4.5 ⭐️ ARC review of the audiobook.

I won’t go into a summary because you can see that in the description and a ton of other reviews.

I requested this book thinking it was paranormal/ fantasy based in the name, and I’ve never been so happy to be wrong. I ate this book up! It sucked me in from the beginning. The story itself was so good. I loved the mix of Appalachian folklore, creepy vibes, and a very intriguing mystery. It was very well-written and the pacing was great. The suspense kept be on the edge of my seat and not wanting to stop reading.

The main character- Annie Gore- is such a good, strong character and I liked her right off the bat. She also did not annoy me at all throughout the book which is rare when authors are trying to write strong female leads. I really liked all of the other characters as well. They were all very well-written and had enough depth that they all stood out and I knew who people were when they were brought back up.

With regard to the audiobook- 10/10. The VA did SO GOOD. There were a lot of different accents, voices, and emotions in this one and she did great really selling the story from the beginning.

I read in another review that this is going to be a series and I hope that’s true because I’d love more of Annie’s story as a PI. I would definitely continue reading it.

Thank you NetGalley & Macmillan Audio for the ALC. 🖤

Dark, atmospheric, and unsettling in the best way. The Witch’s Orchard digs into a decade-old case in a small Appalachian town full of secrets and folklore no one wants to talk about. Annie Gore is sharp and grounded, a PI with real depth and grit. The writing feels authentic, probably because the author clearly knows the region. Creepy touches like apple-head dolls and local legends give it an edge, but the heart of the story is about loss, silence, and survival. I tore through it. Absolutely hope this becomes a series.

The Witch’s Orchard by Archer Sullivan is a captivating blend of mystery, folklore, and atmosphere. The rich, descriptive writing pulls you deep into its eerie yet enchanting world, and the twists keep you guessing until the very end. A perfect read for anyone who enjoys a touch of the supernatural with their suspense.

THE WITCH’S ORCHARD is an atmospheric Appalachian Mountain novel set in North Carolina, introducing former Air Force member turned Private Investigator Annie Gore. Hired by Max, whose sister was one of three girls who vanished ten years ago (only one returned) Annie searches for answers while unraveling the small-town folklore of witches and crows.

The plot flows quickly, filled with twists and suspense. I enjoyed the vivid descriptions of folklore, particularly those involving witches and crows, which added an eerie edge without overshadowing the mystery.

Audiobook narrator Emily Pike Stewart delivers a stellar performance, bringing the story to life and transporting listeners with palpable tension: a truly unforgettable listening experience that lingers long after the final chapter.

In summary, I would like to thank NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing the audiobook in exchange for an honest review. I also thank Archer Sullivan for the highly entertaining book. Congratulations on your fantastic debut!

When Annie Gore, former Air Force and current private investigator, is hired by the brother of a little girl who went missing 10 years ago, she is drawn into the secrets of a small mountain town. Only, someone doesn't want her digging into the past, and things start happening when she pokes the hornets nest.

This was a compelling, atmospheric mystery that kept me wondering. The FMC was very likeable. It was a lot of interviewing people, which can get a bit stagnant and repetitive, which it felt like it was heading that way, then something bigger would happen to break up the interviewing. I will say that I was a little disappointed with the ending, and wanted more eerie and creepy vibes. Sometimes I would get confused about who was who that was being talked about.

The narration was wonderful. Emily Pike Stewart did a great job with the accents, the different voices for different characters, and the emotion that came with this story.

I rated it 3.75/5 rounded up to 4 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced listeners' copy!

Rounded to 4.5 stars.

This book showed up on my radar and I couldn’t wait to start it. I don’t know much about Appalachia other than how deep the roots go, involving folklore and herbal medicine for these rural communities. My sister moved to Appalachia, and when I finally get there to visit, I want to get a feel for the vibes in small town Appalachia, and this book delivered.

Annie was a fascinating character, full of contradictions. She is as tough as she had to be to get through her Air Force service, but she can also be kind and gentle when approaching people who are going through something; she grew up in a rural holler but signed up for the military as soon as she could. While she has seen combat, she’s also developed a found family that she can rely on no matter what, unlike her biological family. She’s just an easy character to like, even as we peel back the layers of armor she has surrounded herself in. I especially loved her attachment to her 'classic car' that she refers to by name.

It’s clear that Annie spent a lot of time with her own grandmother, and learned a lot of the mountain ways, making her the ideal PI to work on this cold case. Like many rural communities, especially those that have long family roots in the area and have experienced judgment or discrimination, they aren’t exactly open to outsiders. Sullivan has created the perfect character to kick off what I’m hoping is a new series.

Barely scraping by, she accepts this job, with the man who hired her being made aware the fact that the case has been cold for ten years and she’s an outsider who is going to be poking bruises and ruffling feathers, so the odds of solving the case are slim. Even so, he’s insistent that he wants her to find out what happened to his little sister ten years ago, when she disappeared along with another two girls, one of whom was returned shortly after.

