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Such Pretty Flowers
A woman investigating her brother’s apparent suicide finds herself falling for her prime suspect—his darkly mysterious girlfriend—in this “creepy, compelling, and utterly original” (Karen Dionne) thriller.
“Get it out of me.”
It was the last message Holly received from her brother, Dane, before he was found cleaved open in the lavish Savannah townhouse of his girlfriend, Maura. Police ruled his death a suicide sparked by psychosis, but Holly can’t shake the idea that something else must have happened—something involving another message he sent earlier that night about a “game” Maura wanted to play.
Determined to discover the truth, Holly begins to stalk Maura, a magnetic, black-eyed florist with a penchant for carnivorous plants. But what begins as an investigation quickly veers into a fixation that lures Holly into the depths of Maura’s world: Savannah high society, eerie black roses, and a whisper of something more sinister. Soon Holly is feeling a dark attraction to the one woman she shouldn’t trust. As Holly falls deeper for Maura and her secrets, she’s left with only one choice: find out what happened to Dane or meet the same fate.
“Get it out of me.”
It was the last message Holly received from her brother, Dane, before he was found cleaved open in the lavish Savannah townhouse of his girlfriend, Maura. Police ruled his death a suicide sparked by psychosis, but Holly can’t shake the idea that something else must have happened—something involving another message he sent earlier that night about a “game” Maura wanted to play.
Determined to discover the truth, Holly begins to stalk Maura, a magnetic, black-eyed florist with a penchant for carnivorous plants. But what begins as an investigation quickly veers into a fixation that lures Holly into the depths of Maura’s world: Savannah high society, eerie black roses, and a whisper of something more sinister. Soon Holly is feeling a dark attraction to the one woman she shouldn’t trust. As Holly falls deeper for Maura and her secrets, she’s left with only one choice: find out what happened to Dane or meet the same fate.
320 pages, Paperback
First published February 7, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 670 reviews
September 17, 2023
Gothic, dark, eerie, stimulating, queer, surprising and jaw dropping! Sold, sold and again sold!
This is one of the creepiest stories I’ve devoured! The characters are intriguingly peculiar, quirky, one of a kind! Especially the main character Holly, in her mid twenties, quirky, introvert librarian, just lost her brother who committed brutal suicide: trying to tear up his body with a knife!
Holly keeps questioning herself for being too late to answer her brother’s text telling her he was going to play another weird game with his girlfriend! From the beginning Holly thinks something off about Maura: the extinguished, sophisticated, fancy girlfriend of her brother.
After starting to date for only two months, her brother moved to her house. Maura played the role of supporting girlfriend, hanging out with Holly’s mother for mani pedis and coffee breaks as Holly keeps her distance. Did she envy her brother or did she also get worried things have been changing about him too quickly?
After having seizures, her brother’s paranoia gets out of control and last time she sees her face to face, he tells her something sinister is growing inside of him. But what?
Could brother tell her the truth? Was it a delusion he’s been talking about or was something sinister happening to him related with his girlfriend?
Holly decides to get closer to Maura’s circle to learn more about her secrets. When her own best friend decides to move to a condo with her future husband, Holly starts looking for places to move and Maura’s offer to live at her gothic mansion seems like a good opportunity for nosing around.
Holly already catches a few lies of Maura. And she gets more curious what she’s hiding at her greenhouse. Why she keeps those black roses under the glass and what she hides at basement?
Holly finds herself get drawn into Maura. Their attraction is undeniable. Guilt feelings eating her inside: she feels like she’s betraying to the memory of her brother and she realizes she’s moth to Maura’s flame! Could she be able to escape or would she be another victim just like her brother?
Overall; absolutely unique, interesting, bizarre, dark, enchanting reading! I honestly recommend it to the gothic horror lovers!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/ Ballantine- Bantam for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
This is one of the creepiest stories I’ve devoured! The characters are intriguingly peculiar, quirky, one of a kind! Especially the main character Holly, in her mid twenties, quirky, introvert librarian, just lost her brother who committed brutal suicide: trying to tear up his body with a knife!
Holly keeps questioning herself for being too late to answer her brother’s text telling her he was going to play another weird game with his girlfriend! From the beginning Holly thinks something off about Maura: the extinguished, sophisticated, fancy girlfriend of her brother.
After starting to date for only two months, her brother moved to her house. Maura played the role of supporting girlfriend, hanging out with Holly’s mother for mani pedis and coffee breaks as Holly keeps her distance. Did she envy her brother or did she also get worried things have been changing about him too quickly?
After having seizures, her brother’s paranoia gets out of control and last time she sees her face to face, he tells her something sinister is growing inside of him. But what?
Could brother tell her the truth? Was it a delusion he’s been talking about or was something sinister happening to him related with his girlfriend?
Holly decides to get closer to Maura’s circle to learn more about her secrets. When her own best friend decides to move to a condo with her future husband, Holly starts looking for places to move and Maura’s offer to live at her gothic mansion seems like a good opportunity for nosing around.
Holly already catches a few lies of Maura. And she gets more curious what she’s hiding at her greenhouse. Why she keeps those black roses under the glass and what she hides at basement?
Holly finds herself get drawn into Maura. Their attraction is undeniable. Guilt feelings eating her inside: she feels like she’s betraying to the memory of her brother and she realizes she’s moth to Maura’s flame! Could she be able to escape or would she be another victim just like her brother?
