I really wanted to like this one, I think that Jessica Lewis has a really compelling writing style. I'm just not really in the mood for YA thrillers/horrors anymore, so this one wasn't for me.

DNF - I had big hopes but overall the pacing was odd, the story started to fall a bit flat, and I couldn’t get into it.

"Monstrous" by Jessica Lewis is a riveting young adult novel that skillfully blends horror, fantasy, and a profound exploration of the human condition, making it a standout addition to the genre. Lewis crafts a narrative that is as thrilling as it is thought-provoking, ensnaring readers in a world where the lines between monster and hero, right and wrong, are blurred and beautifully complex.

At the heart of "Monstrous" is its compelling protagonist, whose journey is characterized by resilience, growth, and an unyielding quest for self-discovery. Lewis’s masterful character development ensures that readers are not just observers but emotionally invested companions, cheering on as the protagonist navigates challenges both external and internal, monstrous and human. The novel’s characters are its lifeblood, each with their own flaws, strengths, and arcs that contribute to a richly woven tapestry of narratives.

Lewis’s world-building is another triumph of "Monstrous." The author meticulously constructs a universe that is at once familiar and uncannily strange, where the fantastical elements serve not just as a backdrop but as integral components of the story’s exploration of themes such as identity, acceptance, and the nature of evil. The setting of "Monstrous" is vividly realized, immersing readers in its eerie atmospheres and landscapes that pulse with a life of their own.

One of the most notable achievements of "Monstrous" is its ability to engage with dark themes and elements of horror in a way that is accessible and meaningful to a young adult audience. Lewis handles complex topics with sensitivity and intelligence, weaving a narrative that is both entertaining and enlightening. The horror elements are skillfully balanced with moments of tenderness and humor, creating a rich, multifaceted reading experience that resonates on multiple levels.

The plot of "Monstrous" is intricately plotted and fast-paced, with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Lewis demonstrates a keen sense of timing and suspense, expertly doling out revelations and shocks in a way that feels both surprising and inevitable. The narrative is driven by a powerful emotional core, making the climactic moments all the more impactful and satisfying.

"Monstrous" also stands out for its thematic depth. Lewis delves into questions of morality, identity, and what it means to be monstrous, challenging readers to reflect on these issues long after turning the last page. The novel encourages empathy and understanding, pushing against easy judgments and stereotypes, and inviting a more nuanced consideration of what lies beneath the surface.

In conclusion, "Monstrous" by Jessica Lewis is a triumph of young adult fiction, offering a perfect blend of horror, fantasy, and heartfelt storytelling. With its memorable characters, imaginative world-building, and thoughtful exploration of complex themes, it is a novel that not only entertains but also enriches. Lewis has crafted a story that is both a thrilling adventure and a compelling invitation to explore the depths of our own humanity. "Monstrous" is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone who appreciates a story told with both courage and heart.

This book hit on a middle ground for me. The premise was there and that cover is giving Medusa vibes (though I feel this is intentional - woman wronged uses snakes to get revenge. Yup. Intentional), but the overall pacing was just off.

Lewis's writing style does the setting justice. Like I said, it's an interesting and fun premise but the overall execution of the book just didn't hit its mark.

The characters are okay - Latavia goes through quite a bit in this book and her PTSD is portrayed rather realistically and in a way that isn't beat over the head with the term PTSD. The author is really good about showing us the symptoms of the disorder without having to name it every time. I think that is an incredible talent that not all author's have without making such things seem and feel ridiculous.

But the relationships didn't feel real. The connections were concrete. And the growth was so so.

I'd give it an average of 2.5 out of 5 stars but we will settle for 3.

This story had so many fun and interesting elements, and Lewis was able to blend them all seamlessly. Sapphic character who happens to be a new girl in a small town? I was hooked from the start, and while there were some things that weren't perfect for me, I still had a great experience with it and found it super compelling.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me free access to the advanced digital copy of this book.

Not for me. Lost me when the snake started talking because it felt cheesy. Started out good though, and was pretty intriguing until then.

Thanks to Netgalley and Delacorte Press for access to an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

When Latavia has no choice but to temporarily move in with her Aunt and younger cousin in Sanctum, Alabama until school starts up in the fall, she's already less than fond of the town. But after the deaths and subsequent closed-casket funerals of three citizens of the town pull the people of Sanctum together in a matter of six weeks, Latavia starts to feel like there might be something odd going on in Sanctum. But as a black girl who is also sapphic, there are already enough people giving her looks around town as it is. She chooses to focus more on time with her cousin Jade and their friend Allison--the girl who Latavia has formed a crush on since coming to stay in Sanctum.

But when the town Sheriff and two other men show up that night before she's meant to go out to a party with Allison, dragging her kicking and screaming from the house, and even her cousin won't help her? Then she *knows* something messed up is going on. But will she make it through the night and get the chance to figure it out, or will she be the next in the long run of closed-casket funerals and names marked on the plaque in the park?

This book was such a *trip* and I ate up every second of it. Latavia was such a badass main character, and her struggles both with PTSD after the horrific things she goes through and with her search for revenge against the people who wronged her were so fun, tense, exciting, and *upsetting* to read. I won't say more plot wise to avoid spoiling anything, but her benefactor of sorts was such a fun character, and I adored the relationship between them and Latavia as well as between Latavia and Allison and Jade. I did find myself wishing at some points that her PTSD was shown in a few different ways to really drive the point without having to reference it by name so often and tell instead of showing, but my gosh this made me excited to read more of Jessica Lewis's work.

A few content warnings to keep in mind:

Panic attacks, PTSD, mention of physical and mental abuse, ritualistic sacrifice, attempted murder, murder, extensive physical injury, violence, assault, dog attack, cult-ish behavior.

I can’t believe I’m writing this but i absolutely hated this book! And it hurts even more because this authors first book was a 5 star read for me. This however fell short to the sophomore slump,

The premise of this sounded so good and it had me so confused as to why the ratings were so low. A black girl from a small southern town sacrificed but seeks out revenge with a snake. Ok you got me.. the snake part is a bit of magical realism meets fantasy but sure let’s try it.

First of all the first couple chapters went straight for the action and it was enticing. The betrayal, and anger, the surprise. But insert weird snake that talks. Ok sure the snake’s dialogue is a bit off putting and kinda disrupted my thoughts on how I predicted the book to be but i rolled with it. I have to remember that this is YA.

Next the main character was not vengeful enough. I mean come on the town is sacrificing you, and you still are harboring feelings and trying to build a relationship with someone you shouldn’t trust! She literally shouldn’t have trusted anybody!! The revenge was def not sweet enough for me.

Lastly the romance got to be annoying to me. How many times were we gonna hear how cute Allison was…ugh. I appreciated that aspect of the book at first because it broke up the pacing but it got to be distracting from the plot.

So overall i definitely sped through this and ultimately i zoned out on the ending. Which was very lack luster! All that pining for nothing! I gave it a two star because the pacing and setting was the best part.

Thank you for the arc!

DNF at 57%

The concept of this book was great but, I just lost interest at the time but plan on picking up where I left off again.

For the past 6 weeks Latavia has been to 3 closed casket funerals. Theres a strict cu-rfew, no one is allowed to enter the redwoods behind the town and no one wants to talk about any of this to outsider Latavia. She will do whatever it takes not to die in this strange small town, even if it means becoming the monster everyone fears.

A lot of other reviewers did not like our giant talking snake but I enjoyed him and his snarky remarks. It got my attention and helped me out of a slump.

Monstrous is a dark, YA Fantasy story from Jessica Lewis. I've heard incredible things about this author's first novel, Bad Witch Burning, but haven't gotten to it yet. After reading this, I know I'll be picking it up soon.

