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Of The Trees #1
Of The Trees
Cassie and Laney fancy themselves amateur ghost hunters. When a carnival comes to town, Cassie embraces the chance to try something new.
Carnival workers watch the girls with a collective gaze that ignites in Laney a dark and dangerous fascination, leaving Cassie unnerved.
It's not just their age or the unsettling way they stare. There is something in the shifting of their skin and the way their features seem to change in the shadows.
Cassie can's shake this sickening feeling that there's more to the carnival than meets the eye.
When townspeople suddenly start dying and bloody warnings appear around town, Cassie is lured into a nightmare where trees whisper and strange, shape-shifting men haunt the backwoods she once hunted for ghosts with her best friend.
Then Laney goes missing, and only Cassie can get her back. But the creatures of the trees aren't simply going to hand Laney over to Cassie without getting something in return.
Carnival workers watch the girls with a collective gaze that ignites in Laney a dark and dangerous fascination, leaving Cassie unnerved.
It's not just their age or the unsettling way they stare. There is something in the shifting of their skin and the way their features seem to change in the shadows.
Cassie can's shake this sickening feeling that there's more to the carnival than meets the eye.
When townspeople suddenly start dying and bloody warnings appear around town, Cassie is lured into a nightmare where trees whisper and strange, shape-shifting men haunt the backwoods she once hunted for ghosts with her best friend.
Then Laney goes missing, and only Cassie can get her back. But the creatures of the trees aren't simply going to hand Laney over to Cassie without getting something in return.
ebook
First published February 28, 2017
487 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Fitch
12 books180 followersE. M. Fitch is an author who loves scary stories, chocolate, and tall trees. Her latest novel, OF THE TREES, is a Young Adult horror/fantasy inspired by haunted cemeteries and the darker musings of W.B. Yeats. Its sequel, AT WOODS EDGE, will be released in the coming year from Month9Books. She is the author of the Young Adult zombie trilogy: THE BREAK FREE SERIES. Her story, BETWEEN SHADOWS, was recently featured in the Fragments of Darkness anthology; and her new collection of short stories entitled THE VEIL: GHOSTS, GOBLINS, GHOULS is coming soon! She has been published in Pulp Metal Magazine, Under the Bed Magazine, and her short stories RELEASE and THE CREEP were featured respectively in CHBB’s Lurking in the Shadows and Lurking in the Mind anthologies. When not dreaming up new ways to torture characters, she is usually corralling her four children, or thinking of ways to tire them out so she can get an hour of peace at night.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 24, 2018
Of the trees is a little spooky and if you scare easily I probably wouldn't recommend reading it in bed. It's aimed at the teen audience.
Cassie and Laney are best friends. They live next door to each other and have a common interest. They spend their free time ghost hunting. They visit cemeteries and are always looking out for the new spooky events. Strange events intrigue these two and they are drawn to the mystery. Ghost hunting is more Laney's passion but Cassie is happy to go along with her. The girls find the mystery they crave but the consequences are unsettling.
Of the trees is Cassie's story. She sees the mystery unfold and take hold of Laney. She wants to be supportive but doesn't like what is happening. Mysterious spooky events are happening around town and Cassie is trying to put the pieces together. She has another close friend, Ryan. He is another mystery to her but in a totally different way.
The author describes this book as being about friendship which it is but with unpleasant supernatural elements. The woods have spooky eyes and they are watching.
This is the first book in a series and book two is out 27th March. The book will leave you with many questions.
I really like Cassie's story. Her life is basically just like a normal teen. She is in love with her best male friend but she can't work him out. She enjoys sports but not sure if she wants the limelight. Her friendship with Laney is on the rocks over a boy. Laney's new friends are unnerving and they want Cassie to join them. Cassie has to keep her cool if she wants to stay out of trouble.
4 stars out of 5. Book two could turn this story either way. Fingers crossed. Happy reading!
Although this is a spooky book it wasn't super scary to me and I scare easily :p
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review as part of the chapter by chapter blog tour for At Woods Edge.
Cassie and Laney are best friends. They live next door to each other and have a common interest. They spend their free time ghost hunting. They visit cemeteries and are always looking out for the new spooky events. Strange events intrigue these two and they are drawn to the mystery. Ghost hunting is more Laney's passion but Cassie is happy to go along with her. The girls find the mystery they crave but the consequences are unsettling.
Of the trees is Cassie's story. She sees the mystery unfold and take hold of Laney. She wants to be supportive but doesn't like what is happening. Mysterious spooky events are happening around town and Cassie is trying to put the pieces together. She has another close friend, Ryan. He is another mystery to her but in a totally different way.
The author describes this book as being about friendship which it is but with unpleasant supernatural elements. The woods have spooky eyes and they are watching.
This is the first book in a series and book two is out 27th March. The book will leave you with many questions.
I really like Cassie's story. Her life is basically just like a normal teen. She is in love with her best male friend but she can't work him out. She enjoys sports but not sure if she wants the limelight. Her friendship with Laney is on the rocks over a boy. Laney's new friends are unnerving and they want Cassie to join them. Cassie has to keep her cool if she wants to stay out of trouble.
4 stars out of 5. Book two could turn this story either way. Fingers crossed. Happy reading!
Although this is a spooky book it wasn't super scary to me and I scare easily :p
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review as part of the chapter by chapter blog tour for At Woods Edge.
February 28, 2017
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Have I been reading the wrong genre all this time or was this book just utterly awesome? It wasn’t that it was written brilliantly or that the world was extraordinary or the characters were witty. It was the way E. M. Fitch took her very simple story and brought me along for the ride. Though we’re talking a thriller by genre, I didn’t feel my heart pounding uncomfortably outside my chest. I was curious – nay excited – to see where the story would go and
Also, I loved the main character, Cassie. She had a conscious but wasn’t pious. She followed the rules but wasn’t a prude. She looked out for her friends and loved ones. She was strong and brave. She was someone I could root for, someone who I aspire to be like. We need more young adult fiction with characters like Cassie!
Like I said, Of The Trees wasn’t brilliant literature or extraordinary world building or clever characters. It was a simple story. But simple doesn’t mean it was easy to write. I think E. M. Fitch weaved this story together perfectly. I loved every second of it and couldn’t recommend it enough.
Have I been reading the wrong genre all this time or was this book just utterly awesome? It wasn’t that it was written brilliantly or that the world was extraordinary or the characters were witty. It was the way E. M. Fitch took her very simple story and brought me along for the ride. Though we’re talking a thriller by genre, I didn’t feel my heart pounding uncomfortably outside my chest. I was curious – nay excited – to see where the story would go and
Also, I loved the main character, Cassie. She had a conscious but wasn’t pious. She followed the rules but wasn’t a prude. She looked out for her friends and loved ones. She was strong and brave. She was someone I could root for, someone who I aspire to be like. We need more young adult fiction with characters like Cassie!
Like I said, Of The Trees wasn’t brilliant literature or extraordinary world building or clever characters. It was a simple story. But simple doesn’t mean it was easy to write. I think E. M. Fitch weaved this story together perfectly. I loved every second of it and couldn’t recommend it enough.
February 28, 2017
A solid 4 star read for me for sure! Month9 sent me a copy to read and review!
This book, at its core, is a book about friendship and the ever changing relationships of kids in high school. It's creepy, it's wonderful, it's strange; it's a marvelous story that was easy to flip through. If there isn't a follow up novel, I'll be very disappointed! Cassie was an easy character to follow and, though I questioned some of her though process sometimes, she was realistic as well. The interactions were great and the story felt real. Great read! You won't be disappointed if you pick it up!
This book, at its core, is a book about friendship and the ever changing relationships of kids in high school. It's creepy, it's wonderful, it's strange; it's a marvelous story that was easy to flip through. If there isn't a follow up novel, I'll be very disappointed! Cassie was an easy character to follow and, though I questioned some of her though process sometimes, she was realistic as well. The interactions were great and the story felt real. Great read! You won't be disappointed if you pick it up!
February 26, 2018
(Read and reviewed back in January 2017)
I will admit that when I first started this book, it wasn’t really clicking with me, and I considered not moving forward with the remainder of the book. However, I hate having to tell a blog tour organizer that I had to DNF the book, especially after reading less than 20%. So I picked it back up the next day … and proceeded to finish the rest of it in about 3-4 hours! I’m convinced there was just something wrong with ME that first day I started reading, and NOT the book, because once I picked it back up, I thoroughly enjoyed the story.
This was a great paranormal thriller that was, at its roots (see what I did there?!), a story about friendship. Cassie and Laney have an amazing friendship, the kind I always envied growing up. Not only was I someone who mostly had guy friends, I was also a military brat, forced to move every 4 years. I always loved the idea of having a friend since Kindergarten, even though reading stories of friendships like this is always bittersweet since it’s something I simply can’t ever have. My son, now in 3rd grade, has had the same best friend since the first day of Kindergarten, and his mom and I are already talking about how they’ll be best man at each other’s wedding! (Yes, I’m living vicariously!)
Anyway, at the heart of Of the Trees is this intense friendship between Cassie and Laney, who not only have been best friends since Kindergarten, but also live across the street from each other in a small town where everyone knows everyone else’s business. The girls begin to notice some strange things happening around town, and soon Laney has a new boyfriend she is very secretive about and the girls begin fighting and drifting apart. Cassie feels she is kind of losing her mind, because she’d *swear* she can hear whispers on the wind and that the forest, once she’s inside, tries to keep her there. When a friend dies, Cassie knows there’s something seriously wrong happening, but Laney just won’t listen to her pleas to be careful. When Laney herself goes missing, Cassie knows she can’t tell anyone what really happened to her friend, and that she alone can get Laney back. But is she willing to pay the price? Cassie must decide how far she will go to try and save Laney – and does Laney even want to be saved?
The paranormal aspect of the story was really well done, and the pace was fantastic as it kept me wanting to read a little more, then a little more, and on and on! I was totally drawn into Cassie and Laney’s world, and I could envision the cemetery and the forest so clearly in my head. Although there were a few times where the author’s writing felt a little stilted, she has a true knack for dialogue, which I find to be one of the most important elements of a good book. If the dialogue between characters doesn’t read like you could hear actual people saying it, the author has lost me. But there was no worry of that happening here, because Ms. Fitch really nailed the dialogue. I don’t know how far out of her teen years she is, but she did a great job of inhabiting the minds of these two friends and portraying their relationship in a very real way that spoke to me (having once been a teen girl myself!). The spooky, haunting, seductive atmosphere to the book was coupled perfectly with the story of two friends on the cusp of womanhood.
