What do you think?
Rate this book
Cadbury House: A Riveting Haunted House Mystery Thriller
Not yet published
Expected 15 Jul 26Death can only come for those he hears, and he can’t hear the dolls.
Finch Bannister suffered from a fever when she was a little girl and since then she has been different. She believes she swallowed a bird cage with two birds in it, leaving her to battle a deformity that only she can see, and the same goes for the spirits in Cadbury House. When Chet Cadbury moves in next door after the death of his grandmother, they are forced to come to terms with the secrets buried in the hope chest at the top of the stairs. They find out the hard way that some secrets, once unearthed, can never be buried again, but people, on the other hand, can be.
Cadbury House is the fourth book in the Knight Time Houses series. If you like mystery thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat, then you will love this page turner.
Each novel is a standalone and can be read in any order.
Buy Cadbury House today and find out if it is possible to cheat Death.
Finch Bannister suffered from a fever when she was a little girl and since then she has been different. She believes she swallowed a bird cage with two birds in it, leaving her to battle a deformity that only she can see, and the same goes for the spirits in Cadbury House. When Chet Cadbury moves in next door after the death of his grandmother, they are forced to come to terms with the secrets buried in the hope chest at the top of the stairs. They find out the hard way that some secrets, once unearthed, can never be buried again, but people, on the other hand, can be.
Cadbury House is the fourth book in the Knight Time Houses series. If you like mystery thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat, then you will love this page turner.
Each novel is a standalone and can be read in any order.
Buy Cadbury House today and find out if it is possible to cheat Death.
- GenresHorror
191 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 15, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 16, 2026
ARC REVIEW
Call the insane asylum; we have a bunch of crazies for them.
This book is whiplash-inducing with its pages. Finch was the only likable character in this book, and she isn't all right either. From Chad to Scarlet and all the others in between, you really don't know which one to dislike the most.
Let's talk about those twists. Hold on tight, because I was not prepared for them, and boy, did they take me by surprise.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review.
Call the insane asylum; we have a bunch of crazies for them.
This book is whiplash-inducing with its pages. Finch was the only likable character in this book, and she isn't all right either. From Chad to Scarlet and all the others in between, you really don't know which one to dislike the most.
Let's talk about those twists. Hold on tight, because I was not prepared for them, and boy, did they take me by surprise.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review.
April 20, 2026
This is the best book I’ve read all year!
This book is absolutely perfect in every way. It has a creepy house with strange dolls. A girl who ate a bird cages, and just such originality to horror on every page.
Finch is perfect, she is one of the most interesting characters I’ve read about. She is odd and is not effected by what people around her dose or says. You get such a great dive into her mind and it is the best place to be.
As a writer, I was taking notes though this book. The character was amazing, the prose were beautiful, the plot was fascinating. There was just so much good here.
The way it tackle stuff is so in depth in person makes your empathize with the characters and leaves you understand the what death means to you in a more interment what. It all that in a way the never takes away fro the plots or the sensation of surrounding death.
I will be re-reading this constantly and I am sure that I will be finding new ways to appreciate it every time!
This book is absolutely perfect in every way. It has a creepy house with strange dolls. A girl who ate a bird cages, and just such originality to horror on every page.
Finch is perfect, she is one of the most interesting characters I’ve read about. She is odd and is not effected by what people around her dose or says. You get such a great dive into her mind and it is the best place to be.
As a writer, I was taking notes though this book. The character was amazing, the prose were beautiful, the plot was fascinating. There was just so much good here.
The way it tackle stuff is so in depth in person makes your empathize with the characters and leaves you understand the what death means to you in a more interment what. It all that in a way the never takes away fro the plots or the sensation of surrounding death.
I will be re-reading this constantly and I am sure that I will be finding new ways to appreciate it every time!
May 3, 2026
I revived this as an advanced reader copy
This house?? EVIL. Cursed. Oh and let’s add some creepy ass dolls made from parts of humans?!
Every time I thought I figured it out, plot twist. Immediately wrong. Vibes = creepy whispers, shadows moving, what is real and what is not?
Super fast, super eerie, and just the right amount of “I should not be reading this alone.”
I am not going to explain much because you just need to dive in blind … you’ve been warned 🖤
This house?? EVIL. Cursed. Oh and let’s add some creepy ass dolls made from parts of humans?!
Every time I thought I figured it out, plot twist. Immediately wrong. Vibes = creepy whispers, shadows moving, what is real and what is not?
Super fast, super eerie, and just the right amount of “I should not be reading this alone.”
I am not going to explain much because you just need to dive in blind … you’ve been warned 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a free advance copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It dealt with a lot of different themes, horror and otherwise.
Ghosts, creepy dolls, repressed memories, long-lost love, revenge, SA, haunted places and people… and I’m not listing them all to avoid spoilers! It did feel like a bit much at first but honestly once you just hold on for dear life, it’s a great ride.
I loved the birds in Finch’s chest and the part they play throughout her story. Eccentric, unclear boundaries between fantasy and reality, innocent… she’s written to inspire protectiveness and affection.
The dolls are a whole other level of creepy. The family MUST greet them daily or risk death (is this part of Finch’s fantasies?… they’re just dolls, right??)
Chet is his own mystery: we know he’s madly in love with his fiancé, but when he sees Finch again, he’s flooded with affection. Why can’t he remember? Why can’t he stop thinking about her? We don’t know much about Tina, his fiancé, and she quickly becomes a ghost of guilt, confusion, and a way for his grandmother’s house to twist his mind and memories.
