this book is as if Randy from Scream wrote a book. i LOVE all the cliches and all the horror movie references throughout. love love the cover art and guessing throughout who the Slasher could be. this book comes out just in time for summerween 🧡
Read
June 23, 2026A dark and campy celebration of slasher movies! It's self-aware and full of nostalgic humor and references, making for a fun, quick, and bloody romp. I had a blast reading this one!
4.5/5 stars rounded to 4 stars
4.5/5 stars rounded to 4 stars
June 26, 2026
Holy sh*ttttt. This book was so good!!!!
June 12, 2026
This story was a lot of fun! It was a stereotypical slasher from your childhood, with all the classic rules from the trope you would expect. You’ll probably figure out who did it pretty quickly, but does that really matter in a campy slasher? NAHHH!
I loved the ride this book took me on. It transported me right back to the ‘90s. Teenage Kayla would have loved this book just as much as I did. There isn’t much more I can add to this review. It’s a great summer read for anyone who enjoys a solid nostalgic slasher trope.
This falls at an enjoyable 4 star read for me.
I loved the ride this book took me on. It transported me right back to the ‘90s. Teenage Kayla would have loved this book just as much as I did. There isn’t much more I can add to this review. It’s a great summer read for anyone who enjoys a solid nostalgic slasher trope.
This falls at an enjoyable 4 star read for me.
June 13, 2026
Tropes galore! If you enjoy the slasher genre (like myself), you’re going to enjoy this novel. Group of young adults dealing with a mistake from their past in a cabin in the woods. Lots of fun.
June 4, 2026
Traditional slasher and perfect for Summerween!
If you’re a mood reader like I am, you’ll be happy to know that this book satisfies all the fun vibes of a good summer slasher.
These characters have a complicated history. They return back to the camp with lots of past baggage and it just so happens that someone is ready for revenge. Slasher Summer was a great throwback to horror in such a fun way. Even the characters’ names were from past horror movies (Carrie, Freddy, Jason).
The pacing was a little slow initially, but picked up in the middle of the story enough to keep me turning pages. Fans of the slasher genre are gonna enjoy this one.
Thank you, #Netgalley and Crown Publishing, for the chance to read this early in exchange for an honest review.
If you’re a mood reader like I am, you’ll be happy to know that this book satisfies all the fun vibes of a good summer slasher.
These characters have a complicated history. They return back to the camp with lots of past baggage and it just so happens that someone is ready for revenge. Slasher Summer was a great throwback to horror in such a fun way. Even the characters’ names were from past horror movies (Carrie, Freddy, Jason).
The pacing was a little slow initially, but picked up in the middle of the story enough to keep me turning pages. Fans of the slasher genre are gonna enjoy this one.
Thank you, #Netgalley and Crown Publishing, for the chance to read this early in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Time taken to read - in and out over 4 days
Pages - 304
Publisher - Michael Joseph books
Source - ARC (out August 13th)
Blurb from Goodreads
In this campy love letter to the slasher films of the 1980s, seven friends reunite for a weekend of fun—only to be hunted down by a cold-blooded killer. But the real horror is not being able to escape who you were in high school...
The sleepy town of Cedar Lake Falls is best known as the shooting location of the campy ’80s horror flick Slasher. In high school, preppy Patrick, jock Jason, cheerleader Tiffany, stoner Freddy, goth Jennifer, and nerdy Michael had played the cast of Slasher during midnight showings, with virginal Carrie as the Final Girl, of course.
Years later, the friends reunite at the remote cabin where Slasher was filmed. They've changed since high school—Patrick came out, Mikey bulked up, and, well, Freddy's still stoned—and they're looking forward to a weekend to catch up. But when night falls, and the eponymous masked killer is spotted, the reunion takes a deadly turn. The friends discover their tires deflated and the phone line disconnected, and soon they’re being stalked by a mysterious assailant. Is someone trying to make their Slasher experience as authentic as possible?
One thing is for sure. Before the night is over, they each will have to take on the role they thought they'd left behind.
My Review
I absolutely love horror movies, I grew up on them at an age when I really shouldn't have been watching. Same goes for books, I was eight when I read my first Stephen King so yeah it is a life long enjoyment of the genre. This book gives nods to many of the movies/stories I grew up with, enjoyed as an adult and many of the tropes throughout the genre. It pokes fun at itself too which I think adds to the enjoyment, like look at the cast, the preppy guy, the jock, a cheerleader, the innocent, a stoner, a goth/lgb and the nerd like tick tick tick.
These guys used to have a club "The Jumpscare society" - horror movies and hanging out, something happened with Carrie (the good girl) and she left in disgrace. Now the group are having a reunion in the cabin where a horror movie was filmed, four years later. There is still some unresolved feelings and they are staying over in the cabin what could go wrong lol.
I love the cheesy poking fun not taking itself too seriously, the tropes, nods to the some of the classics that have gone before this one. We have lgb representation, the hot vacuous cheerleader, we have the relationship issues, sexuality questioning, wanting the one you never get oh and muuuuuuurder. A masked killer from the movie is picking them off one by one, creepy, the oh for Gods sake WHY ARE YOU DOING THAT you always question when characters do X action/plan in the genre.
The chapters are pretty short which is always a bonus but especially since the characters get their own pov's and each chapter is titled with their name so it is easy to follow. I think this would transfer really good to the big screen, to be honest I could get behind any horror being made to a movie. The tension, the masked killer going after their prey, the forest and water scene(s) I mean kudos because you can't help but think of those horror movies with these types of scenes, 4/5 for me this time. This is my first time reading this author, I would absolutely read them again and will check out their other books!
Pages - 304
Publisher - Michael Joseph books
Source - ARC (out August 13th)
Blurb from Goodreads
In this campy love letter to the slasher films of the 1980s, seven friends reunite for a weekend of fun—only to be hunted down by a cold-blooded killer. But the real horror is not being able to escape who you were in high school...
The sleepy town of Cedar Lake Falls is best known as the shooting location of the campy ’80s horror flick Slasher. In high school, preppy Patrick, jock Jason, cheerleader Tiffany, stoner Freddy, goth Jennifer, and nerdy Michael had played the cast of Slasher during midnight showings, with virginal Carrie as the Final Girl, of course.
Years later, the friends reunite at the remote cabin where Slasher was filmed. They've changed since high school—Patrick came out, Mikey bulked up, and, well, Freddy's still stoned—and they're looking forward to a weekend to catch up. But when night falls, and the eponymous masked killer is spotted, the reunion takes a deadly turn. The friends discover their tires deflated and the phone line disconnected, and soon they’re being stalked by a mysterious assailant. Is someone trying to make their Slasher experience as authentic as possible?
One thing is for sure. Before the night is over, they each will have to take on the role they thought they'd left behind.
My Review
I absolutely love horror movies, I grew up on them at an age when I really shouldn't have been watching. Same goes for books, I was eight when I read my first Stephen King so yeah it is a life long enjoyment of the genre. This book gives nods to many of the movies/stories I grew up with, enjoyed as an adult and many of the tropes throughout the genre. It pokes fun at itself too which I think adds to the enjoyment, like look at the cast, the preppy guy, the jock, a cheerleader, the innocent, a stoner, a goth/lgb and the nerd like tick tick tick.
These guys used to have a club "The Jumpscare society" - horror movies and hanging out, something happened with Carrie (the good girl) and she left in disgrace. Now the group are having a reunion in the cabin where a horror movie was filmed, four years later. There is still some unresolved feelings and they are staying over in the cabin what could go wrong lol.
I love the cheesy poking fun not taking itself too seriously, the tropes, nods to the some of the classics that have gone before this one. We have lgb representation, the hot vacuous cheerleader, we have the relationship issues, sexuality questioning, wanting the one you never get oh and muuuuuuurder. A masked killer from the movie is picking them off one by one, creepy, the oh for Gods sake WHY ARE YOU DOING THAT you always question when characters do X action/plan in the genre.
The chapters are pretty short which is always a bonus but especially since the characters get their own pov's and each chapter is titled with their name so it is easy to follow. I think this would transfer really good to the big screen, to be honest I could get behind any horror being made to a movie. The tension, the masked killer going after their prey, the forest and water scene(s) I mean kudos because you can't help but think of those horror movies with these types of scenes, 4/5 for me this time. This is my first time reading this author, I would absolutely read them again and will check out their other books!
May 11, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Finally!! A good slasher novel! I have been trying so hard and long to find one that is as entertaining as some of my favorite slasher movies, and I’ve never had any luck. But this one was incredible!
It was funny and campy, and so gruesome! Everything that makes this genre so entertaining to consume. It was pretty trope-y, but it worked for me! That seemed to be the point.
It really reminded me of “Cabin in the Woods” and “The Final Girls,” in the best way.
I feel like this would be an incredible movie. The cast of characters was diverse and interesting to read about. I could picture everything that was happening, even if sometimes I didn’t want to with how horrible the death’s were.
It took a little while to get to the killings, but that was okay because I was never bored. It was a good to learn about the characters.
I honestly liked everyone. Jason I was a little eh about because he seemed to have a little too much male energy for me that put me off from his character. But I didn’t hate him. Even though a lot of them might have had their issues, they were still all likable in a way. Freddy was the best character! I was always laughing at what he was doing or saying.
I won’t say for spoiler reasons, but there was one couple I wasn’t that invested in. It was super cute by the end, but I still needed a little more chemistry or something. I know that isn’t the main plot of the book, so it makes sense the relationship wasn’t totally fleshed out, but I wanted a little more from it, especially figuring it would be endgame.
I was pretty surprised by the end! Knowing what I know now it is kind of easy to guess, but at the same time I wasn’t expecting it. I was trying to figure out who it may be the whole time. Slight spoiler, but I almost wouldn’t have minded the bad guy getting away with everything. As horrible as it is to kill someone and I never would say this if it wasn’t fictional, but in a way I don’t blame them for how they felt. Even though there is never an excuse to murder people.
I need a sequel! It is the perfect cliffhanger too though. There doesn’t NEED to be a second book; this one wraps up well enough, but I still would love to read more!
Finally!! A good slasher novel! I have been trying so hard and long to find one that is as entertaining as some of my favorite slasher movies, and I’ve never had any luck. But this one was incredible!
It was funny and campy, and so gruesome! Everything that makes this genre so entertaining to consume. It was pretty trope-y, but it worked for me! That seemed to be the point.
It really reminded me of “Cabin in the Woods” and “The Final Girls,” in the best way.
I feel like this would be an incredible movie. The cast of characters was diverse and interesting to read about. I could picture everything that was happening, even if sometimes I didn’t want to with how horrible the death’s were.
It took a little while to get to the killings, but that was okay because I was never bored. It was a good to learn about the characters.
I honestly liked everyone. Jason I was a little eh about because he seemed to have a little too much male energy for me that put me off from his character. But I didn’t hate him. Even though a lot of them might have had their issues, they were still all likable in a way. Freddy was the best character! I was always laughing at what he was doing or saying.
I won’t say for spoiler reasons, but there was one couple I wasn’t that invested in. It was super cute by the end, but I still needed a little more chemistry or something. I know that isn’t the main plot of the book, so it makes sense the relationship wasn’t totally fleshed out, but I wanted a little more from it, especially figuring it would be endgame.
I was pretty surprised by the end! Knowing what I know now it is kind of easy to guess, but at the same time I wasn’t expecting it. I was trying to figure out who it may be the whole time. Slight spoiler, but I almost wouldn’t have minded the bad guy getting away with everything. As horrible as it is to kill someone and I never would say this if it wasn’t fictional, but in a way I don’t blame them for how they felt. Even though there is never an excuse to murder people.
I need a sequel! It is the perfect cliffhanger too though. There doesn’t NEED to be a second book; this one wraps up well enough, but I still would love to read more!
Did Not Finish
April 4, 2026maybe i'll come back to this via audiobook. i think i would enjoy it more in that format bc so far i'm just not vibing with the writing, idk
June 23, 2026
If you’re looking for a summerween read then this book needs to be prioritized on your tbr immediately! It’s got all the elements for a classic and nostalgic summer slasher and the vibes are killer!
This book is filled with direct inspiration and references from some of your favorite 80’s/90’s slasher classics. From Scream to Friday the 13th to the cast of characters being named after iconic horror movie characters (cue Carrie, Jason, Freddy, Tiffany, Mikey, etc.), this book was pure fun! But then E.L. Chen completely refreshed the script by giving us an almost meta, satirical, take on the typical stereotypes of slasher characters. I also loved that she gave us a cast of characters from different ethnicities, cultures, and sexual orientations.
My only personal critique was that for a horror the content was obviously R rated (with super creative kills), the characters and dialogue felt more young/new adult to me despite it being marketed as an adult horror. It didn’t take away from my overall experience but I did have to double check the genre in the beginning. I also deducted who the serial killer was early on but that made it fun getting to see it all play out. You’re in the head of each character as you learn their backstories and how they fit within the friend group, getting to intimately know each and their possible motives.
I just know my fellow millennial horror movie goers are going to love this book! And while I don’t typically walk away from horror books with a bunch of quotes highlighted, this one I did! And while this one ends with an opening for a sequel, I will nevertheless be keeping my eye out for whatever Chen writes next!
