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Pumpkin Queen #3
Shadow Over the Pumpkin Queen
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Follow Sally to a dark realm called Shadow Town—where a powerful foe awaits her—in the #1 New York Times bestselling series inspired by Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas!
Can Sally save Jack from the shadows?
Sally should be at ease now that she has proven herself as Pumpkin Queen by saving Halloween Town from destructive spells twice. But the villain behind the town’s most recent troubles—a mysterious figure cloaked in darkness—is still at large, and Sally refuses to rest until she and her king, Jack Skellington, can find their enemy and stop them forever.
Then, strange storm clouds and directionless wind begin to haunt Halloween Town, and soon, citizens start to go missing. It becomes clear that the dark foe has decided to make the first move, and Sally will need allies from across the Hinterlands to stop him. But as Sally and Jack gather their friends to fight back against this attack, the unthinkable the mysterious force takes Jack, too.
After learning that her nemesis is a dark prince who lives in a lost realm called Shadow Town, Sally embarks on another cross-realms quest to find a solution, one that will connect her to new locales like Chance Town and the Hinterlands Maze. With the prince tracking her at every turn, seemingly bent on revenge, Sally will need to fight with every fiber of her being to prevent Halloween Town from utter destruction. But what secrets is the prince hiding—and could the truth undo everything?
Don’t miss the other New York Times bestselling titles in the
Long Live the Pumpkin Queen by Shea ErnshawHour of the Pumpkin Queen by Megan Shepherd
Can Sally save Jack from the shadows?
Sally should be at ease now that she has proven herself as Pumpkin Queen by saving Halloween Town from destructive spells twice. But the villain behind the town’s most recent troubles—a mysterious figure cloaked in darkness—is still at large, and Sally refuses to rest until she and her king, Jack Skellington, can find their enemy and stop them forever.
Then, strange storm clouds and directionless wind begin to haunt Halloween Town, and soon, citizens start to go missing. It becomes clear that the dark foe has decided to make the first move, and Sally will need allies from across the Hinterlands to stop him. But as Sally and Jack gather their friends to fight back against this attack, the unthinkable the mysterious force takes Jack, too.
After learning that her nemesis is a dark prince who lives in a lost realm called Shadow Town, Sally embarks on another cross-realms quest to find a solution, one that will connect her to new locales like Chance Town and the Hinterlands Maze. With the prince tracking her at every turn, seemingly bent on revenge, Sally will need to fight with every fiber of her being to prevent Halloween Town from utter destruction. But what secrets is the prince hiding—and could the truth undo everything?
Don’t miss the other New York Times bestselling titles in the
Long Live the Pumpkin Queen by Shea ErnshawHour of the Pumpkin Queen by Megan Shepherd
Audible Audio
First published July 7, 2026
About the author
Megan Shepherd
42 books2,843 followersNew York Times bestselling author Megan Shepherd grew up in her family’s independent bookstore in the Blue Ridge Mountains. She is the author of several young adult and middle grade novels. She now lives and writes on a 125-year-old farm outside Asheville, North Carolina, with her husband, two cats, and an especially scruffy dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
July 23, 2026
Loved the atmosphere, tired of the formula.
I really do enjoy this series overall. It’s a cozy, fun escape, and expanding the universe with new realms is always a highlight. I’ve loved watching Sally grow into her role and gain confidence as Queen. I completely understand that this series is meant to focus on Sally's own hero's journey, but there has to be a more creative way to highlight her than constantly using the "oh, Jack disappears again" trope. For a character who is supposed to be the Pumpkin King, he is constantly sidelined, captured, or written out early on.
Disney has an opportunity here to give us an amazing story where Jack and Sally actually team up and fight together, but instead, they keep leaning on the exact same predictable plot structure. It honestly suffers from the same issues as Disney's live-action remakes playing it way too safe and reusing old tropes. Unless Disney is willing to break this pattern and let them act as a real power couple, I think this should be the final book. Worth checking out if you love the lore, but be prepared for the same old dynamic.
I really do enjoy this series overall. It’s a cozy, fun escape, and expanding the universe with new realms is always a highlight. I’ve loved watching Sally grow into her role and gain confidence as Queen. I completely understand that this series is meant to focus on Sally's own hero's journey, but there has to be a more creative way to highlight her than constantly using the "oh, Jack disappears again" trope. For a character who is supposed to be the Pumpkin King, he is constantly sidelined, captured, or written out early on.
Disney has an opportunity here to give us an amazing story where Jack and Sally actually team up and fight together, but instead, they keep leaning on the exact same predictable plot structure. It honestly suffers from the same issues as Disney's live-action remakes playing it way too safe and reusing old tropes. Unless Disney is willing to break this pattern and let them act as a real power couple, I think this should be the final book. Worth checking out if you love the lore, but be prepared for the same old dynamic.
Want to Read
April 28, 2026Well Jacks going missing again. Not surprising.
These books are fun so I’m excited.
These books are fun so I’m excited.
July 16, 2026
I want to start my review by saying that the author is a wonderful author. Her novelization of the movie was wonderful. As far as my feelings for this book, It is, of course, up to the reader, but this book fell very short for me. I think aspects of the book are nice but I will point out my major flawing.
- the random mentioning of the abandoned hospital that has not been mentioned in any previous book as well as recluse woods. As adventurous as he is, Jack would have shown Sally these prior. There would have been some mention. She had no clue of recluse woods and she is the leader of the town. It doesn’t add up. I think this could’ve been a good addition if it wasn’t as random.
- There were a LOT of Oogie mentions. So much so I waited the entire book for him to somehow pop up. Of course a nod or two is great but he was mentioned heavily but not mentioned in either of the other books heavily. Granted, it could be gearing up for something more.
- The mentioning of Sally’s molars and the stitching at her wrist is mentioned quite a bit. I think there are other ways to mention her anxiety.
- why are there suddenly wildlife critters in Halloween town? I mean even their roosters are skeletons. Perhaps if the author had made them more creepy.
- The Shadow Twins backstory doesn’t sound right. No one else in Halloween town remembered these two??? I thought the entire point of Finkelstein kidnapping Sally was because he could not create a life. He created two? Sure it says they didn’t do what he wanted, but wouldn’t he just create another? Also how are they perfectly good humans? If dug up remains they would be oddly mismatched and creepy. I think this could’ve been a good addition if more descriptive into how no one knew them, made them more creepy looking, etc. The idea of shadow town is a good
Concept. The forgotten, etc. wonderful idea. But I don’t think it was executed the best. More details would’ve been better.