Overall; absolutely unique, interesting, bizarre, dark, enchanting reading! I honestly recommend it to the gothic horror lovers!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/ Ballantine- Bantam for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
October 6, 2022
i was so excited for this one! the synopsis is giving all of the vibes i need to start the halloween season off right, but this story was a bit too out there for me.
when it comes to horror, i guess i prefer cosy atmospheric spookiness (if thats a thing). so when a plot ventures into the realm of weird or eccentric, i tend to lose interest. which is what happened with this one.
i think if this had leaned more into the southern gothic roots and explored more of the haunted nature of savannah, the secrets of its high society, and its ghosts stories, i would have enjoyed this a lot more. its the perfect setting for this kind of story, so for it go in a completely different direction feels like missed potential to me.
all in all, this isnt a horrible story. its quick and easy to read. it actually reminded me a lot of ‘mexican gothic’ and ‘wilder girls’ in terms of weirdness so, if you enjoyed those books, then this might be one to look forward to!
thank you, random house/ballantine/bantam, for the ARC.
↠ 2.5 stars
when it comes to horror, i guess i prefer cosy atmospheric spookiness (if thats a thing). so when a plot ventures into the realm of weird or eccentric, i tend to lose interest. which is what happened with this one.
i think if this had leaned more into the southern gothic roots and explored more of the haunted nature of savannah, the secrets of its high society, and its ghosts stories, i would have enjoyed this a lot more. its the perfect setting for this kind of story, so for it go in a completely different direction feels like missed potential to me.
all in all, this isnt a horrible story. its quick and easy to read. it actually reminded me a lot of ‘mexican gothic’ and ‘wilder girls’ in terms of weirdness so, if you enjoyed those books, then this might be one to look forward to!
thank you, random house/ballantine/bantam, for the ARC.
↠ 2.5 stars
July 24, 2024
Some advice? Don’t .
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Bantam
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Bantam
February 18, 2024
**3.5-stars rounded up**
'Get it out of me.'
That was the last text Holly ever received from her brother, Dane. She was out with friends, dancing, drinking, living it up. Her brother was ending his life.
Holly is overwhelmed with grief and guilt in the days following the discovery of Dane's mutilated body. She knew he was struggling with his mental health. She feels guilty for not being more available to him.
Running through events in her mind, Dane's tumultuous last months, Holly begins to suspect that his suicide isn't as straight-forward as everyone believes. Seeing her brother's mysterious and beautiful girlfriend, Maura, at his funeral does nothing to quell those fears either.
In fact, it only makes her suspicions grow.
Determined to figure out the truth behind Dane's tragic death, Holly sets out to learn more about Maura and her relationship with Dane.
Holly befriends the younger woman and before long, circumstances allow them to spend a lot more time together. That's when things begin to get weird; really weird.
Maura is a very successful florist in the Savannah area. She owns a gorgeous home, she's so put together, but she's also creepy as heck.
At first, Holly is drawn to her, attracted to her, but she's also scared of her and she can't quite pinpoint why. As their relationship grows, Holly begins to fear that she could turn out just like Dane if she's not careful.
Compelling, addicting, eerie and creepy are just a few of the adjectives I would use to describe Such Pretty Flowers.
Anddddd while it wasn't perfect, it definitely got my anxiety up and kept me glued to the pages!
I went into this under the mistaken idea that this was a YA-story, but it's definitely not. It's got more of a New Adult vibe. It gets pretty dark and graphic, even including some body horror, which I always enjoy. I was here for it.
It was also super suspenseful. You can tell that there is something going on with Maura. It was so interesting trying to figure out what. It also gets pretty stressful and intense, like in a Single White Female kind of way.
It's like one of those intense feelings where you just want to shake the protagonist. Like, why are you making these crazy decisions, just get out of there!!
Holly was determined though. She tried so hard not to let silly fears overwhelm her, even when they didn't seem quite so silly. Maura was just a girl, younger than her even, she had no reason to be intimidated by her...right?
Overall, I found this to be a clever and compelling work of Dark Fiction. There were a few areas that could have been explored a bit more, in my opinion, but I feel like this is still a solid, engaging story.
Thank you to the publisher, Bantam, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I had a lot of fun with it and look forward to reading more from this author.
'Get it out of me.'
That was the last text Holly ever received from her brother, Dane. She was out with friends, dancing, drinking, living it up. Her brother was ending his life.
Holly is overwhelmed with grief and guilt in the days following the discovery of Dane's mutilated body. She knew he was struggling with his mental health. She feels guilty for not being more available to him.
Running through events in her mind, Dane's tumultuous last months, Holly begins to suspect that his suicide isn't as straight-forward as everyone believes. Seeing her brother's mysterious and beautiful girlfriend, Maura, at his funeral does nothing to quell those fears either.
In fact, it only makes her suspicions grow.
Determined to figure out the truth behind Dane's tragic death, Holly sets out to learn more about Maura and her relationship with Dane.
Holly befriends the younger woman and before long, circumstances allow them to spend a lot more time together. That's when things begin to get weird; really weird.
Maura is a very successful florist in the Savannah area. She owns a gorgeous home, she's so put together, but she's also creepy as heck.
At first, Holly is drawn to her, attracted to her, but she's also scared of her and she can't quite pinpoint why. As their relationship grows, Holly begins to fear that she could turn out just like Dane if she's not careful.
Compelling, addicting, eerie and creepy are just a few of the adjectives I would use to describe Such Pretty Flowers.
Anddddd while it wasn't perfect, it definitely got my anxiety up and kept me glued to the pages!
