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Keep in a Cold, Dark Place
Reaching for her dream, Limpy unleashes a cute, fluffy, NIGHTMARE ...
Keep in a cold, dark place. That’s what’s written like some ancient law on every bag of potatoes the family farms. And it’s where Limpy fears she will always remain.
It’s also carved on a box of spheres she discovers in the cellar. Spheres that hatch.
Cute at first, the creatures begin to grow. Then the chickens disappear. The cat is hunted. And something sets the barn ablaze. To survive, Limpy will need to face her greatest fear. The whole family will. Or they may end up in a cold, dark place indeed.
Keep in a cold, dark place. That’s what’s written like some ancient law on every bag of potatoes the family farms. And it’s where Limpy fears she will always remain.
It’s also carved on a box of spheres she discovers in the cellar. Spheres that hatch.
Cute at first, the creatures begin to grow. Then the chickens disappear. The cat is hunted. And something sets the barn ablaze. To survive, Limpy will need to face her greatest fear. The whole family will. Or they may end up in a cold, dark place indeed.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2017
12 people are currently reading
853 people want to read
About the author
Michael F. Stewart
18 books267 followersMichael F. Stewart has authored over two dozen books for kids and young adults. With works ranging from interactive digital epics and graphic novels to humorous middle grade and surreal young adult novels, Michael enjoys stretching the limits on his storytelling and working with other authors young and old to tell their stories. He has an MFA from the Vermont College of Fine Arts and lives in Ottawa with his partner, four daughters, a cat, and a dog.
To learn more about Michael and his next projects visit his website.
To learn more about Michael and his next projects visit his website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 2, 2017
I can’t resist a good horror tale, and I very much enjoy ones spun for kids. I sure wish there had been more like this when I was young. But, you’re never too old to enjoy a gem like this.
Being a sweet, kind-hearted lass, Limpy doesn’t know any better when she places the box of eggs she discovered in the sun to warm. When one of the eggs hatches and out pops a cute little critter, she’s overjoyed. But then another egg hatches, and another. And what started as a kind act turns into horror.
Picturing what hatches from one of the eggs, I immediately thought of an evil Tribble or, if you’ve seen Critters, one of those rolling furry things with the sharp pointy teeth. But that’s just when it and it’s litter mates first get started. They eat. They grow. They change. And they are always hungry, always eating. And they don’t discriminate. From produce to living things, such as, perhaps, a cat, it all looks good to them. What could be next? Maybe a human child? Or an adult? That’s more food.
I ate this story up faster than you can say Keep In A Cold Dark Place. There’s a sense of foreboding right from the start. Limpy is a delightful and resourceful young girl. The creatures are cute, then not so cute. And the writing flows nicely, the author keeping the atmosphere building and the tension high.
A scary good story for young lovers of horror and us older fans of things that go bump in the night.
Thanks so much to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
Being a sweet, kind-hearted lass, Limpy doesn’t know any better when she places the box of eggs she discovered in the sun to warm. When one of the eggs hatches and out pops a cute little critter, she’s overjoyed. But then another egg hatches, and another. And what started as a kind act turns into horror.
Picturing what hatches from one of the eggs, I immediately thought of an evil Tribble or, if you’ve seen Critters, one of those rolling furry things with the sharp pointy teeth. But that’s just when it and it’s litter mates first get started. They eat. They grow. They change. And they are always hungry, always eating. And they don’t discriminate. From produce to living things, such as, perhaps, a cat, it all looks good to them. What could be next? Maybe a human child? Or an adult? That’s more food.
I ate this story up faster than you can say Keep In A Cold Dark Place. There’s a sense of foreboding right from the start. Limpy is a delightful and resourceful young girl. The creatures are cute, then not so cute. And the writing flows nicely, the author keeping the atmosphere building and the tension high.
A scary good story for young lovers of horror and us older fans of things that go bump in the night.
Thanks so much to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
June 7, 2017
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Too cute for words! Limphetta has grown up never knowing her mom and being raised by her dad and brothers. Growing up on a potato farm hasn't been easy for her, and she longs for freedom. Unknowingly, unleashing evil puts a new perspective on life. These creatures are up to no good. This is great for middle readers and adults alike. Just the right amount of scare for some.
Too cute for words! Limphetta has grown up never knowing her mom and being raised by her dad and brothers. Growing up on a potato farm hasn't been easy for her, and she longs for freedom. Unknowingly, unleashing evil puts a new perspective on life. These creatures are up to no good. This is great for middle readers and adults alike. Just the right amount of scare for some.
May 27, 2017
Review: KEEP IN A COLD, DARK PLACE by Michael F. Stewart
Fascinating, delightful, inspiring, yet supremely sad and subtly scary: KEEP IN A COLD, DARK PLACE is all of this and more. The story of a poorly-thriving, hardscratch existence of a potato-farming family, living just outside of a tiny town which itself can barely stay alive, this setting so reminded me of the Great Depression, and of the Dust Bowl so capably elucidated by author John Steinbeck. Yet this is contemporary, so it seems somehow worse.
Thirteen-year-old Limphetta ("Limpy") can never satisfy her rough Irish immigrant father nor her older brothers. Her mother died during Limpy' s birth, and so all the housework devolves to her, in addition to much of the farm work, and schooling. She just wants to create art, and to be loved. When she "coincidentally" unearths an antique box entombed under the barn' s cellar, Limpy, like Pandora, unleashes evil with good intentions. Maybe there is a real reason their farm has always been considered "cursed."
Fascinating, delightful, inspiring, yet supremely sad and subtly scary: KEEP IN A COLD, DARK PLACE is all of this and more. The story of a poorly-thriving, hardscratch existence of a potato-farming family, living just outside of a tiny town which itself can barely stay alive, this setting so reminded me of the Great Depression, and of the Dust Bowl so capably elucidated by author John Steinbeck. Yet this is contemporary, so it seems somehow worse.