As the tragedies between these two families unfold into the book’s wild, raucous conclusion, I struggled to follow all of the interconnected events, the motivations of the parents, and ultimately the exact relationship between our three main characters (Scarlet, the sister, is her sister’s staunch defender, against foes alive and dead, Finch, and Chet).
Like I said, the author packs a LOT of stuff into 200 pages, but if you just go with it, it resolves, if not in a satisfying way, at least in a way consistent with the rest of the book.
This story makes me curious about the author’s other works! Looking forward to exploring more.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It dealt with a lot of different themes, horror and otherwise.
Ghosts, creepy dolls, repressed memories, long-lost love, revenge, SA, haunted places and people… and I’m not listing them all to avoid spoilers! It did feel like a bit much at first but honestly once you just hold on for dear life, it’s a great ride.
I loved the birds in Finch’s chest and the part they play throughout her story. Eccentric, unclear boundaries between fantasy and reality, innocent… she’s written to inspire protectiveness and affection.
The dolls are a whole other level of creepy. The family MUST greet them daily or risk death (is this part of Finch’s fantasies?… they’re just dolls, right??)
Chet is his own mystery: we know he’s madly in love with his fiancé, but when he sees Finch again, he’s flooded with affection. Why can’t he remember? Why can’t he stop thinking about her? We don’t know much about Tina, his fiancé, and she quickly becomes a ghost of guilt, confusion, and a way for his grandmother’s house to twist his mind and memories.
As the tragedies between these two families unfold into the book’s wild, raucous conclusion, I struggled to follow all of the interconnected events, the motivations of the parents, and ultimately the exact relationship between our three main characters (Scarlet, the sister, is her sister’s staunch defender, against foes alive and dead, Finch, and Chet).
Like I said, the author packs a LOT of stuff into 200 pages, but if you just go with it, it resolves, if not in a satisfying way, at least in a way consistent with the rest of the book.
This story makes me curious about the author’s other works! Looking forward to exploring more.
May 2, 2026
This author never writes a book I do not like. This book was wild. Finch resembled the birds she thought kept her alive. Scarlet is a serial killer in hiding and Chet is a family member that tried to escape the powerful lure of the home he lived in as a child. This story evolved. I started reading the story thinking that it was about a haunted house. It was but not in the way one might think. There was evidence of rituals that could not be deviated from unless all involved were willing to take their chances with the spirits. The song/poem Finch recited while greeting the dolls was quite eerie. I got goosebumps every time this was recited. The more the story was told I realized these children were living houses of horror and family took on a whole different meaning. The rules were very clear on how to keep family members safe and once broken a life must be sacrificed. The lives of Finch, Scarlett and Chet rapidly changed as family secrets began to emerge. The hardest part was the children did not ask to be brought into their family situation but were the one who paid the ultimate price. I was throughly shocked at what transpired at the end of the book. I closed the book and sat with many thoughts passing through my mind. I was reminded that children often pay for the crimes of their parents.
Review of advance copy
Oh my goodness, the trauma. This book felt like every trauma that one could endure, they did. This was such an intense read and it left you questioning your own sanity along with the main characters. Finch believed herself to have swallowed a birdcage with two live finches. Chet has repressed most of his own past and is haunted by it when he returns to his grandma's house after she passes. Between the creepy house and strange dolls and the darkest past, I can't imagine anyone walking out of this one unscathed. This was such an intense read and such an original story. Holly has easily become one of my auto-read authors. So amazing.
May 2, 2026
This one had me hooked from the first page. And Finch is one of the most unhinged, fascinating protagonists I’ve read in a while. After a childhood fever, she’s convinced that she swallowed a birdcage (with two birds still inside), and now she sees the world differently. Especially the spirits haunting her old family home.
Holly Knightley is quickly becoming a go-to for me when I want that eerie-macabre fix. Highly recommend if you love dark, twisted, and unsettling vibes.
Holly Knightley is quickly becoming a go-to for me when I want that eerie-macabre fix. Highly recommend if you love dark, twisted, and unsettling vibes.
May 5, 2026
Such a weird and wonderful book.
Family secrets and neighbour secrets too.
I had a hard time putting this down.
It had me intrigued from seeing the blurb to starting off reading it.
It had these little bits that led into much more and just kept my interest climbing.
Fab read
Family secrets and neighbour secrets too.
I had a hard time putting this down.
It had me intrigued from seeing the blurb to starting off reading it.
It had these little bits that led into much more and just kept my interest climbing.
Fab read
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the privilege of receiving an ARC of Cadbury House from Holly Knightley herself, and I have to say, she is just as lovely as her writing is haunting.
I went into this one excited, and it did not disappoint. It’s a relatively quick read, though life (and mom duties) stretched it out a little for me; squeezed between nap times and daily chaos. But every chance I got to return to it, I completely devoured chapter after chapter. This is one of those stories that pulls you right back in, no matter how long you’ve been away.
Cadbury House is a beautifully strange blend of light horror and something far more sinister lurking just beneath the surface. It’s not your typical haunted house story, there are layers here, twists you don’t see coming, and an atmosphere that feels… off in the best way.
The characters are where this story really shines.
Finch was, without question, my favourite. She’s unhinged in a way that feels intentional; peculiar, unapologetic, and deeply complex. There’s a thread of body dysmorphia woven into her character that adds depth rather than defining her, and her unsettling attachment to the dolls only heightens the eerie tone of the story. Her “gift,” born from childhood illness, adds another layer of intrigue. As pieces of her past are revealed - dark, tragic, and haunting, you can’t help but be drawn deeper into her world. And then there’s Chet… her childhood crush, a small flicker of warmth in an otherwise chilling narrative.
Scarlet, her sister, is far more difficult to pin down. On the surface, she’s composed, responsible, protective and the kind of person who seems to hold everything together. But something about her feels too perfect. Too controlled. There’s an underlying tension that makes you question everything about her. As the story unfolds, you’re left wondering… who is really unraveling here? Finch? Scarlet? Or both?
And then we have Chet or “Chester the Molester” as Finch so fondly calls him. Returning to Cadbury House after his grandmother’s death, he inherits not just the home, but everything that comes with it. Having stayed away since childhood due to a traumatic event, his return stirs memories he’s long buried. At first, he’s grounded, stable, even happy, but the house has other plans. As the past resurfaces, so do his feelings for Finch, and his grip on reality begins to shift. With Finch’s help, things start to make sense… or at least, a version of sense that fits within the walls of Cadbury House.
And the dolls.
NOPE! Absolutely not!
A generational collection, altered to resemble family members, meant to ward off Death… or perhaps trap it. They are DEEPLY unsettling, and their presence alone adds a suffocating tension to the story. Whether it’s voodoo, witchcraft, or something far more psychological, I’ll let you decide, but either way, they will stick with you. They definitely gave me the chills.
Everything builds toward an ending that genuinely caught me off guard. It was carefully set up, but you don’t see it until the very last moment and when it hits, it hits! A twist that feels earned, surprising, and incredibly satisfying.
This was my first Holly Knightley read, and I can confidently say I’m a huge fan. Her ability to balance unsettling horror with emotional depth has secured her a spot on my ever-growing TBR (which, let’s be honest, is already out of control).
If you love eerie atmospheres, morally complex characters, and stories that linger long after the final page, keep this one on your radar.
Cadbury House releases July 15, 2026 and definitely one to watch for!
Hope you enjoyed the review 🖤
I went into this one excited, and it did not disappoint. It’s a relatively quick read, though life (and mom duties) stretched it out a little for me; squeezed between nap times and daily chaos. But every chance I got to return to it, I completely devoured chapter after chapter. This is one of those stories that pulls you right back in, no matter how long you’ve been away.
Cadbury House is a beautifully strange blend of light horror and something far more sinister lurking just beneath the surface. It’s not your typical haunted house story, there are layers here, twists you don’t see coming, and an atmosphere that feels… off in the best way.
The characters are where this story really shines.
Finch was, without question, my favourite. She’s unhinged in a way that feels intentional; peculiar, unapologetic, and deeply complex. There’s a thread of body dysmorphia woven into her character that adds depth rather than defining her, and her unsettling attachment to the dolls only heightens the eerie tone of the story. Her “gift,” born from childhood illness, adds another layer of intrigue. As pieces of her past are revealed - dark, tragic, and haunting, you can’t help but be drawn deeper into her world. And then there’s Chet… her childhood crush, a small flicker of warmth in an otherwise chilling narrative.
Scarlet, her sister, is far more difficult to pin down. On the surface, she’s composed, responsible, protective and the kind of person who seems to hold everything together. But something about her feels too perfect. Too controlled. There’s an underlying tension that makes you question everything about her. As the story unfolds, you’re left wondering… who is really unraveling here? Finch? Scarlet? Or both?
And then we have Chet or “Chester the Molester” as Finch so fondly calls him. Returning to Cadbury House after his grandmother’s death, he inherits not just the home, but everything that comes with it. Having stayed away since childhood due to a traumatic event, his return stirs memories he’s long buried. At first, he’s grounded, stable, even happy, but the house has other plans. As the past resurfaces, so do his feelings for Finch, and his grip on reality begins to shift. With Finch’s help, things start to make sense… or at least, a version of sense that fits within the walls of Cadbury House.
And the dolls.
NOPE! Absolutely not!
A generational collection, altered to resemble family members, meant to ward off Death… or perhaps trap it. They are DEEPLY unsettling, and their presence alone adds a suffocating tension to the story. Whether it’s voodoo, witchcraft, or something far more psychological, I’ll let you decide, but either way, they will stick with you. They definitely gave me the chills.
Everything builds toward an ending that genuinely caught me off guard. It was carefully set up, but you don’t see it until the very last moment and when it hits, it hits! A twist that feels earned, surprising, and incredibly satisfying.
This was my first Holly Knightley read, and I can confidently say I’m a huge fan. Her ability to balance unsettling horror with emotional depth has secured her a spot on my ever-growing TBR (which, let’s be honest, is already out of control).
If you love eerie atmospheres, morally complex characters, and stories that linger long after the final page, keep this one on your radar.
Cadbury House releases July 15, 2026 and definitely one to watch for!
Hope you enjoyed the review 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review of Cadbury House by Holly Knightley:
First, my sincere thanks to Holly Knightley for choosing me as an ARC Reader. I first discovered Knightley in January and have devoured the first three Knight Time Houses novels. When I saw a 4th book coming i jumped at the opportunity to be an ARC reader!
