This book has an interesting premise, but the execution felt weak to me. The characters and the world-building didn't resonate with me. I couldn't complete this one since the pace is too slow and the plot isn't particularly intriguing. Maybe it just wasn't for me.

Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for the e-arc.

This was a good read. Looking forward to read other books by this author. Im thankful for recieveing this arc
This is a gripping young adult novel that delves into themes of friendship, loyalty, and the struggle between individual desires and collective responsibility. The story follows a group of friends as they navigate challenges that test their relationships and beliefs.

The writing is engaging and evocative,
The characters are well-developed, adding depth to the narrative.
The plot is both suspenseful and thought-provoking.

Wil Greene's mother has been missing for over a year, and the police in her town are ready to close the case for good, but Wil knows she didn't just up and leaver her and her dad, and Wil is even more adamant that the Clarke family have something to do with it.

Elwood Clarke has had his whole life mapped out for him by his abusive pastor father, so knowing that it's his last night of freedom before being shaped and moulded into the perfect successor, Elwood makes a decision to skip out and drink with his buddies one last time. However, he finds it hard to brush away the sins he feels he's committing throughout the night, which only become further exacerbated when he returns home after vomiting and hallucinating terrifying apparitions to his seething father. Worst of all, he overhears that he's not about to become his father's successor but rather, the congregations newest sacrifice to placate the blood thirsty forest.

Running for his life seems his only option, but isolated and terrified of this new and dangerous side to him that is slowly appearing more and more regularly, and finds himself having to turn to the one person he knows will believe him, his most cherished best friend turned enemy, Wil Greene.

Wil is a spitfire, she's hard-headed, impulsive, stubborn and steadfast in her determination. Since her mother's disappearance she's spent every waking moment fixated on getting to the bottom of this case, even if the deadbeat police have given up. Wil tries desperately not to drown in her grief for not only her mother but her father who quickly withdrew into himself and self-medicated his own grief with alcohol. Wil's grief on the other hand, manifested more into the volatile anger that's always simmering just below the surface, she has very low patience for stupidity, and is an incredibly strong and fiery personality who refuses to back down from any fight, and won't rest until the Clarke family pay for the information she's sure they're withholding about her mother's disappearance. It was really beautiful to see that icy exterior begin to crack, as she slowly let's her emotions for Elwood worm their way out and thaw her, giving her a space to be vulnerable and feel everything.

Elwood Clarke is almost the polar opposite to Wil, timid, shy, and someone who keeps out of confrontation whenever possible, he's determined to make himself as small and unnoticeable as possible. He's sweet and gentle-hearted, always just striving to find small things that make his heart sing, and before being put in a position of choosing Wil or his family, Wil used to be that for him, but now he relies solely upon his butterfly collection, bringing him some light in an otherwise dark life. Watching him hold onto his kindness, compassion and warmth even in the face of the constant abuse and torture at the hands of his father was heart-breaking, he just longs to keep the peace and ensure everyone around him is happy, and in his own heart, he longs to be close to Wil again, the one person he's ever been close to that has truly seen him for who he is and embraced him always. He truly goes through it in this story, dealing not only with his newfound fear of being sacrificed to keep this inherently evil and sickening cult going, but also now dealing with this demon that harbours inside him that is raring for bloodshed and destruction, and slowly becomes harder and harder to push back from taking full control of Elwood's body. His character growth and development was astounding, he goes from this timid, push-over to this bad-ass, confident, and brave young man who refuses to take his death lying down. He made my heart bust and hurt all at once.

'Together We Rot' is an atmospheric, gothic and disquieting story that feels so vibrant and eerie from start to finish, bursting with astounding plot twists and some beautiful, lyrical writing that immerses you deeply into this sinister world and it's machinations. The story explores some really poignant themes including; parental abuse, the all-consuming pain of grief, and addiction. Brimming with character growth, riveting and creepy prose, friends to enemies to reluctant allies, evil cults, and some beautiful friendships and some raw and moving emotions interwoven throughout. The last few chapters took my breath away, I can't quite explain it, Elwood deserves the entire world, and his conclusion was so mesmerising and heart-wrenching that it had me tearing up, so prepare yourselves.

This was such a good read! Loved following the characters and the unexpected and unique story! I couldn’t put it down!

If you want a fun horror mystery with solid characters, I think there is a lot to love here, but I would have slowed the pace down quite a bit and given time for the characters to really grow.

All of the buzz words I love were in the synopsis for this. It didn't quite deliver everything I was hoping, but is definitely going to be right up the alley of teens that are into this kind of thing.

Together We Rot is Skyla Arndt's debut novel following two young adults as they navigate the dark world around them. It is an admirable debut with lush writing and real stakes. Arndt creates an interesting dynamic and a plot filled with mystery, tension, suspense, and yearning.

Thank you to the publishers for the arc and the chance to review this novel .

So addictive and creepy! Wil and El were best friends once, and everything changed. This book is about them finding their way back to each other and fighting El's horrible curse. You'll feel so much for these kids and root for them.

I loved this book so much it was perfect and I’m glad I was able to read it! The book is a hard one to read it features topics like parental abuse, grief, and alcoholism. I freaking loved the ending and it definitely made me emotional as heck. I really enjoyed this one and can not wait for more from the author.

Gothic/paranormal horror is one of my absolute favorite genres, and this one doesn't disappoint. I adore Wil, and the spicy girl, sweet boy combo is a favorite. I really enjoyed this and will look for more from this author in the future.

Together We Rot is a well written YA horror/romance. There is in interesting intersection of the characters and nature that is quite unique. I find some YA books are more appealing to me as an adult reader, whereas some feel more Specifically YA geared and this book felt like the latter.

I received an ARC of this novel and I am SO glad I did!

I could not put down this ya romance/horror/suspense/mystery. Will is a headstrong young woman looking for answers with the help of Elwood, a shy, hesitant young man who is her friend, maybe more.

This tale had me waiting and ready for answers; to find out the truth. The back and forth of Will and Elwood, to me, was written eloquently and in a way that I know teens will enjoy. This is a novel I will definitely be recommending to my students during our silent reading block. I can’t wait to see what else this author is capable of!

Loved it! Loved the dual POV too. It has been some time since I have read it in a YA. I love the haunting curiosity that loomed in the air too.

It was alright I guess. A lot of this was hard to understand not gonna lie but it wasn't the worst thing I've ever read.

An interesting blend of genre. It feels like something I would have been obsessed with in high school (I mean that as a compliment).
It’s a bit juvenile for my tastes now (duh—it’s YA), but I definitely don’t think it was bad!
Just not my taste anymore.

This is peak emo. What a great premise, too! But the execution fell flat for me. Things just didn't gel. I couldn't grasp why the leads fell out and then couldn't accept how quickly they fell back in together. The cult backdrop was almost comical, like Saturday morning cartoon baddy-style. I was also a bit disappointed about how it was framed. There was an opportunity here for commentary and critique through a fantastical frame on the state of religiosity in the States right now, but the author didn't go there. What a shame. I did love the ending, though. I guess I shouldn't spoil it, but it had His Dark Materials vibes.

This was onw of those ebooks that totally put me in the spooky mood I needed for Halloween and the fall season..

I loved the pacing of Together We Rot. And thought the story itself was interesting with all the twists and turns that it took.

It offered just the slightest bit of creepiness without being too much.

And really pulled me in from the start.

Definitely a 5 star read

3.5/5 ⭐
Similarly to my review of 'Where Echoes Die' by Courtney Gould, I had expected a bit more mystery/twist(s). Very quickly I realized that wasn't really how this was going to be and because of that I was able to change my expectations and enjoy the story more for what it was. I really ended up loving the characters and their development. I didn't know I'd care about the enemies to friends relationship (between Wil and Lucas) so much but it was one of my favorite parts. Also Elwood is such a sweetheart. The atmosphere was dark and beautiful exactly as you'd hope. The ending was actually surprising to me but was oh so perfect.

This was very… weird, haha. Definitely a quick read though. I think it is hard to really build up the characters in a short book like this one, so I didn’t really feel connected to any of them. I knew something twisted was happening but didn’t think it would be what it was.

"Together We Rot" by Skyla Arndt emerges as a groundbreaking piece in the realm of dark fantasy and horror, intricately weaving a narrative that is as profoundly emotional as it is thrilling. Arndt masterfully crafts a dystopian world enveloped in decay and despair, yet within its shadows, she illuminates the indomitable power of human connection and resilience. This novel is not merely a journey through a ravaged landscape but an exploration of the depths of the human spirit.

At the heart of "Together We Rot" are its unforgettable characters, whose journeys and struggles are depicted with raw honesty and depth. Arndt introduces us to protagonists who are flawed, relatable, and ultimately heroic in their own right. Their personal battles and the relationships that develop between them are portrayed with such nuance and sensitivity that readers cannot help but be drawn into their world, cheering for their victories and feeling the weight of their defeats.

The world-building in "Together We Rot" is nothing short of spectacular. Arndt's vivid descriptions and imaginative settings transport readers to a world that is at once terrifyingly alien and hauntingly familiar. The decay that pervades the landscape serves as a constant reminder of the stakes at play, yet it also sets the stage for moments of beauty and hope that shine all the brighter against the backdrop of darkness.

What sets "Together We Rot" apart is Arndt's ability to blend elements of horror and fantasy in a way that feels both innovative and timeless. The novel's exploration of themes such as survival, betrayal, and redemption is interwoven with supernatural elements that add depth and intrigue to the narrative. Arndt's prose is lyrical and evocative, capable of conveying the horror of the world she has created while also capturing the tender moments of humanity that persist in the face of despair.

Moreover, "Together We Rot" excels in its pacing and suspense. Arndt expertly builds tension throughout the novel, leading to a climax that is both unexpected and deeply satisfying. The twists and turns of the plot keep readers on the edge of their seats, while the emotional depth of the story ensures that the journey is both meaningful and impactful.

In conclusion, "Together We Rot" by Skyla Arndt is a remarkable achievement in the genre of dark fantasy and horror. It is a novel that challenges and captivates, offering a unique blend of thrills, chills, and emotional resonance. Through its compelling characters, rich world-building, and masterful storytelling, Arndt not only entertains but also invites readers to reflect on the nature of humanity and the power of hope in the darkest of times. This is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone who appreciates a story that dares to explore the light and darkness within us all.