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How to Survive Camping #3
How to Survive Camping: The Ancient Things: A gruesomely funny and addictive must-read horror
Not yet published
Expected 10 Sep 26For fans of
Welcome to Night Vale
and
The World of Lore
, a horror-comedy series adapted from an r/nosleep subreddit thread with 16,000 passionate readers and originally self-published to cult fame.
Every year, campground manager Kate sends out a pamphlet titled “How to Survive Your Camping Experience.” In it is a list of rules to help campers have an enjoyable experience and hopefully survive any encounters with the campground’s… other… inhabitants.
With the land turning ancient, it is no longer just the campers that are in danger. Kate is the key to ascension and every inhuman entity is out for her blood. All the lesser creatures are making attempts on her life, from the hammock monster to the gummy bears. Kate isn't willing to let her land go without a fight. If these creatures are going to hunt her, then she'll hunt them in turn and eradicate everything from her land that cannot coexist with humanity. With the help of both her inhuman and human allies, it looks like Kate might actually have a chance at controlling her land. But ancient land attracts ancient things, and the town has a bad history with ancient creatures.
A new entity has come to the campground, bearing an old grudge against one of the inhabitants. Its malevolent designs will put the entire land at risk - unless Kate can stop it.
Every year, campground manager Kate sends out a pamphlet titled “How to Survive Your Camping Experience.” In it is a list of rules to help campers have an enjoyable experience and hopefully survive any encounters with the campground’s… other… inhabitants.
With the land turning ancient, it is no longer just the campers that are in danger. Kate is the key to ascension and every inhuman entity is out for her blood. All the lesser creatures are making attempts on her life, from the hammock monster to the gummy bears. Kate isn't willing to let her land go without a fight. If these creatures are going to hunt her, then she'll hunt them in turn and eradicate everything from her land that cannot coexist with humanity. With the help of both her inhuman and human allies, it looks like Kate might actually have a chance at controlling her land. But ancient land attracts ancient things, and the town has a bad history with ancient creatures.
A new entity has come to the campground, bearing an old grudge against one of the inhabitants. Its malevolent designs will put the entire land at risk - unless Kate can stop it.
Audible Audio
First published May 12, 2021
About the author
Bonnie Quinn
9 books403 followersI am a Senior Software Developer and author. I'm active in the Reddit r/NoSleep community and wrote the popular "How to Survive Camping" series.
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August 29, 2026✎ᝰ.┊ pre-read: Finally getting to read the arc that started my obsession with the Man with the Skull Cup lmao. I had no idea it was the 3rd in a series. Happy accidents! 🤭
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’m gonna keep promoting this series like a used car salesman because it’s SO GOOD
I’m so excited that I got the arc for this third book but now there’s a void in my heart after I saw the next one doesn’t come out until May 2027???? 😭😭😭
This series just keeps getting better and better with each installment, and The Ancient Things (originally published as The Horse Eater) expands upon what the last two installments established. We get more time connecting with the creatures inhabiting the campground as well as the humans in Kate’s life. This third book ramped up the emotional tension and made for a high-stakes adventure that had me hooked. And don’t worry, Kate’s deadpan humor is still in this story so there’s plenty of funny moments too.
This series is so nostalgic for me. It reminds me so much of early internet creepypastas mixed with the internet horror of today. It’s a perfect cozy horror book and I will not stop recommending this series.
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me an arc copy of this book. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.*
I’m so excited that I got the arc for this third book but now there’s a void in my heart after I saw the next one doesn’t come out until May 2027???? 😭😭😭
This series just keeps getting better and better with each installment, and The Ancient Things (originally published as The Horse Eater) expands upon what the last two installments established. We get more time connecting with the creatures inhabiting the campground as well as the humans in Kate’s life. This third book ramped up the emotional tension and made for a high-stakes adventure that had me hooked. And don’t worry, Kate’s deadpan humor is still in this story so there’s plenty of funny moments too.
This series is so nostalgic for me. It reminds me so much of early internet creepypastas mixed with the internet horror of today. It’s a perfect cozy horror book and I will not stop recommending this series.
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me an arc copy of this book. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.*
May 27, 2021
Still love it
Bonnie Quinn is one of those authors who's stories may start in humble places but who's worlds they spin are EPIC.
Continues to be one of my favorite series of urban horror/fantasy
Bonnie Quinn is one of those authors who's stories may start in humble places but who's worlds they spin are EPIC.
Continues to be one of my favorite series of urban horror/fantasy
October 27, 2021
I love these books. Just the right blend of internet/reddit culture, folk horror, and character building. I know the series probably ends with the next one, and I'm avoiding the website and r/nosleep until it's done, because I want to save it.
August 9, 2026
Thank you NetGallery for the eARC! 4.5 ⭐️
It is very intriguing seeing how each book evolves. In comparison to book one, this book definitely has stronger character development, while lacking some aspects of books one and two. This is not to be taken as an entirely negative, but as note of comparison.