- The mummy family…. There was absolutely no mention of mummy boys parent and in this book not only are they mentioned a few times… they even had a baby? Don’t get me wrong I’m happy he has parents but why just randomly throw them in? None the less I do love the idea!
- Sally has seemed out of character. I understand characters grow, and that’s great.
- This does NOT seem like the end to a series. It wasn’t satisfying in that way. If there’s a secret next one then maybe.
- Sally’s parents just telling her to forget her husband and town? Not necessarily an issue with the author! Just the characters lol
- Sally said a thing of her and her siblings riding skeleton reindeer in the woods. Those did not exist until the movie? This would’ve happened before? They had no clue what reindeer were? I also think this could’ve been just Sally day dreaming without logic but i think more details couldve saved it.
What I did like?
- I like Finkelstein did show remorse for his actions
- I APPLAUD THE AUTHOR FOR EXPANDING THE WORLD! I can imagine that it’s hard to come up with more and more after the previous author already explored a lot of the holidays. I admire her wanting to add and give the readers more and more lore. It takes a lot of guts to add knowing some readers won’t enjoy the new additions. I do think the twins could be an interesting addition but i think the author should amp up their creepy factor. They would be stitched up decaying body parts.
- What would I like for the future?
STOP THROWING JACK IN A CRISIS
They can be romantic and strong together! He doesn’t always have to be in the sidelines. I think we’d love to spend more time with the characters we already know and love instead of adding more.
Also this one is more towards Disney, if everyone else in Disney can have children, Jack and Sally can have their CANON children wrote about. Their fans who are parents or becoming parents would love to hear about it.
Thank you to the author for continuing this series! I would love to
See what you do next! I don’t mean this review in a harsh way! You are wonderful.
- the random mentioning of the abandoned hospital that has not been mentioned in any previous book as well as recluse woods. As adventurous as he is, Jack would have shown Sally these prior. There would have been some mention. She had no clue of recluse woods and she is the leader of the town. It doesn’t add up. I think this could’ve been a good addition if it wasn’t as random.
- There were a LOT of Oogie mentions. So much so I waited the entire book for him to somehow pop up. Of course a nod or two is great but he was mentioned heavily but not mentioned in either of the other books heavily. Granted, it could be gearing up for something more.
- The mentioning of Sally’s molars and the stitching at her wrist is mentioned quite a bit. I think there are other ways to mention her anxiety.
- why are there suddenly wildlife critters in Halloween town? I mean even their roosters are skeletons. Perhaps if the author had made them more creepy.
- The Shadow Twins backstory doesn’t sound right. No one else in Halloween town remembered these two??? I thought the entire point of Finkelstein kidnapping Sally was because he could not create a life. He created two? Sure it says they didn’t do what he wanted, but wouldn’t he just create another? Also how are they perfectly good humans? If dug up remains they would be oddly mismatched and creepy. I think this could’ve been a good addition if more descriptive into how no one knew them, made them more creepy looking, etc. The idea of shadow town is a good
Concept. The forgotten, etc. wonderful idea. But I don’t think it was executed the best. More details would’ve been better.
- The mummy family…. There was absolutely no mention of mummy boys parent and in this book not only are they mentioned a few times… they even had a baby? Don’t get me wrong I’m happy he has parents but why just randomly throw them in? None the less I do love the idea!
- Sally has seemed out of character. I understand characters grow, and that’s great.
- This does NOT seem like the end to a series. It wasn’t satisfying in that way. If there’s a secret next one then maybe.
- Sally’s parents just telling her to forget her husband and town? Not necessarily an issue with the author! Just the characters lol
- Sally said a thing of her and her siblings riding skeleton reindeer in the woods. Those did not exist until the movie? This would’ve happened before? They had no clue what reindeer were? I also think this could’ve been just Sally day dreaming without logic but i think more details couldve saved it.
What I did like?
- I like Finkelstein did show remorse for his actions
- I APPLAUD THE AUTHOR FOR EXPANDING THE WORLD! I can imagine that it’s hard to come up with more and more after the previous author already explored a lot of the holidays. I admire her wanting to add and give the readers more and more lore. It takes a lot of guts to add knowing some readers won’t enjoy the new additions. I do think the twins could be an interesting addition but i think the author should amp up their creepy factor. They would be stitched up decaying body parts.
- What would I like for the future?
STOP THROWING JACK IN A CRISIS
They can be romantic and strong together! He doesn’t always have to be in the sidelines. I think we’d love to spend more time with the characters we already know and love instead of adding more.
Also this one is more towards Disney, if everyone else in Disney can have children, Jack and Sally can have their CANON children wrote about. Their fans who are parents or becoming parents would love to hear about it.
Thank you to the author for continuing this series! I would love to
See what you do next! I don’t mean this review in a harsh way! You are wonderful.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2026
Same old same old zzzzz
Jack is gone blah blah blah Sally is incomplete without Jack something something new town
Jack is gone blah blah blah Sally is incomplete without Jack something something new town
August 22, 2026
Mysterious storms are blowing over Halloween Town, stealing residents and terrorizing other holiday towns as well, and Sally and her friends have no way to stop them. So Sally goes on a quest to complete three impossible tasks to try to win supernatural help before it's too late.
Full credit to this book for its writing style and adherence to the characters. Between their speech and actions, each character felt familiar, matching what I imagine of them after watching the beloved film. Those are pretty big shoes to fill, and I'm glad Megan Shepherd was up to the task. However. What was this plot? Talk about random. I suspect that any series about Nightmare is going to struggle a little trying to find a believable antagonist, especially since the antagonist of the film maybe was also the protagonist, and you just can't replicate that.
Full credit to this book for its writing style and adherence to the characters. Between their speech and actions, each character felt familiar, matching what I imagine of them after watching the beloved film. Those are pretty big shoes to fill, and I'm glad Megan Shepherd was up to the task. However. What was this plot? Talk about random. I suspect that any series about Nightmare is going to struggle a little trying to find a believable antagonist, especially since the antagonist of the film maybe was also the protagonist, and you just can't replicate that.
July 22, 2026
Kept me pulled in. Fun exploring other realms
August 3, 2026
As the others, I enjoyed falling back into Halloween Town. It is fun to get more character development for Sally and exploring new realms.
August 8, 2026
I thought it was a really good book. I love the Nightmare Before Christmas.
July 8, 2026
This one was so much better than the previous book! I don't know if it's because the stakes were so much higher for the characters in this book, or maybe the plot just flowed better. Either way, I was able to fly through this one.
I think it's a funny gimmick now that Jack is no help for a majority of the book because he's asleep or missing. I can go into each book now expecting him to just be a background player.
I liked the lore that was developed in this book and the direction of Sally's story. There were some interesting twists in this one. I love seeing her confidence grow through each book and establish herself as a strong ruler and rag doll.
I'm actually excited to see if there will be a fourth book and where it could go.
I think it's a funny gimmick now that Jack is no help for a majority of the book because he's asleep or missing. I can go into each book now expecting him to just be a background player.
I liked the lore that was developed in this book and the direction of Sally's story. There were some interesting twists in this one. I love seeing her confidence grow through each book and establish herself as a strong ruler and rag doll.
I'm actually excited to see if there will be a fourth book and where it could go.
July 9, 2026
Out of the 3, this one’s my favorite I think. Sally is really coming into her own as Pumpkin Queen which is shown in this story. Sally tries to protect Halloween Town and the people in it from the mysterious Shadows taking people from different realms. Sally learns secrets about her memories the Dr stole while also working with her parents to solve the mystery. Of course with the help of everyone Sally uses her needle to draw the shadow out of the Shadow Prince to lock him up for safety. Shadow Town now becomes the place for forgotten people to go to have a home of their own. I think my favorite ending was the statue they made of Sally riding Mare with her needle in the air. Showed just how much everyone appreciated her as the Pumpkin Queen and what she did to save them.
August 19, 2026
3.5 | The atmosphere of this series and each of the different realms you're taken through are so palatable. It is fun and whimsical! Being someone that adores retellings and continuations, this hit the mark.
That being said, I think this one felt a little repetitive. As much as I enjoyed Sally’s journey, it felt very similar to the last book with Jack yet again going missing and Sally having to follow a familiar course of events to find him and accomplish what she needs to. It felt like the same story being told in a different font, which took away some of its excitement.
However, enjoyed being back in this world, but I was hoping for something that felt a little more fresh and different with this title.
That being said, I think this one felt a little repetitive. As much as I enjoyed Sally’s journey, it felt very similar to the last book with Jack yet again going missing and Sally having to follow a familiar course of events to find him and accomplish what she needs to. It felt like the same story being told in a different font, which took away some of its excitement.
However, enjoyed being back in this world, but I was hoping for something that felt a little more fresh and different with this title.
October 27, 2026
Love all 3 of these so much. Perfect for any Nightmare Before Christmas fan especially if like me your favourite is Sally and you always wish there was more to her story. Each one unique with her own adventure featuring a problem she has to solve. So fun and whimsical and contains the essence that is Nightmare Before Christmas. Each showing her grow as a character and finding out more about herself and what she can achieve. The 3rd book was no different, she discovers a new realm and Jack is taken and she won’t stop until she has him back. Sally is such an amazing strong character and I love her. Determined to do what ever it takes, even if it means working with the enemy because her and Jack are “Simply meant to be.”
September 7, 2026
Idk who needs to read this.. but if you like The Nightmare Before Christmas film what so ever, PLEASE read these sequel books. They’re canon, Tim Burton-esque, but still somehow original while simultaneously staying true to the source material. The writing as in the previous 2 books is just as lyrical and whimsical as ever. This is everything you want from a Fall/Halloween cozy fairytale with adventure and strong female protagonist- Sally herself. The continuation of her story, expanding of this world, is incredibly satisfying. It’s refreshing and yet nostalgic. Not only do we see continued growth in Sally’s character but as the reader you find other characters just as relatable and complex. Please don’t skip on these and pick them up if you’re searching for your next cozy read!
October 25, 2026
Having read and enjoyed the other books in the series, I knew that I would enjoy this one. Fans of The Nightmare Before Christmas will love it. From the very first page I was hooked and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. I loved the story and following the characters through it. I can't read the book enough and I look forward to reading more by the author.
August 2, 2026
A little disappointed in this book. The story had the same premise as the previous one. Sally goes on a quest to save Halloween town. She doubts herself. She finds some new worlds. Then saves the day in the last 30 pages.
I don’t regret reading the book. I’m glad to have it on my bookshelf. Maybe I will enjoy the story more when I read the trilogy again someday.
I don’t regret reading the book. I’m glad to have it on my bookshelf. Maybe I will enjoy the story more when I read the trilogy again someday.
October 31, 2026
I can't stop buying these books, but I really do struggle through them because the writing just isn't good.
I think the fact that they're targeted at YA just isn't for me. I get quite bored knowing that everything will always work out at the end, it doesn't keep me engaged because there's nothing at stake.
I do like seeing some more world building, but even this doesn't fully capture my interest.
I think the fact that they're targeted at YA just isn't for me. I get quite bored knowing that everything will always work out at the end, it doesn't keep me engaged because there's nothing at stake.
I do like seeing some more world building, but even this doesn't fully capture my interest.
August 6, 2026
Cozy :) Jack and Sally may a love like theirs find each and every one of us :3
October 14, 2026
I really liked this one. I loved seeing more of different worlds and learning more about this universe as a whole. I love the backstory that Sally has and it was just such a fun read. It was such a fun adventure and it was the perfect read for Halloween time.
November 2, 2026
I liked the storyline I didn’t like the writing
October 13, 2026
Not long after the events of the last book, once again, Sally has not a moment to rest after saving Halloween Town twice! A mysterious shadow prince starts sending storms to attack of all the holiday towns, kidnapping any resident caught outside. After losing most of her friends, including Jack, Sally is visited by the Night Mare and offered assistance if only she can complete three impossible tasks first. A terrifying adventure unfolds as Sally desperately tries to find creative ways to complete the tasks and ultimately save everyone. Sally becoming a “hero” was the ultimate purpose of this book, and I felt that overall it was the least connected to how I personally would imagine the characters from the film. I also felt that the author went a little over the top adding complex new layers onto Sally’s backstory. If there are future books in the series, I would love it if the plot expanded into something beyond a villain/threat + impossible mission format. I’d also love to read about Jack and Sally experiencing something together!
Favorite Quotes:
“One thing I’ve learned is that people change. I’ve changed—especially when I met Sally. She might have been made of cloth, but she showed me that patience is strength.”
“A friend doubles your luck and halves your troubles.”
“Nothing’s ever lost. There are echoes from every note ever played. You just have to close your eyes and listen.”
Favorite Quotes:
“One thing I’ve learned is that people change. I’ve changed—especially when I met Sally. She might have been made of cloth, but she showed me that patience is strength.”
“A friend doubles your luck and halves your troubles.”
“Nothing’s ever lost. There are echoes from every note ever played. You just have to close your eyes and listen.”
