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Dead Things Grow Here: A Haunting Psychological Horror
When university student Amelia and her best friend Lucas travel to a remote Scottish cabin to search for their missing professor, they expect loneliness. They don't expect the suffocating silence, the blood on the floor, or the way the forest seems to breathe.
Something is watching them from the shadows, something that wears their faces and waits in a glassy black lake that shouldn't exist. As Professor Anderson's diary unravels a descent into madness, the line between reality and nightmare dissolves.
Tapping at the windows grows louder. Reflections twist into grinning, inhuman masks. The forest closes in, hungry and alive, and the only thing more dangerous than what's outside is what's growing inside their minds.
Some places were never meant to be found. Some things should never be seen. In the heart of the woods, dead things grow — and they're waiting for you.
Something is watching them from the shadows, something that wears their faces and waits in a glassy black lake that shouldn't exist. As Professor Anderson's diary unravels a descent into madness, the line between reality and nightmare dissolves.
Tapping at the windows grows louder. Reflections twist into grinning, inhuman masks. The forest closes in, hungry and alive, and the only thing more dangerous than what's outside is what's growing inside their minds.
Some places were never meant to be found. Some things should never be seen. In the heart of the woods, dead things grow — and they're waiting for you.
- GenresHorror
299 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2026
About the author
Chelsea Knight
2 books28 followersChelsea Knight is a horror author from Essex who loves atmospheric stories, countryside walks with her dogs, and a good cup of coffee. She writes character‑driven, nature‑tinged horror that leans into emotions. When she’s not working on her next book, she’s usually outside, daydreaming new ideas or chatting with readers online. Dead Things Grow Here is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Did Not Finish
April 1, 2026I ended up DNFing this at around 65%. As a debut novel, I can see the potential and there are definitely some interesting ideas here, but it ultimately wasn’t for me.
The story felt a bit flawed in places with certain elements not fully making sense or coming together clearly. I also found the shifts in perspective very confusing! it’s written in first person, but occasionally switches into third, which disrupted the flow.
There were also some noticeable grammatical and formatting issues that made it harder to stay immersed in the story.
That said, I do think the author shows promise, and I’d be open to seeing how their writing develops in future works.
The story felt a bit flawed in places with certain elements not fully making sense or coming together clearly. I also found the shifts in perspective very confusing! it’s written in first person, but occasionally switches into third, which disrupted the flow.
There were also some noticeable grammatical and formatting issues that made it harder to stay immersed in the story.
That said, I do think the author shows promise, and I’d be open to seeing how their writing develops in future works.
Review of advance copy received from Author
received this book as an arc from the author, so first off, thank you!
This story has a very atmospheric horror feel. We are dealing with creepy woods, a creepy cabin. While also touching on topics of grief/trauma. It's a slow-burn type horror that I actually really enjoyed in this story.
I could picture the setting in my mind. There were a couple things I wish we could have got a bit more explanation on, but for a debut horror novel - I was impressed.
Would recommend
This story has a very atmospheric horror feel. We are dealing with creepy woods, a creepy cabin. While also touching on topics of grief/trauma. It's a slow-burn type horror that I actually really enjoyed in this story.
I could picture the setting in my mind. There were a couple things I wish we could have got a bit more explanation on, but for a debut horror novel - I was impressed.
Would recommend
Review of advance copy received from Author
I tried reaching out to the author but to no avail.
The jumping from past to present tense at the beginning was a smidge erm overwhelming? "I recalled" "i sat" "i breathed" to then "i am" (present tense). Maybe picking a tense would help "i sit" "taking a deep breath" etc. And keep it all present tense?
Another example would be "i am a practical man. Always have been. I have been interested in science my whole life. My father was a professor at the same university i worked (should be work) at now." Its written in present until you get to the word worked which is past tense.
it also jumps alot between first and third person. if it had a serious editorial overhaul and things fixed alot and more depth and explaination added, it has the potential to be a good read.
The jumping from past to present tense at the beginning was a smidge erm overwhelming? "I recalled" "i sat" "i breathed" to then "i am" (present tense). Maybe picking a tense would help "i sit" "taking a deep breath" etc. And keep it all present tense?
Another example would be "i am a practical man. Always have been. I have been interested in science my whole life. My father was a professor at the same university i worked (should be work) at now." Its written in present until you get to the word worked which is past tense.
it also jumps alot between first and third person. if it had a serious editorial overhaul and things fixed alot and more depth and explaination added, it has the potential to be a good read.