Thirteen-year-old Limphetta ("Limpy") can never satisfy her rough Irish immigrant father nor her older brothers. Her mother died during Limpy' s birth, and so all the housework devolves to her, in addition to much of the farm work, and schooling. She just wants to create art, and to be loved. When she "coincidentally" unearths an antique box entombed under the barn' s cellar, Limpy, like Pandora, unleashes evil with good intentions. Maybe there is a real reason their farm has always been considered "cursed."
June 14, 2017
The cover for Keep In A Cold Dark Place by Michael F Stewart is sooo good, I knew I had to read this. I immediately thought of Gremlins and figured I was in for one hell of an adventure…and I was right.
Limpy is a poor young girl with large dreams. I get very angry over the way most people treat her. It takes all kinds to make up this world, and she does more than her fair share. Here dead mother haunts her thoughts. She is devoted to her family and her art. Her creativity and originality would probably make her millions in the read world.
BUT…there are no monsters in the real world…are there? I was pleasantly surprised at what the monsters are and don’t want to spoil it, so I’m not going to tell you. For all you horror lovers, you DO want to know. I mean, just the title, Keep In A Cold Dark Place, is ominous, telling us there will be death and mayhem between ‘the pages’.
Michael F Stewart did a fabulous job with the writing and world he created. I felt anger and fear, worry and hope, and I was pretty sure the humans would prevail. I just wasn’t sure what humans would be left standing.
Lots of action and suspense kept me reading this cute and terrifying coming of age horror tale for Limpy and her family, friends and neighbors.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Keep In A Cold Dark Place by Michael F Stewart.
To see more visit fundinmental
Limpy is a poor young girl with large dreams. I get very angry over the way most people treat her. It takes all kinds to make up this world, and she does more than her fair share. Here dead mother haunts her thoughts. She is devoted to her family and her art. Her creativity and originality would probably make her millions in the read world.
BUT…there are no monsters in the real world…are there? I was pleasantly surprised at what the monsters are and don’t want to spoil it, so I’m not going to tell you. For all you horror lovers, you DO want to know. I mean, just the title, Keep In A Cold Dark Place, is ominous, telling us there will be death and mayhem between ‘the pages’.
Michael F Stewart did a fabulous job with the writing and world he created. I felt anger and fear, worry and hope, and I was pretty sure the humans would prevail. I just wasn’t sure what humans would be left standing.
Lots of action and suspense kept me reading this cute and terrifying coming of age horror tale for Limpy and her family, friends and neighbors.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Keep In A Cold Dark Place by Michael F Stewart.
To see more visit fundinmental
June 1, 2017
Sorry Michael it took me so long to get around to reviewing this book. nuts!! I have been super busy, life always gets in the way, I am a reading machine, that's me!!! ... reviewing is sometimes a full time job ...& you don't get paid (humor, but seriously how can you get paid to read? sign me up!! please.) ... I love reading ... thank you Micheal for giving me this read ... LOVED IT!! I was such a fan of Gremlins as a kid. Watched it more recently ... it is like going to my childhood, they sure don't make movies like they use too!! ... it has been years ... it is so old looking? i love the cover! for me a more recent book or figure it reminds me of is Harry Potter and his monster (creature) book that is like chopping ... he probably has a name, but I am drawing a blank? Lots of folks are saying this book is horror ... maybe i am confused about the true way of a horror book? but to me i think Stephen King ...Pet Cemetery or It or that sort of thing??! ... I know this not a happy go lucky kind of lighthearted read ...but i was not freaked out ... pee in my pants kind of read. Maybe it was a light side of a horror genre? Hope that make sense? I enjoyed it!! Great book, Must read!! can wait to see what else Michael writes, etc.! ( ;
June 15, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this book. The story was entertaining, and had a good message. The story flowed well, and the author had me at the edge of my seat for most of it. It was an interesting take on a well known myth, and the connection that the creatures had with the humans was unique. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a tame horror.
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May 22, 2017
Reminiscent of the Gremlins, but more gruesome, 'Keep in a Cold, Dark Place' is a perfect story about the opening of Pandora's Box and the cutest little furry creatures that make your heart weep...that is, until they grow into something more 'fangy' than furry. Once I saw the cover, I just knew I had to read this book - reading the summary was only a formality born from habit here, but it did confirm that my impulsive reaction was not a mistake.
The story begins harmless enough, introducing our female main character, Limpy, and her really not so nice family, easily having us sympathize with her dream about leaving her father's potato farm in order to visit art school. When Limpy discovers a strange box with even stranger eggs in it beneath the potato sacks in the storage cellar, this triggers an avalanche of weird events. At first, Limpy is delighted about the fuzzy furry big-eyed creature hatching from one of the eggs. She adopts the little buddy, names him 'Chup' (loved that hint) and vows to care for him like a mother.
However, not long after Chup's siblings hatch from their eggs, and the little guys start playing tricks. Limpy tries to cover for them as best she can, but soon things get out of hand and it's not just harmless little tricks anymore. With the help of an unexpected friend, Limpy learns that Chup and his pals are growing into some very deadly ancient creatures which are bound to kill her and her family if she doesn't stop them...
The second main theme of this book, apart from the obvious creature feature, is family - its ups and downs, its cruelty towards each other, but also its bond of loyalty and sense of belonging, whether we like it or not. In this regard, the ending does have a slightly corny taste, but it works so well that it didn't bother me at all.
Featuring my favorite kind of creature, combined with a likable coming-of-age story and a well-balanced mixture of humor and horror, this book was a perfect read for me. I would love to see this made into a movie...or, skip the movie and go straight for the merchandise so that I can get my own little Chuppie!
(Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for a copy of the book, all opinions are my own)
The story begins harmless enough, introducing our female main character, Limpy, and her really not so nice family, easily having us sympathize with her dream about leaving her father's potato farm in order to visit art school. When Limpy discovers a strange box with even stranger eggs in it beneath the potato sacks in the storage cellar, this triggers an avalanche of weird events. At first, Limpy is delighted about the fuzzy furry big-eyed creature hatching from one of the eggs. She adopts the little buddy, names him 'Chup' (loved that hint) and vows to care for him like a mother.
However, not long after Chup's siblings hatch from their eggs, and the little guys start playing tricks. Limpy tries to cover for them as best she can, but soon things get out of hand and it's not just harmless little tricks anymore. With the help of an unexpected friend, Limpy learns that Chup and his pals are growing into some very deadly ancient creatures which are bound to kill her and her family if she doesn't stop them...
The second main theme of this book, apart from the obvious creature feature, is family - its ups and downs, its cruelty towards each other, but also its bond of loyalty and sense of belonging, whether we like it or not. In this regard, the ending does have a slightly corny taste, but it works so well that it didn't bother me at all.
Featuring my favorite kind of creature, combined with a likable coming-of-age story and a well-balanced mixture of humor and horror, this book was a perfect read for me. I would love to see this made into a movie...or, skip the movie and go straight for the merchandise so that I can get my own little Chuppie!
(Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for a copy of the book, all opinions are my own)
June 2, 2017
I received a copy of this title from the publisher via Netgalley.
Ten Second Synopsis:
Limpy, whose family owns a failing potato farm on the brink of foreclosure, desperately wants to escape to art school and pursue her dream. When she discovers a mysterious box containing even more mysterious eggs in the cellar, she unwittingly unleashes a historical nightmare that threatens to tear apart the final threads holding her family together.
Limpy is the only daughter in her family and was unlucky enough to have her mother die while giving birth to her. Her father is so stricken by grief that he keeps a potato-sack effigy of his dead wife in their home, her brothers are alternately bullying and selectively mute and Limpy wants nothing more than to escape her dreary existence and go to art school far away from their failing potato farm. After discovering a strange box in the potato cellar, Limpy begins to hope that maybe her impossible dream isn't so unlikely after all...but at the same time, she may have just unleashed an unholy terror onto the farm that could be the end of her broken family.
I thoroughly enjoyed this original and layered middle grade horror-action story. Other reviewers have compared the story to the film Gremlins and there are certainly shades of that fun film in the parts of the book relating to the "pets" that Limpy discovers, but in addition to that, Stewart has crafted an emotional story about grief, moving on and coping with change that is forced upon you. There's a definite atmosphere of oppression and depression that emanates from the descriptions of the farm and the town in general and the reader can definitely understand Limpy's deep need for escape. The depictions of Limpy's family life were, at times, difficult to read as the grief and anger of her father, particularly, is raw and toxic despite the passing of time.
When the creatures that Limpy discovers stop being so cute and fluffy in favour of being more scaly and rampaging, the book alternates between bursts of chaotic action and poignant personal discoveries, as Limpy and her family face their deepest fears in order to save themselves. Part of the emotional draw at the end of the story, I think, depends on the fact that Limpy is the only girl in this part of the story, and it is her older brothers and father (as well as some male neighbours) that have to put aside their bravado and acknowledge those things that make them frightened and hold them back.
I love that the author has selected a monster that isn't so common in children's literature, or "monster" stories generally, so the book provides an opportunity for young readers to discover a legend that they may not have encountered before. I would highly recommend this book to adventurous young readers who enjoy action and fantasy elements blended with real-life problems.
Ten Second Synopsis:
Limpy, whose family owns a failing potato farm on the brink of foreclosure, desperately wants to escape to art school and pursue her dream. When she discovers a mysterious box containing even more mysterious eggs in the cellar, she unwittingly unleashes a historical nightmare that threatens to tear apart the final threads holding her family together.
Limpy is the only daughter in her family and was unlucky enough to have her mother die while giving birth to her. Her father is so stricken by grief that he keeps a potato-sack effigy of his dead wife in their home, her brothers are alternately bullying and selectively mute and Limpy wants nothing more than to escape her dreary existence and go to art school far away from their failing potato farm. After discovering a strange box in the potato cellar, Limpy begins to hope that maybe her impossible dream isn't so unlikely after all...but at the same time, she may have just unleashed an unholy terror onto the farm that could be the end of her broken family.
I thoroughly enjoyed this original and layered middle grade horror-action story. Other reviewers have compared the story to the film Gremlins and there are certainly shades of that fun film in the parts of the book relating to the "pets" that Limpy discovers, but in addition to that, Stewart has crafted an emotional story about grief, moving on and coping with change that is forced upon you. There's a definite atmosphere of oppression and depression that emanates from the descriptions of the farm and the town in general and the reader can definitely understand Limpy's deep need for escape. The depictions of Limpy's family life were, at times, difficult to read as the grief and anger of her father, particularly, is raw and toxic despite the passing of time.
When the creatures that Limpy discovers stop being so cute and fluffy in favour of being more scaly and rampaging, the book alternates between bursts of chaotic action and poignant personal discoveries, as Limpy and her family face their deepest fears in order to save themselves. Part of the emotional draw at the end of the story, I think, depends on the fact that Limpy is the only girl in this part of the story, and it is her older brothers and father (as well as some male neighbours) that have to put aside their bravado and acknowledge those things that make them frightened and hold them back.
I love that the author has selected a monster that isn't so common in children's literature, or "monster" stories generally, so the book provides an opportunity for young readers to discover a legend that they may not have encountered before. I would highly recommend this book to adventurous young readers who enjoy action and fantasy elements blended with real-life problems.
