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Smashed Pumpkins: A Flash Frights Novella
By sundown, the crew will learn the hard in this patch, the pumpkins do the picking.
Valerie is done living the life her mom mapped out. Shaun’s football dreams ended with one bad tackle, and now he’s spiraling without a future. Both need a fresh start, and a day of farmhand work at Farmer Fred’s “Fantastic” Farm, home of Blandville’s Pumpkin Spice Festival, seems harmless enough.
Neither expects to come face-to-face with an old crush while they’re knee-deep in pumpkins and petty chores—let alone feel those sparks reignite. But just as Val and Shaun begin to find comfort, and maybe something more, in each other, Fred’s chemically enhanced fertilizer unleashes a nightmare. The pumpkins carve, the vines want blood, and the volunteers are first on the menu.
Now Val and Shaun must fight their way through one blood-soaked farm if they want to survive the night. Because in Blandville, KY…love might be the only thing strong enough to survive the smash.
Valerie is done living the life her mom mapped out. Shaun’s football dreams ended with one bad tackle, and now he’s spiraling without a future. Both need a fresh start, and a day of farmhand work at Farmer Fred’s “Fantastic” Farm, home of Blandville’s Pumpkin Spice Festival, seems harmless enough.
Neither expects to come face-to-face with an old crush while they’re knee-deep in pumpkins and petty chores—let alone feel those sparks reignite. But just as Val and Shaun begin to find comfort, and maybe something more, in each other, Fred’s chemically enhanced fertilizer unleashes a nightmare. The pumpkins carve, the vines want blood, and the volunteers are first on the menu.
Now Val and Shaun must fight their way through one blood-soaked farm if they want to survive the night. Because in Blandville, KY…love might be the only thing strong enough to survive the smash.
172 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 2, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
May 16, 2026
Thank you to the author for providing the of ARC of this book ! All thoughts are my own !
Be still my 90s heart ! I was beyond impressed with this book and the action packed in it ! It definitely gave me that goosebumps vibe as though this was an homage for the kids that grew up reading goosebumps and who are now somehow the adults ! there was very very minimal spice which I’d rate as 1 pepper 🌶️ as there was little detail on that scene. I absolutely loved the characters ! And my jaw actually dropped for them when things started getting REALLY dicey - I’m giving this a 5 because the story/plot was captivating- the characters made me love them - the action was insane ! and this book sang to the 90s kid in me!
Be still my 90s heart ! I was beyond impressed with this book and the action packed in it ! It definitely gave me that goosebumps vibe as though this was an homage for the kids that grew up reading goosebumps and who are now somehow the adults ! there was very very minimal spice which I’d rate as 1 pepper 🌶️ as there was little detail on that scene. I absolutely loved the characters ! And my jaw actually dropped for them when things started getting REALLY dicey - I’m giving this a 5 because the story/plot was captivating- the characters made me love them - the action was insane ! and this book sang to the 90s kid in me!
April 19, 2026
Thank you for this ARC from the Author in exchange for my honest option.
Where are all my 90s kids?! This is the books child of goosebumps and attack of the killer tomatoes, except replace the tomatoes with pumpkins! This story was so captivating and kept me turning pages to see how these characters would survive the terrors in this book. The witty banter that Lindsey provides is always top tier and makes me cackle out loud. This will take you on a roller coaster of emotion and soul searching all the way to the end.
If you like horror romance, second chances, the perfect amount romance and gore then this book is for you.
Where are all my 90s kids?! This is the books child of goosebumps and attack of the killer tomatoes, except replace the tomatoes with pumpkins! This story was so captivating and kept me turning pages to see how these characters would survive the terrors in this book. The witty banter that Lindsey provides is always top tier and makes me cackle out loud. This will take you on a roller coaster of emotion and soul searching all the way to the end.
If you like horror romance, second chances, the perfect amount romance and gore then this book is for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
THIS IS A DARK SLASHER HORROR WITH A LITTLE BIT OF ROMCOM THROWN IN, READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS
This was my introduction to Lindsey's writing and I think it was the best way. This book is a mix of teen slasher horror movie and small town romcom.
Val is a small town girl who had big dreams, well her mom had big dreams and she spent her high-school years thinking she needed to live up to what everyone else thought she was and thought she wanted. Dropping out of college and returning home to work at Farmer Fred's Fantastic Farm while she figures out what to do next was the plan. Dealing with killer Pumpkin Monsters was not.
Val is easy to connect with, she's going through that phase in her life where she is trying to discover who she is without everyone else's input.
Then there's Shaun, the high-school jock who broke Val's heart, had his football career ruined by an injury and who's parents are complete assholes because football is more important than their son apparently. Dragged to the farm by his best friend to try and get him out of the funk he's in.