Review of advance copy received from Autor
I don't like to write bad reviews, I really don't like it... but I have to be faithful to what I was asked and be sincere in my opinion and I will not stop giving it because it does not meet the expected.
Well, where to start?
First make a note that the book was advertised as a horror book, but it is nothing more than a thriller/suspense, and I have read thriller books with more horror.
Second the development of events it is toooooooooooooo slow, which led to despair and almost to give dnf, but I waited and read until the end in the expectation that the end leaves me with my jaw dropped ... but in the end everything goes too quickly, without nexus, without explanation, leaving the reader without understanding well what he has just read...
I'm sorry Chelsea 😰😓
I really tried and wish you every success!💕
I hope you will find readers who understand the true context of the book and appreciate it.
Thanks for the opportunity.
Well, where to start?
First make a note that the book was advertised as a horror book, but it is nothing more than a thriller/suspense, and I have read thriller books with more horror.
Second the development of events it is toooooooooooooo slow, which led to despair and almost to give dnf, but I waited and read until the end in the expectation that the end leaves me with my jaw dropped ... but in the end everything goes too quickly, without nexus, without explanation, leaving the reader without understanding well what he has just read...
I'm sorry Chelsea 😰😓
I really tried and wish you every success!💕
I hope you will find readers who understand the true context of the book and appreciate it.
Thanks for the opportunity.
March 5, 2026
I had this book as an ARC, and I absolutely loved it. I flew through it. Anything cabin and woods vibes you just know it’s going to be gripping. The writing style and chapter lengths made it really easy to read. I enjoyed that there was more to it than just horror, it followed a story and you built a bond with the characters which made you more invested.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so hooked on this book! It was utterly brilliant! I loved all aspects, it was so chilling, so well described. I didn't know fully what was going to happen and that's what makes it even better.
I also love that Amelia gets so worried about her professor and doesn't let Lucas deter her!
The only thing I wish for is that there was a full explanation over what exactly was happening to her professor but even without that, it was still brilliant and still had me hooked from start to finish! The prologue on its own was enough to hook me in, and as the story progressed it just got better and better! Felt like I couldn't put it down!!
I also love that Amelia gets so worried about her professor and doesn't let Lucas deter her!
The only thing I wish for is that there was a full explanation over what exactly was happening to her professor but even without that, it was still brilliant and still had me hooked from start to finish! The prologue on its own was enough to hook me in, and as the story progressed it just got better and better! Felt like I couldn't put it down!!
May 13, 2026
DNF’d when Amelia said “this is still England” whilst in a cabin in Scotland..
It seems petty, but as someone who lives in the UK it is a vital thing to get right.
The book had promise, however I felt it did feel a little slow and I was struggling with the pace due to the different tenses at times.
It seems petty, but as someone who lives in the UK it is a vital thing to get right.
The book had promise, however I felt it did feel a little slow and I was struggling with the pace due to the different tenses at times.
February 24, 2026
I was lucky enough to read this as an advance reader copy and I FLEW through this book!
As a huge botanical horror/ lost in the woods fan I ate this up.
Chelsea had me gripped right from the start, and writes the feeling of unknown dread so well that I held my breath at points.
Some of the sentence style and structure felt a little samey at the start but became a lot more balanced midway to end.
Overall a fab debut novel, can’t wait to see what else she comes out with in the future!
As a huge botanical horror/ lost in the woods fan I ate this up.
Chelsea had me gripped right from the start, and writes the feeling of unknown dread so well that I held my breath at points.
Some of the sentence style and structure felt a little samey at the start but became a lot more balanced midway to end.
Overall a fab debut novel, can’t wait to see what else she comes out with in the future!
July 5, 2026
Dead Things Grow Here is one of those slow-burn horror novels that gets under your skin rather than relying on constant scares. It starts with Professor Anderson isolated in a cabin in Scotland, grieving the loss of his wife and researching something that immediately feels wrong. His paranoia is unsettling enough, but the moment he sees something staring back at him that looks exactly like himself—except it doesn’t smile like a human—I knew this wasn’t going to be a typical supernatural story. The prologue ends with one of the book’s most shocking moments, setting the tone perfectly.
The story then shifts to university students Lucas and Amelia, who travel to Scotland after Anderson suddenly stops replying to emails. Their relationship was one of my favourite parts of the novel. Lucas clearly has feelings for Amelia, while Amelia’s feelings are much more complicated. I liked that their romance wasn’t rushed and felt believable, especially with both characters carrying grief of their own.