I loved this book from Ms. Fitch and I really look forward to seeing what she writes in the future! She has great talent, and it is clear she truly cares about these characters and this story. I highly recommend Of the Trees for anyone who enjoys spooky, paranormal YA with a unique plot that you haven’t seen much of, if any at all, before. Also highly recommend this for fans of YA stories that delve into strong friendships between teen girls and all the accompanying highs and lows. This was a great book!
Rating: 4 spooky stars!
Thanks so much to Month9Books and E.M. Fitch for the early e-copy of the book and for letting me take part in the blog tour.
I will admit that when I first started this book, it wasn’t really clicking with me, and I considered not moving forward with the remainder of the book. However, I hate having to tell a blog tour organizer that I had to DNF the book, especially after reading less than 20%. So I picked it back up the next day … and proceeded to finish the rest of it in about 3-4 hours! I’m convinced there was just something wrong with ME that first day I started reading, and NOT the book, because once I picked it back up, I thoroughly enjoyed the story.
This was a great paranormal thriller that was, at its roots (see what I did there?!), a story about friendship. Cassie and Laney have an amazing friendship, the kind I always envied growing up. Not only was I someone who mostly had guy friends, I was also a military brat, forced to move every 4 years. I always loved the idea of having a friend since Kindergarten, even though reading stories of friendships like this is always bittersweet since it’s something I simply can’t ever have. My son, now in 3rd grade, has had the same best friend since the first day of Kindergarten, and his mom and I are already talking about how they’ll be best man at each other’s wedding! (Yes, I’m living vicariously!)
Anyway, at the heart of Of the Trees is this intense friendship between Cassie and Laney, who not only have been best friends since Kindergarten, but also live across the street from each other in a small town where everyone knows everyone else’s business. The girls begin to notice some strange things happening around town, and soon Laney has a new boyfriend she is very secretive about and the girls begin fighting and drifting apart. Cassie feels she is kind of losing her mind, because she’d *swear* she can hear whispers on the wind and that the forest, once she’s inside, tries to keep her there. When a friend dies, Cassie knows there’s something seriously wrong happening, but Laney just won’t listen to her pleas to be careful. When Laney herself goes missing, Cassie knows she can’t tell anyone what really happened to her friend, and that she alone can get Laney back. But is she willing to pay the price? Cassie must decide how far she will go to try and save Laney – and does Laney even want to be saved?
The paranormal aspect of the story was really well done, and the pace was fantastic as it kept me wanting to read a little more, then a little more, and on and on! I was totally drawn into Cassie and Laney’s world, and I could envision the cemetery and the forest so clearly in my head. Although there were a few times where the author’s writing felt a little stilted, she has a true knack for dialogue, which I find to be one of the most important elements of a good book. If the dialogue between characters doesn’t read like you could hear actual people saying it, the author has lost me. But there was no worry of that happening here, because Ms. Fitch really nailed the dialogue. I don’t know how far out of her teen years she is, but she did a great job of inhabiting the minds of these two friends and portraying their relationship in a very real way that spoke to me (having once been a teen girl myself!). The spooky, haunting, seductive atmosphere to the book was coupled perfectly with the story of two friends on the cusp of womanhood.
I loved this book from Ms. Fitch and I really look forward to seeing what she writes in the future! She has great talent, and it is clear she truly cares about these characters and this story. I highly recommend Of the Trees for anyone who enjoys spooky, paranormal YA with a unique plot that you haven’t seen much of, if any at all, before. Also highly recommend this for fans of YA stories that delve into strong friendships between teen girls and all the accompanying highs and lows. This was a great book!
Rating: 4 spooky stars!
Thanks so much to Month9Books and E.M. Fitch for the early e-copy of the book and for letting me take part in the blog tour.
March 24, 2017
It seemed like a series of unfortunate events happened to me last week. First, I got hit with a flu and then the laptop stopped working and we had to send it to the technician for repair. Until now, it is still not done. Thankfully, I am better now after a week of being sick and feeling so tired. This post was supposed to be due last March 10th. Better late than never. Even though I was not able to post my review in time for the blog tour, I still owe the author and Month9Books a review for the copy that they have sent me. I need to maintain my integrity and commitment to helping out get new books and stories out there. Anyway, reviews don't get old, right? It will always be relevant to whoever is intending to read this book, in particular. Again, I apologize to E. M. Fitch and Month9Books for not posting this on time.
Of the Trees is a paranormal story about two teen best friends who were dazzled by an illusion. A mirage. More like disillusioned to be honest. The story started as a ghost-hunting expedition or more likely an obsession for a popular town ghost by Laney, turned into a tragedy for the whole town.
In the Philippine culture and literature, we call the beings encountered by Laney and Cassie in the story as "lamang-lupa" or elementals. They are known to be living or part of the trees, the ground/land and nature, in general. Only a select few can see them. They say that if you have a third eye, you will likely see and encounter these beings. They are known to change their appearance or how they look to those humans that see them. In this story, the elementals first appeared as carnival workers and then later looked like handsome teen boys. The sole purpose of the changing of appearances is to get the attention of the people they want to lure into their den--Laney, Cassie and their girl friends, in this story.
Truthfully, it was not really mentioned or identified what beings were talked of here. What was certain was that they were of the trees which they can control, including the ground that we walk on, especially the forest. It was one of the things that got me frustrated about this story. Until the end, it was not clear what those beings really were except that only a select few can see them. Their origin was not even mentioned. However, Cassie, the main character here, thank God, she was smart enough, pretended to not see these beings. That decision, on her part, proved to be the only thing that saved her from being taken by them.
I give this 2/5 leafless trees. This was just OK. I think it would have been more interesting if the story stuck to ghost-hunting. It turning into an elemental story sort of did not work for me. The author's talent did show in putting enough suspense to the story but still I was not so taken by it. If the intent was to scare, it was in a way scary but I think there were parts that did not mesh well. In some way, I felt that there was a disconnect somewhere in the story. I felt there was something that was missed out that would have made it work for me. What stood out for me were the careless and the delinquent teens. Their disregard for safety just to satisfy their raging hormones. The selfishness. Of not even thinking of the consequences of their actions. At least, there were Cassie and Ryan, but these two only highlighted more the flaws in the characters of the rest of the teens here.
It was what made it so uncomfortable, sensing the hurt and anger and anguish in the other and being impotent to fix it.
- E. M. Fitch, Of the Trees -
Thank you again, E. M. Fitch and Month9Books, for the review copy.
Of the Trees is a paranormal story about two teen best friends who were dazzled by an illusion. A mirage. More like disillusioned to be honest. The story started as a ghost-hunting expedition or more likely an obsession for a popular town ghost by Laney, turned into a tragedy for the whole town.
In the Philippine culture and literature, we call the beings encountered by Laney and Cassie in the story as "lamang-lupa" or elementals. They are known to be living or part of the trees, the ground/land and nature, in general. Only a select few can see them. They say that if you have a third eye, you will likely see and encounter these beings. They are known to change their appearance or how they look to those humans that see them. In this story, the elementals first appeared as carnival workers and then later looked like handsome teen boys. The sole purpose of the changing of appearances is to get the attention of the people they want to lure into their den--Laney, Cassie and their girl friends, in this story.
Truthfully, it was not really mentioned or identified what beings were talked of here. What was certain was that they were of the trees which they can control, including the ground that we walk on, especially the forest. It was one of the things that got me frustrated about this story. Until the end, it was not clear what those beings really were except that only a select few can see them. Their origin was not even mentioned. However, Cassie, the main character here, thank God, she was smart enough, pretended to not see these beings. That decision, on her part, proved to be the only thing that saved her from being taken by them.
I give this 2/5 leafless trees. This was just OK. I think it would have been more interesting if the story stuck to ghost-hunting. It turning into an elemental story sort of did not work for me. The author's talent did show in putting enough suspense to the story but still I was not so taken by it. If the intent was to scare, it was in a way scary but I think there were parts that did not mesh well. In some way, I felt that there was a disconnect somewhere in the story. I felt there was something that was missed out that would have made it work for me. What stood out for me were the careless and the delinquent teens. Their disregard for safety just to satisfy their raging hormones. The selfishness. Of not even thinking of the consequences of their actions. At least, there were Cassie and Ryan, but these two only highlighted more the flaws in the characters of the rest of the teens here.
It was what made it so uncomfortable, sensing the hurt and anger and anguish in the other and being impotent to fix it.
- E. M. Fitch, Of the Trees -
Thank you again, E. M. Fitch and Month9Books, for the review copy.
May 26, 2017
Cassie and Laney are best friends. Laney is an amateur ghost hunter and Cassie spends many nights at the cemetery with her waiting for a ghost to appear. She can hear whispering in the trees and knows something is there when she sees a strange light, but what is it? A night at the local carnival changes everything. Laney starts hanging out with older guys, people Cassie doesn't trust. They make her feel afraid and something isn't right about them, every time Cassie sees them they've subtly adjusted their looks. Cassie hopes the creepy men will leave town, however, when the carnival is over they are still there.
Cassie's other best friend, Ryan, is the only person who makes her feel safe. While Laney is being pulled into something that makes Cassie's skin crawl she seeks comfort with Ryan. Things are getting worse when people Cassie knows are being killed. There aren't any leads and Cassie has a lot of useful information to give to the police, but they don't take her seriously. Cassie might lose everything she holds dear. She fears for Laney's life, will she be able to get her friend back and save her or is it too late for Laney?
Cassie is a sweet girl. She cares about her friends, she's always looking out for them and she tries to keep them safe. When terrifying things start happening in her hometown she can see, feel and hear the danger, but she can't keep it away from the people she loves. Both Cassie and Ryan are generous and kind people and I kept hoping they wouldn't get in trouble. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out if they'd survive the frightening situation they're in. Laney seems to be at the center of it and she keeps pulling away from Cassie more and more. She's adventurous and a little bit self-centered and I kept hoping she wouldn't drag Cassie into whatever is happening to her. This kept me on the edge of my seat and I absolutely loved that.
Of The Trees is a fantastic creepy story. I liked how uneasy E.M. Fitch made me feel while I was reading her story. Something isn't right, but it isn't clear what it is and that gave me the chills. I had a lot of questions while reading the story and couldn't wait to find out more details about what's happening in Cassie's town. Being in a dark forest is incredibly spooky, especially when evil is lurking in the shadows. E.M. Fitch's vivid descriptions of the danger Cassie is in are fantastic and they genuinely spooked me. I loved this amazing eerie story.
March 27, 2017
I have to admit, I was worried I wasn't going to like this one. You always dread reading a book that was given to you by the author's mother, because there's always that fear that you'll have to find a polite way to tell said mother that you didn't like it.
...So imagine my surprise when I found I actually enjoyed this story. It ended up becoming a YA horror story that kept me reading until the very end! I kept thinking of horror flicks like Halloween and It Follows while I was reading this. Granted there weren't homicidal maniacs in this book, but the vibe of the story felt very similar. There are teenagers trying to figure out what is happening in their own way, but powerless to stop the next tragedy. There are paranormal creatures in the woods that adults can't seem to find. It's a good creepy, suspenseful story.
The pace of the novel was also pretty good. Granted, the first few pages were off to a slow start, but once I got past that, I was hooked. It's definitely a book that you'll have trouble putting down.
I think the ending disappointed a few others who reviewed this book. It leaves you with unanswered questions about what those paranormal creatures were, which bothered me at first. After further thought, however, I find the ending works. These were teenagers trying to find answers after all, and the heroine feared bringing attention to herself, so it would make sense that they wouldn't find out the truth without putting themselves in unnecessary danger. It could also be that this is the first book in a series, and we will find out more later. Either way, I'm satisfied enough with the ending.
If I had one criticism, it would be towards the editor. There were small segments of the story that felt a little choppy, particularly with some of the dialogue, and there were a few proofreading errors that were overlooked.
Would I recommend this story? Yeah sure! It's written by a local author who has a talent for suspenseful stories, and who deserves to be read. It may not be considered the best YA novel currently out there, but it's certainly worth a look.
...So imagine my surprise when I found I actually enjoyed this story. It ended up becoming a YA horror story that kept me reading until the very end! I kept thinking of horror flicks like Halloween and It Follows while I was reading this. Granted there weren't homicidal maniacs in this book, but the vibe of the story felt very similar. There are teenagers trying to figure out what is happening in their own way, but powerless to stop the next tragedy. There are paranormal creatures in the woods that adults can't seem to find. It's a good creepy, suspenseful story.
The pace of the novel was also pretty good. Granted, the first few pages were off to a slow start, but once I got past that, I was hooked. It's definitely a book that you'll have trouble putting down.
I think the ending disappointed a few others who reviewed this book. It leaves you with unanswered questions about what those paranormal creatures were, which bothered me at first. After further thought, however, I find the ending works. These were teenagers trying to find answers after all, and the heroine feared bringing attention to herself, so it would make sense that they wouldn't find out the truth without putting themselves in unnecessary danger. It could also be that this is the first book in a series, and we will find out more later. Either way, I'm satisfied enough with the ending.
If I had one criticism, it would be towards the editor. There were small segments of the story that felt a little choppy, particularly with some of the dialogue, and there were a few proofreading errors that were overlooked.
Would I recommend this story? Yeah sure! It's written by a local author who has a talent for suspenseful stories, and who deserves to be read. It may not be considered the best YA novel currently out there, but it's certainly worth a look.
January 30, 2017
Loved it! I read a lot of YA and Cassie stood out as a main character that I could actually see myself going to school with. She's capable, self-aware, with a touch of sass.
Plot was a slow build - a carnival comes to town with workers that are a little off. The carnival moves on but mysterious happenings begin. The story gave me just the right amount of dread. It's clear the new guys in town are a bad influence but not clear who/what they might be or what they're capable of. The supernatural elements that do become apparent are more sinister than in typical YA fare, and while there is some resolution there is definitely room for the story to go interesting places in a sequel.
Finally, I got totally sucked into rooting Against the obsessive carnival worker who's set his sights on Cassie, and For the adorable love interest Ryan. The carnival worker has some smoldering sexy mojo going on, but who wouldn't root for the guy that would awkwardly let you sleep on him on your parents' couch in Front of your parents for hours following a traumatic event?
Super enjoyed this book and crossing my fingers for a follow-up to come out soon!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Plot was a slow build - a carnival comes to town with workers that are a little off. The carnival moves on but mysterious happenings begin. The story gave me just the right amount of dread. It's clear the new guys in town are a bad influence but not clear who/what they might be or what they're capable of. The supernatural elements that do become apparent are more sinister than in typical YA fare, and while there is some resolution there is definitely room for the story to go interesting places in a sequel.
Finally, I got totally sucked into rooting Against the obsessive carnival worker who's set his sights on Cassie, and For the adorable love interest Ryan. The carnival worker has some smoldering sexy mojo going on, but who wouldn't root for the guy that would awkwardly let you sleep on him on your parents' couch in Front of your parents for hours following a traumatic event?
Super enjoyed this book and crossing my fingers for a follow-up to come out soon!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 8, 2017
Review originally posted on The Book Adventures of Annelise Lestrange :)
I received this copy from Month9Books in exchange for an honest review. Let's go :D
*~.Book Analysis.~*
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)
Of the Trees surprised me in many ways. I’ve been overall tired of many plot lines from YA books, including “the chosen one”, but omg, this book did it so right! Also, the suspense and the mystery kept me pinned on my seat, with my heart beating wildly, until the last page! Seriously, if the book hadn’t dragged on so much in several parts, it would have been a full 5 stars. As it is, 4 delighted stars =)
The narrative was third person style, from Cassie’s point of view, and it not only worked wonders in this book, it also helped me on those times when Cassie made me roll my eyes a bit, haha! Overall, tho, I liked her as a main character =) Fitch’s writing style was also great, not too minimal, not overcomplicated ❤ The girl knows how to set the mood for a suspense, haha!
As I already hinted, the plot was amazing. I had some theories while reading, but nothing ever approaching what truly was happening, haha! This is sort of rare with me, so I was swept off my feet with happiness ❤
The characters were mostly okay, but I couldn’t bring myself to care deeply about anyone =/ Don’t get me wrong, they are very well built, but I felt like reading the adventures of the popular people in my high school rather than imagine myself along them, you know? I don’t know how to explain this, but everyone just looked too cool for their ages? Hahahaha!
And, as nothing sells the bread better than its smell what, here are some quotes from the book ❤
If you like YA, Mystery, Suspense, Faes and Dark Romance, Of the Trees is your next must-read!
Thank you so much for reading!! Also, of course, thanks again to Month9Books for my review copy of Of The Trees!
I received this copy from Month9Books in exchange for an honest review. Let's go :D
*~.Book Analysis.~*
Just remembering that those were my impressions and opinion as a reader :)
Of the Trees surprised me in many ways. I’ve been overall tired of many plot lines from YA books, including “the chosen one”, but omg, this book did it so right! Also, the suspense and the mystery kept me pinned on my seat, with my heart beating wildly, until the last page! Seriously, if the book hadn’t dragged on so much in several parts, it would have been a full 5 stars. As it is, 4 delighted stars =)
The narrative was third person style, from Cassie’s point of view, and it not only worked wonders in this book, it also helped me on those times when Cassie made me roll my eyes a bit, haha! Overall, tho, I liked her as a main character =) Fitch’s writing style was also great, not too minimal, not overcomplicated ❤ The girl knows how to set the mood for a suspense, haha!
As I already hinted, the plot was amazing. I had some theories while reading, but nothing ever approaching what truly was happening, haha! This is sort of rare with me, so I was swept off my feet with happiness ❤
The characters were mostly okay, but I couldn’t bring myself to care deeply about anyone =/ Don’t get me wrong, they are very well built, but I felt like reading the adventures of the popular people in my high school rather than imagine myself along them, you know? I don’t know how to explain this, but everyone just looked too cool for their ages? Hahahaha!
And, as nothing sells the bread better than its smell what, here are some quotes from the book ❤
It was easily explainable. All weird things were if you tried hard enough. – Cassie’s thoughts
Overactive imagination. It had always been her downfall.
If you like YA, Mystery, Suspense, Faes and Dark Romance, Of the Trees is your next must-read!
Thank you so much for reading!! Also, of course, thanks again to Month9Books for my review copy of Of The Trees!
February 28, 2017
E.M Fitch breathes life into Irish mythology and creates a story as unique and deliciously dark as the Fae Folk. Beware when you pick up this book, you'll never walk through the woods at night again…
Cassie and her best friend, Laney, are intrigued by the mysterious and enjoy ghost hunting at the Gray Lady Cemetery. A dark carnival comes to town bringing with it enticing characters who immediately lure the teens. Cassie is suspicious and can't figure out if the carnies are men or boys. Laney doesn't care and falls head over heels into the promise of adventure and danger. When the same shady characters from the carnival show up as newly enrolled students at the high school soon after, Cassie and Laney's friendship begins to unravel. Even worse, Cassie feels like her mind is unraveling. She hears voices—voices from the trees. Either Cassie is going crazy or something is very, very wrong.
Cassie must uncover the mystery of where the men have come from and why they want her friends. Not only does her sanity depend on it, but so does Laney's life.
E.M Fitch has rekindled dark romanticism with Of the Trees the way Stephanie Meyers breathed seduction back into gothic romance with Twilight. Whether you’re 15 or 35, trust me, you’ll want to read this.
Cassie and her best friend, Laney, are intrigued by the mysterious and enjoy ghost hunting at the Gray Lady Cemetery. A dark carnival comes to town bringing with it enticing characters who immediately lure the teens. Cassie is suspicious and can't figure out if the carnies are men or boys. Laney doesn't care and falls head over heels into the promise of adventure and danger. When the same shady characters from the carnival show up as newly enrolled students at the high school soon after, Cassie and Laney's friendship begins to unravel. Even worse, Cassie feels like her mind is unraveling. She hears voices—voices from the trees. Either Cassie is going crazy or something is very, very wrong.
Cassie must uncover the mystery of where the men have come from and why they want her friends. Not only does her sanity depend on it, but so does Laney's life.
E.M Fitch has rekindled dark romanticism with Of the Trees the way Stephanie Meyers breathed seduction back into gothic romance with Twilight. Whether you’re 15 or 35, trust me, you’ll want to read this.
February 27, 2017
This is my first time reading a horror novel. I was pretty scared and hesitant before reading it as horror shows and books totally freak me out.
The plot, on the whole, was interesting. The mystery behind the murder and the tree people intrigued me and kept me hooked to the novel, wanting to know the answers behind it. However, I am surprised that I wasn't spooked by the plot.
I had problems with Laney’s character. She had these intense mood swings whereby in one moment, she was best of friends with Cassie and suddenly, she was acting all frustrated and pissed off. Throughout the novel, their friendship had been like a Viking ship, tilting between friends and strangers. It was frustrating for me to continuously keep reading about their never-ending quarrels and patch up. Laney even seemed to be possessed at one point when she went hysteric and a tad crazy.
~SPOILERS~
While writing this review, I ran through the events which occurred in my mind and found out that they were indeed spooky. Imagine the tree people morphing in front of you as their skin stretch and appearances change to a different person, being able to hear the trees whispering in the woods and be the only one that is able to actually see the tree people. If I were to be in Cassie’s shoes, I will definitely be extremely scared. Somehow I didn’t felt scared when I was reading the novel (other than the realistic eyes being painted by blood portion) and I can’t seem to figure out the reason behind it.
The aspect which stood out to me would be the friendship between Rebecca and Cassie. Both of them provided moral support for one another in times of needs. As opposed to Laney who didn’t really care that Jessica death was partially due to the tree people and constantly kept trying to defend them.
On a side note, I initially thought that Corey and his friends were werewolves until I read the portion whereby they were able to morph and that proved that my initial speculations were false.
Finally, I would like to thank month9books for sending me this eGalley in exchange for an honest review. :)
The plot, on the whole, was interesting. The mystery behind the murder and the tree people intrigued me and kept me hooked to the novel, wanting to know the answers behind it. However, I am surprised that I wasn't spooked by the plot.
I had problems with Laney’s character. She had these intense mood swings whereby in one moment, she was best of friends with Cassie and suddenly, she was acting all frustrated and pissed off. Throughout the novel, their friendship had been like a Viking ship, tilting between friends and strangers. It was frustrating for me to continuously keep reading about their never-ending quarrels and patch up. Laney even seemed to be possessed at one point when she went hysteric and a tad crazy.
~SPOILERS~
While writing this review, I ran through the events which occurred in my mind and found out that they were indeed spooky. Imagine the tree people morphing in front of you as their skin stretch and appearances change to a different person, being able to hear the trees whispering in the woods and be the only one that is able to actually see the tree people. If I were to be in Cassie’s shoes, I will definitely be extremely scared. Somehow I didn’t felt scared when I was reading the novel (other than the realistic eyes being painted by blood portion) and I can’t seem to figure out the reason behind it.
The aspect which stood out to me would be the friendship between Rebecca and Cassie. Both of them provided moral support for one another in times of needs. As opposed to Laney who didn’t really care that Jessica death was partially due to the tree people and constantly kept trying to defend them.
On a side note, I initially thought that Corey and his friends were werewolves until I read the portion whereby they were able to morph and that proved that my initial speculations were false.
Finally, I would like to thank month9books for sending me this eGalley in exchange for an honest review. :)
February 6, 2017
I received a copy of this book from Month9Books in return for an honest review.
Of the Trees is a fast paced compelling YA horror thriller. Of the Trees starts with a foreboding tone as the main characters Cassie and her friend Laney are ghost hunting in the local cemetery. A few days later Cassie and her friends meet some carnival workers at the local fair, except they are not what they are seem; they are much more creepy and mysterious than carnies. Without giving away too much, people start to die and the spook factor ramps right up. At the end of the book, we don't have all the answers (which doesn't satisfy the scientific part of me), but I can see why leaving some of the mystery unexplained is more chilling. I really liked the character of Cassie and her friend Ryan, who is a total stand up guy. It's clever to set a book like this in high school because it a stage in life of anxiety and uncertainty. Throw in some mysterious deaths and everyone is that much more freaked out.
Of the Trees is a fast paced compelling YA horror thriller. Of the Trees starts with a foreboding tone as the main characters Cassie and her friend Laney are ghost hunting in the local cemetery. A few days later Cassie and her friends meet some carnival workers at the local fair, except they are not what they are seem; they are much more creepy and mysterious than carnies. Without giving away too much, people start to die and the spook factor ramps right up. At the end of the book, we don't have all the answers (which doesn't satisfy the scientific part of me), but I can see why leaving some of the mystery unexplained is more chilling. I really liked the character of Cassie and her friend Ryan, who is a total stand up guy. It's clever to set a book like this in high school because it a stage in life of anxiety and uncertainty. Throw in some mysterious deaths and everyone is that much more freaked out.
October 2, 2019
I received an ARC for E.M. Fitch's "Of The Trees" Blog Tour to promote her new book.
I went into this book not having any sort of clue what it was about...at all. I hadn't read the overview or the synopsis of the book - I just read a very brief summary of the book before delving right into it. When I first started reading this book, I was kind of bored with it - the plot line just wasn't going anywhere. However, the more I read this book, the more I enjoyed it. I got about a third of the way done and I just couldn't put it down! I absolutely LOVED the rest of this book! I don't really read horror novels, so that is a very big compliment! I loved the character of Cassie. She was very down-to-earth and safe in her actions - she was never one to put herself into the line of fire. This book had a lot of mystery to it and I absolutely was in awe with how this book ended! I totally recommend reading this book!
I went into this book not having any sort of clue what it was about...at all. I hadn't read the overview or the synopsis of the book - I just read a very brief summary of the book before delving right into it. When I first started reading this book, I was kind of bored with it - the plot line just wasn't going anywhere. However, the more I read this book, the more I enjoyed it. I got about a third of the way done and I just couldn't put it down! I absolutely LOVED the rest of this book! I don't really read horror novels, so that is a very big compliment! I loved the character of Cassie. She was very down-to-earth and safe in her actions - she was never one to put herself into the line of fire. This book had a lot of mystery to it and I absolutely was in awe with how this book ended! I totally recommend reading this book!
February 10, 2017
Review to come.
February 2, 2017
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. The premise of this book intrigued me, but when I first started it, I almost put it down. It took a bit to really get into the characters and what was going on. Once I was in, however, I was hooked. It was not what I expected at all but it held my attention, had me wondering, and kept me reading to the very end. I love the characters of Cassie and Ryan. I leave this book wanting to continue their story.
February 17, 2018
I was given an ARC copy for an honest review:
It was definitely intriguing but slow at the beginning. The action really started once I got to about halfway through the book. While I admit it's a good story... I'm not sure where it's leading. The forest in this book still hides many secrets. The characters are likeable and I like the feel of mystery the story has.
It was definitely intriguing but slow at the beginning. The action really started once I got to about halfway through the book. While I admit it's a good story... I'm not sure where it's leading. The forest in this book still hides many secrets. The characters are likeable and I like the feel of mystery the story has.
May 31, 2018
This book started off with a strong Bradbury (Something Wicked This Way Comes) vibe and sucked me right in. If you like creepy, atmospheric books, this one's for you.
March 3, 2017
I can definitely say that I have never read anything quite like this book. It was quite different and imaginative. It was a tale of friendship, love, and loss.
The writing was easy to follow. I enjoyed reading this book and trying to figure out what exactly was going on. It keeps you guessing...and I am still guessing and not quite sure. I am hoping that the author left this story this way because there will be another book and we will find out more. I am left with a lot of thoughts swirling through my head. I have so many ideas.
This may just be one of those books where the author wants the answer to be left to the reader. I definitely didn't want the story to end and wanted more.
I really enjoyed these characters and they felt real and believable. The romance between Cassie and her love interest was sweet and innocent. It was that perfect friend/love relationship.
I enjoyed the fact that there was actually a parental presence in this YA story. Too many times we read novels of teens and it feels as if they live alone and parents don't exist. I loved the parents in this book. I thought they were a wonderful addition to the story.
This story reminded me a bit of a Grimm Fairytale. It wasn't too intense but it had that sort of feel to it. It also reminded me of a story you would read out of the Scary Stories anthology. Anyone remember that book? Am I dating myself here? Lol.
Overall I enjoyed reading this one. I just wish I would have had a little more answers. I am left feeling confused. However, it is a piece of fiction that makes me think and gets my wheels going.
If you are looking for something a little different from the norm, I would recommend this unique read.
The writing was easy to follow. I enjoyed reading this book and trying to figure out what exactly was going on. It keeps you guessing...and I am still guessing and not quite sure. I am hoping that the author left this story this way because there will be another book and we will find out more. I am left with a lot of thoughts swirling through my head. I have so many ideas.
This may just be one of those books where the author wants the answer to be left to the reader. I definitely didn't want the story to end and wanted more.
I really enjoyed these characters and they felt real and believable. The romance between Cassie and her love interest was sweet and innocent. It was that perfect friend/love relationship.
I enjoyed the fact that there was actually a parental presence in this YA story. Too many times we read novels of teens and it feels as if they live alone and parents don't exist. I loved the parents in this book. I thought they were a wonderful addition to the story.
This story reminded me a bit of a Grimm Fairytale. It wasn't too intense but it had that sort of feel to it. It also reminded me of a story you would read out of the Scary Stories anthology. Anyone remember that book? Am I dating myself here? Lol.
Overall I enjoyed reading this one. I just wish I would have had a little more answers. I am left feeling confused. However, it is a piece of fiction that makes me think and gets my wheels going.
If you are looking for something a little different from the norm, I would recommend this unique read.
March 14, 2017
I was given a copy in return for an honest review. I enjoyed the story but found a few things unnecessary that didn't really have much to do with the plot. The ghost hunting never really developed and there was a lot of focus on hiking that didn't really materialize into much of anything. It felt like filler. I'm also left with a lot of questions. It seemed incomplete, perhaps the beginning of a series? Never really understood what "they" were. Other than that the story was pretty creepy and a quick read.
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February 26, 2017Review to come.
February 4, 2017
Not bad... Review coming soon
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