In this story we follow a teen girl, Latavia, who due to some challenges in her home-life, goes to stay with her Aunt in the small town of Sanctum, Alabama. From the start her Aunt institutes a lot of rules: don't go out after dark, come home directly after church, and definitely don't stray into the woods.

It's strange, but Latavia isn't here for a holiday. It's just a stop-over for 6-weeks before she leaves for college. She's not here to shake anything up, so she keeps her head down and tries to do as her Aunt directs. Nevertheless, trouble catches up with her one night when she is kidnapped from her Aunt's house, dragged to the very same woods she was instructed to avoid, and offered up as human sacrifice to the ancient monster who lives there. Latavia isn't going down without a fight though, and this monster may have met its match. Latavia is willing to do anything to survive, including bargain with the monster, and maybe even risk becoming one herself.

Y'all, you have to be intrigued by this set-up. An ancient monster that lives in the woods on the outskirts of a small town. Residents ready and willing to sacrifice the new girl to feed the monster's hunger. What the heck is going on here!?

I was amazed at how quickly I got sucked into this story. I started reading it one Saturday and then the next thing I knew, the sun had set and I was 71% of the way through.

I really enjoyed Latavia's perspective. I love the new girl trope, especially when that is paired with a creepy small town vibe, where all the residents behave strangely. Going along with Latavia as she tried to navigate just getting by in this town was interesting. I also enjoyed how Lewis added some more thoughtful, hard-hitting themes as well, in addition to the Darker Fantasy elements.

I liked learning about the reasons behind Latavia coming to Sanctum in the first place. She was really going through some difficult things and in one respect, it was great that she had an Aunt willing to take her in, but then, you know, the human sacrifice and stuff, so it was a bit of a mess.

Also, Latavia did have a love interest over the course of this story and watching their relationship blossom was very sweet. In spite of everything going on, or maybe because of that, they grew close fairly quickly, but it all felt quite natural to me.

At the end of the day, this story just had so many fun and interesting elements, and Lewis was able to blend them all seamlessly. The new girl trope, small town secrets, Sapphic romance, a man-eating monster and a murder cult. Seriously, what else do you need!?

I was hooked from the start, and while there were some things that weren't perfect for me, I still had a great experience with it and found it super compelling. As mentioned above, I am definitely planning to read more from this author, starting with Bad Witch Burning. If you like Dark, YA Contemporary Fantasy, channeling small town vibes and dangerous secrets, you absolutely should check this one out.

Thank you to the publisher, Delacorte Press, for providing me with a copy to read and review. This was a lot of fun!

WOW! This book right there was everything I needed and more!! Ms. Lewis knows how to put a twist on paranormal with a touch of horror but still make it a face pace novel. She's gained a fan out of me for sure!

Monstrous by Jessica Lewis is an amazing story with just the right amount of creepy horror and mystery. I really liked the main character and her persevering and clever personality. She was always looking forward to what she could do next and it was awesome to see how her story developed. The monster was really cool and I enjoyed the lore and worldbuilding of the spooky small town and it's villainous secrets.

I love stories where the horrible town folk get what's been coming to them for the various horrid things they have done. The snake was really cool and Latavia is strong AF. I might have just let the snake eat me lol. I think I was expecting it to be a little darker and murdery but that didn't take away from my enjoyment all. Jessica Lewis is currently 2/2 when it comes to books for me. I loved Bad Witch Burning too! I can't wait to see what else she writes.

I enjoyed this. A fast-paced fun horror. A great read for spooky season. Not sure it's all that memorable though hence the dropped star.

Overall, I enjoyed this. I probably would have enjoyed it a bit more if my reading mood hadn't changed in the middle of it and if there wasn't a lull in the pacing of the book. It started out strong, and I immediately wished that it maintained it throughout the entire book. But there was a lull about 50% into it and didn't pick back up until the 70% mark.