October 4, 2026
Sally keeps proving how much she cares for Halloween Town and everyone in it, especially Jack. This time she has to battle a Shadow enemy who is stealing townspeople from all Holiday/Magical towns. With the support of her family and found family, Sally perseveres through each trial and never forgets those she loves! She is a compassionate, forgiving, and merciful queen. Jack, once again, demonstrates that although he’s the Pumpkin King, he is the ultimate green-flag husband for Sally 🧡🖤 Their dog, Zero, is comforting and loyal 🤍🐶 The Shadow villain steals away Jack and Zero (and so many others). Sally must complete 3 impossible tasks to receive the magical help of the Night Mare to save everyone kidnapped. But can a rag doll from Dream Town do the impossible?
🎃 World Building: 5⭐️s
🖤 Plot: 3 ⭐️s
🧡 Characters: 4⭐️s
🤍 Ending: 5⭐️s
I was made to be loved. And love doesn’t come without tatters and tears.
🎃 World Building: 5⭐️s
🖤 Plot: 3 ⭐️s
🧡 Characters: 4⭐️s
🤍 Ending: 5⭐️s
I was made to be loved. And love doesn’t come without tatters and tears.
July 8, 2026
I loved the previous two books in this trilogy. I’m so sad to say this one lost me completely.
Shepherd said in a Q&A last year that she was asked to change her original vision for this book, as Disney felt it was “too dark”. I wish we could see what that original was!
If you criticised the first two books in this series for Jack largely being absent, prepare to feel that way again. Jack is stolen away from Htown, yet again. I believe this keeps happening because DisPub wants to center Sally on her own, as a self-reliant strong MFC. It’s sort of like why there are so many dead mothers in traditional fairy tales. The adventure can’t happen if someone is there to protect the MC. I get it, but we’ve had three books of the same exact formula, with the same characters.
If you are a Jack and Sally romance fan, there is virtually none of that in this third book. The other two books felt very “romancey” in parts, even when the characters were separated. The clear shift in tone here feels like it had to be a purposeful decision. Instead of the fantasy romance atmosphere, we get more running around, chase scenes including an elaborate set-piece in a factory, and more physical combat. The first two books overall had a more introspective feel to them. IMO, this third installment shifts even younger than the first two. That’s an interesting choice, since at least from what I read on GR, many readers were critical of the first two books reading more middle grade than YA.
We’re introduced to a new locale in Halloweentown. This remote woodland section of the realm has beavers, chipmunks, deer, and a lake filled with jumping trout. There is yet another new town introduced, and new original characters. The main pair of new OCs further confuse the already complex dynamic between Sally and Dr. Finklestein. Their presence also directly contradicts what we were told in the earlier books about why Dr. F stole Sally in the first place. They also create plot holes, like for example, how did no one else in Halloweentown know about them prior to this?
None of the above quite worked for me, but this would have been a solid 3 or 3.5. I’m giving it a 2, largely based on how it treats the conflict between Sally and Dr. Finklestein.
If you read the first book, Long Live the Pumpkin Queen by author Shea Ernshaw, you know that book radically changed the backstory of how Sally came to be in Halloweentown, and her relationship to Dr. F. Whether or not readers/fans like that change or not, the fact is it was approved and published by Disney, and Disney seems to be treating these PQ books as canon (the Sally face character in the parks has even referenced events from the books to guests…). Throughout these books, a prevalent theme has been Sally wrestling with the trauma of what she went through under the Doctor’s control. She confronts him briefly at the beginning of the second book. He is not only unrepentant at that point, but downright nasty, belittling her and reenforcing her already painful self-doubt.
In this book, Sally’s parents bring Dr. F back to Halloweentown without even telling Sally first (Sally's parents are even more unlikeable in this book than they were in the previous two), because they feel he can help with the problem at hand, given that he is a scientist. When Sally understandably objects to his presence, her mother actually scolds her, saying that as a ruler, she needs to practice compassion. Just to review: this is a character who kidnapped her when she was twelve, erased her memory, cut her open and replaced her dream cotton stuffing with leaves (!!??), and kept her confined as a prisoner/servant for years after. This isn’t even going into his relationship with two new characters introduced in this book - which is also disturbing.
By the conclusion of this story, the Dr. Is allowed to return to Halloweentown, rather than serve out the remainder of his sentence in Dreamtown. Even Jack is on board with this, because…compassion.
My guess here is that Disney wanted this character to be returned to Halloweentown by the end of this book in an effort to “reset” things, as is common with IPs like this. That way, if they do more projects in this universe, they’d don’t have to deal with explaining why he’s not there, or conflict with the PQ books. The way it was handled here really bothered me, however. I feel like there had to be a better way to reach the same end. They spent three books building up this strong female main character, but when it counts, her valid feelings are pushed aside to give her abuser (she calls him her “tormentor” at one point in this story…) redemption. Very disappointing, especially in the current cultural moment.
(I'll add, I recognize that as a Gen X adult, I am maybe not the target reader for these books, however I am a woman who has raised a daughter. I would have liked Sally to tell Greta and Albert where they could go, and how to get there, in this one)
ETA: Upon more reflection, I'll reiterate here something I touched upon in my review of PQ2 last year. I have one overall frustration with this trilogy as a whole: It introduces character dynamics, and situations, that are a touch too mature for the level of prose, and the pacing. If the series concept is aimed at younger middle grade readers (as opposed to YA or NA readers) then don't introduce themes like child abduction, trauma, difficult dynamics between an adult child and their parents, etc - unless you are willing to explore these themes responsibly. The first book is the best in this regard. The second and third struggle, but I don't believe that's the fault of the author. I suspect that when the first book's plot concept was approved - Disney might not have had a series in mind. Once that one was a runaway success, they wanted to do more. However the second and third books are bound by the situation set up in the first book.
I am repeating myself from previous reviews, but I wish Dpub would let these talented authors cook with their ideas, instead of stepping in and sanding all of the edges off. Based on author Q&As, we know that J&S were supposed to discuss starting a family in the second book. We also know that this third book was supposed to be more dark. In the end we have a series that reads lighter, but inadvertently raises questions it doesn't want to answer.
Shepherd said in a Q&A last year that she was asked to change her original vision for this book, as Disney felt it was “too dark”. I wish we could see what that original was!
If you criticised the first two books in this series for Jack largely being absent, prepare to feel that way again. Jack is stolen away from Htown, yet again. I believe this keeps happening because DisPub wants to center Sally on her own, as a self-reliant strong MFC. It’s sort of like why there are so many dead mothers in traditional fairy tales. The adventure can’t happen if someone is there to protect the MC. I get it, but we’ve had three books of the same exact formula, with the same characters.
If you are a Jack and Sally romance fan, there is virtually none of that in this third book. The other two books felt very “romancey” in parts, even when the characters were separated. The clear shift in tone here feels like it had to be a purposeful decision. Instead of the fantasy romance atmosphere, we get more running around, chase scenes including an elaborate set-piece in a factory, and more physical combat. The first two books overall had a more introspective feel to them. IMO, this third installment shifts even younger than the first two. That’s an interesting choice, since at least from what I read on GR, many readers were critical of the first two books reading more middle grade than YA.
We’re introduced to a new locale in Halloweentown. This remote woodland section of the realm has beavers, chipmunks, deer, and a lake filled with jumping trout. There is yet another new town introduced, and new original characters. The main pair of new OCs further confuse the already complex dynamic between Sally and Dr. Finklestein. Their presence also directly contradicts what we were told in the earlier books about why Dr. F stole Sally in the first place. They also create plot holes, like for example, how did no one else in Halloweentown know about them prior to this?
None of the above quite worked for me, but this would have been a solid 3 or 3.5. I’m giving it a 2, largely based on how it treats the conflict between Sally and Dr. Finklestein.
If you read the first book, Long Live the Pumpkin Queen by author Shea Ernshaw, you know that book radically changed the backstory of how Sally came to be in Halloweentown, and her relationship to Dr. F. Whether or not readers/fans like that change or not, the fact is it was approved and published by Disney, and Disney seems to be treating these PQ books as canon (the Sally face character in the parks has even referenced events from the books to guests…). Throughout these books, a prevalent theme has been Sally wrestling with the trauma of what she went through under the Doctor’s control. She confronts him briefly at the beginning of the second book. He is not only unrepentant at that point, but downright nasty, belittling her and reenforcing her already painful self-doubt.
In this book, Sally’s parents bring Dr. F back to Halloweentown without even telling Sally first (Sally's parents are even more unlikeable in this book than they were in the previous two), because they feel he can help with the problem at hand, given that he is a scientist. When Sally understandably objects to his presence, her mother actually scolds her, saying that as a ruler, she needs to practice compassion. Just to review: this is a character who kidnapped her when she was twelve, erased her memory, cut her open and replaced her dream cotton stuffing with leaves (!!??), and kept her confined as a prisoner/servant for years after. This isn’t even going into his relationship with two new characters introduced in this book - which is also disturbing.
By the conclusion of this story, the Dr. Is allowed to return to Halloweentown, rather than serve out the remainder of his sentence in Dreamtown. Even Jack is on board with this, because…compassion.
My guess here is that Disney wanted this character to be returned to Halloweentown by the end of this book in an effort to “reset” things, as is common with IPs like this. That way, if they do more projects in this universe, they’d don’t have to deal with explaining why he’s not there, or conflict with the PQ books. The way it was handled here really bothered me, however. I feel like there had to be a better way to reach the same end. They spent three books building up this strong female main character, but when it counts, her valid feelings are pushed aside to give her abuser (she calls him her “tormentor” at one point in this story…) redemption. Very disappointing, especially in the current cultural moment.
(I'll add, I recognize that as a Gen X adult, I am maybe not the target reader for these books, however I am a woman who has raised a daughter. I would have liked Sally to tell Greta and Albert where they could go, and how to get there, in this one)
ETA: Upon more reflection, I'll reiterate here something I touched upon in my review of PQ2 last year. I have one overall frustration with this trilogy as a whole: It introduces character dynamics, and situations, that are a touch too mature for the level of prose, and the pacing. If the series concept is aimed at younger middle grade readers (as opposed to YA or NA readers) then don't introduce themes like child abduction, trauma, difficult dynamics between an adult child and their parents, etc - unless you are willing to explore these themes responsibly. The first book is the best in this regard. The second and third struggle, but I don't believe that's the fault of the author. I suspect that when the first book's plot concept was approved - Disney might not have had a series in mind. Once that one was a runaway success, they wanted to do more. However the second and third books are bound by the situation set up in the first book.
I am repeating myself from previous reviews, but I wish Dpub would let these talented authors cook with their ideas, instead of stepping in and sanding all of the edges off. Based on author Q&As, we know that J&S were supposed to discuss starting a family in the second book. We also know that this third book was supposed to be more dark. In the end we have a series that reads lighter, but inadvertently raises questions it doesn't want to answer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2026
Yes this was a young adult book but it was still very enjoyable.
In this book, we follow Sally where the second book left off. Sally and those in Halloween Town are trying to figure out who the prince in the rain cloud is and how to find him. However, as the book progresses, people from Halloween Town as well as the other realms start disappearing. Jack himself is even taken. Sally must then travel to places such as Chance Town and back to Dream Town where she learns she can summon the Night Mare. Yet, the Night Mare tells her that in order for her to help, Sally must complete three impossible tasks all before the next full moon. Sally then works to complete the tasks all while other people, including her parents, are taken by the Prince whom they learn is named Dorian. Sally eventually is able to find Shadow Town, Prince Dorian's domain and a battle ensues.
This book had probably the most action of the three. There were many times I wondered how Sally was going to get out of certain situations. I found myself trying to figure out how I myself would proceed if I found myself in her position which I felt helped me be more invested in the story. I liked that characters from the other books made repeat appearances as well as a few new characters from the new realm. Besides Fortuna Luckwell, the leader of Chance Town, I can't really think of another character I didn't care for. I'd be hard pressed to say Dorian but I don't because I understand his reasoning for what he did. He simply went about it in the wrong way. I also very much liked that Sally was able to recognize her own strength. Yes she found strength in thinking about Jack and her friends and family but she was ultimately strong, brave, cunning enough to get through difficult times on her own. I feel like thats a good lesson for girls in today's day and age.
I found the writing to be very engaging. Again, as aforementioned, it is a YA book so there weren't any complex words or concepts but the story was still able to get across the desperation, desire, fear, joy, etc that the characters went through at certain parts in the book. I also liked that some of the chapters were shorter so I felt like I was able to get through the book quicker. I must say I wish I could envision these towns better or there were drawings of them but that didn't detract from the book.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a fast paced YA story, a quicker read book, a book with strong female characters, a Halloween coded book and a book with pretty high stakes. Onto the next!
In this book, we follow Sally where the second book left off. Sally and those in Halloween Town are trying to figure out who the prince in the rain cloud is and how to find him. However, as the book progresses, people from Halloween Town as well as the other realms start disappearing. Jack himself is even taken. Sally must then travel to places such as Chance Town and back to Dream Town where she learns she can summon the Night Mare. Yet, the Night Mare tells her that in order for her to help, Sally must complete three impossible tasks all before the next full moon. Sally then works to complete the tasks all while other people, including her parents, are taken by the Prince whom they learn is named Dorian. Sally eventually is able to find Shadow Town, Prince Dorian's domain and a battle ensues.
