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Grandma's House
It’s Christmas Eve, and Maisie is convinced her boyfriend, Lucas, is totally going to propose. The cookies are baked, the mood is set, and her ring finger is perfectly poised. But when a confused elderly woman wanders into their home and claims it as her own, the couple’s plans are quickly thwarted.
Brimming with tension, suspense, and holiday cheer, this twisted short story is perfect for fans of Freida McFadden and Daniel Hurst.
Brimming with tension, suspense, and holiday cheer, this twisted short story is perfect for fans of Freida McFadden and Daniel Hurst.
28 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2025
76 people are currently reading
430 people want to read
About the author
Amy Tackett
9 books186 followersAmy is a thriller author who was born in the heart of Appalachia before later relocating to the Midwest. With a Bachelor’s degree in journalism and a professional background in content marketing, she has a passion for storytelling. When Amy’s not writing, you can find her playing with her wild (lovable) children, hiding her book purchases from her husband, or rambling way too much on her Instagram stories. You can connect with her here: @authoramytackett.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 310 reviews
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February 5, 2026This is a very short horror story (around 30 minutes), and while the concept takes a dark turn, there isn’t much time for buildup or depth. For me, the story itself was a good fun read, definitely the audio performances elevated the experience and made the ending land better than it might have on the page alone.
December 19, 2025
4.5*
28 pages of Christmas thrill. Don't get on Grandma's naughty list! Jaw-dropping tinsel-coated Twist! I really enjoyed this short, it did not waste any time.
28 pages of Christmas thrill. Don't get on Grandma's naughty list! Jaw-dropping tinsel-coated Twist! I really enjoyed this short, it did not waste any time.
December 21, 2025
A very short, festive, psychological-thriller story to help pull me out of my reading slump… Reminded me of the book The Lamb! 🖤
November 11, 2025
Grandma's House is a super short, super fast thriller/horror holiday short story. I went in not knowing what to expect and Amy truly packed a gruesome punch in these short pages. I can't give anything less than 5 stars, because it did exactly what it was intended to do. It shocked and surprised me, truly wasn't what I could've imagined. I won't ever look at chestnuts roasting on an open fire in the same way…thanks Amy 😐
Overall, if you're looking for a really fast short story to satisfy your thriller needs, look no further. Grandma's House will fill all your gruesome desires.
Overall, if you're looking for a really fast short story to satisfy your thriller needs, look no further. Grandma's House will fill all your gruesome desires.
November 12, 2025
WTF did I just read?!?
Literally what I said at the very end of this book!
When you think of Grandmas House, do you think cozy with a wonderful smell of fresh baked cookies when you walk in? Yeah, you won’t find that coziness here!
One word for this book … TWISTED!!
But freaking amazing for less than 30 pages! 😳
Literally what I said at the very end of this book!
When you think of Grandmas House, do you think cozy with a wonderful smell of fresh baked cookies when you walk in? Yeah, you won’t find that coziness here!
One word for this book … TWISTED!!
But freaking amazing for less than 30 pages! 😳
November 11, 2025
This was an interesting horror Christmas short story. It was the perfect punch of holiday prep with a dash of horror. Makes you think twice about who you let wander into your home!
December 27, 2025
2.75 stars
what the hell was that? no genuinely what?? what do you even mean.. what… i don’t know man
what the hell was that? no genuinely what?? what do you even mean.. what… i don’t know man
December 26, 2025
Looking for some holiday reading that packs a punch, I turned to this short piece by Amy Tackett. This was one of those pieces that leave the reader more confused than when they began, but in a good way! Maisie is expecting a proposal. It's Christmas Eve and she is sure her boyfriend, Lucas, is going to do it soon... at least he had better. With cookies just coming out of the oven and a lasagne meal still waiting to be cleaned up, this is the perfect time. That is until a confused older woman walks into their home and attacks Maisie, leaving her for dead. Lucas is in shock and the woman seems oblivious to what has just happened. There is no time to waste, but a lot that needs doing. Amy Tackett delivers this head-scratching thriller that is sure to leave readers scrambling.