🎧 𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞 🎧
I did a mix of print reading and audiobook, but I have to say that if you’re an audiobook lover, this one is a must! It’s a full cast of characters which helped me keep track of each character! I loved hearing each character’s perspective and pov from each voice actor! And with it being a slasher horror, the whole listening experience was eerie, spooky summer perfection!
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: June 23, 2026
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Slasher Horror • Thriller
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭: Print + Audiobook Combo
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Cameron Bernard Jones, Shin-Fei Chen, Margarita Valderrama, Hunter Johns, Georgie Sadler, Austin Yang, Griffyn Bellah
𝐌𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★☆ 𝟒
𝐌𝐲 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭: A must read for summerween!
✨Thank you so much @crown for my free early copy-those edges are stunning and to @prhaudio for my gifted ALC! Happy pub day!!
This book is filled with direct inspiration and references from some of your favorite 80’s/90’s slasher classics. From Scream to Friday the 13th to the cast of characters being named after iconic horror movie characters (cue Carrie, Jason, Freddy, Tiffany, Mikey, etc.), this book was pure fun! But then E.L. Chen completely refreshed the script by giving us an almost meta, satirical, take on the typical stereotypes of slasher characters. I also loved that she gave us a cast of characters from different ethnicities, cultures, and sexual orientations.
My only personal critique was that for a horror the content was obviously R rated (with super creative kills), the characters and dialogue felt more young/new adult to me despite it being marketed as an adult horror. It didn’t take away from my overall experience but I did have to double check the genre in the beginning. I also deducted who the serial killer was early on but that made it fun getting to see it all play out. You’re in the head of each character as you learn their backstories and how they fit within the friend group, getting to intimately know each and their possible motives.
I just know my fellow millennial horror movie goers are going to love this book! And while I don’t typically walk away from horror books with a bunch of quotes highlighted, this one I did! And while this one ends with an opening for a sequel, I will nevertheless be keeping my eye out for whatever Chen writes next!
🎧 𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞 🎧
I did a mix of print reading and audiobook, but I have to say that if you’re an audiobook lover, this one is a must! It’s a full cast of characters which helped me keep track of each character! I loved hearing each character’s perspective and pov from each voice actor! And with it being a slasher horror, the whole listening experience was eerie, spooky summer perfection!
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: June 23, 2026
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Slasher Horror • Thriller
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭: Print + Audiobook Combo
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Cameron Bernard Jones, Shin-Fei Chen, Margarita Valderrama, Hunter Johns, Georgie Sadler, Austin Yang, Griffyn Bellah
𝐌𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★☆ 𝟒
𝐌𝐲 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭: A must read for summerween!
✨Thank you so much @crown for my free early copy-those edges are stunning and to @prhaudio for my gifted ALC! Happy pub day!!
June 9, 2026
1.5/5 (Rounding Up for GoodReads)
I want to say that this book has been on my watch-list FOREVER, and was thankful enough to get an ARC copy through NetGalley.
The book follows a group of friends who are getting back together for a reunion of their HS horror movie club, The Jumpscare Society. They rent a cabin in the woods and from there things go down hill with a killer that has revenge on their mind. Or so they think …
Pros: I liked how each chapter was a different characters point of view. I think it worked very well seeing how each character viewed the events that were going on. One POV picked up where the other left off. I also, thought the ending was very fitting and on par for the trajectory of the book. It sent everything else up for a sequel.
Cons: right off the bat the books starts really fast with a gang of characters and backstories that kinda made me feel like I was outside looking in and missing something. I do not feel that this book is in the horror genre. If so then it is more YA horror. This definitely fits the thriller description with some bloody moments. The tropes were played well and at times too well. A lot of issues were harped on and beat into the ground (the photo, Micheal’s muscles, people being better than others). The characters conversations also, felt really awkward and inorganic. I found myself having the say it out loud because it didn’t sounds right. Some of the things the characters said were quite cringe at times and not things real people would say. A lot of whining as well. I’m not sure if that was the character playing their role and if so bravo but, it made me back to skip certain characters chapters. This might be controversial but, outside of the setting there was almost no “slasher summer” vibes. I never got the feeling that I was on summer break being chased by the slasher.
Overall, the book was just alright. I can see a lot of people liking it and gaining a cult following. I wish there could have been some tweaks and there might be since I didn’t read the final version. Although, I can see this being a CLASSIC slasher summer book once it comes out and gets some hype around it. Props to E. L. Chen for writing an underrated underrepresented theme.