I went into this under the mistaken idea that this was a YA-story, but it's definitely not. It's got more of a New Adult vibe. It gets pretty dark and graphic, even including some body horror, which I always enjoy. I was here for it.
It was also super suspenseful. You can tell that there is something going on with Maura. It was so interesting trying to figure out what. It also gets pretty stressful and intense, like in a Single White Female kind of way.
It's like one of those intense feelings where you just want to shake the protagonist. Like, why are you making these crazy decisions, just get out of there!!
Holly was determined though. She tried so hard not to let silly fears overwhelm her, even when they didn't seem quite so silly. Maura was just a girl, younger than her even, she had no reason to be intimidated by her...right?
Overall, I found this to be a clever and compelling work of Dark Fiction. There were a few areas that could have been explored a bit more, in my opinion, but I feel like this is still a solid, engaging story.
Thank you to the publisher, Bantam, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I had a lot of fun with it and look forward to reading more from this author.
September 14, 2024
Holly was always close with her younger brother Dane. But when he started to become ill they drifted apart, now leaving Holly with immense guilt as she attends his funeral after he committed suicide. She finds out that her brother had moved in with his recent girlfriend Maura, and the more she talks to her, the more unease and secrets begin to emerge. Thinking that something seems off, Holly decides to find the truth surrounding Maura and her brother – even if it puts her own life in danger.
I really enjoyed the author’s writing. The atmosphere was fantastic; I loved that it was set in Savannah, GA, and that the author included some of its local lore. It made me think I knew what was going to happen, but I was surprised! It was a bit of a slow burn, but thanks to the atmosphere and the characters, I never found it boring. I wouldn’t necessarily classify it as horror, but suspense? Most definitely.
Holly was a great protagonist – her guilt was a realistic flaw that informed her decisions, and she had positive attributes that made her relatable/likeable. In fact, all of the characters felt well developed and well written, making it easy to get lost in their stories. I loved how Maura was written and the insights we were given into her history and thoughts. And as someone from the south, I appreciated that the author knew how to make the use of “y’all” feel authentic. One last thing – the romance was excellently done and added to the atmosphere of the work in that it was treated more like a compulsion or obsession than a traditional romance.
This was a unique and weird Southern Gothic read which I highly recommend – I became so absorbed in it that I finished it in a day (and stayed up much too late on a work night). My thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing for allowing me to read and review this work, which will be published February 7th, 2023. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I really enjoyed the author’s writing. The atmosphere was fantastic; I loved that it was set in Savannah, GA, and that the author included some of its local lore. It made me think I knew what was going to happen, but I was surprised! It was a bit of a slow burn, but thanks to the atmosphere and the characters, I never found it boring. I wouldn’t necessarily classify it as horror, but suspense? Most definitely.
Holly was a great protagonist – her guilt was a realistic flaw that informed her decisions, and she had positive attributes that made her relatable/likeable. In fact, all of the characters felt well developed and well written, making it easy to get lost in their stories. I loved how Maura was written and the insights we were given into her history and thoughts. And as someone from the south, I appreciated that the author knew how to make the use of “y’all” feel authentic. One last thing – the romance was excellently done and added to the atmosphere of the work in that it was treated more like a compulsion or obsession than a traditional romance.
This was a unique and weird Southern Gothic read which I highly recommend – I became so absorbed in it that I finished it in a day (and stayed up much too late on a work night). My thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing for allowing me to read and review this work, which will be published February 7th, 2023. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 11, 2023
Wow this was a lot creepier than I expected! Really really liked this.
October 2, 2024
This time I cared so little about the protagonist, I was truly rooting for the villain.
April 13, 2023
This book messed with my head so much.
Overall, it was a fun read. Definitely a bit dark, and quite mysterious. The descriptions featured on the front and back of the book itself are not at all how I would describe it. This story is not "atmospheric." It's more of a gaslighty, creepy thriller type.
The writing itself was lovely. I can tell the author put a lot of thought into every sentence, and that is something I can appreciate.
All that being said, the story itself isn't the best I've ever read, but once I got into it, it was difficult to put down. The ending wasn't totally what I wanted or expected, but the book, as a whole, held my attention enough that small details I disliked were of little consequence. This is really the type of book that cannot be put into words. It's just weird. Enjoy at your own risk.
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Overall, it was a fun read. Definitely a bit dark, and quite mysterious. The descriptions featured on the front and back of the book itself are not at all how I would describe it. This story is not "atmospheric." It's more of a gaslighty, creepy thriller type.
The writing itself was lovely. I can tell the author put a lot of thought into every sentence, and that is something I can appreciate.
All that being said, the story itself isn't the best I've ever read, but once I got into it, it was difficult to put down. The ending wasn't totally what I wanted or expected, but the book, as a whole, held my attention enough that small details I disliked were of little consequence. This is really the type of book that cannot be put into words. It's just weird. Enjoy at your own risk.
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January 30, 2023
3.5/5
I finished this book several days ago and have been sitting with my thoughts ever since. It was such a different read and when I finished I wasn’t sure if I liked it or hated it. Such a unique reading experience and definitely one that made me think long after I finished. I liked so many aspects, it was super creepy and unsettling and fairly fast paced. The southern gothic vibes were fantastic and it was so bizarre which I usually enjoy. I don’t think I picked up on it being gothic horror until after I started it and that’s not a genre I normally read. It’s just not usually my thing, but that’s sort of why I’m torn here. Things got really weird as the book went on and I think it was just a little too out there for me in the end. But the setting was awesome, the plot was pretty strong and the concept was original. If you like super strange and out there this could be for you.