Cadbury House is Spectacular, Stunning, Horrifying, Shocking, Deftly & Darkly Laugh out Loud Funny, Heartbreaking, Satifying, and so much more! So far beyond 5 stars!
Readers should pay attention to the trigger warnings and proceed with caution, knowing what they can and cannot handle. Having said that, Knightley once again shows a keen ability to write about uncomfortable topics in ways that don't feel gratuitous or simply for shock value. As uncomfortable as those pieces are, they are important to the story. And the resolution to one situation in particular, without giving any spoilers is intensely satisfying.
From the very first line of the novel I was 100% sold! The first image is so unexpected it begs the reader to continue on. Knightley is extraordinarily adept at crafting imagery that will stick with the reader long aftet the novel is over. I found myself on several occasions re-reading lines, images and sections, they are that rich with atmosphere and feeling. Some of the imagery crafted with pop culture and horror references will make any true horror fan smirk, smile and chuckle at the dark humor.
Knightley's writing style is smooth, slick, and engaging. The twists and turns are jaw-dropping. When I finished the book, I sat in awe. If you haven't yet discovered Holly Knightley's novels, novellas and stories, do yourself a favor and pick one up. You will not be sorry!
First, my sincere thanks to Holly Knightley for choosing me as an ARC Reader. I first discovered Knightley in January and have devoured the first three Knight Time Houses novels. When I saw a 4th book coming i jumped at the opportunity to be an ARC reader!
Cadbury House is Spectacular, Stunning, Horrifying, Shocking, Deftly & Darkly Laugh out Loud Funny, Heartbreaking, Satifying, and so much more! So far beyond 5 stars!
Readers should pay attention to the trigger warnings and proceed with caution, knowing what they can and cannot handle. Having said that, Knightley once again shows a keen ability to write about uncomfortable topics in ways that don't feel gratuitous or simply for shock value. As uncomfortable as those pieces are, they are important to the story. And the resolution to one situation in particular, without giving any spoilers is intensely satisfying.
From the very first line of the novel I was 100% sold! The first image is so unexpected it begs the reader to continue on. Knightley is extraordinarily adept at crafting imagery that will stick with the reader long aftet the novel is over. I found myself on several occasions re-reading lines, images and sections, they are that rich with atmosphere and feeling. Some of the imagery crafted with pop culture and horror references will make any true horror fan smirk, smile and chuckle at the dark humor.
Knightley's writing style is smooth, slick, and engaging. The twists and turns are jaw-dropping. When I finished the book, I sat in awe. If you haven't yet discovered Holly Knightley's novels, novellas and stories, do yourself a favor and pick one up. You will not be sorry!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Holly Knightley's books always amaze me.
This book felt like stepping into a crazy dream where grief, trauma, and horror blur together until you no longer know what’s real. The atmosphere was heavy from the very first page... unsettling, claustrophobic, and filled with this constant sense that something terrible was waiting inside Cadbury House.
Finch was such a fascinating character because you experience the story through a mind that’s already fractured by fear and childhood trauma. Her belief that she swallowed a birdcage with living birds inside her sounds bizarre at first, but the way the story unfolds makes everything feel disturbingly believable. There’s this lingering uncertainty throughout the entire book that keeps you questioning reality right alongside her.
The dolls, the rituals, the whispers of death, the hidden family secrets. Every piece added another layer of dread. The house itself felt alive as if it was holding generations of pain within its walls and refusing to let anyone escape it. And the deeper the story went, the darker and more emotionally devastating it became.
It explored inherited trauma, family loyalty, sacrifice, and the lasting damage left behind by the choices of previous generations. There’s a cruelty to the story that hits hard because so much of the suffering falls onto the children who never asked to be part of any of it.
This is one of those books that leaves you sitting in silence afterward trying to process everything you just read. Haunting, intense, deeply unsettling.
Thank you so much Holly Knightley for the #gifted earc.
All opinions are my own 🖤
This book felt like stepping into a crazy dream where grief, trauma, and horror blur together until you no longer know what’s real. The atmosphere was heavy from the very first page... unsettling, claustrophobic, and filled with this constant sense that something terrible was waiting inside Cadbury House.
Finch was such a fascinating character because you experience the story through a mind that’s already fractured by fear and childhood trauma. Her belief that she swallowed a birdcage with living birds inside her sounds bizarre at first, but the way the story unfolds makes everything feel disturbingly believable. There’s this lingering uncertainty throughout the entire book that keeps you questioning reality right alongside her.
The dolls, the rituals, the whispers of death, the hidden family secrets. Every piece added another layer of dread. The house itself felt alive as if it was holding generations of pain within its walls and refusing to let anyone escape it. And the deeper the story went, the darker and more emotionally devastating it became.
It explored inherited trauma, family loyalty, sacrifice, and the lasting damage left behind by the choices of previous generations. There’s a cruelty to the story that hits hard because so much of the suffering falls onto the children who never asked to be part of any of it.
This is one of those books that leaves you sitting in silence afterward trying to process everything you just read. Haunting, intense, deeply unsettling.
Thank you so much Holly Knightley for the #gifted earc.
All opinions are my own 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was chaos personified.
The story is told from the perspective of Finch Bannister and Chet Cadbury. Finch and her sister, Scarlett, are neighbours to Chet's grandmother and look to her as a motherly figure. Chet and his deceased brother, Paddy, have spent time in the Cadbury house when they were younger.
After the death of Chet's grandmother, he inherited the house and comes back to arrange the settlements, whatever they may be. The Cadbury house holds a lot of memories. You could say those memories are as haunted as the dolls his grandmother kept.
The story was a quick read and told an interesting if not intriguing story. I appreciate the pop-culture references as they happened at the perfect times throughout the story.
The characters are interesting and the connections and relationships between them are incestuously strange. Morally grey is an understatement. The narration is consistently inconsistent with both Finch and Chet but that is intentional to move the story forward and give credence to the haunting nature of the Cadbury home.
Did the characters get the ending they deserved? For the most part, yes, but I'm not thoroughly convinced for one of them.
Thank you to the author, Holly Knightley, and to BookSirens for the advanced reader's copy of Cadbury House which is to be published on July 15, 2026.
The story is told from the perspective of Finch Bannister and Chet Cadbury. Finch and her sister, Scarlett, are neighbours to Chet's grandmother and look to her as a motherly figure. Chet and his deceased brother, Paddy, have spent time in the Cadbury house when they were younger.
After the death of Chet's grandmother, he inherited the house and comes back to arrange the settlements, whatever they may be. The Cadbury house holds a lot of memories. You could say those memories are as haunted as the dolls his grandmother kept.
The story was a quick read and told an interesting if not intriguing story. I appreciate the pop-culture references as they happened at the perfect times throughout the story.
The characters are interesting and the connections and relationships between them are incestuously strange. Morally grey is an understatement. The narration is consistently inconsistent with both Finch and Chet but that is intentional to move the story forward and give credence to the haunting nature of the Cadbury home.
Did the characters get the ending they deserved? For the most part, yes, but I'm not thoroughly convinced for one of them.
Thank you to the author, Holly Knightley, and to BookSirens for the advanced reader's copy of Cadbury House which is to be published on July 15, 2026.
Review of advance copy
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book that I ran to get as soon as I saw it on Booksirens. It had some minor language issues, but "oldfactory senses" in the beginning of the book had me giggling. It was a little convoluted imo and I'm not entirely sure I have fully understood the happenings, even though a lot was explained towards the end.
The hallucinations and the interpersonal relationships between the characters made it a little hard to understand every now and then. Some situations (like the fight between Chet's dad and Finch) could have been a little more detailed, while others were perfectly described. Some parts were less believable because it was simply unclear or a little hard to imagine (toes in a light fixture? Using a shovel to cut off a man's member while he's supposed to be in a car?).
My limited knowledge of the English language may play a role in this, considering I'm not a native speaker. Regardless, it was an entertaining read with some gore, mystery and eerieness. I enjoyed it, but I feel like my reviews are always the same, so I thought I'd be a little more thorough this time.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The hallucinations and the interpersonal relationships between the characters made it a little hard to understand every now and then. Some situations (like the fight between Chet's dad and Finch) could have been a little more detailed, while others were perfectly described. Some parts were less believable because it was simply unclear or a little hard to imagine (toes in a light fixture? Using a shovel to cut off a man's member while he's supposed to be in a car?).
My limited knowledge of the English language may play a role in this, considering I'm not a native speaker. Regardless, it was an entertaining read with some gore, mystery and eerieness. I enjoyed it, but I feel like my reviews are always the same, so I thought I'd be a little more thorough this time.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
That ended in a way I was not expecting
The story can feel a little bit disjointed at times. Not in a bad way but more in the way of what on earth is really going on, as in a mystery, not in bad writing.
The characters are well developed with there background really helping the story flows and depth.
There is no graphic gore, just horror aspects. Ghost, death and scary things. However there are a few trigger warnings that one should see the book for before reading. However they are not in your face nor over the top. They are what happened and a reason for behaviour.
Overall this was an interesting engaging story.
Really odd at times and as I said before a bit disjointed at times. But as you read on those aspects start to fall in to line and that aspect becomes the charm of the book.
Over all written really well, would place it above a new adult book only due to the plot and a few random words here and there. But in full and easy enjoyable read that had me hooked and I quite enjoyed the fact that everything come together at the end in a non traditional happy ending. And I'm not one for happy ending.
Thank you to the publisher and the author for letting me read this book as an ARC. I picked this book because the blub sound like something I would enjoy and normally read.
The story can feel a little bit disjointed at times. Not in a bad way but more in the way of what on earth is really going on, as in a mystery, not in bad writing.
The characters are well developed with there background really helping the story flows and depth.
There is no graphic gore, just horror aspects. Ghost, death and scary things. However there are a few trigger warnings that one should see the book for before reading. However they are not in your face nor over the top. They are what happened and a reason for behaviour.
Overall this was an interesting engaging story.
Really odd at times and as I said before a bit disjointed at times. But as you read on those aspects start to fall in to line and that aspect becomes the charm of the book.
Over all written really well, would place it above a new adult book only due to the plot and a few random words here and there. But in full and easy enjoyable read that had me hooked and I quite enjoyed the fact that everything come together at the end in a non traditional happy ending. And I'm not one for happy ending.
Thank you to the publisher and the author for letting me read this book as an ARC. I picked this book because the blub sound like something I would enjoy and normally read.
Review of advance copy
The Queen of Horror has done it again!
This book was full of body horror, ghostly apparitions, murder, curses, voodoo-like rituals, and unhinged MCs. Throughout it was hard to decipher what was real and what was in the MC's minds.
Finch is such a complex FMC. Socially awkward, sheltered, a victim of abuse, and possessing the ability to see (and speak) to the dead - she is not necessarily relatable at the surface level, but certainly is when delving deeper into her self-consciousness and loneliness. She wants to love, and be loved in return. She is torn between living a life that is her own and her allegiance to her sister.
Cadbury House explores themes of second chances, repressed memories, unresolved grief, inherited behavior, and strained parental relationships. I truly had no idea where the story was going from chapter to chapter, but it pulled me in and kept me captivated. There were many twists and reveals, making this an absolute shocker of a horror novella.
Holly never cease to amaze me with the amount of atmospheric and immersive detail she fits into a novella.
Caution: Be aware of the TWs before reading this book.
Thank you Holly Knightley and BookSirens for this ARC.
This book was full of body horror, ghostly apparitions, murder, curses, voodoo-like rituals, and unhinged MCs. Throughout it was hard to decipher what was real and what was in the MC's minds.
Finch is such a complex FMC. Socially awkward, sheltered, a victim of abuse, and possessing the ability to see (and speak) to the dead - she is not necessarily relatable at the surface level, but certainly is when delving deeper into her self-consciousness and loneliness. She wants to love, and be loved in return. She is torn between living a life that is her own and her allegiance to her sister.
Cadbury House explores themes of second chances, repressed memories, unresolved grief, inherited behavior, and strained parental relationships. I truly had no idea where the story was going from chapter to chapter, but it pulled me in and kept me captivated. There were many twists and reveals, making this an absolute shocker of a horror novella.
Holly never cease to amaze me with the amount of atmospheric and immersive detail she fits into a novella.
Caution: Be aware of the TWs before reading this book.
Thank you Holly Knightley and BookSirens for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Cadbury House - A Riveting Haunted House Mystery Thriller
Release Date: July 15, 2026
Genre: Supenatural Thriller/Horror
This was my 2nd Holly Knightley read...after Piggy I wasn't sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised a bit less traumatized (jk - your girl has no triggers). The characters were well written with just the right amount of weird and "what now?" The MMC is the only one that comes across as somewhat normal...in the beginning. How the relationships intertwine make for a great read. The writing was atmospheric and if you pay attention there may be some clues to the path you are being lead down. The ending was satisfying but I'm not gonna lie, I was hoping it may go another way. The FMC - Finch is wild and a fever dream all her own. I love the way her character developed. You will question all the characters sanity at some point. The twist was chefs kiss...it doesn't hit you in the face...it builds and leaves you staring into the void while you recount everything you read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Cadbury House - A Riveting Haunted House Mystery Thriller
Release Date: July 15, 2026
Genre: Supenatural Thriller/Horror
This was my 2nd Holly Knightley read...after Piggy I wasn't sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised a bit less traumatized (jk - your girl has no triggers). The characters were well written with just the right amount of weird and "what now?" The MMC is the only one that comes across as somewhat normal...in the beginning. How the relationships intertwine make for a great read. The writing was atmospheric and if you pay attention there may be some clues to the path you are being lead down. The ending was satisfying but I'm not gonna lie, I was hoping it may go another way. The FMC - Finch is wild and a fever dream all her own. I love the way her character developed. You will question all the characters sanity at some point. The twist was chefs kiss...it doesn't hit you in the face...it builds and leaves you staring into the void while you recount everything you read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 16, 2026
Hooboy. This creepy novel ramps up the twists x10 near the end.
It starts out with an inherited house, and the neighbors who insist on being able to access the house daily. Why? Because if the doll ritual is not performed, someone will die, according to Finch, our FMC.
But enter Chet, who just wants to sell the house and get back to his life. But things are not so simple. Are they ever?
And let’s be real, anytime you add creepy dolls to a story, you know things are going to go south quick-especially if those dolls are made with human parts. What is the purpose of those dolls? And why do they look like real people? Finch and her sister know, and Chet is going to find out. Things get bloody, violent, and true intentions are made known. And in the end, the house wants what the house wants, and no one can escape it.
This story had its hooks in me, and dug them deeper as the story neared its conclusion. It’s a must read for fans of supernatural stories, and houses with a kind of their own. 4.5 stars.
Thank you BookSirens for my arc. My opinion is my own.
It starts out with an inherited house, and the neighbors who insist on being able to access the house daily. Why? Because if the doll ritual is not performed, someone will die, according to Finch, our FMC.
But enter Chet, who just wants to sell the house and get back to his life. But things are not so simple. Are they ever?
And let’s be real, anytime you add creepy dolls to a story, you know things are going to go south quick-especially if those dolls are made with human parts. What is the purpose of those dolls? And why do they look like real people? Finch and her sister know, and Chet is going to find out. Things get bloody, violent, and true intentions are made known. And in the end, the house wants what the house wants, and no one can escape it.
This story had its hooks in me, and dug them deeper as the story neared its conclusion. It’s a must read for fans of supernatural stories, and houses with a kind of their own. 4.5 stars.
Thank you BookSirens for my arc. My opinion is my own.
Review of advance copy
Cadbury House is an absolute tour de force.
It is rare to find a book that so elegantly balances the horrifying, the heartbreaking, and the darkly comedic, but Holly Knightley executes it perfectly.