I want to say that this book has been on my watch-list FOREVER, and was thankful enough to get an ARC copy through NetGalley.
The book follows a group of friends who are getting back together for a reunion of their HS horror movie club, The Jumpscare Society. They rent a cabin in the woods and from there things go down hill with a killer that has revenge on their mind. Or so they think …
Pros: I liked how each chapter was a different characters point of view. I think it worked very well seeing how each character viewed the events that were going on. One POV picked up where the other left off. I also, thought the ending was very fitting and on par for the trajectory of the book. It sent everything else up for a sequel.
Cons: right off the bat the books starts really fast with a gang of characters and backstories that kinda made me feel like I was outside looking in and missing something. I do not feel that this book is in the horror genre. If so then it is more YA horror. This definitely fits the thriller description with some bloody moments. The tropes were played well and at times too well. A lot of issues were harped on and beat into the ground (the photo, Micheal’s muscles, people being better than others). The characters conversations also, felt really awkward and inorganic. I found myself having the say it out loud because it didn’t sounds right. Some of the things the characters said were quite cringe at times and not things real people would say. A lot of whining as well. I’m not sure if that was the character playing their role and if so bravo but, it made me back to skip certain characters chapters. This might be controversial but, outside of the setting there was almost no “slasher summer” vibes. I never got the feeling that I was on summer break being chased by the slasher.
Overall, the book was just alright. I can see a lot of people liking it and gaining a cult following. I wish there could have been some tweaks and there might be since I didn’t read the final version. Although, I can see this being a CLASSIC slasher summer book once it comes out and gets some hype around it. Props to E. L. Chen for writing an underrated underrepresented theme.
June 27, 2026
A weekend at the filming location of your favorite slasher movie sounds pretty fun until someone starts recreating the movie for real.
Friends reunite years after high school where their favorite slasher movie was filmed. But things take a deadly turn when a masked killer shows up.
This one was so much fun to read as a slasher fan. It had all the elements of your favorite 80s slasher down to the character types, isolated setting and plenty of suspects. Such a fun nostalgic slasher.
Friends reunite years after high school where their favorite slasher movie was filmed. But things take a deadly turn when a masked killer shows up.
This one was so much fun to read as a slasher fan. It had all the elements of your favorite 80s slasher down to the character types, isolated setting and plenty of suspects. Such a fun nostalgic slasher.
June 24, 2026
This is a perfect slasher book. It has all the cliches (in a good way) and the gore was absolutely disgusting.
I feel like all of my favorite parts would be spoilers so I can’t really say any of them but this was really well done.
I feel like all of my favorite parts would be spoilers so I can’t really say any of them but this was really well done.
June 22, 2026
I can’t get over how much I loved this book. I have never read a book that so perfectly captures the thrill, irony, gore, and ridiculousness of an 80s slasher so well.
With Friday the 13th vibes and the self-deprecating humor of Scream… if you’re a slasher fan, you do NOT want to miss this one.
Easily one of my favorite reads of the year so far.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author, and Crown Publishing for the eARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Themes: final girl, horror, slasher, lgbtqia+ rep, mental illness rep, small town reunion, who done it, mystery/thriller
With Friday the 13th vibes and the self-deprecating humor of Scream… if you’re a slasher fan, you do NOT want to miss this one.
Easily one of my favorite reads of the year so far.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author, and Crown Publishing for the eARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Themes: final girl, horror, slasher, lgbtqia+ rep, mental illness rep, small town reunion, who done it, mystery/thriller
Review of advance copy
A nostalgic look back upon the slasher film era of the early 1980’s “Slasher Summer” is the reunion of seven friends who lived, breathed a popular film & whom all have hopefully gone onto bigger things since their graduation, four years ago.
Yet each character seems to have their own agenda on this reunion and it’s going to end up with a potential bang if they don’t heed the potential warnings & triggers from those early days! Including being mindful of the stranger in the mask, watching across from the lake-
There’s an eerie quietness and some shivers tapping on one’s spine as thoughts of all those campy slasher movies filter through one’s memory
In it, it is realizing that each of us is only as important as we allow ourselves to be, based on our behaviors, whether it was high school or just last week
Great summer spooky read! Thanks to Crown for this arc, loved this trip down memory lane!