Positives:
-Kate is getting developed; she is finally showing off kindness and connection with her family, the creatures of the campground, and her employees.
-The plot is coming together. Each fight and setback has started to make more and more sense, leading to this final(?) confrontation with the Beast.
-Bryan development! Bryan development :(
-Each new plot and character thrown into the mix keeps the story gripping. I REALLY enjoyed this plot line with the stallion…one of my favorite campground visitors for sure.
Negatives:
-The original structure of this novel has fallen apart slightly. It has been established that her rulebook was hurting her by making the creatures stronger, but in doing so unravels the physical layout of the read.
-Bryan…without too much spoiler-context, I’m not sure I appreciate where he stands in the end of this book.
-Beau was present, but was he present? He was there a lot honestly, but I didn’t find him particularly helpful/involved in a narrative.
I have really, really enjoyed each one of these books. The creativity around this narrative is one I keep coming back to, especially with all the wonderful gore. I have no idea where this story continues to go, but I am ready for the next piece.
It is very intriguing seeing how each book evolves. In comparison to book one, this book definitely has stronger character development, while lacking some aspects of books one and two. This is not to be taken as an entirely negative, but as note of comparison.
Positives:
-Kate is getting developed; she is finally showing off kindness and connection with her family, the creatures of the campground, and her employees.
-The plot is coming together. Each fight and setback has started to make more and more sense, leading to this final(?) confrontation with the Beast.
-Bryan development! Bryan development :(
-Each new plot and character thrown into the mix keeps the story gripping. I REALLY enjoyed this plot line with the stallion…one of my favorite campground visitors for sure.
Negatives:
-The original structure of this novel has fallen apart slightly. It has been established that her rulebook was hurting her by making the creatures stronger, but in doing so unravels the physical layout of the read.
-Bryan…without too much spoiler-context, I’m not sure I appreciate where he stands in the end of this book.
-Beau was present, but was he present? He was there a lot honestly, but I didn’t find him particularly helpful/involved in a narrative.
I have really, really enjoyed each one of these books. The creativity around this narrative is one I keep coming back to, especially with all the wonderful gore. I have no idea where this story continues to go, but I am ready for the next piece.
June 14, 2026
Kate and her campground of horrors is back. This time around loyalties and alliances are tested as ancient things stir. The stakes have never been higher. This one has supplanted The Man With No Shadow as my favorite in the series so far. Kate is more relatable in her angst, regret, and acceptance than she has been in her recklessness and bravado. Beau, often a deus ex machina, has backed off, and the damsel is doing more to save herself. The roles of the Old Sheriff and Kate’s brother are shifting as well. The main thing I want to stress: This is a series, and the first novel is the only one that might be considered a standalone. Do what I did and read the first two before tackling this one.
This is my honest review of an advanced reader’s copy. My thanks to NetGalley, Saga Press, and Bonnie Quinn for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is my honest review of an advanced reader’s copy. My thanks to NetGalley, Saga Press, and Bonnie Quinn for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 19, 2026
Our beloved Camp Manager is definitely NOT a horse girl. In book 3 of HTSC we’re back with even more monstrosities and horrors beyond comprehension.
Only one bed trope? Nah. But there IS only one coffin 😈.
Bonnie Quinn does such a fantastic job at balancing the “Monster of The Week” vibes with the overarching plot of the series, I’m always so impressed. Per usual, I’m on the edge of my seat waiting for the next terror to come crashing in.
All the stars ✨✨✨✨✨
Big thanks to Netgalley and Saga Press for allowing me to continue this adventure!
Only one bed trope? Nah. But there IS only one coffin 😈.
Bonnie Quinn does such a fantastic job at balancing the “Monster of The Week” vibes with the overarching plot of the series, I’m always so impressed. Per usual, I’m on the edge of my seat waiting for the next terror to come crashing in.
All the stars ✨✨✨✨✨
Big thanks to Netgalley and Saga Press for allowing me to continue this adventure!
April 25, 2026
As always, exceptionally fun and filled with emotion. I don’t know that I’ll ever get over the loss, but here I sit waiting anxiously the next installment anyway.
May 31, 2021
Much like the last book, this one really has you connecting differently. In fact, while we do look a little at guests, the majority of this book is about the relationships with the various otherworldlies.
You could really feel the change in dynamics, learning to work with some of the monsters against the worst ones. Not only are there some that she likes but there are some she would die for.
No longer just the keeper of the campground, the protector of the town. We get to watch our leading lady stand tall and show that she is the protector of the campground and all those trapped in it. It’s hard not to feel a little proud.
As always Bonnie’s talent captivated me and while this book is just releasing, I’m already on the next book courtesy of nosleep. When it releases in paperback I will buy that too. I’ll never get bored of these stories
You could really feel the change in dynamics, learning to work with some of the monsters against the worst ones. Not only are there some that she likes but there are some she would die for.