May 27, 2017
**This book was reviewed via XPresso Blog Tours**
We shape our own worst nightmares, and so we hold the key to their banishment. Sometimes the things we fear the most need never be feared at all. Stewart's Keep in a Cold, Dark Place is a witty commentary on fear, and how we often let it get the better of us. Ignore your fears at your own peril, for ignored and neglected fears can turn into raging monsters that overtake your life.
Limpy lives in a rather provincial town, a village really, on a potato farm with her father and two brothers. Day in and day out, Limpy’s life revolves around potatoes, though as the youngest, she is still allowed to attend school. For now. But Limpy has bigger dreams than slaving on a farm the rest of her life. She wants to attend Hillcrest, on an art scholarship, and when we meet her, she is in the library working on her submission for the scholarship- a beautiful tapestry of the town.
Unbeknownst to Limpy, as her fears and frustration grow, they are being given shape and form. After being assigned the back-breaking work of shifting all the bagged potatoes from one side of the root cellar to the other as punishment for not being home in time to fix dinner, Limpy uncovers a box buried for who knows how long. Inside are beautiful jewel-coloured eggs, unlike anything Limpy has ever seen. And one is ready to hatch. Limpy's new pet is the key to a curse, and the key to her salvation.
I devoured this book in a day. I love that a more unusual legend plays a part in this story. I won't give it away, but I found it delightfully refreshing. I love finding stories that tap into the strange and unusual. This is a story about fear, and how we ourselves hold the key to taming ours. If we do not face them, and learn from them, our fears can overwhelm us. They can get us into trouble, they can paralyse us, and they can keep us from a full productive life, but kept in check, our fears can help us grow.
Each member of Limpy’s rather dysfunctional family (they keep an effigy of her mother, who died giving birth to her, in a separate room...) must enter the Underworld of the root cellar and face their Shadow, in the form of the mysterious eggs. Every person must face their own Shadow, the hidden parts of themselves, at some point or another. Every time we ignore our Shadows, we allow them to rampage through our lives. Meeting them face to face, we bring ourselves into greater harmony, and our Shadows stay in the background, present but sleeping, so long as they are acknowledged.
📚📚📚📚📚 Highly recommended
We shape our own worst nightmares, and so we hold the key to their banishment. Sometimes the things we fear the most need never be feared at all. Stewart's Keep in a Cold, Dark Place is a witty commentary on fear, and how we often let it get the better of us. Ignore your fears at your own peril, for ignored and neglected fears can turn into raging monsters that overtake your life.
Limpy lives in a rather provincial town, a village really, on a potato farm with her father and two brothers. Day in and day out, Limpy’s life revolves around potatoes, though as the youngest, she is still allowed to attend school. For now. But Limpy has bigger dreams than slaving on a farm the rest of her life. She wants to attend Hillcrest, on an art scholarship, and when we meet her, she is in the library working on her submission for the scholarship- a beautiful tapestry of the town.
Unbeknownst to Limpy, as her fears and frustration grow, they are being given shape and form. After being assigned the back-breaking work of shifting all the bagged potatoes from one side of the root cellar to the other as punishment for not being home in time to fix dinner, Limpy uncovers a box buried for who knows how long. Inside are beautiful jewel-coloured eggs, unlike anything Limpy has ever seen. And one is ready to hatch. Limpy's new pet is the key to a curse, and the key to her salvation.
I devoured this book in a day. I love that a more unusual legend plays a part in this story. I won't give it away, but I found it delightfully refreshing. I love finding stories that tap into the strange and unusual. This is a story about fear, and how we ourselves hold the key to taming ours. If we do not face them, and learn from them, our fears can overwhelm us. They can get us into trouble, they can paralyse us, and they can keep us from a full productive life, but kept in check, our fears can help us grow.
Each member of Limpy’s rather dysfunctional family (they keep an effigy of her mother, who died giving birth to her, in a separate room...) must enter the Underworld of the root cellar and face their Shadow, in the form of the mysterious eggs. Every person must face their own Shadow, the hidden parts of themselves, at some point or another. Every time we ignore our Shadows, we allow them to rampage through our lives. Meeting them face to face, we bring ourselves into greater harmony, and our Shadows stay in the background, present but sleeping, so long as they are acknowledged.
📚📚📚📚📚 Highly recommended
June 12, 2017
This one my first novel by this author but I will certainly be checking out more as this was a fun MG horror story.
Limpy wants nothing more than to leave her home on the potato farm and her answer to that is through her art and winning a scholarship if she can get her entry done in time and get her dad to approve. That would be the hardest part. One day when doing chores she finds a weird box in the ground with some funny writing on it. Curiosity gets the best of her so she opens it and finds some weird eggs, one starts to hatch and out comes this cute little critter.
Limpy puts the others in a safe place and takes the cute little thing up to her room. She thinks it's the cutest thing but has no clue what it is, but what she finds out soon is that they might be cute but they are naughty. The others hatch and soon she has three of them and the more they eat the more they grow. One of them doesn't hatch right away so she doesn't know what happens to him when he does hatch and he is kind of a rogue one.
By the time Limpy finds out what they are things have gotten out of hand and she doesn't know what to do. They are growing constantly and peoples animals are going missing. The critters get her into trouble at school and things are just not going well for Limpy.
The monsters remind me of a cross between the monsters in the movies Gremlins and Critters. They way they have to get rid of them is really cool and family oriented. This story really is about family and facing ones fears of the unknown. It's a great scary read for young readers but there are a few slightly scary parts towards the end so just make sure you know your young ones level of scary and it will be a great read for them.
I really loved the ending and how these monsters really brought the family together as they had to fight them off. Fear is what you make of it, some times it can start out cute and cuddly then get really fierce and ugly and that was my take on it. :)
Limpy wants nothing more than to leave her home on the potato farm and her answer to that is through her art and winning a scholarship if she can get her entry done in time and get her dad to approve. That would be the hardest part. One day when doing chores she finds a weird box in the ground with some funny writing on it. Curiosity gets the best of her so she opens it and finds some weird eggs, one starts to hatch and out comes this cute little critter.
Limpy puts the others in a safe place and takes the cute little thing up to her room. She thinks it's the cutest thing but has no clue what it is, but what she finds out soon is that they might be cute but they are naughty. The others hatch and soon she has three of them and the more they eat the more they grow. One of them doesn't hatch right away so she doesn't know what happens to him when he does hatch and he is kind of a rogue one.
By the time Limpy finds out what they are things have gotten out of hand and she doesn't know what to do. They are growing constantly and peoples animals are going missing. The critters get her into trouble at school and things are just not going well for Limpy.
The monsters remind me of a cross between the monsters in the movies Gremlins and Critters. They way they have to get rid of them is really cool and family oriented. This story really is about family and facing ones fears of the unknown. It's a great scary read for young readers but there are a few slightly scary parts towards the end so just make sure you know your young ones level of scary and it will be a great read for them.
I really loved the ending and how these monsters really brought the family together as they had to fight them off. Fear is what you make of it, some times it can start out cute and cuddly then get really fierce and ugly and that was my take on it. :)
June 28, 2017
Limpy's lot is not a happy one; like Jerusha Bromley in Michener's Hawaii, she seeks escape from a family potato farm where she toils without respect or appreciation. The girl's daily duties include all the cooking and cleaning, plus grading potatoes, bagging them, stitching the bags shut, and toting them down into the cool, dry cellar for storage.
At school, she supplements her ordinary education with Internet research. If only the local art academy will accept her project, a fabric-art portrait of the town where she attends public school, she can escape.
The farm is poor; Limpy's materials are limited to potato bags, twine, and her own boundless imagination. But sewing time is always being stolen from her. Bullies at school eat into her library stitching schedule, then punishments at home rob her of time to work on her art project, and she worries she won't be able to finish by the impending deadline.
It doesn't help that the farm is being foreclosed on, or that the deadline comes right in the middle of harvest time. The last thing Limpy needs on top of all that is a high-maintenance pet like Chup, a fluffy yellow critter who hatched from an egg she found buried in the cool, dark soil floor of the potato cellar—let alone six more trouble-making hatchlings that begin as needy youngsters, but rapidly become monsters.
At first, seeing this novel presented in the Kindle Scout list, I was reminded of Gremlins. Cute critters, fuzzy, turn into monsters... Yeah, those elements are all there. But Stewart's novel is no comic-book tale of cutesiness-turned-evil, it is deeper than that. Limpy's need to face her fear that she will fail is about to be woven into the fears of all around her, family and friends, even previous owners of the potato farm.
The story is engaging, and Limpy herself is delightful. As for Chup and his brother-fuzzies, you won't believe what they turn out to be. But finding out for yourself won't take long; like many such delicious tales, it is a quick read.
You won't want to put it down until you know if Limpy escapes the farm and her fate.
At school, she supplements her ordinary education with Internet research. If only the local art academy will accept her project, a fabric-art portrait of the town where she attends public school, she can escape.
The farm is poor; Limpy's materials are limited to potato bags, twine, and her own boundless imagination. But sewing time is always being stolen from her. Bullies at school eat into her library stitching schedule, then punishments at home rob her of time to work on her art project, and she worries she won't be able to finish by the impending deadline.
It doesn't help that the farm is being foreclosed on, or that the deadline comes right in the middle of harvest time. The last thing Limpy needs on top of all that is a high-maintenance pet like Chup, a fluffy yellow critter who hatched from an egg she found buried in the cool, dark soil floor of the potato cellar—let alone six more trouble-making hatchlings that begin as needy youngsters, but rapidly become monsters.
At first, seeing this novel presented in the Kindle Scout list, I was reminded of Gremlins. Cute critters, fuzzy, turn into monsters... Yeah, those elements are all there. But Stewart's novel is no comic-book tale of cutesiness-turned-evil, it is deeper than that. Limpy's need to face her fear that she will fail is about to be woven into the fears of all around her, family and friends, even previous owners of the potato farm.
The story is engaging, and Limpy herself is delightful. As for Chup and his brother-fuzzies, you won't believe what they turn out to be. But finding out for yourself won't take long; like many such delicious tales, it is a quick read.
You won't want to put it down until you know if Limpy escapes the farm and her fate.
June 18, 2017
Limpy is a motherless child. She has big plans for her future if she can just figure out how to overcome not only her own fears but the fears of her entire family. Time’s a ticking though. Limpy’s family may lose their home and there are things lurking in the basement. Things meant to stay in the dark and when brought into the light begin to feed off the fears of Limpy and her kin.
This is a children’s book, but trust me when I say this scary story will give adults the chills too and that’s a good thing! Author Michael F. Stewart does an excellent job of building this story which draws you in right from the start. Limpy is such a sympathetic character. She has a lot to overcome and you find yourself rooting for her and her dysfunctional family. You want Limpy, an underdog, to succeed. If anyone deserves a break, she does.
This horror story is a nail biter to the very end. The age range for this book says 9 to 14-year-old, I don’t think I’d let my 9-year-old read this though, It might give them nightmares. I’d say 11 and up could handle this well penned and enjoyable story.
I think this book would do well in audio form. I hope the author considers it. This book was gifted to me in exchange for an unbiased review!
This is a children’s book, but trust me when I say this scary story will give adults the chills too and that’s a good thing! Author Michael F. Stewart does an excellent job of building this story which draws you in right from the start. Limpy is such a sympathetic character. She has a lot to overcome and you find yourself rooting for her and her dysfunctional family. You want Limpy, an underdog, to succeed. If anyone deserves a break, she does.
This horror story is a nail biter to the very end. The age range for this book says 9 to 14-year-old, I don’t think I’d let my 9-year-old read this though, It might give them nightmares. I’d say 11 and up could handle this well penned and enjoyable story.
I think this book would do well in audio form. I hope the author considers it. This book was gifted to me in exchange for an unbiased review!
May 28, 2017
A super fun read that's extremely well-written. The Gremlins comparison is obvious (kids finds cute little monster that turns out to be HORRIBLE MUST KILL IT MONSTER) but this is in no way a rehash of that story. The monsters here (chupacabras) are friends and companions for lonely Limpy--a girl raised on a potato farm who dreams of something better, including a family that is, well...nicer than grumpy old dad and her mean old brothers. But when thungs go south--and they do, big time!--Limpy and her family must band together to save them farm and pretty much anyone else who gets in the chupa-chompa-monsters' way. This is a great scary but not gory story for kids that adults will enjoy as well. Highly recommend for it's cunning combo of 'aww' and 'eek!', and because the potato farm had a cat named Spud. :)
June 1, 2017
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley.
When a cache of brightly coloured eggs hatches into a clutch of cute furry creatures Limpy O'Malley thinks she's found some new friends. But when the creatures mischief takes a darker turn Limpy and her family and friend, Emmanuel, find themselves in a race against time to save the family farm and their own lives.
An entertaining story for middle graders but not really enough scares or peril for older, teenage, children. Perhaps the most disturbing part is a 13 year old buying bullets from the local General Store, then taking them (and knives) to school....
When a cache of brightly coloured eggs hatches into a clutch of cute furry creatures Limpy O'Malley thinks she's found some new friends. But when the creatures mischief takes a darker turn Limpy and her family and friend, Emmanuel, find themselves in a race against time to save the family farm and their own lives.
An entertaining story for middle graders but not really enough scares or peril for older, teenage, children. Perhaps the most disturbing part is a 13 year old buying bullets from the local General Store, then taking them (and knives) to school....
November 19, 2017
Keep in a Cold, Dark Place by Michael F. Stewart is a story of Limphetta O'Malley, best known as Limpy, who lives on a potato farm. She has aspirations of a grander life, in fact, she wants to pursue her love of sewing. While rotating the potato bags in the barn one evening, Limpy discovers a hidden box. What she unleashes will change her world forever.
This is a well written story of determination, facing your fears, and self-discovery. Michael's story gripped me and wouldn't let go. The characters stay with you, and gives you something to think about.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is a well written story of determination, facing your fears, and self-discovery. Michael's story gripped me and wouldn't let go. The characters stay with you, and gives you something to think about.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2017
This was such a cute book! But if your younger one is scared easily, I'd steer clear. There's a good dose of scary on the pages with bullies, monsters, curses, and life screaming down on Limpy. There's a lot going on in the book, and the author does a great job of weaving the different elements together into one complete story with all the loose threads wrapped up so nicely.
First, we have Limpy's quest to get out of the small little hole of a town she lives in. She hates the town, she hates her family's potato farm, and she doesn't seem to like very many people either. She goes about trying to get a scholarship to an art school. Her concept of a project is really cool, and I read all sorts of alternate under the surface meaning into it.
Meanwhile, back at the potato farm, she finds some strange eggs that begin to hatch into some pretty cool looking creatures. They are super cute but remind me of the gremlins. They're just the cute little furry thing you think they are. These are the monsters that keep you up at night and they are a little scary. The more you learn about them, the worse they get.
There's a few really great life lessons woven into the story. Some more obvious than others. But nice and very age appropriate as well. This book was definitely a win in my opinion. Not Little Man just needs to get a few years older so we can read it together.
First, we have Limpy's quest to get out of the small little hole of a town she lives in. She hates the town, she hates her family's potato farm, and she doesn't seem to like very many people either. She goes about trying to get a scholarship to an art school. Her concept of a project is really cool, and I read all sorts of alternate under the surface meaning into it.
Meanwhile, back at the potato farm, she finds some strange eggs that begin to hatch into some pretty cool looking creatures. They are super cute but remind me of the gremlins. They're just the cute little furry thing you think they are. These are the monsters that keep you up at night and they are a little scary. The more you learn about them, the worse they get.
There's a few really great life lessons woven into the story. Some more obvious than others. But nice and very age appropriate as well. This book was definitely a win in my opinion. Not Little Man just needs to get a few years older so we can read it together.
January 26, 2020
I need people I know to read this so I can discuss how clever it was. I can't do it here, in a review, as I'll ruin the impact for the next reader. Hurrumph.
In short, the genre is like a blend of American Great Depression literature + coming of age + a reinvisioned fairy tale. Essentially, NOT what I was expecting.
I love the protagonist. I wasn't so sure about the father but, come the end, I thought I understood him.
The book has left me with lots to think about - always the sign of a decent children's novel.
(Originally reviewed for Netgalley.co.uk)
In short, the genre is like a blend of American Great Depression literature + coming of age + a reinvisioned fairy tale. Essentially, NOT what I was expecting.
I love the protagonist. I wasn't so sure about the father but, come the end, I thought I understood him.
The book has left me with lots to think about - always the sign of a decent children's novel.
(Originally reviewed for Netgalley.co.uk)
December 10, 2020
This book is quite scary for a middle grade book. Especially in the beginning when you can sense the dread and gloom that hangs over Limpy and her family. The conditions of her life are really not looking good and this golden ticket of a scholarship might be just too far to reach. When she finds that little thing buried in the ground of the dark barn you just want to shout out a warning...
But the book gives you hope that when you face your fears and don't give up, your problems will get smaller and can eventually just be kept in a cold, dark place...
But the book gives you hope that when you face your fears and don't give up, your problems will get smaller and can eventually just be kept in a cold, dark place...
July 20, 2017
Perfect for middle graders and for some adults as well. The story is well developed and very intriguing. You find yourself wanting to know what happens next and next and next, then first thing you know it's already the dawn. I think young readers will absolutely enjoye this one.
disclaimer: I got a copy from netgalley for my honest review.
disclaimer: I got a copy from netgalley for my honest review.
June 25, 2017
Limpy is a young girl who lives on a potato farm with her father and brothers. Her dream is to go to art school and one day leave the farm. Limpy’s mother died when she was born and for as long as Limpy can probably remember she has worked on the farm with her father and brothers. Limpy’s father has never gotten over her mother’s death and keeps a potato sack in the music room so they can remember her and never forget.
Limpy is working in the cellar one day sorting out bags of potatoes when she finds a box with four eggs in it. One of the eggs hatches and she has herself a new little friend, a little ball of fluff which she called Chup. Chup put me in the mind of a gremlin. When Limpy gets up the next morning she finds that more has hatched. When their chickens are attached and their cat is being stalked Limpy decides it is time to find out who her new little friends are so she does some research online.
Once her new little friends start eating they start growing and becoming more and more aggressive and mean. Limpy and her family must find a way to stop her little friends who are not so little anymore. Limpy and her family must all face their fears and what is holding them all back or they may never get rid of her little buddies.
I really enjoyed reading Keep in a Cold, Dark Place and following along with Limpy as she faced her little buddies. I liked watching Limpy figure out what was causing her little buddies to grow. Keep in a Cold, Dark Place tells more than the eye kind of thing as they say. I loved and enjoyed the concept of Keep in a Cold, Dark Place.
If you have not read Keep in a Cold, Dark Place then I would like to recommend it. It may be a middle-grade book but it is still a very intriguing read for any adult and filled with lots of twist and turns that will leave you on the edge of your seat wanting more.
Limpy is working in the cellar one day sorting out bags of potatoes when she finds a box with four eggs in it. One of the eggs hatches and she has herself a new little friend, a little ball of fluff which she called Chup. Chup put me in the mind of a gremlin. When Limpy gets up the next morning she finds that more has hatched. When their chickens are attached and their cat is being stalked Limpy decides it is time to find out who her new little friends are so she does some research online.
Once her new little friends start eating they start growing and becoming more and more aggressive and mean. Limpy and her family must find a way to stop her little friends who are not so little anymore. Limpy and her family must all face their fears and what is holding them all back or they may never get rid of her little buddies.
I really enjoyed reading Keep in a Cold, Dark Place and following along with Limpy as she faced her little buddies. I liked watching Limpy figure out what was causing her little buddies to grow. Keep in a Cold, Dark Place tells more than the eye kind of thing as they say. I loved and enjoyed the concept of Keep in a Cold, Dark Place.
If you have not read Keep in a Cold, Dark Place then I would like to recommend it. It may be a middle-grade book but it is still a very intriguing read for any adult and filled with lots of twist and turns that will leave you on the edge of your seat wanting more.
February 28, 2022
A wonderfully complete story that is both scary and lovely. How Limpy was treated by her family broke my heart but from learning and working on their fears they come together and finally know that love and family is everything. Oh and always keep Chups in a cool dark place!
January 1, 2022
Reminded me too much of the movie gremlins. Not much originality to it at all.
April 14, 2020
Limphetta has one desire, to get off the potato farm where she works until her fingers bleed, leaving her no time to work on her art. Limphetta also has one fear, that she will never get off the farm. Keep in a Cold, Dark Place by Michael F. Stewart combines the real life struggle of a young girl with the excitement of mischievous, fantastical creatures that at first seem harmless, but soon show their true identities. In the spirit of Gremlins, this tale has a wonderful balance of reality and fantasy. Limphetta's fear is real, and the more she lets it devour her, the more likely the little beasts are to cause real harm. Will Limphetta be able to overcome her fear, thus saving the very thing she is trying to run from?
October 28, 2017
Kindle Unlimited There was just something a bit off to me for some reason, liked it but not luved it type thing but more a 4 1/2 type thing so went with 5.
Ever think about Gremlins or gremlins or things that go bump in the night and then some? This is worse than that, deadlier, and is a whole lot harder to beat. I might not be wanting potatoes any time soon, either. Gotta luv the cover art too. Would like to see a picture of the stuffed toy and the potato sack art.
4 is to equal 4 on amazon.
Ever think about Gremlins or gremlins or things that go bump in the night and then some? This is worse than that, deadlier, and is a whole lot harder to beat. I might not be wanting potatoes any time soon, either. Gotta luv the cover art too. Would like to see a picture of the stuffed toy and the potato sack art.
4 is to equal 4 on amazon.
February 23, 2021
I need people I know to read this so I can discuss how clever it was. I can't do it here, in a review, as I'll ruin the impact for the next reader. Hurrumph.
In short, the genre is like a blend of American Great Depression literature + coming of age + a reinvisioned fairy tale. Essentially, NOT what I was expecting.
I love the protagonist. I wasn't so sure about the father but, come the end, I thought I understood him.
The book has left me with lots to think about - always the sign of a decent children's novel.
In short, the genre is like a blend of American Great Depression literature + coming of age + a reinvisioned fairy tale. Essentially, NOT what I was expecting.
I love the protagonist. I wasn't so sure about the father but, come the end, I thought I understood him.
The book has left me with lots to think about - always the sign of a decent children's novel.
May 27, 2017
The book grabbed my attention from the very beginning. I could feel her despair at feeling like she had no options but the farm. I found the introduction of the creatures very intriguing, as I tried to figure out what they were - my first thought was baby dragons as I am huge fan of dragon books. The ongoing description of the creatures as they grew made me realize this was not the case. The conflict in the family over the death of the mother seemed to be a driving force for the story.
It was a great read and I would read it again.
It was a great read and I would read it again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2017
Limpy knows that there is more to life than the family farm and wants a chance to shine at art school but it seems like she will never get the chance. While storing potatoes in the cellar, Limpy finds a mysterious box and makes the huge mistake of opening it. Inside she finds mysterious eggs which hatch into adorable creatures. Or so she thinks. Limpy discovers the creatures are not what they seem and she needs to find a way of undoing the damage she has done and salvage any chance she has to go to art school.
I found "Keep in a Cold, Dark Place" by Michael F. Stewart to be a fun and fast read. I know others have said it but I am also reminded (to a degree anyway) of the gremlins but these guys have a bit of a nasty quality to them. I doubt that I will ever look at potatoes the same way again. The book is written in such a way that it would be a good introduction to horror for preteens/teens.
I received a copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley for free in exchange for an honest review.
I found "Keep in a Cold, Dark Place" by Michael F. Stewart to be a fun and fast read. I know others have said it but I am also reminded (to a degree anyway) of the gremlins but these guys have a bit of a nasty quality to them. I doubt that I will ever look at potatoes the same way again. The book is written in such a way that it would be a good introduction to horror for preteens/teens.
I received a copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley for free in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2017
This book is sure to provide many hours of entertainment for readers. I had such a good, fun time reading this book. If you are a fan of Gremlins, then, you will want to pick up a copy of this book.
Poor Limpy. She dreamed of going to art school. However, she was stuck on her family's farm with
her father, and brothers, Connor, and Dylan. I guess you could kind of call Limpy "Cinderella".
Who knew that chupacabras would make such good pets. Ok, so maybe this is not really true. However, not all of them are evil. In fact, some of them can be nice or mischief or evil. Just ask Limpy. She never imagined she would have quite the adventure when she uncovered that box in her potato farm. Too bad she did not heed the warning prior to opening the box. Yet, if she did, she would never have met Chup and his siblings. You could not help but fall of Chup and his siblings as well as Limpy and her family. They showed just how important family is.
I loved this warning and message that Limpy craved on the box that the chupacabras' came from...
"Chupacabra. Do not open. But, if you do, remember that the greatest monsters are those we create ourselves. Be Brave".
Poor Limpy. She dreamed of going to art school. However, she was stuck on her family's farm with
her father, and brothers, Connor, and Dylan. I guess you could kind of call Limpy "Cinderella".
Who knew that chupacabras would make such good pets. Ok, so maybe this is not really true. However, not all of them are evil. In fact, some of them can be nice or mischief or evil. Just ask Limpy. She never imagined she would have quite the adventure when she uncovered that box in her potato farm. Too bad she did not heed the warning prior to opening the box. Yet, if she did, she would never have met Chup and his siblings. You could not help but fall of Chup and his siblings as well as Limpy and her family. They showed just how important family is.
I loved this warning and message that Limpy craved on the box that the chupacabras' came from...
"Chupacabra. Do not open. But, if you do, remember that the greatest monsters are those we create ourselves. Be Brave".
May 27, 2017
I ended up really liking this story! I would not call this horror but it had some mildly frightening scenes. Kids at my school love the scary stuff and I can't keep them on my shelves. This book will fit in with my school collection. A unique, fast paced story that will keep the kids reading. And I LOVE the cover. Who can resist a cute, fuzzy, large-eyed creature? Although looks can be deceiving.... Good book. Will definitely purchase for my elementary library.
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this.
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this.
May 27, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley for an ereader of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
In all honesty I found it difficult to put this book down. It was that good! Not only was it good, it was scary. A lot of books that target this age range and claim to be 'scary' just don't make it. This is the book that recommendations are made of.
The release date is not that far off and I don't want to give any spoilers. If you look at the cover you will notice potatoes along with the sack they are stored in once sorted. These sacks have the words 'store in a cold, dry place' stamped onto them. In the center is a cute (?) sad- eyed ball of fur known as a chupacabra. Like gremlins, they start off small and cute. But hold on to your seats because they won't remain that way. However, it's not water that makes them change. It's much more personal.....
A strong female main character (Limpy) is supported by a host of male characters: her sharp shooter brother and another who is mute along with a very angry father. To this mix add a bully (Arnie) and a loyal friend (Emmanual). Add to this a cursed potato farm, some chupacabras and you have the beginnings of a book that will not only be scary but quite difficult to put down.
A true winner in my book!
In all honesty I found it difficult to put this book down. It was that good! Not only was it good, it was scary. A lot of books that target this age range and claim to be 'scary' just don't make it. This is the book that recommendations are made of.
The release date is not that far off and I don't want to give any spoilers. If you look at the cover you will notice potatoes along with the sack they are stored in once sorted. These sacks have the words 'store in a cold, dry place' stamped onto them. In the center is a cute (?) sad- eyed ball of fur known as a chupacabra. Like gremlins, they start off small and cute. But hold on to your seats because they won't remain that way. However, it's not water that makes them change. It's much more personal.....
A strong female main character (Limpy) is supported by a host of male characters: her sharp shooter brother and another who is mute along with a very angry father. To this mix add a bully (Arnie) and a loyal friend (Emmanual). Add to this a cursed potato farm, some chupacabras and you have the beginnings of a book that will not only be scary but quite difficult to put down.
A true winner in my book!
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