Shaun is still processing his life now he doesn't have football to guide him and I think this creates an unspoken bond between him and Val that draws them closer together.
There is a romance there that was ruined before it really started and Val is still mad about it but that only fuels their relationship going forward more. There is a lot of kissing, a little bit of heavy petting and a spicy moment between the two of them before all hell breaks lose.
I love a good horror read, especially if there's a bit of a comedy vibe to it, think Evil Dead, Zombieland, Shaun of The Dead style vibes but with produce.
5 star read for sure, loved it, would highly recommend and I am now going to read Lindsey's other book and any future books she has coming.
This was my introduction to Lindsey's writing and I think it was the best way. This book is a mix of teen slasher horror movie and small town romcom.
Val is a small town girl who had big dreams, well her mom had big dreams and she spent her high-school years thinking she needed to live up to what everyone else thought she was and thought she wanted. Dropping out of college and returning home to work at Farmer Fred's Fantastic Farm while she figures out what to do next was the plan. Dealing with killer Pumpkin Monsters was not.
Val is easy to connect with, she's going through that phase in her life where she is trying to discover who she is without everyone else's input.
Then there's Shaun, the high-school jock who broke Val's heart, had his football career ruined by an injury and who's parents are complete assholes because football is more important than their son apparently. Dragged to the farm by his best friend to try and get him out of the funk he's in.
Shaun is still processing his life now he doesn't have football to guide him and I think this creates an unspoken bond between him and Val that draws them closer together.
There is a romance there that was ruined before it really started and Val is still mad about it but that only fuels their relationship going forward more. There is a lot of kissing, a little bit of heavy petting and a spicy moment between the two of them before all hell breaks lose.
I love a good horror read, especially if there's a bit of a comedy vibe to it, think Evil Dead, Zombieland, Shaun of The Dead style vibes but with produce.
5 star read for sure, loved it, would highly recommend and I am now going to read Lindsey's other book and any future books she has coming.
May 26, 2026
I’ve read this novella 3 times already. To say I love it is an understatement.
I’m obsessed!
This book smashed its way into my top reads of this year.
Think slasher film with pumpkins (yes! You read that right. The pumpkins ☠️people), add in comedy, and a second chance at romance.
It has everything I could ever want in a book. I laughed so hard I cried at the dark humor. I cringed at the gore. And I sent Lindsey frustrated comments like “HOW COULD YOU!?!?!? 😡🤬”
I love the nostalgic vibes that this brought; I was transported back to when I was younger and reading Goosebumps.
I loved the world that’s created along with the characters (even the bad ones). They’re all so well written. A lot of thought and care went into writing this book. And it shows; it's a phenomenal read.
I struggled after my first read through because I couldn’t talk to anyone about it (ohhh, the struggles of alpha reading).
All I could stay was it’s FREAKING AWESOME!!!
Even now I want to give more details but I’m going to keep this vague. 🤐You’ll thank me later.
But I really need everyone to read this book so we can talk about it.
If you’re feeling brave and ready to laugh your way through a horror story, pick this book up.
Just be careful, trust nothing, and watch out for the pumpkins.
I’m obsessed!
This book smashed its way into my top reads of this year.
Think slasher film with pumpkins (yes! You read that right. The pumpkins ☠️people), add in comedy, and a second chance at romance.
It has everything I could ever want in a book. I laughed so hard I cried at the dark humor. I cringed at the gore. And I sent Lindsey frustrated comments like “HOW COULD YOU!?!?!? 😡🤬”
I love the nostalgic vibes that this brought; I was transported back to when I was younger and reading Goosebumps.
I loved the world that’s created along with the characters (even the bad ones). They’re all so well written. A lot of thought and care went into writing this book. And it shows; it's a phenomenal read.
I struggled after my first read through because I couldn’t talk to anyone about it (ohhh, the struggles of alpha reading).
All I could stay was it’s FREAKING AWESOME!!!
Even now I want to give more details but I’m going to keep this vague. 🤐You’ll thank me later.
But I really need everyone to read this book so we can talk about it.
If you’re feeling brave and ready to laugh your way through a horror story, pick this book up.
Just be careful, trust nothing, and watch out for the pumpkins.
April 21, 2026
Smashed Pumpkins by Lindsey Montgomery • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read: 4/20 2026
🌸 Review 🌸
Thank you so much Lindsey Montgomery for this ARC!!
This book truly does give 90s Goosebumps vibes. Lindsey Montgomery is a master at descriptive imagery. Every scene played out perfectly in my mind. On that note, some of those scenes very much freaked me out, but good job! This was gruesome, yet brilliant.
All of the characters had distinct voices with interesting personalities. They also felt very relatable in feeling lost and not knowing what you want to do with your life and what your next chapter is going to be. I, for one, can relate heavily in that aspect.
Character wise, if I was one of them, I fear I would be Cole purely because of my allergies to everything.
Little out of context note that I made while reading: Ch. 11 - why are you following the blood trail? Don’t do that! Go back! Save yourselves! But to quote Ch. 16 Val, “your brain hates not knowing more than it hates danger.” I respect that, but also WHYYYY?!
Releases June 2, 2026
Q: Realistically, do you think you would survive a horror movie/book?
Read: 4/20 2026
🌸 Review 🌸
Thank you so much Lindsey Montgomery for this ARC!!
This book truly does give 90s Goosebumps vibes. Lindsey Montgomery is a master at descriptive imagery. Every scene played out perfectly in my mind. On that note, some of those scenes very much freaked me out, but good job! This was gruesome, yet brilliant.
All of the characters had distinct voices with interesting personalities. They also felt very relatable in feeling lost and not knowing what you want to do with your life and what your next chapter is going to be. I, for one, can relate heavily in that aspect.
Character wise, if I was one of them, I fear I would be Cole purely because of my allergies to everything.
Little out of context note that I made while reading: Ch. 11 - why are you following the blood trail? Don’t do that! Go back! Save yourselves! But to quote Ch. 16 Val, “your brain hates not knowing more than it hates danger.” I respect that, but also WHYYYY?!
Releases June 2, 2026
Q: Realistically, do you think you would survive a horror movie/book?
May 8, 2026
[4.5] rounded up.
Thank you to the author for my ARC!
Such a fun read! Fast paced and unexpectedly funny.
This book was definitely eerie. At one point I was reading this in silence and my dog barked and I screamed. If you grew up on goosebumps this is the same vibe and right up your alley.
I’d definitely recommend for spooky season or even a late Summerween read. And I will be thinking twice before carving another pumpkin.
Lindsey is a wordsmith. The amount of times she described something ominous but made it beautiful is insane.
“A chorus of burning things that never had mouths but somehow found voices anyway”
“The corn starts whispering. Leaves scrape together, low and secretive, like they’re trading jokes at my expense.”
The characters had a good amount of depth to them for a shorter story. I was rooting for Shaun the whole time. Hoping he’d live up to the redeemed baby boy title.
Absolutely heartbroken about Drew he was such a sweet soul. Except when it comes to pumpkins.
Thank you to the author for my ARC!
Such a fun read! Fast paced and unexpectedly funny.
This book was definitely eerie. At one point I was reading this in silence and my dog barked and I screamed. If you grew up on goosebumps this is the same vibe and right up your alley.
I’d definitely recommend for spooky season or even a late Summerween read. And I will be thinking twice before carving another pumpkin.
Lindsey is a wordsmith. The amount of times she described something ominous but made it beautiful is insane.
“A chorus of burning things that never had mouths but somehow found voices anyway”
“The corn starts whispering. Leaves scrape together, low and secretive, like they’re trading jokes at my expense.”
The characters had a good amount of depth to them for a shorter story. I was rooting for Shaun the whole time. Hoping he’d live up to the redeemed baby boy title.
Absolutely heartbroken about Drew he was such a sweet soul. Except when it comes to pumpkins.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author and the publisher or publishers for all your hard work! I'm leaving this review voluntarily and happily! Take a look!
This was a blast. I really enjoyed this from start to finish. The cover art is really fun too. You really connect with the main characters rather quickly as they are likable and relatable. The story flows really well and I had no problems enjoying the gore and the deaths that happened. Once the action starts it dont stop and thats something I really enjoy. I have a hard time with slow burn books especially long books. You dont have to worry about that at all here. Also if your squimish about dismembered or torture I wouldnt suggest this book to you.
There is some spice in this book not a huge amount but be warned just a little. Not appropriate at all fot young children. As you can see from above. Read at your own risk.
The creatures/monsters in this were definitely interesting and I bet fun for the writer to write. I certainly had fun reading all about it throughout the book. Im just weird like that and enjoy the gore and torment.
This was a blast. I really enjoyed this from start to finish. The cover art is really fun too. You really connect with the main characters rather quickly as they are likable and relatable. The story flows really well and I had no problems enjoying the gore and the deaths that happened. Once the action starts it dont stop and thats something I really enjoy. I have a hard time with slow burn books especially long books. You dont have to worry about that at all here. Also if your squimish about dismembered or torture I wouldnt suggest this book to you.
There is some spice in this book not a huge amount but be warned just a little. Not appropriate at all fot young children. As you can see from above. Read at your own risk.
The creatures/monsters in this were definitely interesting and I bet fun for the writer to write. I certainly had fun reading all about it throughout the book. Im just weird like that and enjoy the gore and torment.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🎃 Pumpkins, a dash of spice 🌶️, and everything is not so nice in this slasher meets rom-com novella!
Val & Shaun get a second chance at rekindling a romance when they unexpectedly end up as farmhands at Fred’s “Fantastic” Farm 👨🌾. However, it’s not long before monster-like, killer pumpkins roll in and try to spoil their fun!
I absolutely loved Lindsey’s use of descriptive writing to really draw you into the scenes/action and the way she created the images in my mind made me so on edge waiting to find out whether or not the characters would make it out alive was perfect!
My absolute favorite little parts were the ever so random “fun facts” that Val just spits out in the most unexpected moments 😂 “Your brain throws out random information during extreme fear to keep you from shutting down completely.”
If you dig monsters, small town horror vibes, evil pumpkins, multiple POVs, and slasher meets rom-com themes, then you definitely need to check this one out when it releases 6.2.26!
Val & Shaun get a second chance at rekindling a romance when they unexpectedly end up as farmhands at Fred’s “Fantastic” Farm 👨🌾. However, it’s not long before monster-like, killer pumpkins roll in and try to spoil their fun!
I absolutely loved Lindsey’s use of descriptive writing to really draw you into the scenes/action and the way she created the images in my mind made me so on edge waiting to find out whether or not the characters would make it out alive was perfect!
My absolute favorite little parts were the ever so random “fun facts” that Val just spits out in the most unexpected moments 😂 “Your brain throws out random information during extreme fear to keep you from shutting down completely.”
If you dig monsters, small town horror vibes, evil pumpkins, multiple POVs, and slasher meets rom-com themes, then you definitely need to check this one out when it releases 6.2.26!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Smashed Pumpkins
By Lindsey Montgomery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If Planet Terror and Pumpkinhead had a chaotic, gore-filled baby… this would be it.
This novella was absolutely ridiculous—in the best way. Campy as all get out, but with just enough substance beneath the surface to keep it from being pure fluff. You’ve got college kids trying to figure themselves out, a brewing romance, a jerk farmer chasing success, a loyal best friend, a caring mom, shady fertilizer distributors, and yes… even a social media influencer thrown into the mix.
The story centers on Shaun and Val, and I loved both their mutual longing and their total bad-assery. Cole is there too… but he felt more like an afterthought for me.
This was my first read from Montgomery, and it definitely won’t be my last. Between this story and her Instagram presence, I already know she’s exactly my kind of zany.
By Lindsey Montgomery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If Planet Terror and Pumpkinhead had a chaotic, gore-filled baby… this would be it.
This novella was absolutely ridiculous—in the best way. Campy as all get out, but with just enough substance beneath the surface to keep it from being pure fluff. You’ve got college kids trying to figure themselves out, a brewing romance, a jerk farmer chasing success, a loyal best friend, a caring mom, shady fertilizer distributors, and yes… even a social media influencer thrown into the mix.
The story centers on Shaun and Val, and I loved both their mutual longing and their total bad-assery. Cole is there too… but he felt more like an afterthought for me.
This was my first read from Montgomery, and it definitely won’t be my last. Between this story and her Instagram presence, I already know she’s exactly my kind of zany.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Lindsey Montgomery for the ARC of Smashed Pumpkins!
This book felt like the perfect homage to those campy 90s horror stories I grew up loving. It was fun, chaotic, creepy, and even had me laughing at times.
The story mostly follows Val and Shaun (though there are a few other POVs sprinkled in). The group is volunteering at Farmer Fred’s Fantastic Farm, helping prepare for the annual festival.
What starts as a boring seasonal job quickly turns into absolute mayhem when they find themselves fighting for survival against sentient killer pumpkins.
It’s basically Goosebumps for adults with a little spice thrown in, and that description alone sold me.
If you love cheesy horror vibes, creepy fall settings, and stories that don’t take themselves too seriously while still being entertaining, this is definitely worth checking out.
This book felt like the perfect homage to those campy 90s horror stories I grew up loving. It was fun, chaotic, creepy, and even had me laughing at times.
The story mostly follows Val and Shaun (though there are a few other POVs sprinkled in). The group is volunteering at Farmer Fred’s Fantastic Farm, helping prepare for the annual festival.
What starts as a boring seasonal job quickly turns into absolute mayhem when they find themselves fighting for survival against sentient killer pumpkins.
It’s basically Goosebumps for adults with a little spice thrown in, and that description alone sold me.
If you love cheesy horror vibes, creepy fall settings, and stories that don’t take themselves too seriously while still being entertaining, this is definitely worth checking out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this book! It’s giving goosebumps vibes mixed with a little more gore and a pinch of romance. It has a sort of nostalgic feeling to it because of the goosebumps vibes and I love that. The pacing of this story is perfect and kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end! I love all of the characters in this book, especially the two main characters. Their dynamic with each other is literally perfect. I personally appreciate when a book is written in multiple point of views so that you can get a better grasp on the characters personalities and their side of everything, so I’m really glad that Lindsey did that for this book. It adds a lot of depth to the story.
I definitely recommend Smashed Pumpkins by Lindsey Montgomery. It’s a perfect read for readers who want a horror story that is action packed with a touch of romance!
I definitely recommend Smashed Pumpkins by Lindsey Montgomery. It’s a perfect read for readers who want a horror story that is action packed with a touch of romance!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the absolute pleasure of Alpha reading and ARC reading, and let me tell you, this story is a wilder than a hay ride.
It begins with a group of misfit young adults helping out at Farmer Fred’s Farm for the annual pumpkin festival, then quickly (and gruesomely) turns into pumpkin chaos and vines galore.
The second chance romance was super cute and pumpkin spicy considering the length of the novella.
The side characters were all so unique and fun, they really left me guessing who was going to survive to the end.
Fans of zombies, goosebumps, and attack of the killer tomatoes, you will absolutely en-gourd yourself with this book. But, you might not look at Jack-o-lanterns the same way. You have been warned.
Did I mention it’s also hay-larious and full of puns?
It begins with a group of misfit young adults helping out at Farmer Fred’s Farm for the annual pumpkin festival, then quickly (and gruesomely) turns into pumpkin chaos and vines galore.
The second chance romance was super cute and pumpkin spicy considering the length of the novella.
The side characters were all so unique and fun, they really left me guessing who was going to survive to the end.
Fans of zombies, goosebumps, and attack of the killer tomatoes, you will absolutely en-gourd yourself with this book. But, you might not look at Jack-o-lanterns the same way. You have been warned.
Did I mention it’s also hay-larious and full of puns?
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay so I read this while I was being tattooed today by my best friend. This was truly the best way to distract myself from my getting thigh absolutely BLASTED.
This novella was fun, campy, silly, bloody and the deaths?? GRUESOME. I LOVED IT.
I’m normally not a fan of multi-POV but it worked so well for this and I’m so glad we got more than just the 2 MC’s POV’s! Made me feel bad for the other characters once they…yanno…but that’s why I love books like these! You introduce me to a character, make me like them even the teeniest bit, then bam, MURDER THEM. And the grief this causes the MC’s is just.. 🤌🏼
The fight scenes were also incredible! Truly, I don’t know if I would have survived if I was a character in this book. I like to think I could take on sentient pumpkins, but realistically I’d probably be gone within the first few chapters.
Oh and it was NASTY. The descriptions for the blood, cuts, scrapes, pumpkin innards…absolutely GNARLY. Again, LOVE IT.
This novella was fun, campy, silly, bloody and the deaths?? GRUESOME. I LOVED IT.
I’m normally not a fan of multi-POV but it worked so well for this and I’m so glad we got more than just the 2 MC’s POV’s! Made me feel bad for the other characters once they…yanno…but that’s why I love books like these! You introduce me to a character, make me like them even the teeniest bit, then bam, MURDER THEM. And the grief this causes the MC’s is just.. 🤌🏼
The fight scenes were also incredible! Truly, I don’t know if I would have survived if I was a character in this book. I like to think I could take on sentient pumpkins, but realistically I’d probably be gone within the first few chapters.
Oh and it was NASTY. The descriptions for the blood, cuts, scrapes, pumpkin innards…absolutely GNARLY. Again, LOVE IT.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This short novella really took me by surprise. I wasn't expecting the mix between a slasher teen movie and a cute romcom.
We first meet Val, who dropped out of college, and she will not go back until she can figure out who she really is. She spent all of high school trying to be the best student for her mom, but now she has bigger dreams. She starts working in Farmer Fred's Fantastic Farm, not expecting to find Shaun (her high school crush).
Shaun is such a nice guy; his life didn't turn out the way he wanted, and running into Val just gives him the motivation he was missing. However, they weren't expecting to reunite on a farm with killer pumpkins that are the most gross and scary things you can imagine.
This concoction between horror movie and small-town romcom was so entertaining as it was scary. Thank you, Friends of 42 and Lindsey Montgomey, for the opportunity to read this as an ARC.
We first meet Val, who dropped out of college, and she will not go back until she can figure out who she really is. She spent all of high school trying to be the best student for her mom, but now she has bigger dreams. She starts working in Farmer Fred's Fantastic Farm, not expecting to find Shaun (her high school crush).
Shaun is such a nice guy; his life didn't turn out the way he wanted, and running into Val just gives him the motivation he was missing. However, they weren't expecting to reunite on a farm with killer pumpkins that are the most gross and scary things you can imagine.
This concoction between horror movie and small-town romcom was so entertaining as it was scary. Thank you, Friends of 42 and Lindsey Montgomey, for the opportunity to read this as an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author and 42Fold Studio for providing me a digital review copy of this novella. All comments below are my own.
This was a fast paced, punchy novella that reminded me of the slasher movies of my youth. Equal parts gruesome, spicy, and darkly humorous, there was absolutely no time to be bored while I flew through this story.
I loved the cast of characters, especially our final girl(s)/boy(s) *trying to keep it spoiler free folks* who realized their new roles in this real-life-horror-movie and used that knowledge to their advantage! No damsels in distress here.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a quick & gory good time to get them in the mood for spooky season this year! Check out the trigger warnings though, it does get graphic.
This was a fast paced, punchy novella that reminded me of the slasher movies of my youth. Equal parts gruesome, spicy, and darkly humorous, there was absolutely no time to be bored while I flew through this story.
I loved the cast of characters, especially our final girl(s)/boy(s) *trying to keep it spoiler free folks* who realized their new roles in this real-life-horror-movie and used that knowledge to their advantage! No damsels in distress here.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a quick & gory good time to get them in the mood for spooky season this year! Check out the trigger warnings though, it does get graphic.
May 8, 2026
ARC COPY REVIEWED.
90’s original goosebumps plot with alittle bit of spice and some characters that you’ll care for by the end of the story. The theme is great and very well written. The romance is a bit in your face at times and a bit cringy but that’s just me. I’m not very well versed in the romance genre. I Loved the action horror scenes and the final girl moments from all the characters. The goriness of the scenes and pure rage from the pumpkins was great. It was really interesting and cool to see the pumpkins learn and adapt. You really feel for the characters and what they are going through beyond the storyline. Overall, it was an entertaining book.
90’s original goosebumps plot with alittle bit of spice and some characters that you’ll care for by the end of the story. The theme is great and very well written. The romance is a bit in your face at times and a bit cringy but that’s just me. I’m not very well versed in the romance genre. I Loved the action horror scenes and the final girl moments from all the characters. The goriness of the scenes and pure rage from the pumpkins was great. It was really interesting and cool to see the pumpkins learn and adapt. You really feel for the characters and what they are going through beyond the storyline. Overall, it was an entertaining book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
eARC COPY REIVEW
Smashed Pumpkins is a solid horror romance with a splash of comedy, though readers should definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in. The romance is cute, even if it gets a little cringy at times, and the spice felt lighter than expected considering the “explicit sex” warning.
The story leans into classic horror stereotypes like the Final Girl, the reformed jock, and the nerd, which adds to the fun. There is also plenty of gore and violence, along with some creepy pumpkins that adapt to their surroundings.
The whole book has a nostalgic feel that reminded me of Goosebumps and low-budget horror movies. It is also a very easy and quick read since it is a novella. Even as a slower reader, I finished it in about five hours.
Smashed Pumpkins is a solid horror romance with a splash of comedy, though readers should definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in. The romance is cute, even if it gets a little cringy at times, and the spice felt lighter than expected considering the “explicit sex” warning.
The story leans into classic horror stereotypes like the Final Girl, the reformed jock, and the nerd, which adds to the fun. There is also plenty of gore and violence, along with some creepy pumpkins that adapt to their surroundings.
The whole book has a nostalgic feel that reminded me of Goosebumps and low-budget horror movies. It is also a very easy and quick read since it is a novella. Even as a slower reader, I finished it in about five hours.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really wish I would’ve read this during the Halloween season. I normally only read books like this around that time of year, and this one had my reality completely distorted. The suspense in some parts had me forgetting it was 80 degrees outside.
This is the second book I’ve read by Lindsey. Both were ARCs, and I ended up purchasing physical copies of both afterward. I’m officially a signed, sealed, and delivered fan.
Her books are the perfect mix of suspense, horror, romance, and hilarity. They have me pulling out my credit card, ready to pay for the next one.
Cannot wait to see what she puts out next!
This is the second book I’ve read by Lindsey. Both were ARCs, and I ended up purchasing physical copies of both afterward. I’m officially a signed, sealed, and delivered fan.
Her books are the perfect mix of suspense, horror, romance, and hilarity. They have me pulling out my credit card, ready to pay for the next one.
Cannot wait to see what she puts out next!
May 18, 2026
What can I say? Lindsey strikes again! I was literally kicking my feet, laughing at the craziness of said plot, while being transported back to my heydays of the 90s! Who knew that if you mixed horror with comedy and a bit of romance, that you would get this fun and fly-through novella. Not only did the story take off and keep me hanging on, but it also made me want to hurl pumpkin seeds and die laughing. ☠️
If you're looking for:
🎃 Second Chances
🎃 He'd Die For Her
🎃 Organic Vegetables (LITERALLY!)
🎃 Slash & Dash
🎃 Forced Proximity
🎃 Banter Abound!
Thank you to Lindsey for the advanced readers copy for my open and honest review.
If you're looking for:
🎃 Second Chances
🎃 He'd Die For Her
🎃 Organic Vegetables (LITERALLY!)
🎃 Slash & Dash
🎃 Forced Proximity
🎃 Banter Abound!
Thank you to Lindsey for the advanced readers copy for my open and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Where do I even begin?! If you love horror, with a dash of romance, unhinged deaths, sentient pumpkins and dark comedy then this is the book for you. I was lucky enough to be given an early ebook from Lindsey to Beta read and when I say no notes, I mean no constructive notes for her but lots of unhinged gifs and comments from me to her Instagram!
The plot was fast paced with plenty of action, multiple POVs that you could tell were different people from their quirks and dialogue, the characters were fabulous but don’t get attached!
Just go and preorder Smashed Pumpkins now.
The plot was fast paced with plenty of action, multiple POVs that you could tell were different people from their quirks and dialogue, the characters were fabulous but don’t get attached!
Just go and preorder Smashed Pumpkins now.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 4 stars / Spice: 1.5/5 peppers
What to expect: - Campy Horror Romance - Sentient Pumpkin Patch - 2nd Chance - Gore and Violence
Such a fun and nostalgic ride with 90s horror vibes and a little dash of romance! I was fully immersed in this story, with the vibrant and descriptive setting and intensely action-packed battles against pumpkin monsters - I couldn't put it down. The characters were fun and dorky and lovable, and I was definitely rooting for our Final Girl the whole time! Perfect for fans of the Goosebumps Books, cheesy horror movies, and cozy-turned-murderous Fall vibes.
What to expect: - Campy Horror Romance - Sentient Pumpkin Patch - 2nd Chance - Gore and Violence
Such a fun and nostalgic ride with 90s horror vibes and a little dash of romance! I was fully immersed in this story, with the vibrant and descriptive setting and intensely action-packed battles against pumpkin monsters - I couldn't put it down. The characters were fun and dorky and lovable, and I was definitely rooting for our Final Girl the whole time! Perfect for fans of the Goosebumps Books, cheesy horror movies, and cozy-turned-murderous Fall vibes.
Read
May 8, 2026I devoured this novella. It has humor, fun facts, banter, little bit of romance, and horror all wrapped up on a farm. There's killer pumpkins and vines that trap you. Lindsey's writing is very descriptive which allows you to easily visualize what's happening as it unfold. Be ready for some crazy, unhinged moments between the characters, tractors and pumpkins! It gives off 90's horror vibes, think Goosebumps, which I absolutely love!
I can't wait to see what else Lindsey comes up with!
Thank you Lindsey for this ARC!
I can't wait to see what else Lindsey comes up with!
Thank you Lindsey for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this as am ARC from the author.
I had so much fun with this one. At first I wasn't too sure but I was hooked pretty quickly. I loved the descriptions of the pumpkins and everything that happens. I could really visualize what was happening. I also LOVED Val's attitude, banter, and whole personality. I felt like I could relate to her.
I'd say this was a 4 smashed pumpkins out of 5.
Also, I will most definitely be looking at all pumpkin items differently that's for sure.
I had so much fun with this one. At first I wasn't too sure but I was hooked pretty quickly. I loved the descriptions of the pumpkins and everything that happens. I could really visualize what was happening. I also LOVED Val's attitude, banter, and whole personality. I felt like I could relate to her.
I'd say this was a 4 smashed pumpkins out of 5.
Also, I will most definitely be looking at all pumpkin items differently that's for sure.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Huge thank you to author Lindsey Montgomery for this ARC read for Smashed Pumpkins ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was such a fun, creepy read and gave me major 90s Goosebumps vibes in the best way possible. The perfect spooky little novella to kick off summerween! I loved the different POVs because it kept the story fast-paced and made everything feel even more intense and suspenseful. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, and I really liked that the story got straight to the point without dragging anything out. A quick read that still packed in the chills, nostalgia, and suspense. 👻🎃
This was such a fun, creepy read and gave me major 90s Goosebumps vibes in the best way possible. The perfect spooky little novella to kick off summerween! I loved the different POVs because it kept the story fast-paced and made everything feel even more intense and suspenseful. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, and I really liked that the story got straight to the point without dragging anything out. A quick read that still packed in the chills, nostalgia, and suspense. 👻🎃
Review of advance copy received from Author
Remember that episode of Powerpuff Girls where the broccoli aliens took over Townsville? Now imagine that, but make it pumpkins, make it bloody, and throw in a jock with an axe and an old crush you never got over. That’s Smashed Pumpkins by @authorlindseymontgomery and I am OBSESSED.
This slasher romcom had me cackling, cringing, and clutching my chest, sometimes on the same page. Val is the brainy badass FMC of my dreams, Shaun gave me full Shaun of the Dead energy, and Cole… we save Cole at all costs. 💀
This slasher romcom had me cackling, cringing, and clutching my chest, sometimes on the same page. Val is the brainy badass FMC of my dreams, Shaun gave me full Shaun of the Dead energy, and Cole… we save Cole at all costs. 💀
Review of advance copy received from Author
What in the world did I just read! It was GREAT!
A wild ride that had me cackling, saying 'ewwww' and what the heck!
Baddie FMC, yes ma'am!
Action packed with gore and sentient pumpkins. It was like the Twilight Zone and Goosebumps all in one.
Ya'll don't go into this expecting a serious book, go in to have a good time, laugh a bit, and potentially be grossed out 🤣
Thank you, Lindsey for the ARC, this was the perfect pallet cleanser in between heavy fantasy books.
Lindsey's books are always a fun time.
A wild ride that had me cackling, saying 'ewwww' and what the heck!
Baddie FMC, yes ma'am!
Action packed with gore and sentient pumpkins. It was like the Twilight Zone and Goosebumps all in one.
Ya'll don't go into this expecting a serious book, go in to have a good time, laugh a bit, and potentially be grossed out 🤣
Thank you, Lindsey for the ARC, this was the perfect pallet cleanser in between heavy fantasy books.
Lindsey's books are always a fun time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you loved the Goosebumps series as a kid you will enjoy this! It’s Goosebumps for adults with a dash of spice.
Val and Shaun are helping out on Farmer Fred’s Farm, little do they know they might not make it out alive. The pumpkins are enhanced and they’re thirsty…for blood!
This was fairly fast paced, a novella, so totally able to read in one sitting like I did. It absolutely has the promised Goosebumps vibes and it has a but of spice. I will say that, to me, the spice is light so no worries if that’s not your totally your thing. Overall, this was a quick, fun, and bloody read!
Val and Shaun are helping out on Farmer Fred’s Farm, little do they know they might not make it out alive. The pumpkins are enhanced and they’re thirsty…for blood!
This was fairly fast paced, a novella, so totally able to read in one sitting like I did. It absolutely has the promised Goosebumps vibes and it has a but of spice. I will say that, to me, the spice is light so no worries if that’s not your totally your thing. Overall, this was a quick, fun, and bloody read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
You may never look at a pumpkin the same after reading this book 🎃🎃 This was a great novella if you want a quick fun and full or comedic horror.
This gives total nostalgic slasher film with amazing comedic timing.
If you don’t like gore — this may not be the book for you. BUT I still think you should give it a try.
Take a stab at reading this book about killer pumpkins trying take out a group of young adults who are just trying to help out a farmer get his place set up for the fall festival. 🎃
This gives total nostalgic slasher film with amazing comedic timing.
If you don’t like gore — this may not be the book for you. BUT I still think you should give it a try.
Take a stab at reading this book about killer pumpkins trying take out a group of young adults who are just trying to help out a farmer get his place set up for the fall festival. 🎃
Review of advance copy received from Auteur
Thanks to Lindsey Montgomery for the ARC!
Lindsey's writing is so good: she knows how to write a horror romance while keeping it funny and witty. It really is for the Goosebumps fans with a touch of (pumpkin?) spice. Expect gore and violence, and to never want to be in a pumpkin patch again.
Tropes to look for:
🎃 Highschool crush
🎃 Small town horror
🎃 Smart FMC
🎃 Jock MMC
🎃 Dark humor
🎃 Monsters
🎃 Multiple POVs
🎃 Slasher meets dark romcom
Lindsey's writing is so good: she knows how to write a horror romance while keeping it funny and witty. It really is for the Goosebumps fans with a touch of (pumpkin?) spice. Expect gore and violence, and to never want to be in a pumpkin patch again.
Tropes to look for:
🎃 Highschool crush
🎃 Small town horror
🎃 Smart FMC
🎃 Jock MMC
🎃 Dark humor
🎃 Monsters
🎃 Multiple POVs
🎃 Slasher meets dark romcom
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was so good and creepy! The deaths were so vivid ! I loved the way the POV was written. I had such a good time with this . It was more horror vibes than romance . The comedy parts had me laughing out loud . The little remarks and things said by the characters had me cracking up. I was so sad with some of the deaths! This had me having all kinds of emotions in such a short read. I loved it!
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