A great horror novel set in a time period which I adore. I loved our main character and anything to do with forest in horror books has my attention and love. Loved every part of the book. A very easy five star read.

Thank you NetGalley and Holiday House for the ARC.

I love any book that involves ancient mythology from a location around the globe. This is a great example, with so much to learn and say.

This is my second time reading a novel by Gigi Griffis. I very much enjoyed the other book and went into this one without prefacing what the story was about. I was hooked immediately. She is very good at building suspense and keeping you guessing.

The premise of the story was amazing, I learned a few things about Estonia and the mythology of the area. I have never read anything about this county or area and now I have an interest in learning more. The author did an excellent job painting a picture of the surroundings, that made it easy to visualize somewhere you have never been.

The characters were well thought out and in most cases proved to be sincerely human. The few that failed to show empathy or camaraderie with fellow humans were also well written, even though significantly flawed.

I don’t have a critique, however, I do think other literature and media have made something you find out at the end of the story a trope that is used too often. It feels unfair that others have used it carelessly when this author handles it masterfully. I can’t wait to see what this author comes up with next.

This is a beautiful YA that has really rich themes for young readers. The throughline of the oracle cards was lovely and the first few chapters are genuinely captivating with respect to imagery and narrative voice. I don’t think it sustains that level of artistry throughout, but still a very good book.

Thank you Netgalley and Holiday House for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Gigi Griffis delivers a haunting and deeply poignant YA folk-horror novel in “And the Trees Stare Back.” Set in 1989 Soviet-occupied Estonia, this story masterfully weaves historical realism with folklore, exploring themes of humanity and resistance against oppression. With its evocative setting and gripping mystery, the book is a must-read for fans of atmospheric horror and historical fiction.

In a small Estonian village, 16-year-old Vik lives under the shadow of occupation, fear, and the looming threat of the cursed forest beyond her home. Five years ago, her younger sister Anna disappeared into the forest, a place whispered to be inhabited by lantern-eyed spirits and cursed with unspeakable dangers. On the anniversary of Anna’s disappearance, she miraculously returns—but something about her is unsettlingly off. As Vik begins to question whether this is truly her sister or something more sinister, she is drawn into a heart-pounding mystery that forces her to confront the forest’s dark secrets. Along the way, the story delves into broader questions about identity, humanity, and the lengths we go to protect those we love.

Griffis’s prose is both vivid and immersive, bringing the eerie bogs and dark forests of Estonia to life. The setting is an integral part of the story, its brooding atmosphere heightening the tension and underscoring the themes of isolation and resilience, making the bog almost like its own sentient character. The atmosphere and setting were definitely the strongest parts of the book, though I also really enjoyed the character development. The incorporation of Estonian folklore adds a layer of cultural depth and originality, blending seamlessly with the historical context of Soviet oppression, and the author had clearly conducted a lot of research on the topic.

The book tackles complex themes with remarkable nuance. It explores the dehumanizing effects of occupation and societal judgment while shedding light on issues such as marginalization and mental illness. These heavier themes are balanced with moments of hope and personal growth, making the story both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

The characters are a highlight, particularly Vik, whose determination and vulnerability make her a relatable and compelling protagonist. Kaos, the feisty one-eyed fox, adds charm and levity to the story, quickly becoming a fan favorite (Kaos remains safe throughout the book). The inclusion of LGBTQ and disability representation further enriches the story, making it inclusive and relatable for a diverse audience.

The mystery at the heart of the story is gripping, keeping you guessing whether the horrors are supernatural or human in nature. Griffis deftly blends magical realism and speculative elements with historical and psychological undertones, creating a story that is both eerie and profoundly human. This balance between the supernatural and human element was a bit ambiguous, though this ambiguity is likely intentional, reinforcing the story’s themes of uncertainty and fear of the unknown.

Overall, “And the Trees Stare Back” raises important questions about what it means to be human and who gets to decide whose humanity matters. It critiques systems of oppression and explores the toll of living under fear and judgment, making it as politically incisive as it is emotionally compelling. At its core, the book is also a story of love and the unbreakable bonds of family. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy folk horror, complex female protagonists, and stories steeped in cultural and historical richness. If you’re looking for a book that balances eerie suspense with emotional depth, “And the Trees Stare Back” will not disappoint.