I liked Latavia for the most part. I got annoyed with her wishy washiness and going back and forth about whether she was going to follow through with her deal. And the whole "does she like me like me?" pining that she did. Also the reveal of what she argued about with her mom was a bit convenient. But- this is YA and Latavia is a teen so all of this is normal. But it just highlighted one of my pet peeves with YA and why I think I should move on from it.

I like the bond that she developed with the snake (it's not a spoiler-look at the cover!) He was funny, and I am glad that we got his backstory, and that even though he was not doing the conventional thing, he wasn't the most dangerous creature there. I know that Jade and Allison were on her side, but it was a nice balance of whether or not she could completely trust them. However, I would have liked to see Latavia embrace the side that's changing a bit more. She straddles the line between monstrous and victim a little too nicely. I like that the ending wasn't a neat ending and while it did work out- it didn't work out the way one would expect. There was too much damage done. And Latavia was right that Allison wasn't completely free.

I did like Lewis'n writing-other than the normal YA annoyingness. I think I would like to see what she would do in the adult genre. If I don't pick up her debut novel, Bad Witch Burning, it will be because I've completely moved on from YA not because it's not worth checking out.

- thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc to review!

- a story of fighting against an evil monster, making deals to survive, and maybe even becoming a monster yourself. Lewis writes a story of a headstrong protagonist, one that is hellbent on survival, and one who is willing to sacrifice it all in order to live, even if that makes her a monster herself. these kinds of monster stories always hook me in, and though there were points where the story felt weak, i still enjoyed this monstrous adventure.

A sapphic girl is offered as a sacrifice to a monster against her will and then joins forces with it to get revenge...

Monstrous wasn't quite what I was expecting but while parts of it were a bit clunky, overall I enjoyed it and liked what it was doing. The early chapters are fantastic- mysterious and disturbing as we're introduced to this insular small town with major cult vibes. Latavia was only supposed to be there for the summer before college, staying with her aunt and cousin after her mom kicked her out, but things go very wrong very fast...

The introduction of the snake was really not what I was expecting, but he ended up growing on me as an interesting and complicated character. I like how much lore there is to the world-building and how this lets a Black girl be angry and get revenge, while also being a story that deals with trauma, mental health, and healing.

Mixed feelings on the romance given the circumstances, especially because it isn't always great for the pacing though I do like books like this with quieter moments before things get dark again. There is an extended villain monologue that is over-explaining everything and feels kind of out of character, plus some of the implementation of world-building elements is inconsistent. So not a perfect book, but still one I enjoyed and one I think other people could really be into as well. I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.

Content warnings include physical injury that's ongoing, gore, death, murder, panic attacks, talk of self-harm, bloodletting.

As a horror fan, this beautiful cover and enticing title immediately caught my eye. Then I realized I’d also read this author’s debut title and immediately requested Monstrous on NetGalley.

Latavia is stuck in the weird, small town of Sanctum with her aunt and cousin for six weeks, but after that she’s golden. A track scholarship to the University of Georgia is waiting, and she’ll be moving into the dorm when the six weeks is over. Her plans go awry when she’s kidnapped, tied up, and presented as a human sacrifice to an ancient monster.

I’m not revealing any spoilers when I say the ancient monster is a snake – something I might have expected if I’d paid closer attention to the cover. I hate snakes with a passion – can’t even watch them on TV or in movies. During the snake’s scenes I pretended it was a cute, fluffy bunny or some equally adorable creature. But moving on, I love a good revenge story, and that’s what this is. Latavia is a strong, wonderfully written character, and I was with her one hundred percent as she made plans with the monster to take down her/their enemies.

If you enjoy a novel filled with secrets and big reveals, this novel checks those boxes. A couple I saw coming or had suspicions about, but others not so much. I’m always a fan of pets (dogs in this case) being part of the story, so Peaches and Charlie made the inclusion of a snake easier to handle.

Pacing is a little uneven, but this novel immediately pulls you in, and you’ll wonder along with Latavia who she can trust. The ending makes me wonder if a sequel might be in the works.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.