Lucas’s backstory was heartbreaking. Learning that his mother died by suicide completely reframed his behaviour throughout the novel. His growing fear that he might be following the same path as her added a really emotional layer to what was already an unsettling horror story. There were several moments where I found myself wishing he’d communicate more openly with Amelia instead of bottling everything up, but at the same time, his actions felt understandable given everything he’d experienced.
Amelia was probably the more rational of the two, although she also made a few horror-movie decisions that had me shouting at the page. wandering off the trail despite already finding what appeared to veAnderson’s glasses, and repeatedly splitting up all felt like terrible ideas—but that’s part of what keeps the tension high.
The Scottish setting deserves a huge amount of credit. The forests feel strangely beautiful while simultaneously becoming more unsettling with every chapter. The descriptions create this false sense of security before quietly reminding you that something is deeply wrong. Little details—the birds suddenly falling silent, animals staring for just a little too long, reflections behaving independently, the missing moon, strange tapping at the windows—built an incredible atmosphere. Rather than relying on jump scares, the horror comes from constantly questioning what can actually be trusted.
One of my favourite mysteries throughout the book was trying to work out what the creature actually was. I spent a good chunk of the novel convinced it was some kind of skinwalker, especially with the uncanny reflections and creatures wearing people’s appearances. Once wendigos were briefly mentioned, I even ended up researching Scottish folklore looking for an equivalent, although nothing seemed to fit perfectly. In hindsight, I actually appreciate that the novel never gives a neat explanation. The ambiguity makes the monster far more disturbing.
The reflections were easily the creepiest part of the book. Windows, lakes, mirrors—anything reflective became something to fear. Every time someone’s reflection behaved differently from them, I felt genuinely uneasy. The recurring image of something trying to get out of the reflection rather than into it was particularly memorable.
Professor Anderson’s diary chapters worked really well, gradually revealing his descent while also confirming that Lucas wasn’t simply repeating his mother’s mental illness. Watching him convince himself he’d made some incredible breakthrough while something watched him sleep was incredibly unsettling. His final entries made the inevitable outcome feel tragic rather than surprising.
Jackson and the police were probably my biggest frustration. They seemed to take far too long to properly investigate Anderson’s disappearance. Finding his engraved torch felt like the point where a full search should already have been underway.
The final act ramps up the horror brilliantly. Lucas’s trances become impossible to ignore, Amelia slowly begins doubting her own sanity, and the impression that something has literally been wearing Lucas’s skin was horrifying. His death was genuinely shocking, particularly because his final instinct was still to try and warn Amelia.
The ending refuses to provide easy answers. Amelia being sectioned after surviving everything felt incredibly bleak, especially because no one could even find the lake she described. The final revelation that whatever haunted Anderson has followed her to the hospital leaves the story lingering long after the final page. Her decision to lie to her therapist just to secure her release only made the ending feel even more inevitable. Returning to the cabin on the anniversary of Lucas’s disappearance suggests the cycle is far from over.
Overall, Dead Things Grow Here is an incredibly atmospheric piece of folk horror that blends grief, psychological trauma and the supernatural without ever making it entirely clear where one ends and the other begins. While some characters make frustrating decisions, the emotional weight behind those choices makes them believable, and the constant feeling that something is watching from just beyond the trees kept me hooked throughout.
The story then shifts to university students Lucas and Amelia, who travel to Scotland after Anderson suddenly stops replying to emails. Their relationship was one of my favourite parts of the novel. Lucas clearly has feelings for Amelia, while Amelia’s feelings are much more complicated. I liked that their romance wasn’t rushed and felt believable, especially with both characters carrying grief of their own.
Lucas’s backstory was heartbreaking. Learning that his mother died by suicide completely reframed his behaviour throughout the novel. His growing fear that he might be following the same path as her added a really emotional layer to what was already an unsettling horror story. There were several moments where I found myself wishing he’d communicate more openly with Amelia instead of bottling everything up, but at the same time, his actions felt understandable given everything he’d experienced.
Amelia was probably the more rational of the two, although she also made a few horror-movie decisions that had me shouting at the page. wandering off the trail despite already finding what appeared to veAnderson’s glasses, and repeatedly splitting up all felt like terrible ideas—but that’s part of what keeps the tension high.
The Scottish setting deserves a huge amount of credit. The forests feel strangely beautiful while simultaneously becoming more unsettling with every chapter. The descriptions create this false sense of security before quietly reminding you that something is deeply wrong. Little details—the birds suddenly falling silent, animals staring for just a little too long, reflections behaving independently, the missing moon, strange tapping at the windows—built an incredible atmosphere. Rather than relying on jump scares, the horror comes from constantly questioning what can actually be trusted.
One of my favourite mysteries throughout the book was trying to work out what the creature actually was. I spent a good chunk of the novel convinced it was some kind of skinwalker, especially with the uncanny reflections and creatures wearing people’s appearances. Once wendigos were briefly mentioned, I even ended up researching Scottish folklore looking for an equivalent, although nothing seemed to fit perfectly. In hindsight, I actually appreciate that the novel never gives a neat explanation. The ambiguity makes the monster far more disturbing.
The reflections were easily the creepiest part of the book. Windows, lakes, mirrors—anything reflective became something to fear. Every time someone’s reflection behaved differently from them, I felt genuinely uneasy. The recurring image of something trying to get out of the reflection rather than into it was particularly memorable.
Professor Anderson’s diary chapters worked really well, gradually revealing his descent while also confirming that Lucas wasn’t simply repeating his mother’s mental illness. Watching him convince himself he’d made some incredible breakthrough while something watched him sleep was incredibly unsettling. His final entries made the inevitable outcome feel tragic rather than surprising.
Jackson and the police were probably my biggest frustration. They seemed to take far too long to properly investigate Anderson’s disappearance. Finding his engraved torch felt like the point where a full search should already have been underway.
The final act ramps up the horror brilliantly. Lucas’s trances become impossible to ignore, Amelia slowly begins doubting her own sanity, and the impression that something has literally been wearing Lucas’s skin was horrifying. His death was genuinely shocking, particularly because his final instinct was still to try and warn Amelia.
The ending refuses to provide easy answers. Amelia being sectioned after surviving everything felt incredibly bleak, especially because no one could even find the lake she described. The final revelation that whatever haunted Anderson has followed her to the hospital leaves the story lingering long after the final page. Her decision to lie to her therapist just to secure her release only made the ending feel even more inevitable. Returning to the cabin on the anniversary of Lucas’s disappearance suggests the cycle is far from over.
Overall, Dead Things Grow Here is an incredibly atmospheric piece of folk horror that blends grief, psychological trauma and the supernatural without ever making it entirely clear where one ends and the other begins. While some characters make frustrating decisions, the emotional weight behind those choices makes them believable, and the constant feeling that something is watching from just beyond the trees kept me hooked throughout.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A simple, but later-brutally told horror venture into an unknown that is equal parts familiar in theme, and yet ambitious simultaneously in making an independent identity of itself. Said ambition, I will admit, is sometimes not as visual as it is simply relayed, what with the to-and-fros of narratives we are constantly acquainted with, and thenceforth grow attached to. However, what creeping threats and revelations we came across in the further discovery of one very missing professor, none were to really be misconstrued. In that latter clarity, the simplicity of the piece's language was a benefit.
At times, it does read as quite a fledgling; some inconsistency with the tenses and, most notably when in the thick of one's own pace, the changes between first-person and third-person POV did tend to bring one abruptly back to reality, rather than leave one immersed in the established murky and woodland world. There were moments, even, where it could've perhaps been intentional, if not for its recurrence in the most random places.
Well suited for the casual and yet quiet horror reader, whose silence entails that their preference is as mysterious and unsettling as the mythos of a woods such as the one herein.
At times, it does read as quite a fledgling; some inconsistency with the tenses and, most notably when in the thick of one's own pace, the changes between first-person and third-person POV did tend to bring one abruptly back to reality, rather than leave one immersed in the established murky and woodland world. There were moments, even, where it could've perhaps been intentional, if not for its recurrence in the most random places.
Well suited for the casual and yet quiet horror reader, whose silence entails that their preference is as mysterious and unsettling as the mythos of a woods such as the one herein.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a story about two uni students amelia and lucas who set off on a journey to a cabin in Scotland in search for their professor who has gone missing.
They get to this cabin and weird things begin to happen which do not go unnoticed such as, tapping windows, creaking, eerily silence, muddy footprints and blood.
Lucas lost his mom due to mental health and also the professor, lucas begins to what he seems to be is hallucination and is anxious he's going to be like his mum but is he really hearing things, is it real or is it make believe?
As they go in search for the professor strange things happen including finding missing items and reading through the professors emails.
This book is creepy, eery and gets your adrenaline going. This is such a page Turner I couldn't put it down, every page was captivating and I was seeking for more I needed to know what happened. I felt like my own detective.
If you like a
psychological horror
Twisted memories
Slow burn dread
Then this is the book for you.
Thank you to the amazing author Chelsea for giving me an arc copy of this book for am honest review.
Book will be released 28th March 💕👀
They get to this cabin and weird things begin to happen which do not go unnoticed such as, tapping windows, creaking, eerily silence, muddy footprints and blood.
Lucas lost his mom due to mental health and also the professor, lucas begins to what he seems to be is hallucination and is anxious he's going to be like his mum but is he really hearing things, is it real or is it make believe?
As they go in search for the professor strange things happen including finding missing items and reading through the professors emails.
This book is creepy, eery and gets your adrenaline going. This is such a page Turner I couldn't put it down, every page was captivating and I was seeking for more I needed to know what happened. I felt like my own detective.
If you like a
psychological horror
Twisted memories
Slow burn dread
Then this is the book for you.
Thank you to the amazing author Chelsea for giving me an arc copy of this book for am honest review.
Book will be released 28th March 💕👀
March 7, 2026
The prologue starts with Professor Anderson, & had me hooked me in from the beginning, the eerie unsettling feeling that washed over me while reading it made me instantly want to know more.
After receiving some strange emails from the professor, Amelia & Lucas, his students, decide to go out to the cabin & help him. They think he could be spiralling, but the closer they get to the cabin, stranger happenings seem to be capturing Amelia’s attention.
I love how the forest is almost its own character. It seems to play on different emotions of the people in the forest. Lucas is vulnerable & still dealing with grief & he finds the forest calming playing on this feeling to isolate him, whereas Amelia is sensing something strange & uncomfortable, an uneasy feeling.
I liked how Lucas’ dream from before they even left foreshadowed the events to come.
The ending left me feeling just as uneasy as the beginning but it was such a good read. Very interesting & definitely gets into your head.
After receiving some strange emails from the professor, Amelia & Lucas, his students, decide to go out to the cabin & help him. They think he could be spiralling, but the closer they get to the cabin, stranger happenings seem to be capturing Amelia’s attention.
I love how the forest is almost its own character. It seems to play on different emotions of the people in the forest. Lucas is vulnerable & still dealing with grief & he finds the forest calming playing on this feeling to isolate him, whereas Amelia is sensing something strange & uncomfortable, an uneasy feeling.
I liked how Lucas’ dream from before they even left foreshadowed the events to come.
The ending left me feeling just as uneasy as the beginning but it was such a good read. Very interesting & definitely gets into your head.
July 26, 2026
I absolutely loved *Dead Things Grow Here*. From the very first pages, I was completely hooked and found it impossible to put down. There were so many moments that genuinely gave me goosebumps, and the atmosphere Chelsea Knight created was incredibly eerie and immersive.
I noticed that some other reviews mentioned grammar issues, but honestly, I didn't notice them at all. Whether that's because I was so invested in the story rather than analysing every sentence, I don't know—but nothing pulled me out of the experience. I was too busy needing to know what was going to happen next.
The mystery kept me guessing, and by the end I was left with so many questions in the best way. I especially wish we'd had a little more about the lake and whatever is lurking beneath the surface, because that part fascinated me and I wanted to know so much more.
If you enjoy atmospheric horror with a gripping story that keeps you turning the pages, I'd definitely recommend this one. I'll definitely be reading more from Chelsea Knight.
I noticed that some other reviews mentioned grammar issues, but honestly, I didn't notice them at all. Whether that's because I was so invested in the story rather than analysing every sentence, I don't know—but nothing pulled me out of the experience. I was too busy needing to know what was going to happen next.
The mystery kept me guessing, and by the end I was left with so many questions in the best way. I especially wish we'd had a little more about the lake and whatever is lurking beneath the surface, because that part fascinated me and I wanted to know so much more.
If you enjoy atmospheric horror with a gripping story that keeps you turning the pages, I'd definitely recommend this one. I'll definitely be reading more from Chelsea Knight.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dead Things Grow Here by Chelsea Knight
This book had me hooked on the prologue. I could not put it down! I needed to know what was going to happen next, and what was in the woods.
This was a dual POV between Amelia the FMC and Lucas the MMC. They go searching for Amelia’s professor that has gone missing in his cottage in the woods. Strange things begin to happen! They begin see things to make them think they are crazy. As the reader, you aren’t sure if it’s supernatural or a figment of the imagination. Characters are carrying around past grief and mental illness history in family members. NO Spoilers! You will have to read it for yourself.