No longer just the keeper of the campground, the protector of the town. We get to watch our leading lady stand tall and show that she is the protector of the campground and all those trapped in it. It’s hard not to feel a little proud.
As always Bonnie’s talent captivated me and while this book is just releasing, I’m already on the next book courtesy of nosleep. When it releases in paperback I will buy that too. I’ll never get bored of these stories
March 5, 2023
I’m not ready for the last book in Kate’s story. I know it’s going to wreck me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Among all those universes out there, I am pretty sure there is a version of me cataloguing, studying, and befriending magical beings. I am so jealous of that version.
Throw me a book with bizarre beings and folklore, and I am going to fall blindly in love with it.
How to Survive Camping: The Ancient Things is exactly that - my comfort read.
This is actually the third book in the series, and I went in not knowing that. But don't let that stop you from reading it. Everything is explained perfectly well, and you won't find yourself thrust into a world without clarity.
Kate is the camp manager at Goat Valley. Her family has been doing that for generations - running the camp and ensuring the Inhuman inhabitants don't escape and wreak havoc. However, the camp is turning ancient, something has broken in, and a dire situation forces Kate to bargain with an Ancient Thing. To make things worse, there is going to be a battle, and every other Inhuman seems to foretell her death.
At first, I thought Kate was very strong and invincible, but then she turned out not to be. Yes, she is rude, angry, and ready to sacrifice a human or camper if it is the best solution, but she is also lonely, scared, hurt, and desperate to make sure everything is okay. She has a lot to learn, and she might not always make the best plans. A camper dying might not bother her much, but she absolutely makes sure her family and loved ones are safe. Her childhood memories of her parents and past events shed a lot of light on why she became such a harsh camp manager. I couldn't help but like her because she still sticks around to keep everything going despite the heavy responsibilities, the low budget, and the constant danger hanging around every corner.
The plot is straightforward, but I loved it. Some parts were downright creepy, and the Inhumans were surely the best part. The pacing was fast, and the world-building was just-
While reading this, I was reminded of (Mostly) Human Resources, which is similar to this, and I probably wouldn't have enjoyed that book nearly as much if it weren't for the creatures.
I will definitely be reading both the next and the previous books in the series. I 101% WILL!!!!
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Throw me a book with bizarre beings and folklore, and I am going to fall blindly in love with it.
How to Survive Camping: The Ancient Things is exactly that - my comfort read.
This is actually the third book in the series, and I went in not knowing that. But don't let that stop you from reading it. Everything is explained perfectly well, and you won't find yourself thrust into a world without clarity.
Kate is the camp manager at Goat Valley. Her family has been doing that for generations - running the camp and ensuring the Inhuman inhabitants don't escape and wreak havoc. However, the camp is turning ancient, something has broken in, and a dire situation forces Kate to bargain with an Ancient Thing. To make things worse, there is going to be a battle, and every other Inhuman seems to foretell her death.
At first, I thought Kate was very strong and invincible, but then she turned out not to be. Yes, she is rude, angry, and ready to sacrifice a human or camper if it is the best solution, but she is also lonely, scared, hurt, and desperate to make sure everything is okay. She has a lot to learn, and she might not always make the best plans. A camper dying might not bother her much, but she absolutely makes sure her family and loved ones are safe. Her childhood memories of her parents and past events shed a lot of light on why she became such a harsh camp manager. I couldn't help but like her because she still sticks around to keep everything going despite the heavy responsibilities, the low budget, and the constant danger hanging around every corner.
The plot is straightforward, but I loved it. Some parts were downright creepy, and the Inhumans were surely the best part. The pacing was fast, and the world-building was just-
While reading this, I was reminded of (Mostly) Human Resources, which is similar to this, and I probably wouldn't have enjoyed that book nearly as much if it weren't for the creatures.
I will definitely be reading both the next and the previous books in the series. I 101% WILL!!!!
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this book courtesy of NetGalley for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
Overview: Kate uses her family's campground as a chance to both make money and to keep an eye on the inhuman inhabitants of the world. Due to the success of Kate's last pamphlets, her land is turning from old to ancient rather rapidly. Her true troubles start when a terrifying horse returns to the campground. What does the silver dapple stallion want? Who is the fairy? And what is Kate going to do? Let's find out.
Dislikes: This is definitely a pet peeve of mine. I read aloud, quite a bit actually. And I don't like to use vulgarity, so running across a lot of vulgarity in a novel, can be a turn off. Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying that vulgar language is never needed. Let's just say that many in Kate's situation very well might be saying much of the same things.
While this is a dark story, it's almost too dark at times.
Likes: The Old Sheriff is rather brave. He had already lost a limb due to the campground, and he still was willing to help where he could.
Tyler had a hard choice to make. He was a new father, and yet, he still felt like he held responsibilities to the campground, especially due to the killer horse.
The Dancers and Musicians at least followed through with repaying their debts.
Conclusion: This was an interesting story, however the series is too dark for my tastes. If you are a fan of black comedy, then this book is for you. Enjoy the read.
Overview: Kate uses her family's campground as a chance to both make money and to keep an eye on the inhuman inhabitants of the world. Due to the success of Kate's last pamphlets, her land is turning from old to ancient rather rapidly. Her true troubles start when a terrifying horse returns to the campground. What does the silver dapple stallion want? Who is the fairy? And what is Kate going to do? Let's find out.
Dislikes: This is definitely a pet peeve of mine. I read aloud, quite a bit actually. And I don't like to use vulgarity, so running across a lot of vulgarity in a novel, can be a turn off. Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying that vulgar language is never needed. Let's just say that many in Kate's situation very well might be saying much of the same things.
While this is a dark story, it's almost too dark at times.
Likes: The Old Sheriff is rather brave. He had already lost a limb due to the campground, and he still was willing to help where he could.
Tyler had a hard choice to make. He was a new father, and yet, he still felt like he held responsibilities to the campground, especially due to the killer horse.
The Dancers and Musicians at least followed through with repaying their debts.
Conclusion: This was an interesting story, however the series is too dark for my tastes. If you are a fan of black comedy, then this book is for you. Enjoy the read.
December 21, 2022
This series was a lot of fun. A campground manager tells you about her life on "old land", blog-style. From the routine camping rules and tasks, like planning enough space for tents and ropes, to more site specific rules, like fairy rings and things that get into your tent at night and mimic the voices of those you know. Actually read all of these on reddit's r/nosleep, after a recommendation from a friend. Only then noticed they're also available in a sort of ebook format. It's very much a "entity of the week" formula, with an overarching plot that gets more relevant as time goes on. Expect lots of different types of folklore, folkloric fiction, and popculture references. There is a lot of violence.
August 6, 2021
This series is a blessing and this book in particular was an incredibly wild ride from start to finish. I cannot recommend this series enough. READ THIS SERIES!! Seriously! You will enjoy it and be left wishing for more!!
August 29, 2021
Literally iconic I have no words because my brain feels like soup right now but this instalment was so engaging and heart wrenching that I fell in love with every aspect and character.
April 12, 2022
GOD. HIS NAME IS BEAU.
Bryan. The dogs. The thing in the dark. This is gonna live in my mind forever
Bryan. The dogs. The thing in the dark. This is gonna live in my mind forever
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
BONNIE QUINN HOW COULD YOU!?!?!
How to Survive Camping: The Ancient Things by Bonnie Quinn is just another reminder that this series is operating on a completely different level of creativity. This story picks up with a quick refresher (of sorts, but you absolutely should read the rest of the series first). However, from here we introduce the idea of our "Big Bad" of the novel. A cannibalistic horse that is more terrifying than the worst nightmare that you can think of. Every time I think the story has reached its peak, when the worst possible thing has already happened, Quinn unleashes something even more horrifying. From vindictive faeries to cannibal horses to ancient entities and creeping curses, the world just keeps expanding in ways that feel both chaotic and incredibly intentional. It folds in on itself again and again, layering myth, terror, and campfire storytelling into this spinning, intricate narrative that’s honestly kind of mind‑blowing. Its levels of humor ease some of this tension, and it could be called a cozy horror novel, but with the stakes growing ever more intense, I am not sure how cozy the next installment will be.
What makes it even better is how effortlessly Quinn makes all of this feel cohesive. It never feels like too much; instead, it feels like you’re peeling back layers of something ancient and dangerous that was always waiting to be uncovered. This campground is danger incarnate, but it is also a viable tourist location. Something that terrifies the locals, but campers flock to the grounds to keep the economy booming (and for the four-wheelers to keep being purchased). The stakes keep climbing, the lore keeps deepening, and I am just completely locked in every step of the way. This series has genuinely become one of my favorites, full stop, and The Ancient Things proves exactly why. I cannot wait to keep reading, to keep unraveling, and honestly, to keep being terrified by whatever Bonnie Quinn decides to throw at us next. Also, the ending of this novel was one of the most devastating things I've ever read. I was so upset. Do not miss this series, it is genuinely one of the best ones out there!
How to Survive Camping: The Ancient Things by Bonnie Quinn is just another reminder that this series is operating on a completely different level of creativity. This story picks up with a quick refresher (of sorts, but you absolutely should read the rest of the series first). However, from here we introduce the idea of our "Big Bad" of the novel. A cannibalistic horse that is more terrifying than the worst nightmare that you can think of. Every time I think the story has reached its peak, when the worst possible thing has already happened, Quinn unleashes something even more horrifying. From vindictive faeries to cannibal horses to ancient entities and creeping curses, the world just keeps expanding in ways that feel both chaotic and incredibly intentional. It folds in on itself again and again, layering myth, terror, and campfire storytelling into this spinning, intricate narrative that’s honestly kind of mind‑blowing. Its levels of humor ease some of this tension, and it could be called a cozy horror novel, but with the stakes growing ever more intense, I am not sure how cozy the next installment will be.