Christmas is the ideal reading time, no matter what genre interests you. This short piece by Amy Tackett was highly entertaining and confusing at the same time. The reader is pulled in by swift chapters and jarring events,. all with little time to process. Tackett depicts things with a large veil of confusion and wonderment, which added to the story's delivery. I cannot wait to find more Amy Tackett to see if she does this often, as its effect was brilliant.
Characters are not plentiful, but they serve a purpose. The reader is left to rush in order to piece what they learn together in short order. There is no rhyme or reason to events, but it is hard not to want to stick with it all, in hopes of finding answers. Tackett delivers something stunning in the few pages this story takes and left me wanting to know so much more about Maise and Lucas, as well as this odd woman who barges in.
Surprises emerge to keep the reader wondering, which seems to be the theme of this story. While things flow with ease, I found myself hurrying to see if I missed a clue along the way. There is so much going on and no place to stop for a breather, which makes this story all the better. Twists and turns and nowhere to reference them, leaving me spinning! I will look for Amy Tackett when I compose some reading lists in 2026 and see what else she has to offer.
Kudos, Madam Tackett, for a great thriller short story.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Christmas is the ideal reading time, no matter what genre interests you. This short piece by Amy Tackett was highly entertaining and confusing at the same time. The reader is pulled in by swift chapters and jarring events,. all with little time to process. Tackett depicts things with a large veil of confusion and wonderment, which added to the story's delivery. I cannot wait to find more Amy Tackett to see if she does this often, as its effect was brilliant.
Characters are not plentiful, but they serve a purpose. The reader is left to rush in order to piece what they learn together in short order. There is no rhyme or reason to events, but it is hard not to want to stick with it all, in hopes of finding answers. Tackett delivers something stunning in the few pages this story takes and left me wanting to know so much more about Maise and Lucas, as well as this odd woman who barges in.
Surprises emerge to keep the reader wondering, which seems to be the theme of this story. While things flow with ease, I found myself hurrying to see if I missed a clue along the way. There is so much going on and no place to stop for a breather, which makes this story all the better. Twists and turns and nowhere to reference them, leaving me spinning! I will look for Amy Tackett when I compose some reading lists in 2026 and see what else she has to offer.
Kudos, Madam Tackett, for a great thriller short story.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
November 13, 2025
There is nothing like a quiet, romantic evening in for Christmas Eve. Maisie and her boyfriend (or more by the end of the night 🤞) are having the quintessential Hallmark night. Everything is perfect until the front door slams open, throwing their night (and more) into utter chaos. Hold on tight and brace your chestnuts. It’s going to be bumpy!
This story had me questioning everything I had read by the end and I may have skipped back and read it again. I have previously read Secret Santa and I was sure there was no way Amy could blow my mind like she did in there. Then she released this. 🤯
If you need me, I’ll be checking the locks on the doors and turning off all Christmas music. 🎄
This story had me questioning everything I had read by the end and I may have skipped back and read it again. I have previously read Secret Santa and I was sure there was no way Amy could blow my mind like she did in there. Then she released this. 🤯
If you need me, I’ll be checking the locks on the doors and turning off all Christmas music. 🎄
December 6, 2025
Hitting my reading goal one Christmas thriller novella at a time
December 28, 2025
Ok this started out strong and had me invested but the ending killed it for me! I had to give points for the beginning and roping me in so fast.
December 3, 2025
Super short, super fast. However, intense and easy to read thriller/horror Christmas story. Went in blind, had no idea what to expect but it blew my mind a little bit. Amazing what could happen in only 28 pages. 😳
December 19, 2025
This was so good for being so short and that twist! It blew me away.
December 11, 2025
I would say 3.5. I wish there was a little more backstory. But at the end of the day whi doesn’t love a short Christmas horror.
December 30, 2025
It's Christmas Eve, and Lucas and Maisie are enjoying some home-cooked food. The cookies are baked, and Maisie is convinced he's about to propose. That is until a strange old lady walks into their home, convinced that it's hers.
This is a quick and sinister read that's told whimsically. I found it darkly amusing.
This is a quick and sinister read that's told whimsically. I found it darkly amusing.
December 13, 2025
Quick and short.
As soon as she entered the home, I knew she was gonna do something, but I did not expect her to be part of a family of killers.
I kinda wish it dragged out a little bit, but it was pretty good.
As soon as she entered the home, I knew she was gonna do something, but I did not expect her to be part of a family of killers.
I kinda wish it dragged out a little bit, but it was pretty good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2025
Grandma's House is a very short Christmas thriller that definitely delivers, with an ending i didn't see coming.
January 18, 2026
What an unhinged listen! 🤯
I saw the reviews, and I know Amy’s writing style, and yet I am still left with my jaw on the floor finishing this one. Looking for a super quick, bloody Christmas Eve listen? Then this one is for you!
I love these narrators. Savannah Thomas and Joe Arden are some of my favorite narrators out there, and their duet was just done perfectly.
Thank you so much to Amy Tackett and Blue Nose Audio for an advanced copy of the audiobook!
I saw the reviews, and I know Amy’s writing style, and yet I am still left with my jaw on the floor finishing this one. Looking for a super quick, bloody Christmas Eve listen? Then this one is for you!
I love these narrators. Savannah Thomas and Joe Arden are some of my favorite narrators out there, and their duet was just done perfectly.
Thank you so much to Amy Tackett and Blue Nose Audio for an advanced copy of the audiobook!
December 22, 2025
Da fuck ?
3/5
3/5
January 18, 2026
Audiobook 5⭐️
Spice 0
Story 4
Grandma’s House by Amy Tackett is a “sweet” short novella wrapped with a bloody bow. Looking for a holiday book that will come and slice? Look no further. Amy found the creepiest grandma ever and delivered, a highly entertaining and confusing at the same time, short story. It is full of dark humor and punches that will keep on coming and make you question people and their behaviors in general.
For this audiobook, we have a duet style narration by Savanah Thomas and Joe Arden and they delivered a splendid performance. They created a perfect atmosphere and deliverance for this twisted, depraved and bloody story. And Savanah’s voice for grandma …. Excuse me ma’am where’s the Oscar?
Thank you Blue Nose for the opportunity to listen to this as an ALC, my opinions are my own.
Spice 0
Story 4
Grandma’s House by Amy Tackett is a “sweet” short novella wrapped with a bloody bow. Looking for a holiday book that will come and slice? Look no further. Amy found the creepiest grandma ever and delivered, a highly entertaining and confusing at the same time, short story. It is full of dark humor and punches that will keep on coming and make you question people and their behaviors in general.
For this audiobook, we have a duet style narration by Savanah Thomas and Joe Arden and they delivered a splendid performance. They created a perfect atmosphere and deliverance for this twisted, depraved and bloody story. And Savanah’s voice for grandma …. Excuse me ma’am where’s the Oscar?
Thank you Blue Nose for the opportunity to listen to this as an ALC, my opinions are my own.
November 28, 2025
This was interesting, not great but not bad. A short story about a couple on the Christmas Eve and a random intruder. I wasn't expecting that ending at all.
December 8, 2025
Short story Xmas Slasher spooky 🙌🏻🙌🏻🎅🏻
November 24, 2025
that escalated quickly
November 14, 2025
Wow! I was not expecting that! This was a perfect creepy short novella that I couldn’t put down! This one had me locking all my doors. I will forever remember this book the next time I eat chestnuts roasting on an open fire.
December 12, 2025
I think this needed more back story.
November 9, 2025
In this delectable and diabolical Christmas novella, Maisie daydreams about her boyfriend, Luke’s, proposal, as she cooks the sweetest Christmas cookies; however—after he gets home from dealing with a last minute work matter—a very short evening that was meant to be filled with comfort food and romance takes an odd turn when an elderly woman walks right into their home, and accuses them of violating her abode. Things quickly go from strange to outright macabre in this twisted holiday tale, where some characters aren’t as innocent as they seem, and others never see their misfortune coming.
Although this novella reminded me of The Gift by Freida McFadden at first, the plot twists didn’t prove my first impression true in the slightest; in fact, this novel mirrored tropes presented in The Christmas Guest by Peter Swanson (including an unexpected perspective change). Furthermore, I really loved how Amy Tackett established dreams, hopes, and backgrounds for her protagonists while vaguely presenting the antagonists and their motivations. As always, Tackett aimed to write a horror novella, and she went above and beyond with this Christmas dream. Last year, she ended all of my positive notions regarding nativity scenes, and this year . . . well, I’m not sure I’ll ever want to think about chestnuts roasting on an open fire again.
Although this novella reminded me of The Gift by Freida McFadden at first, the plot twists didn’t prove my first impression true in the slightest; in fact, this novel mirrored tropes presented in The Christmas Guest by Peter Swanson (including an unexpected perspective change). Furthermore, I really loved how Amy Tackett established dreams, hopes, and backgrounds for her protagonists while vaguely presenting the antagonists and their motivations. As always, Tackett aimed to write a horror novella, and she went above and beyond with this Christmas dream. Last year, she ended all of my positive notions regarding nativity scenes, and this year . . . well, I’m not sure I’ll ever want to think about chestnuts roasting on an open fire again.
November 15, 2025
Holiday Chaos Done Right
Grandma’s House by Amy Tackett is a charming and quietly unsettling holiday short story that explores what can unfold when kindness extends a bit too far and strangers cross the threshold of an otherwise familiar home. The narrative carries a whimsical tone with an undercurrent of tension, creating a reading experience that feels both playful and intriguing.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Its quirky energy keeps the pages turning, and the pacing is so smooth that the entire piece seems to fly by. Tackett offers just enough detail to draw you in while leaving space that invites curiosity. By the final line, I found myself wanting more, which is exactly what a well crafted short story should inspire.
Though, I’m not sure I can ever hear The Christmas Song the same ever again 😆
Grandma’s House by Amy Tackett is a charming and quietly unsettling holiday short story that explores what can unfold when kindness extends a bit too far and strangers cross the threshold of an otherwise familiar home. The narrative carries a whimsical tone with an undercurrent of tension, creating a reading experience that feels both playful and intriguing.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Its quirky energy keeps the pages turning, and the pacing is so smooth that the entire piece seems to fly by. Tackett offers just enough detail to draw you in while leaving space that invites curiosity. By the final line, I found myself wanting more, which is exactly what a well crafted short story should inspire.
Though, I’m not sure I can ever hear The Christmas Song the same ever again 😆
January 22, 2026
ALC Review
Narrated in duet by Savannah Thomas and Joe Arden
Produced by Blue Nose Audio
This story is short, to the point, and will really get the blood flowing. And if you think you’ve figured things out, guess again. Things are definitely not what they appear to be. This was a completely different listen for me, but I devoured it. I also got a kick out of the main characters’ jobs being in the gaming industry, as my husband works in the same field. Lucas getting the call about a “glitch” is very reminiscent of things I’ve heard my husband talk about in my house.
This book is a great quick listen. It’s thrilling, no hea, no spice, but it’ll keep you guessing until the end.
The narrators were both fantastic. I love Savannah Thomas’ voice, and she killed it as Maisie and Grandma! And Joe Adren was fantastic as Lucas! Both narrators are top-tier, and I would listen to anything from either of them!
