What happens when you take a writer who is obsessed by apples? You get a story that twists and turns like the roots of an old, wild apple tree. Engaging, horrific, and dare I say original? This one is packed with all the things that make a horror story great. Creepy, atmospheric setting? Check. Eye-popping gruesome visuals? Check. Suspense? Fear? The unknown? Oh, yes! Death? Multiples. The characters are rich and engaging. And if you like a folk and historic element, it has that, too. It almost sounds like too much, but Wendig masterfully weaves it all together.
If I had to come up with a criticism, I’d say the horrific part of the tale started a little late for me, but it takes time for the seeds to germinate and grow. One other note. I listened to the audiobook and was happy that I listened all the way through all the end stuff. There I learned more about the author’s obsession with the fruit. I’ll certainly be keeping a watchful eye out for heirloom apples.