The author held my interest with suspense the entire time. If you enjoy edge of your seat psychological thriller with a slow burn horror, grief, and trauma that has crazy characteristics, this is for you.
Thank you, Chelsea Knight, for the opportunity to read this eARC in return for reading and review of
This book had me hooked on the prologue. I could not put it down! I needed to know what was going to happen next, and what was in the woods.
This was a dual POV between Amelia the FMC and Lucas the MMC. They go searching for Amelia’s professor that has gone missing in his cottage in the woods. Strange things begin to happen! They begin see things to make them think they are crazy. As the reader, you aren’t sure if it’s supernatural or a figment of the imagination. Characters are carrying around past grief and mental illness history in family members. NO Spoilers! You will have to read it for yourself.
The author held my interest with suspense the entire time. If you enjoy edge of your seat psychological thriller with a slow burn horror, grief, and trauma that has crazy characteristics, this is for you.
Thank you, Chelsea Knight, for the opportunity to read this eARC in return for reading and review of
April 2, 2026
5 stars!!!
After having the privilege of reading an early draft of Chelsea Knight's Dead Things Grow Here, I am so thrilled to see this haunting story officially out in the world. This book captures a fantastic "creepy" vibe, centered around Amelia and Lucas as they travel to a remote countryside cabin to check on a professor whose emails have taken a dark, concerning turn. The mystery is expertly layered, with the suspense building steadily until you are completely hooked. Because the chapters are short and the perspectives switch between characters, the pacing feels incredibly fast, making you want to find out what happens next as quickly as possible. The finale was a particular highlight for me, I absolutely did not see that ending coming! Whether you grab the paperback or the hardback, this is a must-read for anyone who loves a mystery that keeps them guessing until the very last page.
After having the privilege of reading an early draft of Chelsea Knight's Dead Things Grow Here, I am so thrilled to see this haunting story officially out in the world. This book captures a fantastic "creepy" vibe, centered around Amelia and Lucas as they travel to a remote countryside cabin to check on a professor whose emails have taken a dark, concerning turn. The mystery is expertly layered, with the suspense building steadily until you are completely hooked. Because the chapters are short and the perspectives switch between characters, the pacing feels incredibly fast, making you want to find out what happens next as quickly as possible. The finale was a particular highlight for me, I absolutely did not see that ending coming! Whether you grab the paperback or the hardback, this is a must-read for anyone who loves a mystery that keeps them guessing until the very last page.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am not typically a horror girly but this book HAD ME!
Am I slightly too scared to go look in my mirror right now? Yes absolutely. The next time I see my reflection will go one of two ways, either I will very quickly walk away and hide under blanket like my gal or I’ll study it so long it will start be creepy in itself.
I really liked the horror elements of this book, I did have a moment where I was internally shouting for the main characters to leave but imo that’s a sign of a good book.
The book was well written and a good length, the characters had a lot of depth and interest about them and it was just a gripping read!
As a side note, I was very excited to have received an ARC copy for this book! Thank you very much for this opportunity to read before release!
Am I slightly too scared to go look in my mirror right now? Yes absolutely. The next time I see my reflection will go one of two ways, either I will very quickly walk away and hide under blanket like my gal or I’ll study it so long it will start be creepy in itself.
I really liked the horror elements of this book, I did have a moment where I was internally shouting for the main characters to leave but imo that’s a sign of a good book.
The book was well written and a good length, the characters had a lot of depth and interest about them and it was just a gripping read!
As a side note, I was very excited to have received an ARC copy for this book! Thank you very much for this opportunity to read before release!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly I would like to thank Chelsea for letting me arc read this book.
Dead things grow here is a horror/thriller novella!
Let’s talk about this book, I enjoyed the storyline but for me personally it was a little too slow burn for my personal preference. Does this take away from the fact it has a good storyline? No it doesn’t, I really enjoyed the psychological aspect of the book, it does touch on some sensitive topics involving death/suicide/mental health and psychological trauma but this book approaches this with respect.
If horror/thriller with a little of psychological thriller isn’t your thing i wouldn’t recommend this book but if that sounds like a bit of you then you should definitely read
Congratulations on first debut novel
Dead things grow here is a horror/thriller novella!
Let’s talk about this book, I enjoyed the storyline but for me personally it was a little too slow burn for my personal preference. Does this take away from the fact it has a good storyline? No it doesn’t, I really enjoyed the psychological aspect of the book, it does touch on some sensitive topics involving death/suicide/mental health and psychological trauma but this book approaches this with respect.
If horror/thriller with a little of psychological thriller isn’t your thing i wouldn’t recommend this book but if that sounds like a bit of you then you should definitely read
Congratulations on first debut novel
April 1, 2026
3 5 🌟
I was very lucky to receive an arc copy of this book and it sounded right up my street, as it was described as folklore horror.
I did enjoy it, it was eerie and atmospheric but the jumping from tenses pulled me out of the story a few times throughout the book.
For me being a native scot, we have such a rich history of folk lore, and I think that is where I would disagree that it was a folklore horror, I get that as a reader we want to sometimes make our own minds up about things, but to be folklore there should be some indication or hint as to what they were dealing with. There isnt any mention of folklore suspicions or local lore in the area mentioned. I did it enjoy the eerie feel about it, I felt it was more a psychological mystery/horror. I hope if the tense issues were solved before release and if it is released under a different genre that may make a difference.
Thank you for the opportunity to read your baby Chelsea. I have to be honest in my reviews and I did enjoy parts of it. I would have loved a deeper dive into what they were dealing with or a hint at more lore that would give you a chance to even imagine what it could be, but outside of Scotland without that insight, it might be difficult to know what it possibly was. I wish you every success in your continued writing career
I was very lucky to receive an arc copy of this book and it sounded right up my street, as it was described as folklore horror.
I did enjoy it, it was eerie and atmospheric but the jumping from tenses pulled me out of the story a few times throughout the book.
For me being a native scot, we have such a rich history of folk lore, and I think that is where I would disagree that it was a folklore horror, I get that as a reader we want to sometimes make our own minds up about things, but to be folklore there should be some indication or hint as to what they were dealing with. There isnt any mention of folklore suspicions or local lore in the area mentioned. I did it enjoy the eerie feel about it, I felt it was more a psychological mystery/horror. I hope if the tense issues were solved before release and if it is released under a different genre that may make a difference.
Thank you for the opportunity to read your baby Chelsea. I have to be honest in my reviews and I did enjoy parts of it. I would have loved a deeper dive into what they were dealing with or a hint at more lore that would give you a chance to even imagine what it could be, but outside of Scotland without that insight, it might be difficult to know what it possibly was. I wish you every success in your continued writing career
September 3, 2026
Has nobody in this book heard of rain gear? They all spend their time being 'soaked to the skin' or 'wet through'. And this is after planning to visit Scotland? Good grief. I skim read a lot of the book, as much of it consists of pages of turgid 'will they/won't they' exposition. There's little to like about either of the two main characters and I didn't really care what their fate was. The author is trying to create an atmosphere of brooding menace but the whiny alternating first person narratives prevent this from happening. In addition, if you're going to write a story like this from the pov of each character in this way, you can't suddenly break out and introduce a third person explaining what just took place. That immediately kills the narrative.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into this book hopeful, as the story sounds like it'd be just my sort of thing! Unfortunately I find myself having to DNF at about 1/3 through, because I'm simply not connecting with it.
The Prologue started well, but then became very confusing as it moved from first person to third because it appeared the narrator died! Or did he... interesting tension, but odd nonetheless.
Also the protagonists didn't engage me, as neither seemed quite real - there's a lot of telling over showing, and I found it hard to really know who they are or sympathise with their journey.
Huge apologies, but I don't think this is for me.
The Prologue started well, but then became very confusing as it moved from first person to third because it appeared the narrator died! Or did he... interesting tension, but odd nonetheless.
Also the protagonists didn't engage me, as neither seemed quite real - there's a lot of telling over showing, and I found it hard to really know who they are or sympathise with their journey.
Huge apologies, but I don't think this is for me.
March 23, 2026
I received this as an ARC read and firstly thank you so much for sharing this book with me! I genuinely loved the setting of this book. There was a fantastic slow build up of tension and suspense that had me genuinely on edge. I find that hard to achieve in a lot of thriller books and the author did it excellently!!!
The only issue I have is that there was a lot of swapping tenses in the book which didn’t make too much sense and appeared accidental. I think it is more an editing error that I hope is picked up before release!
Other than that this book is fantastic and I do recommend it. Well done Chelsea and thank you!
The only issue I have is that there was a lot of swapping tenses in the book which didn’t make too much sense and appeared accidental. I think it is more an editing error that I hope is picked up before release!
Other than that this book is fantastic and I do recommend it. Well done Chelsea and thank you!
September 17, 2026
An absolute page-turner from start to finish, a genuinely gripping supernatural horror that pulls you in straight away and keeps you guessing right until the end.
The atmosphere is brilliant, the tension builds perfectly, and there are plenty of moments that had me completely hooked.
Where The Dark Glows is creepy, unpredictable and incredibly easy to get lost in. If you’re a fan of supernatural horror, mystery and stories that leave you questioning what’s really going on, this is definitely one to pick up.
A fantastic read from a brilliant author. I can’t wait to see what Chelsea writes next.
The atmosphere is brilliant, the tension builds perfectly, and there are plenty of moments that had me completely hooked.
Where The Dark Glows is creepy, unpredictable and incredibly easy to get lost in. If you’re a fan of supernatural horror, mystery and stories that leave you questioning what’s really going on, this is definitely one to pick up.
A fantastic read from a brilliant author. I can’t wait to see what Chelsea writes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was very lucky to receive a copy of this book before it was published and all I can say really is, “oh my god”. The prologue alone had me hooked. The whole horror aspect was beautifully portrayed and explained. The emotions of fear, love and loss. I honestly don’t know where to begin other than this book was and is amazing. I’m not much a fan of horror, jump scares and all but if horror books can be this good then I’ve been seriously sleeping on the genre. It’s phenomenal and I completely ate it up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC. Let me just say that this is really creepy. For someone who has been to a remote cabin in the woods with friends with a pond on the premises, this would have been a great read to freak myself out with. It displays a depth of grief that is often not expanded upon. I love how the forest is incorporated with those who experience grief and uses their emotions to pull them further in. In a way, it reminded me of the film The Forest starring Natalie Dormer. Chelsea Knight mentions that this is her debut into the publishing world, and I think it is a great start.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The prologue and the epilogue were my favorite parts of this book! The story was great too but the prologue hooked me and the epilogues sealed it up so nice. This is an atmospheric mystery horror read, and if you like those vibes then I highly recommend checking them out. The author did a great job at capturing the eerie aspects of this story and was very visually detailed. This is also a little haunted house vibey which I love. I love the psychological torment in horror reads and this book also included that!
July 5, 2026
This book is about Amelia and Lucas who set off to a cabin in Scotland in search for their professor who was missing. When getting to the cabin things begin to happen tapping windows, eerily silence, muddy footprints and blood. If you wanna know more you've gotta read it. This book is not only creepy and eerie but also addresses grief and trauma. This was such a page turner with every page being engaging, captivating me until the end. If you like horror, twisted memories, and dread that'll have you on the edge of your seat then this is the psychological horror for you.
February 20, 2026
I got the opportunity to read the book before the release date and it’s amazing it had me on the edge of my seat soon as I started reading I couldn’t put the book down I got so into it I highly recommend giving it a read a massive well done to the author of the book you have smashed it can’t wait to see what else you right I’m looking forward to more books 😊
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC REVIEW✨
amazing. chills.
this book succeeded with the eerie horror vibes. i love a good horror book and this definitely got the bill.
i can’t really say to much without giving it all away so just know it’s good. i’m stingy with 5⭐️ ratings and this was just that good.
this was my most anticipated arc read and dude i am so happy i got to read this
be sure to check it out on 3/28
amazing. chills.
this book succeeded with the eerie horror vibes. i love a good horror book and this definitely got the bill.
i can’t really say to much without giving it all away so just know it’s good. i’m stingy with 5⭐️ ratings and this was just that good.
this was my most anticipated arc read and dude i am so happy i got to read this
be sure to check it out on 3/28
March 8, 2026
This book was soo creepy! I had an amazing time reading this and I really enjoyed it! 🖤
Amelia & Lucas were the cutest!! 🫶🏻
Highly recommend if you’re looking for a thriller/psychological horror!
I read this while staying in a cabin for the weekend and made the experience even more unnerving, but I wouldn’t have changed a thing 🖤💀
Amelia & Lucas were the cutest!! 🫶🏻
Highly recommend if you’re looking for a thriller/psychological horror!
I read this while staying in a cabin for the weekend and made the experience even more unnerving, but I wouldn’t have changed a thing 🖤💀
April 2, 2026
I loved where this book was going, however it left too many questions unanswered. Such as who/what were the shadows? Why were they there? I felt the forest needed a bit more of a back story to it, as the police were clearly aware of...something.
I'll definitely read more of this authors if and when she writes more!
I'll definitely read more of this authors if and when she writes more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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