From the very first line, the unexpected imagery hooks you in an atmospheric grip that refuses to let go.
Make no mistake: you need to respect the trigger warnings and tread carefully. Knightley doesn’t pull any punches, dragging you through gut-wrenching and uncomfortable territory.
Yet, it never feels like cheap shock value or gore for the sake of it. These brutal moments are the jagged teeth of the story—painful, yes, but absolutely essential. The payoff to one particular situation is so visceral and intense, it leaves you breathless with satisfaction.
This is a "beyond five-star" experience that invites frequent re-reading to catch every drop of atmosphere. If you have yet to discover Holly Knightley’s work, do yourself a favor and start here. You will not be sorry.
It is rare to find a book that so elegantly balances the horrifying, the heartbreaking, and the darkly comedic, but Holly Knightley executes it perfectly.
From the very first line, the unexpected imagery hooks you in an atmospheric grip that refuses to let go.
Make no mistake: you need to respect the trigger warnings and tread carefully. Knightley doesn’t pull any punches, dragging you through gut-wrenching and uncomfortable territory.
Yet, it never feels like cheap shock value or gore for the sake of it. These brutal moments are the jagged teeth of the story—painful, yes, but absolutely essential. The payoff to one particular situation is so visceral and intense, it leaves you breathless with satisfaction.
This is a "beyond five-star" experience that invites frequent re-reading to catch every drop of atmosphere. If you have yet to discover Holly Knightley’s work, do yourself a favor and start here. You will not be sorry.
Review of advance copy
3.5 stars, rounded up.
This book feels like a bit of a fever dream. It’s absolutely chaotic, and the characters are just as wild and unlikeable. Every single one of them is awful in their own unique way.
The story does feel a little disjointed at times, which is why it didn’t quite reach four stars for me. That said, I do think it’s intentional, almost designed to keep you off balance as a reader.
It’s fast-paced, packed with horror, and very much a haunted house story… and then some. There’s so much happening in such a short space of time, and you really can’t trust anyone.
I did enjoy it, just not quite as much as some of the author’s other books. All in all it was a wild ride!
Thanks to the author, publishers and BookSirens for the ARC of this book. My review is my own and left voluntary.
This book feels like a bit of a fever dream. It’s absolutely chaotic, and the characters are just as wild and unlikeable. Every single one of them is awful in their own unique way.
The story does feel a little disjointed at times, which is why it didn’t quite reach four stars for me. That said, I do think it’s intentional, almost designed to keep you off balance as a reader.
It’s fast-paced, packed with horror, and very much a haunted house story… and then some. There’s so much happening in such a short space of time, and you really can’t trust anyone.
I did enjoy it, just not quite as much as some of the author’s other books. All in all it was a wild ride!
Thanks to the author, publishers and BookSirens for the ARC of this book. My review is my own and left voluntary.
Review of advance copy
Once again, Holly Knightley delivers a shockingly scary story!
Imagine if you will, two sisters living in a house, one of only two houses in the area. The other house was inhabited by Grandma Cadbury, who recently passed away. Now one of our sisters, Finch, ended up with a bad fever when she was young and was never really the same after that. The other sister, Scarlet, was very protective of her younger sister and took care of her. Honestly, yeah, this story has Twilight Zone vibes, the old Rod Serling Twilight Zone. This is horror at its finest. And all the twists and turns in this story, I did not see them coming. Holly Knightley’s writing style is just so suited to the horror genre as well.
I received an advanced reader’s copy and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Imagine if you will, two sisters living in a house, one of only two houses in the area. The other house was inhabited by Grandma Cadbury, who recently passed away. Now one of our sisters, Finch, ended up with a bad fever when she was young and was never really the same after that. The other sister, Scarlet, was very protective of her younger sister and took care of her. Honestly, yeah, this story has Twilight Zone vibes, the old Rod Serling Twilight Zone. This is horror at its finest. And all the twists and turns in this story, I did not see them coming. Holly Knightley’s writing style is just so suited to the horror genre as well.
I received an advanced reader’s copy and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Review of advance copy
What can I say about Holly Knightley? She’s an incredible story teller. Every book I’ve read has had me hooked and Cadbury House is no different.
I never thought I’d be weirded out by creepy looking dolls but I hear I am. Each character have their own little quirks and oddities the accompany them. But make no mistake, this book had so many twist and turns that I lost track. I was pulled in within the first chapter. Finch is a character that i actually find intriguing. It’s probably because I’m weird too which I love.
The spirits that are running through this creepy house is something that I would never want to experience. Overall, you won’t be disappointed. I usually don’t read books a second time but this one is a must.
Thank you Holly and Booksirens for the ARC to review.
I never thought I’d be weirded out by creepy looking dolls but I hear I am. Each character have their own little quirks and oddities the accompany them. But make no mistake, this book had so many twist and turns that I lost track. I was pulled in within the first chapter. Finch is a character that i actually find intriguing. It’s probably because I’m weird too which I love.
The spirits that are running through this creepy house is something that I would never want to experience. Overall, you won’t be disappointed. I usually don’t read books a second time but this one is a must.
Thank you Holly and Booksirens for the ARC to review.
Review of advance copy
Firstly, thank you to BookSirens and Holly Knightley for providing me with a free advanced reader copy. This is an honest review and the thoughts and opinions below are my own.
Actual rating of 3.5 stars, rounded up.