I finished this book several days ago and have been sitting with my thoughts ever since. It was such a different read and when I finished I wasn’t sure if I liked it or hated it. Such a unique reading experience and definitely one that made me think long after I finished. I liked so many aspects, it was super creepy and unsettling and fairly fast paced. The southern gothic vibes were fantastic and it was so bizarre which I usually enjoy. I don’t think I picked up on it being gothic horror until after I started it and that’s not a genre I normally read. It’s just not usually my thing, but that’s sort of why I’m torn here. Things got really weird as the book went on and I think it was just a little too out there for me in the end. But the setting was awesome, the plot was pretty strong and the concept was original. If you like super strange and out there this could be for you.
February 7, 2023
"So Maura wants to play this weird ass game with me and I figured I'd let you know in case anything happened"
Shortly after that text from her brother Dane, Holly receives another one that reads: "get it out of me" . And that's the last time she ever hears from him.
Dane was really struggling with his mental health so no one cared about those last texts he sent before he killed himself. Except Holly. She puts herself in situations to get closer to Dane's girlfriend, Maura, to find out if she had anything to do with it. Maura is suspicious, but also incredibly compelling to Holly.
This was definitely an original story. I really appreciated the originality, but it fell flat for me in a few ways. For one, Holly was such a one note character to follow. She puts herself in these situations like she has a plan, but it feels like she doesn't know what she's doing or why half the time. There's no rhyme or reason to her decision making. For a large middle section the plot felt aimless to nonexistent, and then finally got back on track towards the ending.
"Southern gothic" were the two words that drew me to read this book, but it doesn't serve those vibes at all. It's constantly mentioned that this is set in Savannah (especially in the beginning, like it's not necessary to remind everyone what city were in every other page). It really lacked in atmosphere for me.
Anyways this leans more towards the Wilder Girls style of horror than gothic ghosty horror. I'm still intrigued to see what this author comes out with next and I hope it's just as unique as this one.
thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for my honest thoughts!
Shortly after that text from her brother Dane, Holly receives another one that reads: "get it out of me" . And that's the last time she ever hears from him.
Dane was really struggling with his mental health so no one cared about those last texts he sent before he killed himself. Except Holly. She puts herself in situations to get closer to Dane's girlfriend, Maura, to find out if she had anything to do with it. Maura is suspicious, but also incredibly compelling to Holly.
This was definitely an original story. I really appreciated the originality, but it fell flat for me in a few ways. For one, Holly was such a one note character to follow. She puts herself in these situations like she has a plan, but it feels like she doesn't know what she's doing or why half the time. There's no rhyme or reason to her decision making. For a large middle section the plot felt aimless to nonexistent, and then finally got back on track towards the ending.
"Southern gothic" were the two words that drew me to read this book, but it doesn't serve those vibes at all. It's constantly mentioned that this is set in Savannah (especially in the beginning, like it's not necessary to remind everyone what city were in every other page). It really lacked in atmosphere for me.
Anyways this leans more towards the Wilder Girls style of horror than gothic ghosty horror. I'm still intrigued to see what this author comes out with next and I hope it's just as unique as this one.
thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for my honest thoughts!
May 25, 2023
3.5 Stars!
This book is weird as fuck!
It's best to go into this book with as little information as possible. The only things I think are important to know are:
1. Sapphic
2. Flowers
3. Southern Charm with an edge
Such Pretty Flowers is a Southern Gothic tale that I think it would have been a great Lifetime movie in 2006...that's a compliment.
I liked this book even if I had no clue what was happening for the vast majority of it. It's definitely not for everyone and those who dislike will hate it.
No recommendation but I had fun.
This book is weird as fuck!
It's best to go into this book with as little information as possible. The only things I think are important to know are:
1. Sapphic
2. Flowers
3. Southern Charm with an edge
Such Pretty Flowers is a Southern Gothic tale that I think it would have been a great Lifetime movie in 2006...that's a compliment.
I liked this book even if I had no clue what was happening for the vast majority of it. It's definitely not for everyone and those who dislike will hate it.
No recommendation but I had fun.
November 25, 2024
So this book is pretty much all vibes and entertainment. No plot or logic. Which for the most part I didn’t mind. I even almost rated it higher if it weren’t for the ending.
If you need a book with spooky/witchy spring vibes? Then seriously this is for you. For the most part I didn’t care about the lack of plot or straightforward path (literally no twist, it’s incredibly obvious to everyone besides apparently the MC her parents and cops what is happening the entire time). I was just so intrigued by both the role of the flowers and well… the antagonist (Maura) because she’s totally crazy. And who doesn’t love flowers, herbs, and crazy ladies?
The atmosphere was definitely there. If this author did anything well, it was for sure that. From the flowers, to the gargoyles, to just the aesthetics of the environment. It was just so fun! Also had slight culty/secret society vibes, which I enjoyed a lot.
And I will say I was never bored or wanting to put the book down. So for a plotless book to achieve that is great!
The downside was how dumb our mc Holly was. Literally did not have a single string of common sense in her noggin. Like I said it’s not a twisty plot. It’s just pushed forward by Holly being conveniently stupid.
Not only that, but she was terrible on the emotional intelligence level. Like some of her thoughts are just so horrible it’s hard to care about her even though you’re supposed to.
But all of that was fine by me, until the super lack luster ending. It was okay I guess. Just so very meh. The motives were not doing it for me.
I guess I was hoping there was a surprise or something other than what I already knew.
Also the science behind how some of the stuff with the flowers happened…. Is a bit questionable to me. Even if science isn’t the only thing at play here. If you know what I mean.
But not bad, all in all! Just not the best either.
If you need a book with spooky/witchy spring vibes? Then seriously this is for you. For the most part I didn’t care about the lack of plot or straightforward path (literally no twist, it’s incredibly obvious to everyone besides apparently the MC her parents and cops what is happening the entire time). I was just so intrigued by both the role of the flowers and well… the antagonist (Maura) because she’s totally crazy. And who doesn’t love flowers, herbs, and crazy ladies?
The atmosphere was definitely there. If this author did anything well, it was for sure that. From the flowers, to the gargoyles, to just the aesthetics of the environment. It was just so fun! Also had slight culty/secret society vibes, which I enjoyed a lot.
And I will say I was never bored or wanting to put the book down. So for a plotless book to achieve that is great!
The downside was how dumb our mc Holly was. Literally did not have a single string of common sense in her noggin. Like I said it’s not a twisty plot. It’s just pushed forward by Holly being conveniently stupid.
Not only that, but she was terrible on the emotional intelligence level. Like some of her thoughts are just so horrible it’s hard to care about her even though you’re supposed to.
But all of that was fine by me, until the super lack luster ending. It was okay I guess. Just so very meh. The motives were not doing it for me.
I guess I was hoping there was a surprise or something other than what I already knew.
Also the science behind how some of the stuff with the flowers happened…. Is a bit questionable to me. Even if science isn’t the only thing at play here. If you know what I mean.
But not bad, all in all! Just not the best either.
August 12, 2023
the gothic eerie factor was definitely there and this had such unique plot points! i had some theories and they were all wrong, but not in a disappointing way at all. i thought the pacing was perfect, and I've been loving nature horror in my books lately, so I'm really glad i read this one.
March 24, 2023
This is billed as a Southern gothic thriller so I was incredibly intrigued… only to be quickly disappointed with a bizarre story that morphed into a ridiculous plot with frustrating characters who became exaggerated stereotypical caricatures. Basically, this became a hate read for me.
Holly’s brother Dane is found cleaved open (literally) in his girlfriend’s bathtub. Police say it was a suicide sparked by psychosis. Oooookay.
Holly begins her search for answers with Maura, Dane’s girlfriend. Suddenly Holly’s moved in to the extraordinary Savannah townhouse where her brother died and Maura is a creepy florist growing some weird plants in her greenhouse while seducing the sister of her dead boyfriend.
Seduction, secrets, and gaslighting of epic proportions plays out in implausible eye roll inducing ways.
Ugh.
Thanks to Bantam and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Such Pretty Flowers was released February 7, 2023.
For more reviews, visit www.rootsandreads.wordpress.com
Holly’s brother Dane is found cleaved open (literally) in his girlfriend’s bathtub. Police say it was a suicide sparked by psychosis. Oooookay.
Holly begins her search for answers with Maura, Dane’s girlfriend. Suddenly Holly’s moved in to the extraordinary Savannah townhouse where her brother died and Maura is a creepy florist growing some weird plants in her greenhouse while seducing the sister of her dead boyfriend.
Seduction, secrets, and gaslighting of epic proportions plays out in implausible eye roll inducing ways.
Ugh.
Thanks to Bantam and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Such Pretty Flowers was released February 7, 2023.
For more reviews, visit www.rootsandreads.wordpress.com
October 5, 2022
This one has all the promise of being a great southern horror book.
In Savannah, we have Holly who receives a cryptic message from her brother Zane saying, "Get it out of me" Then the next thing we know he has committed suicide: By ripping himself open with a cleaver in his fiancé's townhouse. Unnerved, Holly starts to investigate starting with Maura, Dane's fiancé and finds herself being closer and closer to her until she actually moves in with her.
Man, I really wanted to like this book..... The plot ends up being sinister but the characterization was just so poor. Holly ends up being just one dimensional with no personality and she has a job and best friend that you didn't care about. It was just badly written. Even the prose seemed really awkward and not situational at all.
I did like the plot but never could get past the problems mentioned above to really care too much about this book. I think there is a fanbase for it out there but just not me. I did read the whole book so as per my rating system I have it the minimum three stars.
I really appreciate Random House Publishing Group for giving me the opportunity to review this book and it has a publication date of February 7, 2023.
Advance reader copy given free for honest review.
In Savannah, we have Holly who receives a cryptic message from her brother Zane saying, "Get it out of me" Then the next thing we know he has committed suicide: By ripping himself open with a cleaver in his fiancé's townhouse. Unnerved, Holly starts to investigate starting with Maura, Dane's fiancé and finds herself being closer and closer to her until she actually moves in with her.
Man, I really wanted to like this book..... The plot ends up being sinister but the characterization was just so poor. Holly ends up being just one dimensional with no personality and she has a job and best friend that you didn't care about. It was just badly written. Even the prose seemed really awkward and not situational at all.
I did like the plot but never could get past the problems mentioned above to really care too much about this book. I think there is a fanbase for it out there but just not me. I did read the whole book so as per my rating system I have it the minimum three stars.
I really appreciate Random House Publishing Group for giving me the opportunity to review this book and it has a publication date of February 7, 2023.
Advance reader copy given free for honest review.