What makes it even better is how effortlessly Quinn makes all of this feel cohesive. It never feels like too much; instead, it feels like you’re peeling back layers of something ancient and dangerous that was always waiting to be uncovered. This campground is danger incarnate, but it is also a viable tourist location. Something that terrifies the locals, but campers flock to the grounds to keep the economy booming (and for the four-wheelers to keep being purchased). The stakes keep climbing, the lore keeps deepening, and I am just completely locked in every step of the way. This series has genuinely become one of my favorites, full stop, and The Ancient Things proves exactly why. I cannot wait to keep reading, to keep unraveling, and honestly, to keep being terrified by whatever Bonnie Quinn decides to throw at us next. Also, the ending of this novel was one of the most devastating things I've ever read. I was so upset. Do not miss this series, it is genuinely one of the best ones out there!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and S&S/ Saga Press for the ARC!
I love this series so much. This entry was just as good as the last two. I finished it in one day because I had to know what was happening. This has been my experience with the previous two and I know I will be the same with the next book.
Kate, our morally gray heroine, is facing a whole host of new issues. Campers who can’t understand the rules she has given them on top of a bunch of new monster problems. Then there is Beau and his mysterious help. And her own death which she feels coming closer. Still, she brushes off her stabby things and her guns to chase down an ancient being, a murder horse (her name) and some Gummy Bears (I can’t really explain this easily, you have to read the book).
One thing I really liked about this book was we got more of her brother, Tyler. I like seeing them grow closer since their relationship has been complicated since childhood. I also appreciate Kate’s creative (and sometimes humorous) names for the inhuman creatures that live on her campground. I also think Kate has really grown over the course of the series. She starts off making questionable choices and viewing the occupants of her land as problems. As she learns more about the things that are drawn to her land, she gains a better understanding of them. She might not always like them or what they do, but she’s learning to treat them with respect.
I can barely handle waiting for the 4th book in this series. So good. I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes horror/ urban fantasy books with heart and the occasional laugh.
I love this series so much. This entry was just as good as the last two. I finished it in one day because I had to know what was happening. This has been my experience with the previous two and I know I will be the same with the next book.
Kate, our morally gray heroine, is facing a whole host of new issues. Campers who can’t understand the rules she has given them on top of a bunch of new monster problems. Then there is Beau and his mysterious help. And her own death which she feels coming closer. Still, she brushes off her stabby things and her guns to chase down an ancient being, a murder horse (her name) and some Gummy Bears (I can’t really explain this easily, you have to read the book).
One thing I really liked about this book was we got more of her brother, Tyler. I like seeing them grow closer since their relationship has been complicated since childhood. I also appreciate Kate’s creative (and sometimes humorous) names for the inhuman creatures that live on her campground. I also think Kate has really grown over the course of the series. She starts off making questionable choices and viewing the occupants of her land as problems. As she learns more about the things that are drawn to her land, she gains a better understanding of them. She might not always like them or what they do, but she’s learning to treat them with respect.
I can barely handle waiting for the 4th book in this series. So good. I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes horror/ urban fantasy books with heart and the occasional laugh.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you for the Netgalley ARC Saga Press!
In the third book of this series, Kate, a seasoned manager of some very haunted campgrounds, finds herself in a face-off against an ancient evil being vying to take over her family's lands. We follow Kate tackle her latest foe in this high-stakes horror while also coming to terms with her role as a campground manager and what it means to be human when you're always surrounded by inhuman beings.
I cannot believe that I have been sleeping on this witty horror series this whole time! While I was expecting to be extremely spooked by the story (which I was), I was also blown away by the seriousness and depth of the personal dilemmas Kate faced and learned to come to terms with. The book was full of dark humor, with the timing of the dialogues and Kate's internal monologue being impeccable - making it really hard to put down.
Perfect for fans of urban legends and horror stories, The Ancient Things definitely serves a lot of spookiness with tons of monsters and ancient lore mixed into the storytelling. Quinn manages to set an ominous atmosphere that kept ramping up as the story led from one event to another, all while managing to ensure that the pacing of the events felt natural!
Reading the story with Kate as a protagonist, given all her flaws and characteristics, was a fun ride! I could feel her apprehensions and fears as she goes against a whole set of inhuman beings on her campgrounds while also continuing to deal with the very troublesome humans and managing her familial relationships.
In the third book of this series, Kate, a seasoned manager of some very haunted campgrounds, finds herself in a face-off against an ancient evil being vying to take over her family's lands. We follow Kate tackle her latest foe in this high-stakes horror while also coming to terms with her role as a campground manager and what it means to be human when you're always surrounded by inhuman beings.
I cannot believe that I have been sleeping on this witty horror series this whole time! While I was expecting to be extremely spooked by the story (which I was), I was also blown away by the seriousness and depth of the personal dilemmas Kate faced and learned to come to terms with. The book was full of dark humor, with the timing of the dialogues and Kate's internal monologue being impeccable - making it really hard to put down.
Perfect for fans of urban legends and horror stories, The Ancient Things definitely serves a lot of spookiness with tons of monsters and ancient lore mixed into the storytelling. Quinn manages to set an ominous atmosphere that kept ramping up as the story led from one event to another, all while managing to ensure that the pacing of the events felt natural!
Reading the story with Kate as a protagonist, given all her flaws and characteristics, was a fun ride! I could feel her apprehensions and fears as she goes against a whole set of inhuman beings on her campgrounds while also continuing to deal with the very troublesome humans and managing her familial relationships.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
I received this early copy through a Goodreads giveaway.
I found the How to Survive Camping series completely by accident - what happens when you let me loose in a bookstore with time and money. I found the concept intriguing for a horror series, and they have been the right kind of humorous horror to read when you're not really wanting to scare yourself but want something a little eerie.
I thoroughly enjoyed the third installment The Ancient Things. It continued the romp in the campground with Kate and the inhuman residents. New rules, new characters, learn new things about other characters...the book continues its journey to the land turning ancient and Kate having to figure out what that means and how to survive it.
The only thing I had any real trouble with in the book was I felt the pacing was a lot quicker. Normally I don't mind quicker paced books but in this instance, it almost pushed the story toward losing its cohesivness that is important to holding all the parts together. Especially since there are distinct inhuman groups.
I also admit that I did not care for the storyline about the horse. I'm not sure if I didn't find the premise of a large, demonic horse with cannibalistic characteristics believable enough to suspend my belief while reading those parts. Or if those parts weren't as fleshed out as they could have been within the scope of the novel.
Overall, it was an enjoyable and quick read. A good continuation of the series and leaving you ready for the next book in the series.
I found the How to Survive Camping series completely by accident - what happens when you let me loose in a bookstore with time and money. I found the concept intriguing for a horror series, and they have been the right kind of humorous horror to read when you're not really wanting to scare yourself but want something a little eerie.
I thoroughly enjoyed the third installment The Ancient Things. It continued the romp in the campground with Kate and the inhuman residents. New rules, new characters, learn new things about other characters...the book continues its journey to the land turning ancient and Kate having to figure out what that means and how to survive it.
The only thing I had any real trouble with in the book was I felt the pacing was a lot quicker. Normally I don't mind quicker paced books but in this instance, it almost pushed the story toward losing its cohesivness that is important to holding all the parts together. Especially since there are distinct inhuman groups.
I also admit that I did not care for the storyline about the horse. I'm not sure if I didn't find the premise of a large, demonic horse with cannibalistic characteristics believable enough to suspend my belief while reading those parts. Or if those parts weren't as fleshed out as they could have been within the scope of the novel.
Overall, it was an enjoyable and quick read. A good continuation of the series and leaving you ready for the next book in the series.
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August 29, 2026I love these books. I found them because I've enjoyed other books from the r/NoSleep community. I’m not a big Reddit user, but this type of book scratches something in my brain, and I find it so enjoyable.
In the third installment of How to Survive Camping, Kate is back as Campground Manager. Her family is tied to the land by a legacy that goes back for years. Each installment gives the reader a glimpse of what it means to oversee old land while trying to run it as a campground business. Oh, and the land is filled with monsters. This one can be read as a standalone but I preferred the experience of reading them in order. I don’t want to miss anything!
This book felt like the darkest to date. Kate is struggling with the losses in her life and thinking about her own morality. She is smart and resourceful but sometimes overwhelmed with her obligations- keeping campers out of trouble, looking after the land, and keeping her family safe.
I love Kate’s dead pan humor. She's kind of a jerk but that makes me like her more. Some of the more poignant moments come from her time spent with unnatural creatures (when they’re not trying to kill her). I enjoyed meeting new monsters and being reacquainted with those from previous books.
Highly recommend for readers that enjoy horror fantasy with excellent pacing, interesting characters, folk lore, and paranormal creatures.
Thank you to NetGalley and Saga Press for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Welcome back to Goat Valley! We again follow our chaotic campground manager Kate on another adventure to try to save her land from impending dark, inhuman beings, except this time, the land is upping the ante and trying to turn ancient. She must go nonstop to save her land, make bargain after bargain and attempt to thwart her own death over and over to protect the land she loves(?) Love is really a debatable emotion in this series lol Maybe deeply cares about is more appropriate!
I absolutely LOVE this series! I never tire of the campground shenanigans Bonnie Quinn regales us with. It's never a dull moment and even when it's spooky, the half-cocked schemes, the sarcasm, and the reluctant heroics make this book (series) a must read, unable to put down good time!
I was NOT prepared for having my heart ripped right out of my body andshredded to pieces. BONNIE WHYYYY!??
Anyway, I can't wait for the next camping trip extravaganza. Until then, people, please read and follow the damn rules lolol
Thank you to Saga Press for the E-ARC of How to Survive Camping The Ancient Things (the title has changed like 3 times so I apologize if this is not correct) via NetGalley. All opinions are mine.
Releases September 8th 🏕
I absolutely LOVE this series! I never tire of the campground shenanigans Bonnie Quinn regales us with. It's never a dull moment and even when it's spooky, the half-cocked schemes, the sarcasm, and the reluctant heroics make this book (series) a must read, unable to put down good time!
I was NOT prepared for having my heart ripped right out of my body andshredded to pieces. BONNIE WHYYYY!??
Anyway, I can't wait for the next camping trip extravaganza. Until then, people, please read and follow the damn rules lolol
Thank you to Saga Press for the E-ARC of How to Survive Camping The Ancient Things (the title has changed like 3 times so I apologize if this is not correct) via NetGalley. All opinions are mine.
Releases September 8th 🏕
May 26, 2026
Kate is back in another installment about the ancient campground in the third book of How to Survive Camping. This time the stakes are much more personal. Kate finds herself in the middle of an ancient battle and must find a way to protect the things she loves. Has her past come back to haunt her? And will she make the correct choices for her, her campers, and her family?
Another excellent addition to the series. I believe this book is actually better than the first two, the author is really honing her craft. We get to delve deeper into Kate’s emotions and past. Our beloved campground manager continues to let more people she cares about into her life, as she inhabits new roles such as being an aunt. This book allows Kate a vulnerable side that she has shunned before, which is very interesting and refreshing. It’s always good to see growth in characters, especially when we get to feel like we can be proud of them.
I was provided with an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Another excellent addition to the series. I believe this book is actually better than the first two, the author is really honing her craft. We get to delve deeper into Kate’s emotions and past. Our beloved campground manager continues to let more people she cares about into her life, as she inhabits new roles such as being an aunt. This book allows Kate a vulnerable side that she has shunned before, which is very interesting and refreshing. It’s always good to see growth in characters, especially when we get to feel like we can be proud of them.
I was provided with an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2026
Camp manager Kate is back with her host of evil otherworldly creatures and campers. This is the third book in the series where Kate runs a campground that has been in her family for generations, contingent on an agreement with the townspeople to contain the evil creatures within the campgrounds borders.
Now that the land has turned “ancient” everything Kate has known is now changing. With each book we learn a little bit more about the creatures, this book featured a ancient evil being who Kate makes a bargain with to get his flesh eating monster horse back to him in exchange for retrieving a beast back to the campground what ensues is an all out war over which evil creature will rule over the campground. The gummy bears (not as cute as you might think 😧) a fairy that rides a deer, dogs that are reincarnated. Overall this was an excellent addition to the series i enjoyed seeing more of her brother Tyler and their relationship and look forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley and Saga Press for the advanced reader copy.
Now that the land has turned “ancient” everything Kate has known is now changing. With each book we learn a little bit more about the creatures, this book featured a ancient evil being who Kate makes a bargain with to get his flesh eating monster horse back to him in exchange for retrieving a beast back to the campground what ensues is an all out war over which evil creature will rule over the campground. The gummy bears (not as cute as you might think 😧) a fairy that rides a deer, dogs that are reincarnated. Overall this was an excellent addition to the series i enjoyed seeing more of her brother Tyler and their relationship and look forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to Netgalley and Saga Press for the advanced reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
How to Survive Camping: The Ancient Things by Bonnie Quinn is the third installment in this series that follows Kate, a campground owner and manager who has some very peculiar visitors. I think these can probably be read as standalones but you get the best experience by reading them in order.
I really enjoy this series. I know it’s going to be a fun and frightening time. I really liked how much of Kate’s brother and his family we got in this one. They have an interesting sibling dynamic that I really liked exploring!
I love all the creatures! There is always usually one “big bad” in every book but then a lot of other ones that make appearances. The gummy bears were horrifyingly adorable!
Also, I may have read too many monster romances and just reading more into it, but is there some tension between Kate and one of the monsters? I’m loving all the moments between them. There is one scene with a coffin that was great!
Anyway, read this series if you like things like “Welcome to Nightvale,” other r/nosleep stories, liminal space, or cryptids.
I really enjoy this series. I know it’s going to be a fun and frightening time. I really liked how much of Kate’s brother and his family we got in this one. They have an interesting sibling dynamic that I really liked exploring!
I love all the creatures! There is always usually one “big bad” in every book but then a lot of other ones that make appearances. The gummy bears were horrifyingly adorable!
Also, I may have read too many monster romances and just reading more into it, but is there some tension between Kate and one of the monsters? I’m loving all the moments between them. There is one scene with a coffin that was great!
Anyway, read this series if you like things like “Welcome to Nightvale,” other r/nosleep stories, liminal space, or cryptids.
April 24, 2026
This is such a great series. You get inhuman creatures, action, suspense, and some humor thrown in which ties everything together.
Kate runs a campground which has been in her family for generations. It's not your typical campground though. It's filled with viscous creatures and campers have to read the guidelines very carefully before camping there. But still, not everyone listens.
Each book has brought certain creatures to the forefront and, in this book, it's the most powerful formidable one yet. An ancient ascended monstrosity who rides a flesh eating horse and it's out for blood.
We also have The Children, Harvesters, Beu, The Weeping Girl, and Gummy Bears (wait until you read about these nasty things). As always, alliances between humans and these creatures are tenuous at best and this is going to put Kate, her brother, and staff into some very tense and terrifying situations.
This book is fun, scary, and filled with monsterous action. I highly recommend it.
Kate runs a campground which has been in her family for generations. It's not your typical campground though. It's filled with viscous creatures and campers have to read the guidelines very carefully before camping there. But still, not everyone listens.
Each book has brought certain creatures to the forefront and, in this book, it's the most powerful formidable one yet. An ancient ascended monstrosity who rides a flesh eating horse and it's out for blood.
We also have The Children, Harvesters, Beu, The Weeping Girl, and Gummy Bears (wait until you read about these nasty things). As always, alliances between humans and these creatures are tenuous at best and this is going to put Kate, her brother, and staff into some very tense and terrifying situations.
This book is fun, scary, and filled with monsterous action. I highly recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Bonnie Quinn’s ability to maintain quality over every entry in this series is a feat. It’s hard for me to compare books 1-3 because I find them all so incredible and cohesive, each one getting us closer and closer to what I can only imagine (especially after this book) will be an emotional and gratifying conclusion to a series I will SORELY miss once it’s done. This book held higher emotional impact than the previous two entires without compromising the horror, gore, or Kate’s comedic relief. We got to feature some formerly background characters more (Bryan 🖤 ) while introducing new immortals and ancients. But don’t worry - our favorite sulky immortal still makes his presence known throughout 💀 all in all, I was reading this as fast as possible while also being so sad to see there was less and less left. Spring 2027 feels very far away… and also, too close.
Thank you to Net Galley and Saga for the ARC, I’m exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Net Galley and Saga for the ARC, I’m exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2026
When I say I dislike an ongoing series, I'm never talking about Bonnie Quinn's How to Survive Camping series. Learning that this came from Reddit and got picked up is one of the best things. Each installation keeps growing and I can't wait to see what new inhumans will be there or what will happen to the remaining humans.
Now the land has turned ancient and the rules Kate has grown up with and knows like the back of her hands are bending and changing. It's so interesting to see how time passing changes or the land being more known changes the land.
The last entry in the series was really grief heavy. While it's a cozy horror book, this one was easier in a way. It almost felt more healing. While yes, spooky and violent. Also cathartic.
Overall I can't wait to see what happens to the series next.
Thank you to Saga and Netgalley for the ARC!
Now the land has turned ancient and the rules Kate has grown up with and knows like the back of her hands are bending and changing. It's so interesting to see how time passing changes or the land being more known changes the land.
The last entry in the series was really grief heavy. While it's a cozy horror book, this one was easier in a way. It almost felt more healing. While yes, spooky and violent. Also cathartic.
Overall I can't wait to see what happens to the series next.
Thank you to Saga and Netgalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This has been my favorite book of the series so far, every single one has just been getting better for me! It definitely seemed to read a bit faster than the others as well - potentially because of me being so much more invested in the characters and story at this point. I ended up reading this right after book 1 (I'd accidentally started with book 2 and wanted to get the back story), which ended up working out really well. The Ancient Things is set in the fall/winter time period, so there was a lot of overlap with book 1 in terms of the monsters which show up, with us getting some repeat visitors.
We definitely got into the backstory with some of our side characters a bit more though, although my heart was breaking for some of them. There are some I really hope to see back in the next book.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book!
We definitely got into the backstory with some of our side characters a bit more though, although my heart was breaking for some of them. There are some I really hope to see back in the next book.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved this book just as much as the first two. I cannot wait for the next installment. So far this series has made the most lasting impression of the year.
With the land evolving things are getting more dangerous at the Goat Valley camp ground. Kate has a lot of work ahead of her is she wants to survive camping season in one piece.
New and powerful beings have arrived at the campsite, upsetting the balance Kate has beaten into place. Kate has to use every resource available to her, including the monsters to defeat this new threat to the campground.
I really enjoyed seeing Kate struggle with the urge to exterminate every problem, and learning how to use other means to accomplish her goals.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
With the land evolving things are getting more dangerous at the Goat Valley camp ground. Kate has a lot of work ahead of her is she wants to survive camping season in one piece.
New and powerful beings have arrived at the campsite, upsetting the balance Kate has beaten into place. Kate has to use every resource available to her, including the monsters to defeat this new threat to the campground.
I really enjoyed seeing Kate struggle with the urge to exterminate every problem, and learning how to use other means to accomplish her goals.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
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