Narrated in duet by Savannah Thomas and Joe Arden
Produced by Blue Nose Audio
This story is short, to the point, and will really get the blood flowing. And if you think you’ve figured things out, guess again. Things are definitely not what they appear to be. This was a completely different listen for me, but I devoured it. I also got a kick out of the main characters’ jobs being in the gaming industry, as my husband works in the same field. Lucas getting the call about a “glitch” is very reminiscent of things I’ve heard my husband talk about in my house.
This book is a great quick listen. It’s thrilling, no hea, no spice, but it’ll keep you guessing until the end.
The narrators were both fantastic. I love Savannah Thomas’ voice, and she killed it as Maisie and Grandma! And Joe Adren was fantastic as Lucas! Both narrators are top-tier, and I would listen to anything from either of them!
January 21, 2026
Title: Grandma’s House
Author: Amy Tackett
Narrators: Savannah Thomas and Joe Arden
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Length: 1 hour
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Tropes: Christmas, Horror, Short Story
Triggers: Unaliving, Gore, Cannibalism,
My thoughts:
I love a Christmas Horror story! I find them so fun and unique. “Grandma’s House” was fun addition to the genre for me! It follows a couple on the verge of an engagement on Christmas Eve when something horrific occurs! I loved the twist and the story concept so much!! Savannah Thomas and Joe Arden shine in this short story, really nailing the emotions of what is really anyone’s worst nightmare!
I really enjoyed this short story a lot, but as soon as it ended I knew that I wanted more!! I was shocked at the ending but found myself wishing that the story would continue and that I could stay in the world for longer!! I really think that this concept and story lends itself to a really intense and cool and creepy Christmas novel. I just want more!!
Overall, “Grandma’s House” was a fun and intense time! Just know that you will probably want more from the story when it is all over and done with!
Author: Amy Tackett
Narrators: Savannah Thomas and Joe Arden
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Length: 1 hour
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Tropes: Christmas, Horror, Short Story
Triggers: Unaliving, Gore, Cannibalism,
My thoughts:
I love a Christmas Horror story! I find them so fun and unique. “Grandma’s House” was fun addition to the genre for me! It follows a couple on the verge of an engagement on Christmas Eve when something horrific occurs! I loved the twist and the story concept so much!! Savannah Thomas and Joe Arden shine in this short story, really nailing the emotions of what is really anyone’s worst nightmare!
I really enjoyed this short story a lot, but as soon as it ended I knew that I wanted more!! I was shocked at the ending but found myself wishing that the story would continue and that I could stay in the world for longer!! I really think that this concept and story lends itself to a really intense and cool and creepy Christmas novel. I just want more!!
Overall, “Grandma’s House” was a fun and intense time! Just know that you will probably want more from the story when it is all over and done with!
November 9, 2025
I just love Amy — I’ll read anything she writes 😍
This was such a quick little Christmas mind-fk in the best way 🎄🖤
Dark, twisty, and full of that signature Amy chaos I can’t get enough of.
It’s Christmas Eve, and Maisie is convinced her boyfriend, Lucas, is totally going to propose. The cookies are baked, the mood is set, and her ring finger is perfectly poised 💍
But when a confused elderly woman wanders into their home and claims it as her own, the couple’s plans are quickly interrupted... 👀
Perfect for when you want a very fast, festive read that still leaves your jaw on the floor.
This was such a quick little Christmas mind-fk in the best way 🎄🖤
Dark, twisty, and full of that signature Amy chaos I can’t get enough of.
It’s Christmas Eve, and Maisie is convinced her boyfriend, Lucas, is totally going to propose. The cookies are baked, the mood is set, and her ring finger is perfectly poised 💍
But when a confused elderly woman wanders into their home and claims it as her own, the couple’s plans are quickly interrupted... 👀
Perfect for when you want a very fast, festive read that still leaves your jaw on the floor.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 310 reviews