Yet each character seems to have their own agenda on this reunion and it’s going to end up with a potential bang if they don’t heed the potential warnings & triggers from those early days! Including being mindful of the stranger in the mask, watching across from the lake-
There’s an eerie quietness and some shivers tapping on one’s spine as thoughts of all those campy slasher movies filter through one’s memory
In it, it is realizing that each of us is only as important as we allow ourselves to be, based on our behaviors, whether it was high school or just last week
Great summer spooky read! Thanks to Crown for this arc, loved this trip down memory lane!
June 7, 2026
Slasher Summer is a campy horror novel that feels like a love letter to classic ’80s slasher films.
The story follows a group of high school friends who reunite a few years after graduation for a nostalgic weekend at a secluded cabin in the woods. What starts as a fun getaway quickly turns into a nightmare as they’re forced to confront both a relentless killer and the ghosts of their shared past.
Packed with creepy cabin-in-the-woods atmosphere, suspense, and plenty of slasher-movie tropes, this book perfectly captures the feeling of watching a classic horror film. It kept me on edge the entire time, giving me the same anxious anticipation I get when watching a slasher movie. While the ending may be somewhat predictable, I constantly found myself second-guessing my theories and changing my mind about the killer’s identity.
My main criticism is that I would have liked more time with the characters before the action ramped up. With so many POVs, it was difficult to form a strong connection to everyone, and I wasn’t as emotionally invested in their survival as I would have liked to be. A bit more backstory and character development early on would have made the stakes feel even higher.
That said, I still had a lot of fun with this one. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, atmospheric horror read that delivers all the thrills and nostalgia of a classic slasher movie, Slasher Summer is a perfect addition to your summer reading list.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
The story follows a group of high school friends who reunite a few years after graduation for a nostalgic weekend at a secluded cabin in the woods. What starts as a fun getaway quickly turns into a nightmare as they’re forced to confront both a relentless killer and the ghosts of their shared past.
Packed with creepy cabin-in-the-woods atmosphere, suspense, and plenty of slasher-movie tropes, this book perfectly captures the feeling of watching a classic horror film. It kept me on edge the entire time, giving me the same anxious anticipation I get when watching a slasher movie. While the ending may be somewhat predictable, I constantly found myself second-guessing my theories and changing my mind about the killer’s identity.
My main criticism is that I would have liked more time with the characters before the action ramped up. With so many POVs, it was difficult to form a strong connection to everyone, and I wasn’t as emotionally invested in their survival as I would have liked to be. A bit more backstory and character development early on would have made the stakes feel even higher.
That said, I still had a lot of fun with this one. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, atmospheric horror read that delivers all the thrills and nostalgia of a classic slasher movie, Slasher Summer is a perfect addition to your summer reading list.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
June 16, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Crown Publishing for the arc!
HELLO SLASHER SUMMER!! This was an easy 4 star read for me. It was campy, it fed into all the slasher stereotypes we know and love and it was just plain FUN! Twists and turns and OH NO!'s galore. Perfect summer vibes read.
HELLO SLASHER SUMMER!! This was an easy 4 star read for me. It was campy, it fed into all the slasher stereotypes we know and love and it was just plain FUN! Twists and turns and OH NO!'s galore. Perfect summer vibes read.
June 7, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC!
I need a movie of this book ASAP. Get on that, directors!
This is exactly the book that I expected when I saw the cover - and that is a fantastic thing. I was thrilled to get an in-depth slasher on par with my favorite horror films, but with some delightful twists and fun characters. I loved that we got POVs from every character and each one was unique! I never second-guessed who I was reading about.
I am also SO excited to reread this book in the future, now knowing the ending, to see how it feels a second time around. The first time was extremely compelling, but the second time will be insane! I did guess parts of the ending - but I didn’t get everything right. Still, it all made so much sense!! When the twists were revealed, it was like a lovely little light bulb moment. 🙌
Highly recommend to fans of old slasher horror and fans of twisty, campy media. And I’ll say it again, this would be a terrific movie!
I need a movie of this book ASAP. Get on that, directors!
This is exactly the book that I expected when I saw the cover - and that is a fantastic thing. I was thrilled to get an in-depth slasher on par with my favorite horror films, but with some delightful twists and fun characters. I loved that we got POVs from every character and each one was unique! I never second-guessed who I was reading about.
I am also SO excited to reread this book in the future, now knowing the ending, to see how it feels a second time around. The first time was extremely compelling, but the second time will be insane! I did guess parts of the ending - but I didn’t get everything right. Still, it all made so much sense!! When the twists were revealed, it was like a lovely little light bulb moment. 🙌
Highly recommend to fans of old slasher horror and fans of twisty, campy media. And I’ll say it again, this would be a terrific movie!
March 11, 2026
*I was given an ARC of this book on NetGalley.*
overall, i found this book to be really well done — a constant commentary on slasher movie classics that lulled you into a sort of false sense of security. when the twists began, you were unprepared and began to recognize the bread crumbs spread throughout. it reminded me of a more modern slasher, subverting the genre, like a new scream movie or cabin in the woods.
!!!! ending spoiler below! !!!!!
the relief i felt only to be shattered by the impending doom at the realization it was far from over, was top notch. like when the extra scene plays after the credits roll.
would rec this for fans of the scream series, queer characters, slasher movies & books!
overall, i found this book to be really well done — a constant commentary on slasher movie classics that lulled you into a sort of false sense of security. when the twists began, you were unprepared and began to recognize the bread crumbs spread throughout. it reminded me of a more modern slasher, subverting the genre, like a new scream movie or cabin in the woods.
!!!! ending spoiler below! !!!!!
the relief i felt only to be shattered by the impending doom at the realization it was far from over, was top notch. like when the extra scene plays after the credits roll.
would rec this for fans of the scream series, queer characters, slasher movies & books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2026
4.75 ⭐️
This kept me up until 2 am because I had to know who the killer was
This was an absolute delight to read and I made the fatal mistake of picking it up before bed for “just a chapter or two” and ended up finishing it that same night. Normally bouncing between so many POVs is a bit confusing but this was done really well and every character was distinct. I appreciated the diversity of the cast to reflect modern times while keeping the classic slasher tropes! The foreshadowing and hints dropped throughout kept me guessing until the end. The tension was top notch and the red herrings got me more than once. The killer was not who I guessed and took me by surprise but also was slightly relatable? Maybe for only a few pages but that minute of sympathy makes for a REAL villain in my opinion and it’s appreciated. BUT THE ENDING?? I really hope there is a sequel.
Overall, I got sucked into this book and it’s perfect for any fans of the 80s/90s slasher franchises. I’m off to rewatch Scream now, completely unrelated, of course.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC! All opinions expressed are my own. 🖤
This kept me up until 2 am because I had to know who the killer was
This was an absolute delight to read and I made the fatal mistake of picking it up before bed for “just a chapter or two” and ended up finishing it that same night. Normally bouncing between so many POVs is a bit confusing but this was done really well and every character was distinct. I appreciated the diversity of the cast to reflect modern times while keeping the classic slasher tropes! The foreshadowing and hints dropped throughout kept me guessing until the end. The tension was top notch and the red herrings got me more than once. The killer was not who I guessed and took me by surprise but also was slightly relatable? Maybe for only a few pages but that minute of sympathy makes for a REAL villain in my opinion and it’s appreciated. BUT THE ENDING?? I really hope there is a sequel.
Overall, I got sucked into this book and it’s perfect for any fans of the 80s/90s slasher franchises. I’m off to rewatch Scream now, completely unrelated, of course.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC! All opinions expressed are my own. 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
thank you to netgalley and crown for the arc!
the beginning of this is a little slow but once it started going i was glued to my kindle, it was intense. i will say the more i read, the more i appreciated the slow beginning and introduction to the characters to gain a sense of familiarity with them.
amazing, 4.5
the beginning of this is a little slow but once it started going i was glued to my kindle, it was intense. i will say the more i read, the more i appreciated the slow beginning and introduction to the characters to gain a sense of familiarity with them.
amazing, 4.5
February 21, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐️’s I can’t decide!!!
I received this as an ARC and absolutely LOVED it!!
I genuinely could not put this down, I was up until 3am reading the last 3 hours of it all in one go!
I was so scared I felt like I was frozen at some points - I HIGHLY recommend!
The characters were all amazing - my favourites are definitely Patrick and Jen! - the writing was amazing and the PLOT TWISTS!
Every time I thought I had worked it out…plot twist!
I just loved it so much, I will definitely be reading more of this authors work :)
I received this as an ARC and absolutely LOVED it!!
I genuinely could not put this down, I was up until 3am reading the last 3 hours of it all in one go!
I was so scared I felt like I was frozen at some points - I HIGHLY recommend!
The characters were all amazing - my favourites are definitely Patrick and Jen! - the writing was amazing and the PLOT TWISTS!
Every time I thought I had worked it out…plot twist!
I just loved it so much, I will definitely be reading more of this authors work :)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
We join a reunion of a former high school friend group at a cabin in the woods, where we catch up with their lives since graduation, and a traumatic event from their past looms over them, as a killer stalks them one by one.
This book did a lot of things well. It read exactly like a cabin in the woods slasher movie, in print. In that way, it is pretty formulaic. That connects well with the Summer Slasher movie event element in the book, almost making it a bit meta, and the conventional slasher movie beats were just what I was looking for in this book. I really appreciated the diversity of characters—there’s good queer representation here, something I’ve always felt was lacking or usually tokenized in stories like this. It was refreshing to see it as a more central part of the plot.
Still, there was a lot of background exposition and extended internal thoughts in these chapters. At times the pages of paragraph blocks got tedious. Another book that I think follows the summer camp slasher narrative while managing to do a better job of adding additional backstory, that doesn’t feel too heavy, is the Friday the 13th novelization. I wish more breadcrumbs of backstory had been dropped or just implied through character interactions.
I was able to figure out who the killer was before the reveal, but my guesses changed along the way. Many of the characters had believable motives.
Overall, this was a fun read. Once you’re in the second half, things really get dicey and the tension is carried through to the end.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crown Publishing for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This book did a lot of things well. It read exactly like a cabin in the woods slasher movie, in print. In that way, it is pretty formulaic. That connects well with the Summer Slasher movie event element in the book, almost making it a bit meta, and the conventional slasher movie beats were just what I was looking for in this book. I really appreciated the diversity of characters—there’s good queer representation here, something I’ve always felt was lacking or usually tokenized in stories like this. It was refreshing to see it as a more central part of the plot.
Still, there was a lot of background exposition and extended internal thoughts in these chapters. At times the pages of paragraph blocks got tedious. Another book that I think follows the summer camp slasher narrative while managing to do a better job of adding additional backstory, that doesn’t feel too heavy, is the Friday the 13th novelization. I wish more breadcrumbs of backstory had been dropped or just implied through character interactions.
I was able to figure out who the killer was before the reveal, but my guesses changed along the way. Many of the characters had believable motives.
Overall, this was a fun read. Once you’re in the second half, things really get dicey and the tension is carried through to the end.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crown Publishing for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 20, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Crown Publishing for the ARC.
A group of friends get together for the last time at a remote cabin known as the Slasher cabin, famous for where the 80s film Slasher was set. The friends were all part of the Jumpscare Society back in high school, so of course, they are all in. Except, it’s not all fun and games.
I’m not the biggest lover of the campy 80s slasher genre, so I purely picked this book up from
NG because I like the author and of course want to support her. But I was pleasantly surprised because it was hella tropey, gory, insightful, and did not feel disrespectful to the victims. Most of the book and plot was relatively predictable, and I do believe that’s kind of the point. This genre kind of works the same way most times, it’s just a slight variation in execution and character development.
I truly enjoyed the characters. Sure, they were very stereotypical. Jock, hot bimbo, the nerd, the guy who’s always high, etc. The thing about books is that you can expand on their inner thoughts, which is something that movies may not be able to portray. While tropey on the surface, many of them are much more complex than whatever meets the eye. The various POVs really help to establish that.
Maybe because im not a slasher expert, I did not see the twist/reveal coming. But I did enjoy it immensely, and the ending? Dang. If you enjoy the generic slasher vibes, the tropes, the mix of characters, then definitely pick this one up! The cover is also super eye catching NGL!
A group of friends get together for the last time at a remote cabin known as the Slasher cabin, famous for where the 80s film Slasher was set. The friends were all part of the Jumpscare Society back in high school, so of course, they are all in. Except, it’s not all fun and games.
I’m not the biggest lover of the campy 80s slasher genre, so I purely picked this book up from
NG because I like the author and of course want to support her. But I was pleasantly surprised because it was hella tropey, gory, insightful, and did not feel disrespectful to the victims. Most of the book and plot was relatively predictable, and I do believe that’s kind of the point. This genre kind of works the same way most times, it’s just a slight variation in execution and character development.
I truly enjoyed the characters. Sure, they were very stereotypical. Jock, hot bimbo, the nerd, the guy who’s always high, etc. The thing about books is that you can expand on their inner thoughts, which is something that movies may not be able to portray. While tropey on the surface, many of them are much more complex than whatever meets the eye. The various POVs really help to establish that.
Maybe because im not a slasher expert, I did not see the twist/reveal coming. But I did enjoy it immensely, and the ending? Dang. If you enjoy the generic slasher vibes, the tropes, the mix of characters, then definitely pick this one up! The cover is also super eye catching NGL!
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