Holly Knightley delivers again! I'd love to know what inspires her, because she writes some pretty bizarre horror (which I mean in the coolest way possible).
This was a quirky, creepy read which serves slow burn suspense and a wonderfully weird and horrific ending.
I love when an ending has you scratching your head afterwards and needing a minute to process. Over the last 30%, there was probably a wtf moment on average every 5% of the book until it was over.
Give it a go, check your trigger warnings and be ready to embrace the WEIRD.
Actual rating of 3.5 stars, rounded up.
Holly Knightley delivers again! I'd love to know what inspires her, because she writes some pretty bizarre horror (which I mean in the coolest way possible).
This was a quirky, creepy read which serves slow burn suspense and a wonderfully weird and horrific ending.
I love when an ending has you scratching your head afterwards and needing a minute to process. Over the last 30%, there was probably a wtf moment on average every 5% of the book until it was over.
Give it a go, check your trigger warnings and be ready to embrace the WEIRD.
Review of advance copy
Stupendous read!!! I had to reread the last half , because I wasn't sure I got it right , because I was lying in bed tired and reading.
I'm speechless, gobsmacked, dumbfounded, verklempt, and any other words I can garner from the atmosphere. This book gives new meaning to staying together forever and always coming home, because things had to be "fair and even".
The delusions and atrocities are astounding. The mention of toe birds and brown glitter made the bile rise up in the back of my throat. Do give this one a read if you dare. I'll go be sick now! I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review. A must read 5 plus stars.
I'm speechless, gobsmacked, dumbfounded, verklempt, and any other words I can garner from the atmosphere. This book gives new meaning to staying together forever and always coming home, because things had to be "fair and even".
The delusions and atrocities are astounding. The mention of toe birds and brown glitter made the bile rise up in the back of my throat. Do give this one a read if you dare. I'll go be sick now! I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review. A must read 5 plus stars.
Review of advance copy
Pro-tip: Read this horror-fest slowly and carefully.
From the very start nothing is as it seems. We vary from the perspectives of Finch who has swallowed a birdcage complete with two live birds, and her next-door-neighbour Chet who she was in love with.
It would be fair to say that reality is abandoned from the start and you really do have to read this to understand it without any spoilers.
A cryptic review? Yes. A cryptic book? Abso-freaking-lutely!
I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
From the very start nothing is as it seems. We vary from the perspectives of Finch who has swallowed a birdcage complete with two live birds, and her next-door-neighbour Chet who she was in love with.
It would be fair to say that reality is abandoned from the start and you really do have to read this to understand it without any spoilers.
A cryptic review? Yes. A cryptic book? Abso-freaking-lutely!
I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
Review of advance copy
Wow, ending this book left me stunned for a while. Great writing, great characters and a really good story.
I felt for Scarlet, Finch and Chet. Love, family and duty mixed up in a whirlwind that had my eyes glued to every word. Sorry boss, I extended my lunchbreak to read…
Read it and do not even think you know how this story will play out. There are twists at every corner, shed and trunk. Read it and be amazed.
I received an arc and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I felt for Scarlet, Finch and Chet. Love, family and duty mixed up in a whirlwind that had my eyes glued to every word. Sorry boss, I extended my lunchbreak to read…
Read it and do not even think you know how this story will play out. There are twists at every corner, shed and trunk. Read it and be amazed.
I received an arc and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I grew to love Finch and Chet so much it made my heart feel like it was bursting with caged birds! This story completely entangled me, as Holly's books always do. The twists and turns this book produced had me guessing until the end. The story, while deeply rooted in family trauma/lore, is so endearing and really kept me turning those pages. I received an ARC via BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t truly know what I was expecting when I started reading this, but I was 100% happy with the story and ending we were given.
Each character in this story has a little bit of crazy in them. (Well, maybe its a lot of crazy.) But that crazy makes you question not only the characters actions but the whole story in itself. You dont know whats really happening until the very ending and that made the story a horror never to forget.
Each character in this story has a little bit of crazy in them. (Well, maybe its a lot of crazy.) But that crazy makes you question not only the characters actions but the whole story in itself. You dont know whats really happening until the very ending and that made the story a horror never to forget.
Review of advance copy
Finch is a girl who believes she has a birdcage with 2 birds in her belly. But this odd discloser is nothing compared to her strange life.
Her new neighbor Chet invites her to find out the mystery of the dolls he finds. But death is nearing for both and can they escape.
Finch was a girl you could get to know more about. Though she was strange, she was brave. And you want to know what will happen with her.
Her new neighbor Chet invites her to find out the mystery of the dolls he finds. But death is nearing for both and can they escape.
Finch was a girl you could get to know more about. Though she was strange, she was brave. And you want to know what will happen with her.
Review of advance copy
Holly Knightley does it again, what a brilliant story. It has everything, blood and gore with plenty of suspense. I thought I had worked out what was going on but I certainly didnt, the characters are dangerously crazy and it made for enjoyable reading. I know I'll never look at a Cadbury Cream Egg in the same way again...IYKYK
Review of advance copy
This book had my brain whiplashing at every turn in a good way! This was a book full of crazy. I have read a few things from this author and I am not disappointed. I will read anything put out by her.
If you want scratch the head, scared you are loosing your mind this is the book and author for you. Read her books you will not be disappointed.
If you want scratch the head, scared you are loosing your mind this is the book and author for you. Read her books you will not be disappointed.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews