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Devour
Out here, the darkness isn’t empty.
After a brutal divorce, Millie Chesnick retreats to a remote farmhouse. The quiet fields offer the isolation she desperately needs. The neighboring house is occupied by a handsome, quiet man and his sister who has a disability. When Millie begins caring for the woman, the job seems like the perfect distraction from her grief.
The silence and solitude of the farm comfort Millie during the day, but at night, the land changes. Something moves through the fields after dark. Heavy footsteps circle the farmhouse. A massive shadow stalks the grounds around the property, moving closer and closer with each passing night.
Millie realizes something is hunting in the darkness—something powerful, patient, and starving.
After a brutal divorce, Millie Chesnick retreats to a remote farmhouse. The quiet fields offer the isolation she desperately needs. The neighboring house is occupied by a handsome, quiet man and his sister who has a disability. When Millie begins caring for the woman, the job seems like the perfect distraction from her grief.
The silence and solitude of the farm comfort Millie during the day, but at night, the land changes. Something moves through the fields after dark. Heavy footsteps circle the farmhouse. A massive shadow stalks the grounds around the property, moving closer and closer with each passing night.
Millie realizes something is hunting in the darkness—something powerful, patient, and starving.
322 pages, Paperback
Published October 30, 2026
About the author
Vanessa Kramer
7 books34 followersVanessa Kramer lives in Blue Springs, MO with her husband, two sons, and cat. Being a lifelong fan of reading and writing, Vanessa has always had a passion for storytelling. She enjoys coffee, being outdoors, and spending time with her family. Her favorite author is Stephen King and loves reading horror, thriller, and mystery the most. You can find updates on Vanessa's events, works-in-progress, ask about TW and other info on Facebook under "Vanessa Kramer Author" and on TikTok, Instagram, and Threads @vanessakramerauthor
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have 1001 thoughts..,my notes app looks like a tornado hit it.
This book devoured me truthfully.
Vanessa has been hiding her horror writing and I need MORE IMMEDIATELY!
It has been years since I’ve read a horror book. Not like Splatterpunk or extreme horror or body horror…like true horror. And I ate this up. I feel so many things right now. My mind is reeling.
Everything was amazing. The pacing as 5 stars. I never once felt bored or like the book was dragging. Often times in horror books I feel I get to parts I wanna skim. Not in this one. No I wanted to savor every word. The plot was fantastic and kept me guessing on what it was. I had so many theories and all I kept thinking is WHERE THE HELL ARE SAM AND DEAN WHEN YOU NEED THEM?!
I loved the history lesson and the way it was done didn’t feel like a copy and paste. It felt intentional and woven into the story. Compliments to using Creighton Missouri as the location…like it set scene so well.
I have so many connection points I wanna point out but I don’t wanna spoil anything.
Just know if you’re a horror lover this should be added to your list. Vanessa I AM STILL STARING AT THE WALL.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 stars
🤯😱😰🫣
This book devoured me truthfully.
Vanessa has been hiding her horror writing and I need MORE IMMEDIATELY!
It has been years since I’ve read a horror book. Not like Splatterpunk or extreme horror or body horror…like true horror. And I ate this up. I feel so many things right now. My mind is reeling.
Everything was amazing. The pacing as 5 stars. I never once felt bored or like the book was dragging. Often times in horror books I feel I get to parts I wanna skim. Not in this one. No I wanted to savor every word. The plot was fantastic and kept me guessing on what it was. I had so many theories and all I kept thinking is WHERE THE HELL ARE SAM AND DEAN WHEN YOU NEED THEM?!
I loved the history lesson and the way it was done didn’t feel like a copy and paste. It felt intentional and woven into the story. Compliments to using Creighton Missouri as the location…like it set scene so well.
I have so many connection points I wanna point out but I don’t wanna spoil anything.
Just know if you’re a horror lover this should be added to your list. Vanessa I AM STILL STARING AT THE WALL.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 stars
🤯😱😰🫣
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC; this is my honest review.
Devour follows Amelia "Millie" as she sorts through the mess that has become her life after multiple miscarriages, a stillbirth, and now divorce. Her sister Viviana graciously lets her stay with her and her husband Lucas until she's able to get on her feet. Suddenly Lucas has the wonderful idea of letting Millie stay on his deceased grandfather's property and clean it up in exchange for rent and utilities. It's an offer Millie simply can't refuse if she ever expects to show her parents, sister, and ex-husband that she's able to survive on her own. Soon she becomes the jewel of Jerek's eye. Millie soon finds herself tangled up in a will they won't they romance and town lore.
What starts off as any normal small-town creepiness: too friendly and nosey townsfolk; starts to become more of the thing nightmares are made of. Which I had plenty of while reading this book. As Millie starts to become the women she wants to be I felt a sense of pride along with her. She was handling farm life with ease, or so I thought. When she starts to spiral, you're also left in a realm of "what the f--k is happening???"
The book gave me Evil mixed with Midnight Mass vibes with a little Until Dawn sprinkled in. I literally could not stop reading it once I begin; finishing it in less than 24hrs. The way my brain works, reading the words felt like watching a movie, I was able to picture every horrid detail. And just like any great horror movie or show your left with the lingering thoughts of: what the f--k did I just read, how is this evening happening, and I fucking knew they were in on it!
Devour follows Amelia "Millie" as she sorts through the mess that has become her life after multiple miscarriages, a stillbirth, and now divorce. Her sister Viviana graciously lets her stay with her and her husband Lucas until she's able to get on her feet. Suddenly Lucas has the wonderful idea of letting Millie stay on his deceased grandfather's property and clean it up in exchange for rent and utilities. It's an offer Millie simply can't refuse if she ever expects to show her parents, sister, and ex-husband that she's able to survive on her own. Soon she becomes the jewel of Jerek's eye. Millie soon finds herself tangled up in a will they won't they romance and town lore.
What starts off as any normal small-town creepiness: too friendly and nosey townsfolk; starts to become more of the thing nightmares are made of. Which I had plenty of while reading this book. As Millie starts to become the women she wants to be I felt a sense of pride along with her. She was handling farm life with ease, or so I thought. When she starts to spiral, you're also left in a realm of "what the f--k is happening???"
The book gave me Evil mixed with Midnight Mass vibes with a little Until Dawn sprinkled in. I literally could not stop reading it once I begin; finishing it in less than 24hrs. The way my brain works, reading the words felt like watching a movie, I was able to picture every horrid detail. And just like any great horror movie or show your left with the lingering thoughts of: what the f--k did I just read, how is this evening happening, and I fucking knew they were in on it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
After a brutal divorce, Millie retreats to a remote farmhouse hoping for a fresh start. But when strange things begin happening after dark and something starts moving through the fields, she finds herself questioning what is real—and whether she can trust her own mind.
Devour had me questioning everything right alongside Millie. Kramer creates such an effective sense of uncertainty that I was never completely sure whether what was happening was supernatural, psychological, or something else entirely. That constant clusterfuck kept me completely invested because I needed to know what was real and where this story was ultimately going.
The atmosphere created was unhinged. The isolation, the feeling of being watched, the unsettling neighbors and townsfolk, and the sense that something is lurking just beyond the farmhouse all build into an increasingly creepy and claustrophobic reading experience. Just when I thought I had a handle on the direction of the story, Kramer took it somewhere I wasn't expecting. There was absolutely more than one moment when I genuinely wanted to throw my tablet across the room (IYKYK).
I could not put this book down because I needed to know what would happen next, and by the time I reached the end, I was fully on board with just how dark and unhinged this story became. Seriously, WT@$ Vanessa?! Devour delivers the kind of creepy, unpredictable horror that keeps you questioning what you're reading until the very end. I absolutely devoured this one—and yes, that pun was intended. Vanessa Kramer has officially earned a spot on my auto-buy list. Thank you for the e-ARC!
Devour had me questioning everything right alongside Millie. Kramer creates such an effective sense of uncertainty that I was never completely sure whether what was happening was supernatural, psychological, or something else entirely. That constant clusterfuck kept me completely invested because I needed to know what was real and where this story was ultimately going.
The atmosphere created was unhinged. The isolation, the feeling of being watched, the unsettling neighbors and townsfolk, and the sense that something is lurking just beyond the farmhouse all build into an increasingly creepy and claustrophobic reading experience. Just when I thought I had a handle on the direction of the story, Kramer took it somewhere I wasn't expecting. There was absolutely more than one moment when I genuinely wanted to throw my tablet across the room (IYKYK).
I could not put this book down because I needed to know what would happen next, and by the time I reached the end, I was fully on board with just how dark and unhinged this story became. Seriously, WT@$ Vanessa?! Devour delivers the kind of creepy, unpredictable horror that keeps you questioning what you're reading until the very end. I absolutely devoured this one—and yes, that pun was intended. Vanessa Kramer has officially earned a spot on my auto-buy list. Thank you for the e-ARC!
October 30, 2026
Devour is seriously an awesome novel!!! The plot is excellent, the characters are well developed, and the history is interesting. It's a page turner that keeps you trying to figure out what is going on the entire time! Five pages in and I was already freaking out! This book is eerie, unsettling, and brutal! It's everything you want a horror novel to be!
The main character, Millie, decides to help out her brother-in-law by staying to clean and pack up his family's old farmhouse out in the middle of nowhere. The farmhouse is the first source of spookiness, creaking and groaning at night as old houses do. There are neighbors nearby that seem to house secrets, a cornfield outside the property that has something sinister dwelling inside, something out there is screaming, and the woods are filled with more than mysterious things!
The way the story unfolds is brilliant! Vanessa's descriptions are incredibly vivid and beyond creepy! I absolutely love the way she writes! One night while I was reading, I began to think I was hearing noises in my own house. I got so spooked reading this book, I had to take breaks and turn on the lights! And the end... I can't even begin to tell you! I was squirming in my chair, chilled to the bone, and holding back my own screams!
Vanessa Kramer knows how to write horror and make you want more! I can't wait to see what she does next! Devour is a truly SCARY read from start to finish! I highly recommend this amazing author! 10 stars, Vanessa! Wow!
The main character, Millie, decides to help out her brother-in-law by staying to clean and pack up his family's old farmhouse out in the middle of nowhere. The farmhouse is the first source of spookiness, creaking and groaning at night as old houses do. There are neighbors nearby that seem to house secrets, a cornfield outside the property that has something sinister dwelling inside, something out there is screaming, and the woods are filled with more than mysterious things!
The way the story unfolds is brilliant! Vanessa's descriptions are incredibly vivid and beyond creepy! I absolutely love the way she writes! One night while I was reading, I began to think I was hearing noises in my own house. I got so spooked reading this book, I had to take breaks and turn on the lights! And the end... I can't even begin to tell you! I was squirming in my chair, chilled to the bone, and holding back my own screams!
Vanessa Kramer knows how to write horror and make you want more! I can't wait to see what she does next! Devour is a truly SCARY read from start to finish! I highly recommend this amazing author! 10 stars, Vanessa! Wow!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Man oh man did I enjoy this horror novel!
Millie has always wanted a child of her own, but after a number of miscarriages and a brutal divorce she needs a break. When her brother in law Lucas offers to let her stay in his family’s house in Creighton, MO away from the hustle and bustle, she jumps at the opportunity. As she recoups from her losses, strange sounds and even stranger neighbors lead her down a dark path that will challenge everything she knows.
This was a deliciously dark novel. Vanessa Kramer really doesn’t hold back with this one, and I was delightfully surprised at how far she went. The writing was great and easy to follow, and it was hard to put this one down.
Millie was an interesting main character. She’s had a lot of heartbreak in just a short time, and she struggles to come to terms with that and who she wants to be. She had plenty of depth, and I loved the dialogue between her, Vivienne, and Lucas.
This novel has a nice build up, and once Millie gets to Creighton things really take off. This is a creature feature novel, and there is also plenty of horrific imagery and some psychological horror underneath it all. If you love a good scare, definitely give this novel a go!
Millie has always wanted a child of her own, but after a number of miscarriages and a brutal divorce she needs a break. When her brother in law Lucas offers to let her stay in his family’s house in Creighton, MO away from the hustle and bustle, she jumps at the opportunity. As she recoups from her losses, strange sounds and even stranger neighbors lead her down a dark path that will challenge everything she knows.
This was a deliciously dark novel. Vanessa Kramer really doesn’t hold back with this one, and I was delightfully surprised at how far she went. The writing was great and easy to follow, and it was hard to put this one down.
Millie was an interesting main character. She’s had a lot of heartbreak in just a short time, and she struggles to come to terms with that and who she wants to be. She had plenty of depth, and I loved the dialogue between her, Vivienne, and Lucas.
This novel has a nice build up, and once Millie gets to Creighton things really take off. This is a creature feature novel, and there is also plenty of horrific imagery and some psychological horror underneath it all. If you love a good scare, definitely give this novel a go!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I couldn’t put it down. If you like horror, specifically folk horror, you’re going to love this book. It starts out with a bang and keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole way through.
I should note I was given an early copy of this book from the author but was not obligated to review, I enjoyed Devour so much I voluntarily am writing this review and actually plan on buying a physical copy once the book is available.
The story is about a newly divorced woman named Millie moves out to a remote farm to get away from it all. Unfortunately, at night, something strange and scary is prowling around the farm.
As an avid horror fan, I can honestly say the end of the book gave me just enough to fill satisfied but still left me wanting more.
I should note I was given an early copy of this book from the author but was not obligated to review, I enjoyed Devour so much I voluntarily am writing this review and actually plan on buying a physical copy once the book is available.
The story is about a newly divorced woman named Millie moves out to a remote farm to get away from it all. Unfortunately, at night, something strange and scary is prowling around the farm.
As an avid horror fan, I can honestly say the end of the book gave me just enough to fill satisfied but still left me wanting more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was one of the lucky few to be selected to read this as a Beta reader. Within the first chapter I messaged the author WTAF. I was shook. I reminded shook. This book had me in a chokehold and it wouldn’t let go. Literally this author had me feeling big feelings. Something’s hit home pretty hard. The characters were dynamic, relatable, comforting it might have been false comfort *thanks Vanessa now I have that PTSD I wasn’t expecting.*
This was a great horror story. It gave scares, the heebie-jeebies, the shock, the wow it gave a little bit of everything and in the end I can say wow Vanessa’s mind is a terrifically frightening place to be!
This was a great horror story. It gave scares, the heebie-jeebies, the shock, the wow it gave a little bit of everything and in the end I can say wow Vanessa’s mind is a terrifically frightening place to be!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Well, shit.
I read a LOT of horror/thriller books and I am not easily spooked by them. But this one definitely did a good job of making me question shadows in my closet before bed. I feel the Winchesters should have showed up at time because damn.
Firstly, I appreciate the set-up. It's familiar enough and sets the stage for the characters and the WHY very well. And I especially appreciate Millie's awareness. She was a refreshing FMC in a horror book and I love that.
This book has ATMOSPHERE. Kramer described things so well I could easily see it play out in my head, and I was nervous. I think this is the author's best work and I hope she continues in this genre because I need MORE!
I read a LOT of horror/thriller books and I am not easily spooked by them. But this one definitely did a good job of making me question shadows in my closet before bed. I feel the Winchesters should have showed up at time because damn.
Firstly, I appreciate the set-up. It's familiar enough and sets the stage for the characters and the WHY very well. And I especially appreciate Millie's awareness. She was a refreshing FMC in a horror book and I love that.
This book has ATMOSPHERE. Kramer described things so well I could easily see it play out in my head, and I was nervous. I think this is the author's best work and I hope she continues in this genre because I need MORE!
September 14, 2026
Vanessa, what the fuck?
Staring at the wall right now. It’s been a while since I read horror but I enjoyed this more than I expected to. There were a few weird formatting things and it took a second to get used to the writing style in the beginning. The second half FLEW though. Like could not put it down.
I also typically don’t love the way horror books end but I’m actually so fine with this one. Glad I read it in the daytime on a plane.
I received a free copy of this book from the author. I voluntarily chose to leave a review. Thank you!
Staring at the wall right now. It’s been a while since I read horror but I enjoyed this more than I expected to. There were a few weird formatting things and it took a second to get used to the writing style in the beginning. The second half FLEW though. Like could not put it down.
I also typically don’t love the way horror books end but I’m actually so fine with this one. Glad I read it in the daytime on a plane.
I received a free copy of this book from the author. I voluntarily chose to leave a review. Thank you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me hooked from page 1. Every time I think hmmm maybe it is this, I WAS WRONG! If you are looking for a twisted ride grab this book! I am very concerned for what lurks in the author's mind, lol. This book is what true horror is about, it isn't tamed down for the weak. Loved this while also traumatized.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really, really love that cover! When I saw the cover, I knew I needed to read this book, and I'm glad that I did. Millie was a great character, and it was easy to sympathize with her and her hard life. The horror is also very well done. The town and its people are so creepy, and the story was way darker than I thought it was going to be. I finished this book very quickly, because I had such a hard time putting it down. The characters and setting are great, and the horror is on point. I highly recommend this one! I received a free copy of this story and write this review voluntarily.
October 31, 2026
A decent read, although it was pretty easy to see what was coming. Some additional backstory on the drekavac would have served it well, but they were terrifying nonetheless.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews