Don’t Eat the Pie
by Monique Asher
RATING: 5/5
Monique Asher’s "Don't Eat the Pie" serves up a deliciously eerie tale that’s perfect for the spooky season. Set against the enchanting backdrop of Camillia Island, the story follows newlywed Sam, who finds herself entangled in a web of family obligations and sinister secrets after moving there to care for her ailing mother-in-law. The idyllic island community initially embraces Sam and her daughter, Emma, with open arms, but it soon becomes clear that this warm welcome comes with its own chilling undercurrents.
Asher expertly crafts a sense of foreboding that intensifies as the narrative unfolds. The haunting presence of the house next door—where Ben's first wife mysteriously died—adds layers of intrigue and dread. Emma's unsettling experiences with the supernatural serve as a catalyst for tension, as her mother grapples with the desire to fit into her new family while dismissing her daughter's warnings. The contrast between Sam's yearning for a perfect family life and Emma's visceral connection to the island's dark history creates a compelling narrative tension that kept me on the edge of my seat.
The characters are vividly drawn, particularly Sam, whose pregnancy adds a layer of complexity to her already fraught situation. The revelation of a “demon baby” is a wild twist that amplifies the story's dark witchy undertones, blending elements of horror and psychological thriller in a way that feels fresh and engaging.
Asher’s prose is both evocative and unsettling, making every shadow feel like it could conceal a secret waiting to be uncovered. The older women of Camillia Island, with their endless cocktails and superstitions, provide a unique charm while simultaneously heightening the eerie atmosphere. Their cryptic behavior hints at the island’s buried secrets, drawing readers deeper into the mystery.
In "Don't Eat the Pie," Monique Asher masterfully combines elements of horror, family dynamics, and the supernatural, resulting in a narrative that is as compelling as it is creepy. This book is a must-read for fans of dark thrillers and anyone looking to embrace the chills of the season. Just remember: sometimes, the sweetest appearances can hide the darkest truths.