June 5, 2023
The book has an interesting premises, I enjoyed the vipe of the book and it was kinda eerie, and the writing was beautiful
But unfortunately it was very predictable, the pace was very slow and nothing really happened until like 70% of the book, and the MC kept making stupid decisions that made me want to slap her
So overall 3 ⭐️
But unfortunately it was very predictable, the pace was very slow and nothing really happened until like 70% of the book, and the MC kept making stupid decisions that made me want to slap her
So overall 3 ⭐️
August 19, 2023
I really wished there was an ending to this. Too many unanswered questions…
December 31, 2022
**I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway** might contain spoilers.
Most of the book I really enjoyed, like the writing and the build up. It was a perfect amount of suspense and mystery for 80% of the book.
Where it fell short was figuring it all out. The ending was anticlimactic and less satisfying than a ghost or some other paranormal entity wreaking havoc on this family. Pure horror would have fit in better than the good-intentioned explanation we received from Maura. Who’s pretty evil but also just deranged.
I also just think Holly is incompetent. Maybe I’m being ignorant to her grief, but Jesus. Follow your gut Holly. It was really frustrating to follow this person making terrible choices throughout the whole book. Furthermore, there were some characters who definitely didn’t need to be introduced, and others who needed more development.
At one point in the story I had a thought that Dane was Holly, and Holly was Dane, and it was alluding to a “Shutter Island” or something. I was disappointed to find that wasn’t the case and there was no real twist or psychological element hidden in there. Just a weird plant girl with a pretty hard to believe story.
Overall a little disappointed but was entertained for the most part.
Most of the book I really enjoyed, like the writing and the build up. It was a perfect amount of suspense and mystery for 80% of the book.
Where it fell short was figuring it all out. The ending was anticlimactic and less satisfying than a ghost or some other paranormal entity wreaking havoc on this family. Pure horror would have fit in better than the good-intentioned explanation we received from Maura. Who’s pretty evil but also just deranged.
I also just think Holly is incompetent. Maybe I’m being ignorant to her grief, but Jesus. Follow your gut Holly. It was really frustrating to follow this person making terrible choices throughout the whole book. Furthermore, there were some characters who definitely didn’t need to be introduced, and others who needed more development.
At one point in the story I had a thought that Dane was Holly, and Holly was Dane, and it was alluding to a “Shutter Island” or something. I was disappointed to find that wasn’t the case and there was no real twist or psychological element hidden in there. Just a weird plant girl with a pretty hard to believe story.
Overall a little disappointed but was entertained for the most part.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2023
There's been an influx of 'flower horror' lately and it's odd but pretty cool. I like the idea of plants and flowers being either sentient or a tool for evil deeds. On that front, this book had a lot of that content and was my favorite part of reading the story.
The main character Holly is what I didn't like about the book. I can understand being wary or even afraid of a sibling after they've been diagnosed with a mental illness, especially one that can manifest violently. The way Holly almost shunned Zane got to me. He asked for help, told her things weren't right, and still she ignored him. It was only after his death that she bothered to look into things.
Then, Holly can't see what's happening with Maura because she's infatuated with her. This girl obviously has shady things happening, but Holly keeps forgetting because she just can't get over liking her deceased brother's partner. WTF.
I still enjoyed the horror aspect, though I wanted the plant's uses to go deeper and learn more about them.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Bantam and NetGalley for the copy
The main character Holly is what I didn't like about the book. I can understand being wary or even afraid of a sibling after they've been diagnosed with a mental illness, especially one that can manifest violently. The way Holly almost shunned Zane got to me. He asked for help, told her things weren't right, and still she ignored him. It was only after his death that she bothered to look into things.
Then, Holly can't see what's happening with Maura because she's infatuated with her. This girl obviously has shady things happening, but Holly keeps forgetting because she just can't get over liking her deceased brother's partner. WTF.
I still enjoyed the horror aspect, though I wanted the plant's uses to go deeper and learn more about them.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Bantam and NetGalley for the copy
February 17, 2023
Hollys younger brother Dane committed suicide but no one knew why. Holly had come up with the idea to move in with Maura her brothers girlfriend. To Holly Maura seemed nice and down to earth and very successful. She lived in a very big and expensive townhouse.
When Maura left the townhouse she would look for clues about what happened to her brother. One night while grocery shopping with Maura Holly ran into her ex boyfriend Eric. Maura didn’t like it instantly and told Holly that he wasn’t right for her. Soon Holly would wish she hadn’t moved in with Maura.
When I started reading this book. I was hoping there was going to be a back story leading up to what happened to Dane. As I kept on the story really grabbed my attention. I couldn’t put it down. I wanted to keep on reading so I could finally find out what really happened. This books is a must read!!! I highly recommend it!!!
When Maura left the townhouse she would look for clues about what happened to her brother. One night while grocery shopping with Maura Holly ran into her ex boyfriend Eric. Maura didn’t like it instantly and told Holly that he wasn’t right for her. Soon Holly would wish she hadn’t moved in with Maura.
When I started reading this book. I was hoping there was going to be a back story leading up to what happened to Dane. As I kept on the story really grabbed my attention. I couldn’t put it down. I wanted to keep on reading so I could finally find out what really happened. This books is a must read!!! I highly recommend it!!!
March 29, 2023
3.5/5⭐️
The atmosphere in here was IMMACULATE. Carnivorous plants, southern gothic, potential dark arts, mysterious deaths, body horror, and a magnetic villain. I loved the vibes! The writing itself was great as well, I would definitely read from this author again.
I will say though, there were some plot holes in here. They weren't obvious at first because I was swept away in the gothic energy, but they are there. If you're a plot-driven reader, you may not enjoy this one as much.
The atmosphere in here was IMMACULATE. Carnivorous plants, southern gothic, potential dark arts, mysterious deaths, body horror, and a magnetic villain. I loved the vibes! The writing itself was great as well, I would definitely read from this author again.
I will say though, there were some plot holes in here. They weren't obvious at first because I was swept away in the gothic energy, but they are there. If you're a plot-driven reader, you may not enjoy this one as much.
October 13, 2023
I had a lot of mixed feelings about this novel. Some things I really liked...others bothered me. The overall plot was actually compelling. I love gothic horror, and from the book's cover description, it sounded promising. It wasn't long though before I found that I didn't really like any of the characters, and the up and down pace of the story was really frustrating. I just couldn't become immersed in the story almost from the beginning. The idea for the storyline had good bones for the birth of a really creepy psychological thriller...but the follow-through just didn't seem to be happening. There was too much focus on the on again off again romance between Holly and Maura, and some questionable methods that Holly used to investigate her brother’s death. The story didn't explore these enough to add anything to or advance the plot much. The discussion of how much Holly didn't trust Maura, but still gets sexually involved with her became repetitive. I’m always on board for a good gothic horror novel with some romance thrown in the mix.... but this one just doesn't hit that mark very well. The romance is obviously entirely wrong and should never have gone beyond the attraction stage since Holly believes that Maura was involved with her brother’s death. "I think you might have something to do with my brother's death..., but in the meantime...let's go to bed". I don't think so! As I said there was lots of "mixed feelings about the story on my end. I think this author has a great deal of talent and this is a first novel for her...so I'm hoping that she will release another. I would be more than willing to give her another try.
February 7, 2023
This is by far and away one of the most interesting plot lines I've ever read. I've never read anything quite like it.
The story follows Holly, she is dealing with her brothers apparent suicide and all the grief that comes with that. In order to get answers for a death that she feels isn't quite well explained, she reaches out to his girlfriend and finds that she becomes completely entranced with her. Although Holly can feel some thing is not quite right with the girlfriend she ends up moving in with her to try and get answers about her brother before his death. This leads to some major plot twists and turns and keeps you definitely enthralled throughout the entire story.
The story is well done and you absolutely do get feelings for the characters. You never quite like the girlfriend, you know something is absolutely not right with her. But somehow that just makes the book more intriguing versus it being a turn off. You want to know why she disturbs you and that keeps you reading further.
I feel like this is a great standalone story that is tied up nicely at the end. I didn't find there to be any plot holes that I didn't understand. I gave this story a 5/5 and I highly recommend people to read it during the spooky season. You definitely get an atmosphere of goth and gloom and it is definitely a thriller.
The story follows Holly, she is dealing with her brothers apparent suicide and all the grief that comes with that. In order to get answers for a death that she feels isn't quite well explained, she reaches out to his girlfriend and finds that she becomes completely entranced with her. Although Holly can feel some thing is not quite right with the girlfriend she ends up moving in with her to try and get answers about her brother before his death. This leads to some major plot twists and turns and keeps you definitely enthralled throughout the entire story.
The story is well done and you absolutely do get feelings for the characters. You never quite like the girlfriend, you know something is absolutely not right with her. But somehow that just makes the book more intriguing versus it being a turn off. You want to know why she disturbs you and that keeps you reading further.
I feel like this is a great standalone story that is tied up nicely at the end. I didn't find there to be any plot holes that I didn't understand. I gave this story a 5/5 and I highly recommend people to read it during the spooky season. You definitely get an atmosphere of goth and gloom and it is definitely a thriller.
April 5, 2023
"There's something growing inside me."
I went into this book not quite knowing what to expect, but I actually enjoyed it way more than I'd anticipated. I borrowed Such Pretty Flowers from my public library simply because I adored the book cover, but it's the premise that sold me.
A young woman named Holly is grieving the death of her brother who has committed a gruesome suicide after sending her a terrifying text that reads "Get it out of me." In spite of his history with mental illness, Holly can't understand how or why her brother would commit such a brutal act of violence on himself. But she starts to suspect that his ex-girlfriend Maura--a beautiful florist with an interest in carnivorous plants--might be connected to his demise.
This was a debut novel for author K.L. Cerra and--in spite of a few strange, unrealistic choices made by some of the characters--was an entertaining and downright creepy read for me. My hat goes off to her for such a fun, unsettling plot. I mean how could I not enjoy a book that mixes body horror with botany? This is a contemporary southern gothic thriller that's perfect for Spring time reading! So check it out if it sounds like your cup of tea!
I went into this book not quite knowing what to expect, but I actually enjoyed it way more than I'd anticipated. I borrowed Such Pretty Flowers from my public library simply because I adored the book cover, but it's the premise that sold me.
A young woman named Holly is grieving the death of her brother who has committed a gruesome suicide after sending her a terrifying text that reads "Get it out of me." In spite of his history with mental illness, Holly can't understand how or why her brother would commit such a brutal act of violence on himself. But she starts to suspect that his ex-girlfriend Maura--a beautiful florist with an interest in carnivorous plants--might be connected to his demise.
This was a debut novel for author K.L. Cerra and--in spite of a few strange, unrealistic choices made by some of the characters--was an entertaining and downright creepy read for me. My hat goes off to her for such a fun, unsettling plot. I mean how could I not enjoy a book that mixes body horror with botany? This is a contemporary southern gothic thriller that's perfect for Spring time reading! So check it out if it sounds like your cup of tea!
February 18, 2023
This book had the possibility of being something great. I loved the Gothic horror vibes, the Savannah setting
, and the botanical tidbits. But unfortunately, it fell flat for me. First of all, it was one of the most bizarre books I’ve ever read- and it really never came together. Second of all, it’s like the author kind of just ran out of time and decided to suddenly wrap it all up without fully fleshing it out.
2.5 stars rounded up
Thank you to Bantam books for the free advance copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.
, and the botanical tidbits. But unfortunately, it fell flat for me. First of all, it was one of the most bizarre books I’ve ever read- and it really never came together. Second of all, it’s like the author kind of just ran out of time and decided to suddenly wrap it all up without fully fleshing it out.
2.5 stars rounded up
Thank you to Bantam books for the free advance copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.
October 12, 2022
Holly’s brother Dane commits suicide. Holly thinks there’s something suspicious about his fiancé Maura. She becomes friends with Maura and moves into her creepy Gothic house with her. Strange eerie things begin to happen. She thinks what happened to her brother may happen to her.
This was a very thrilling read and I didn’t want to put it down at night.
Thanks NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine for the chance to read this ARC!
This was a very thrilling read and I didn’t want to put it down at night.
Thanks NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine for the chance to read this ARC!
January 31, 2023
This was one of the most twisty, incestuous, haunting thrillers I think I’ve ever read. When Holly‘s brother Dean dies due to “suicide”. The more Holly thinks about it the more she doesn’t believe it and thinks that his girlfriend Morrow May have had a hand in his death. So when she befriends her the last thing Holly expects is the fall for her brother‘s girlfriend but that’s exactly what she does. Morrow has a lavish townhouse and money and Holly gets swept up in the lifestyle but will she end up like her brother or will Holly and the strange girl have a happily ever after? This book was so freaking good! I thought this book was so different and so quirky and yes even haunting. When you’re reading a book and then all of a sudden you’re like… Oh right we don’t know if she’s a murderer or not? I just think that is the testament to the authors talent and I would definitely read more books and will by this author in the future. I highly recommend Such Pretty Flower's by KL Sarah I received this book from NetGalley and a publisher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
January 16, 2024
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
First off, wow. This cover was what really drew me in and then I saw the synopsis. Still, I had zero regrets when it came to requesting this book and then none when I eventually dove into it. At the moment, my mind is still reeling with what actually went down. From the very beginning, I had so many questions and honestly those didn't stop forming until the very end.
Which, of course, is when I was getting the answers. I was slowly starting to demand more information after the first few chapters. Honestly, probably after the prologue. Then there's the characters that were just off. Suspicious, not making sense, and driving me nuts. The murder mystery and the flowers kept me hooked.
In the end, I'm so glad that I was completely sucked in and read this within 24 hours. I have regrets about any of it. Especially since we can all officially rest from the chaos. I can't wait for my next mystery thriller.
First off, wow. This cover was what really drew me in and then I saw the synopsis. Still, I had zero regrets when it came to requesting this book and then none when I eventually dove into it. At the moment, my mind is still reeling with what actually went down. From the very beginning, I had so many questions and honestly those didn't stop forming until the very end.
Which, of course, is when I was getting the answers. I was slowly starting to demand more information after the first few chapters. Honestly, probably after the prologue. Then there's the characters that were just off. Suspicious, not making sense, and driving me nuts. The murder mystery and the flowers kept me hooked.
In the end, I'm so glad that I was completely sucked in and read this within 24 hours. I have regrets about any of it. Especially since we can all officially rest from the chaos. I can't wait for my next mystery thriller.
July 13, 2024
3.5⭐️ rounded up
This was such a unique and original story! Beautifully written with very gothic, feminine, and creepy vibes throughout. Gore, art, botany, herbology. Weird, but good weird. Pulled me in right away. However, it did move a little slow for me til closer to the end. I did really enjoy the story and the atmosphere the author created.
This was such a unique and original story! Beautifully written with very gothic, feminine, and creepy vibes throughout. Gore, art, botany, herbology. Weird, but good weird. Pulled me in right away. However, it did move a little slow for me til closer to the end. I did really enjoy the story and the atmosphere the author created.
October 17, 2023
Holly's brother, Dane, sends a cryptic message before his apparent suicide in his girlfriend Maura's home. Despite the police ruling, Holly suspects foul play, especially after a message about a mysterious "game." Holly investigates by closely monitoring Maura, which turns into an obsession, leading Holly into Savannah's high society, where she encounters strange occurrences involving black roses and an ominous undertone. Holly becomes increasingly entangled with Maura, torn between a dark attraction and the need to uncover the truth about Dane's death to avoid a similar fate.
I will start off by saying that horror is not my favorite genre and if I would have read the summary I probably wouldn't have read this book. However, since I didn't know and read the book I did really enjoy it up until the ending. I just have a hard time suspending my belief to buy the whole horror thing. The book is weird and has a very gothic feel but it also kept me hooked and needing to know what happened to Dane.
I will start off by saying that horror is not my favorite genre and if I would have read the summary I probably wouldn't have read this book. However, since I didn't know and read the book I did really enjoy it up until the ending. I just have a hard time suspending my belief to buy the whole horror thing. The book is weird and has a very gothic feel but it also kept me hooked and needing to know what happened to Dane.
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