This book had probably the most action of the three. There were many times I wondered how Sally was going to get out of certain situations. I found myself trying to figure out how I myself would proceed if I found myself in her position which I felt helped me be more invested in the story. I liked that characters from the other books made repeat appearances as well as a few new characters from the new realm. Besides Fortuna Luckwell, the leader of Chance Town, I can't really think of another character I didn't care for. I'd be hard pressed to say Dorian but I don't because I understand his reasoning for what he did. He simply went about it in the wrong way. I also very much liked that Sally was able to recognize her own strength. Yes she found strength in thinking about Jack and her friends and family but she was ultimately strong, brave, cunning enough to get through difficult times on her own. I feel like thats a good lesson for girls in today's day and age.
I found the writing to be very engaging. Again, as aforementioned, it is a YA book so there weren't any complex words or concepts but the story was still able to get across the desperation, desire, fear, joy, etc that the characters went through at certain parts in the book. I also liked that some of the chapters were shorter so I felt like I was able to get through the book quicker. I must say I wish I could envision these towns better or there were drawings of them but that didn't detract from the book.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a fast paced YA story, a quicker read book, a book with strong female characters, a Halloween coded book and a book with pretty high stakes. Onto the next!
October 29, 2026
Reading the latest Pumpkin Queen book has become a Halloween tradition for me. This year I actually read the graphic novel based on the first book, followed by the third novel.
Since becoming the Queen of Halloween Town, Sally Skellington has faced one obstacle after another, but she's determined to prove herself and will do whatever she has to do to save everyone she cares about. And now that the residents of her beloved home are slowly disappearing, Sally will face her biggest challenge yet...
Another fantastic installment to Sally's journey as the Queen of Halloween Town! Though to be honest, she's so involved with all the other towns that I think she should be the Queen of Everywhere! 😁
Not only does Sally face another bleak situation that requires a lot of thought, planning, and sacrifice, but it's actually a shadow that's been stalking her through several books.
During Sally's latest adventure, several new places are introduced: Shadow Town (claustrophobic), the Hinterlands Maze (near impossible), Chance Town (reminded me of Oogie Boogie), the abandoned hospital (creepy), the Recluse Woods (absolutely intrigued)... I love when a familiar world expands by introducing new locations and characters.
It was great to meet so many new characters and to catch up with others. I found Dahlia the most interesting and would love to know more about her MIA adventures. And I think that the skeleton brothers probably have some great stories to tell.
I had a LOT of fun with this book, but it's also quite bleak because the stakes are pretty high. And it's fast-paced. There were so many scenes that had me on the edge of my seat because Sally kept getting deeper and deeper into impossible situations. But no matter how hard the situation got, or how many times she failed, Sally's determination grows stronger.
Personally, I found the revelations absolutely fascinating because Dr. Finkelstein is full of selfish motivations. So it makes sense that he would do just about anything to keep his terrible secrets.
Sally is one of my favourite characters (ever) and I'll read any story about her, so I hope there's more. Love this series!
Since becoming the Queen of Halloween Town, Sally Skellington has faced one obstacle after another, but she's determined to prove herself and will do whatever she has to do to save everyone she cares about. And now that the residents of her beloved home are slowly disappearing, Sally will face her biggest challenge yet...
Another fantastic installment to Sally's journey as the Queen of Halloween Town! Though to be honest, she's so involved with all the other towns that I think she should be the Queen of Everywhere! 😁
Not only does Sally face another bleak situation that requires a lot of thought, planning, and sacrifice, but it's actually a shadow that's been stalking her through several books.
During Sally's latest adventure, several new places are introduced: Shadow Town (claustrophobic), the Hinterlands Maze (near impossible), Chance Town (reminded me of Oogie Boogie), the abandoned hospital (creepy), the Recluse Woods (absolutely intrigued)... I love when a familiar world expands by introducing new locations and characters.
It was great to meet so many new characters and to catch up with others. I found Dahlia the most interesting and would love to know more about her MIA adventures. And I think that the skeleton brothers probably have some great stories to tell.
I had a LOT of fun with this book, but it's also quite bleak because the stakes are pretty high. And it's fast-paced. There were so many scenes that had me on the edge of my seat because Sally kept getting deeper and deeper into impossible situations. But no matter how hard the situation got, or how many times she failed, Sally's determination grows stronger.
Personally, I found the revelations absolutely fascinating because Dr. Finkelstein is full of selfish motivations. So it makes sense that he would do just about anything to keep his terrible secrets.
Sally is one of my favourite characters (ever) and I'll read any story about her, so I hope there's more. Love this series!
October 31, 2026
I gotta say you can see how much the writer improved at writing Sally, HOWEVER, this book is such a disappointment.
I wish this book was merely badly written, instead is formulaic; it starts with Sally happy, then the town gets shut down (1st book everyone's asleep, 2nd book everyone's in a another time line, 3rd book everyone's faded away) then Sally has to internally suffer to never see jack again (like in the 1st and 2nd book) just to realize she can do it all by herself (same as previous book) at the end Jack will look at her and tell her how much he loves her — although we never see them actually interacting as a couple neither their daily life nor them working together to solve a problem — oh and in the meantime Sally, somehow, will remember she doesn't feel part of Halloween town and yet will probé to herself (for a third time in a row) she deserves to be queen... and will fine a new relative we've never heard of before.
In overall, these books are addictive but boring; it's the same over and over again, with better ambience tho.
I would love if the author realized Sally can still be the protagonist without leaving Jack forgotten in a corner, also, can the author give Sally a story with a problem that's not the imminent erasure of all she knows and still make it interesting? Facing the town's extinction isn't as dramatic when it's the yearly experience.
Finally, I'd like to say it's nice to meet new characters but... can the author make use of the already known and loved Halloween town residents? From the entire series the best scene was that of Dr Finkelstein, Sally and Daliha making the star, call me crazy but I read a nightmare before Xmas book hoping to find nightmare before Xmas characters in it. And I'd enjoy if those are other than Lock Shock and Barrel, I love them but those seems to be the only names the author remembers when she has to use non ocs, and also the tear away face clown and witches.
In overall, give me a story with Sally AND JACK, without spirit away all town and with more participation of the already known Halloween town citizens pls
I wish this book was merely badly written, instead is formulaic; it starts with Sally happy, then the town gets shut down (1st book everyone's asleep, 2nd book everyone's in a another time line, 3rd book everyone's faded away) then Sally has to internally suffer to never see jack again (like in the 1st and 2nd book) just to realize she can do it all by herself (same as previous book) at the end Jack will look at her and tell her how much he loves her — although we never see them actually interacting as a couple neither their daily life nor them working together to solve a problem — oh and in the meantime Sally, somehow, will remember she doesn't feel part of Halloween town and yet will probé to herself (for a third time in a row) she deserves to be queen... and will fine a new relative we've never heard of before.
In overall, these books are addictive but boring; it's the same over and over again, with better ambience tho.
I would love if the author realized Sally can still be the protagonist without leaving Jack forgotten in a corner, also, can the author give Sally a story with a problem that's not the imminent erasure of all she knows and still make it interesting? Facing the town's extinction isn't as dramatic when it's the yearly experience.
Finally, I'd like to say it's nice to meet new characters but... can the author make use of the already known and loved Halloween town residents? From the entire series the best scene was that of Dr Finkelstein, Sally and Daliha making the star, call me crazy but I read a nightmare before Xmas book hoping to find nightmare before Xmas characters in it. And I'd enjoy if those are other than Lock Shock and Barrel, I love them but those seems to be the only names the author remembers when she has to use non ocs, and also the tear away face clown and witches.
In overall, give me a story with Sally AND JACK, without spirit away all town and with more participation of the already known Halloween town citizens pls
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2026
I love TNBC and this series is wonderful. But it's the same formula. Sally is a great queen, something goes wrong, Jack is taken, she needs to save everyone. Her parents lwk really bothered me this book too. Since day one, they have been so unsupportive but this book makes it so obvious. ALSO i feel like there were a lot of mentions to Oogie Boogie so i was kind of ready for him to come back. I was really ready to see him when she went to Chance Town. It also makes me question why Oogie Boogie was even in Halloween Town and not Chance Town. It just seems like a minor plothole.
The idea of Dr Finkelstein being remorseful doesn't really make sense to me. In the last book we saw him throwing insults at Sally- and now he's helping her. I think i was just a little disappointed that he was getting a character arc. I never really saw him as someone with a good bone in their body so seeing him do something relatively good just shook me up a bit.
I absolutely adore the Jack and Sally romance though. Though, i will say that i'm a little tired of the same 'i need to do this for Jack', 'I just miss Jack', 'The image of Jack spins in my mind', etc. It just gets old. I do like the romance they share when they are together. Jack especially. I think it is pretty true to the character we see in the original movie.
Following that, I would've really love to see Jack and Sally work together as a couple instead of just Sally working alone. I understand they are trying to build a strong FMC but i think seeing the power couple together to fight off evil would make this series over the top phenomenal.
Overall, it is a good book with lots of action. As someone who isn't usually a fantasy reader, this book is worth reading. I love TNBC and i think this series is a great add on to the story we all love.
If this is the end of the PQ series, i am sad to see it end but happy with my ending. If this isn't the end, i really do hope to see Jack and Sally work together on the next adventure instead of the same Sally saving Jack formula.
The idea of Dr Finkelstein being remorseful doesn't really make sense to me. In the last book we saw him throwing insults at Sally- and now he's helping her. I think i was just a little disappointed that he was getting a character arc. I never really saw him as someone with a good bone in their body so seeing him do something relatively good just shook me up a bit.
I absolutely adore the Jack and Sally romance though. Though, i will say that i'm a little tired of the same 'i need to do this for Jack', 'I just miss Jack', 'The image of Jack spins in my mind', etc. It just gets old. I do like the romance they share when they are together. Jack especially. I think it is pretty true to the character we see in the original movie.
Following that, I would've really love to see Jack and Sally work together as a couple instead of just Sally working alone. I understand they are trying to build a strong FMC but i think seeing the power couple together to fight off evil would make this series over the top phenomenal.
Overall, it is a good book with lots of action. As someone who isn't usually a fantasy reader, this book is worth reading. I love TNBC and i think this series is a great add on to the story we all love.
If this is the end of the PQ series, i am sad to see it end but happy with my ending. If this isn't the end, i really do hope to see Jack and Sally work together on the next adventure instead of the same Sally saving Jack formula.
August 11, 2026
4 stars!
And the whimsy continues! Sally is such a great character to follow through this story. As a NBC fan, I appreciate all the love this trilogy has brought to Sally. She is such an important part of the NBC world but she is overshadowed by Jack. Putting the power balance in her court during these novels was really smart and well crafted. She has such a great personality and an interesting story to tell. Sally is very relatable and finds very clever ways to solve problems.
The atmosphere is this story continued to amaze me. The descriptions and feeling of halloweentown was crafted in such a way that I could visual it. The towns people, mayor and harlequin demon really make the forefront in this addition too. Everything is fleshed out very well and the author takes you through the town whimsically and thoroughly. She’s able to blend the background and scenery in with the dialogue and story. Sally’s travels through several doors in this addition and has to problem solve so often.
I love that this story is whimsical but is rooted in many real world problems. The author really digs into some topics of importance, self worth, trust, love wins and personal development in this one. Sally has to really find herself in here and make it through some of the tough times without Jack by her side. I love that we get to experience her independence as the reader.
This was my favorite thus far out of the three. The writing has elevated and it seems a bit more new adult than YA. I loved the focus on side characters and story’s, this really helps build tension and nuance. Sally’s character and personality are tested throughout this book. I enjoyed that Jack took the side lines and Sally really got to shine through.
Go read these!! Definitely appropriate for any time of the year but I fear it will hit different during fall. So glad I own all of these and I’m proud to be a Sally fan.
💀👻🎃
And the whimsy continues! Sally is such a great character to follow through this story. As a NBC fan, I appreciate all the love this trilogy has brought to Sally. She is such an important part of the NBC world but she is overshadowed by Jack. Putting the power balance in her court during these novels was really smart and well crafted. She has such a great personality and an interesting story to tell. Sally is very relatable and finds very clever ways to solve problems.
The atmosphere is this story continued to amaze me. The descriptions and feeling of halloweentown was crafted in such a way that I could visual it. The towns people, mayor and harlequin demon really make the forefront in this addition too. Everything is fleshed out very well and the author takes you through the town whimsically and thoroughly. She’s able to blend the background and scenery in with the dialogue and story. Sally’s travels through several doors in this addition and has to problem solve so often.
I love that this story is whimsical but is rooted in many real world problems. The author really digs into some topics of importance, self worth, trust, love wins and personal development in this one. Sally has to really find herself in here and make it through some of the tough times without Jack by her side. I love that we get to experience her independence as the reader.
This was my favorite thus far out of the three. The writing has elevated and it seems a bit more new adult than YA. I loved the focus on side characters and story’s, this really helps build tension and nuance. Sally’s character and personality are tested throughout this book. I enjoyed that Jack took the side lines and Sally really got to shine through.
Go read these!! Definitely appropriate for any time of the year but I fear it will hit different during fall. So glad I own all of these and I’m proud to be a Sally fan.
💀👻🎃
August 2, 2026
Rating 4 Stars
Its been so hard to think of how to review this because all I can think of was how this was way better than I expected after the lackluster plot and ending of the second book. In fact the second one should have been skipped altogether since it seemed to serve as more of an introduction to new worlds and characters with no strong plot but I digress.
What I liked:
-Sally is still Sally. She is still the ragdoll struggling to come to terms to now being the ruler of Halloweentown but has gained some confidence after what she has learned about herself and having to be the one to one to save Halloweentown more than once at this point.
Dislikes:
-Really just a few moments in the book that could have made the book wrap up much faster but since I'm sure Shepherd had a word count to meet she had to just move past some sensible solutions that Sally could have made.
-The whole three trials thing. The MC having to go through some trial or trials or competition is so overdone that I did not enjoy that part at all.
I feel like this was a good ending to the whole series so I hope Shepherd won't write another one just for the sake of cashing in more money.
Its been so hard to think of how to review this because all I can think of was how this was way better than I expected after the lackluster plot and ending of the second book. In fact the second one should have been skipped altogether since it seemed to serve as more of an introduction to new worlds and characters with no strong plot but I digress.
What I liked:
-Sally is still Sally. She is still the ragdoll struggling to come to terms to now being the ruler of Halloweentown but has gained some confidence after what she has learned about herself and having to be the one to one to save Halloweentown more than once at this point.
Dislikes:
-Really just a few moments in the book that could have made the book wrap up much faster but since I'm sure Shepherd had a word count to meet she had to just move past some sensible solutions that Sally could have made.
-The whole three trials thing. The MC having to go through some trial or trials or competition is so overdone that I did not enjoy that part at all.
I feel like this was a good ending to the whole series so I hope Shepherd won't write another one just for the sake of cashing in more money.
October 26, 2026
“𝐀𝐧𝐝, 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲, 𝐈’𝐯𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐈 𝐡𝐚𝐝—𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟. 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬’ 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐭. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐝. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬.”
Sally is out here proving she was NEVER just a helpless rag doll! As a Nightmare Before Christmas fan, It was fun returning to this world. I loved how the story gave Sally more room to shine, with darker secrets, creepy new realms, and twists. Shadow Town and the Night Mare were such fun additions, and the revelations about Finkelstein’s creations and Sally’s childhood memories made the story more interesting! There’s something about this mix of spooky fairytale magic and Halloween Town nostalgia that just works for me. And now I’m hoping Sally’s adventures become a yearly tradition because I’m absolutely here for more!
•──────❝•°𝑭𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑸𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔 °•❞───────•
💬
"𝐓𝐨 𝐦𝐞, 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐦𝐞𝐬. 𝐎𝐫 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐲! 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐬. 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬, 𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐚 𝐭𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐦𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐲 𝐛𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐭"
💬
"𝐀 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐮𝐜𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬"
💬
"𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐥𝐲 𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬. 𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬, 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐩-𝐞𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐝𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐝-𝐟𝐨𝐨𝐭 𝐟𝐚𝐥𝐥"
💬
"𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈’𝐯𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞. 𝐈’𝐯𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐝—𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈 𝐦𝐞𝐭 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲. 𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐭𝐡, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡"
💬
"𝐈𝐟 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐮𝐩𝐨𝐧, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈’𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧."
•──────────❝•°•❀•°•❞──────────•
Sally is out here proving she was NEVER just a helpless rag doll! As a Nightmare Before Christmas fan, It was fun returning to this world. I loved how the story gave Sally more room to shine, with darker secrets, creepy new realms, and twists. Shadow Town and the Night Mare were such fun additions, and the revelations about Finkelstein’s creations and Sally’s childhood memories made the story more interesting! There’s something about this mix of spooky fairytale magic and Halloween Town nostalgia that just works for me. And now I’m hoping Sally’s adventures become a yearly tradition because I’m absolutely here for more!
•──────❝•°𝑭𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑸𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔 °•❞───────•
💬
"𝐓𝐨 𝐦𝐞, 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐦𝐞𝐬. 𝐎𝐫 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐲! 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐬. 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬, 𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐚 𝐭𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐦𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐲 𝐛𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐭"
💬
"𝐀 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐮𝐜𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬"
💬
"𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐥𝐲 𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬. 𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬, 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐩-𝐞𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐝𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐝-𝐟𝐨𝐨𝐭 𝐟𝐚𝐥𝐥"
💬
"𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈’𝐯𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞. 𝐈’𝐯𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐝—𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈 𝐦𝐞𝐭 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲. 𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐭𝐡, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡"
💬
"𝐈𝐟 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐮𝐩𝐨𝐧, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈’𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧."
•──────────❝•°•❀•°•❞──────────•
August 23, 2026
Another amazing adventure with the Pumpkin Queen. Sally has save Halloween Town twice now and the last time she discovered that one person has been behind everything. He’s known as the Prince but that’s all Sally and Jack have to go on. When people begin to disappear from Halloween Town and all the other Towns, Sally knows that the Prince has returned.
Prince Dorian is one of the rulers of Shadow Town where all the forgotten go to live. However, when he started to prevent people from leaving after they were remembered, things turned bad in Shadow Town. Now, Dorian is determined to increase his power and the number of citizens by kidnapping more and more people. Sally must complete three impossible tasks to save her home and the people that she loves. She’s taken to Chance town and is forced to work with Dr. Finkelstein in order to complete the three tasks. The truth is more incredible than I was expecting and we get to learn more about Sally’s past when Dr. Finkelstein first kidnapped her. There is much that she’s forgotten due to the Doctors potion. However, I don’t think that we’re done yet. In the end Sally wonders if the true heart of Halloween is slowly being forgotten? She has an idea on how to help, but will it work? I think we will find out in the next book.
Prince Dorian is one of the rulers of Shadow Town where all the forgotten go to live. However, when he started to prevent people from leaving after they were remembered, things turned bad in Shadow Town. Now, Dorian is determined to increase his power and the number of citizens by kidnapping more and more people. Sally must complete three impossible tasks to save her home and the people that she loves. She’s taken to Chance town and is forced to work with Dr. Finkelstein in order to complete the three tasks. The truth is more incredible than I was expecting and we get to learn more about Sally’s past when Dr. Finkelstein first kidnapped her. There is much that she’s forgotten due to the Doctors potion. However, I don’t think that we’re done yet. In the end Sally wonders if the true heart of Halloween is slowly being forgotten? She has an idea on how to help, but will it work? I think we will find out in the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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