The setting has such a big impact on the story itself, as this small mountain town feels forbidding, intriguing, and the only possible place that this story could take place. From the crows that sound like they’re screaming, the closed off nature of basically everyone in town, to the apple head dolls that were left at the scene of each abduction, to everyone’s own unique rendition of the local folktale about The Witch of Quartz Creek, this entire book just radiated Appalachian vibes that felt very human and realistic. It’s nothing less than I’d expect from a ninth-generation Appalachian, sort of like a love letter to all of it, even the darker aspects, which also show up in this story. Speaking of apple head dolls, I don't know what they are, and I honestly wrote a note to myself to never ever look them up, because I have a feeling I won't be able to sleep after that.

Once Annie starts to investigate, it is clear that someone doesn’t want her snooping around, and her being there forces someone into action that they might not have. I loved that she wasn’t scared to ask about the folklore specific to this part of North Carolina, but was also gentle enough to communicate with a non-verbal autistic girl that so many others just view as ‘soft’ or ‘a bit slow’ when she clearly isn’t. While Annie originally ran as far as she could get, coming back to a mountain holler so much like the one she grew up in kicks up some memories that she’s been running from all this time.

I listened to a lot of this via audiobook, narrated by Emily Pike Stewart. Her talent is incredible—she was able to mimic the subtle accent differences that occur throughout Appalachia, from Annie’s own accent to those of the local people, all sound genuine. Even the subtle pronunciation differences found there are preserved, for example rather than pronouncing the word ‘cray-on,’ Stewart nailed it with her dialect and pronounced it as ‘crown’ which threw me for a loop for a minute, until I realized that I had actually had that same conversation with someone previously, so I know that one is genuine. I guess I’ll find out more when I head into the mountains in real life!

Overall, this was my favorite kind of book to read. Engaging right from the start, the perfect amount of creepiness, with a fast-paced plot that’s hard not to get sucked into. Impossible, if you’re like me. The fact that the mystery revolves around the cold case disappearances of two girls for the last decade only made it more fascinating to watch Annie methodically investigate her way through secrets the town would rather keep buried. I’m already planning when to start working through Sullivan’s backlist while I hope there is a sequel in the works.

This small town Appalachian mystery, steeped in folkloric whispers of witches, ominous crows, and eerie apple head dolls, is an absolute must read. The audiobook, narrated by Emily Pike Stewart, amplifies the story’s eerie tension and deepens its strange, foreboding atmosphere. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Much appreciation to @macmillanaudio and @netgalley for the #gifted ALC. 💕

Can we take a minute to appreciate the masterpiece that is this book?!? Wow this is one of those books that sinks its teeth in you from the beginning and doesn’t let go. Suspenseful, mysterious, strange but amazing. There were moments when I felt my heart racing from the action and that’s the sign of a great book.

Three little girls went missing 10 years ago, one mysteriously comes back and the brother of the last girl kidnapped has spent years saving money to hire a private investigator. Enter Annie Gore a bad ass former military special investigator turned PI. Annie is tough and asks the questions no one else wants to. She knows it’s dangerous but she’s determined to find out what happened.

I listened to the audiobook version narrated by Emily Pike Stewart. This was the first time I listened to anything Emily has narrated and I really enjoyed it. She did a great job making it easy to differentiate between the characters and made the experience so enjoyable.

Ten years ago, three girls went missing and an apple doll was left in their place. One was returned, but two were never seen again. Max’s sister, Molly, was one of the girls taken and her abduction has haunted him and his family for years. He hires Annie Gore, a private investigator and former Air Force Special Investigator, to find his sister. Annie knows there’s a slim chance she’ll find anything ten years later but can’t refuse Max or the money she’ll earn.

Being from a similar area gives Annie a unique advantage in dealing with the locals in this small Appalachian Mountain town. Annie was determined to get to the truth and had to wade through old gossip and local folklore of a creepy mountain witch. In the process she ruffles feathers and stirs up action that surprises all!

The Witch’s Orchard was a captivating, atmospheric mystery with a spooky vibe! I really liked Annie! She was tough and smart but also had empathy for the people marked by these events. Bits and pieces of her own past are revealed throughout the story and my heart went out to her! There was a romantic element. I was happy with the direction that seemed to be going in the end.

I alternately read and listened to an audio copy narrated by Emily Pike Stewart. I thought her performance was excellent and enjoyed her subtle Southern accent. She did well with all voices, male and female and a wide range of ages!

The Witch's Orchard introduces us to Annie, a former Air force investigator turned private investigator. Annie grew up in a dysfunctional home in Appalachia. So she finds herself drawn to Max, an 18 year old with a story. Ten years ago, his sister Molly disappeared, the third little girl who disappeared. Jessica, the first was never seen again. Olivia, the second was returned after a few weeks. Molly never came home. At the site of each abduction, the kidnapper left an apple head doll. Max's sorry is compelling and he has saved money for years to pay for a p.i. Against her better judgment, given the time that has past and the likelihood of failure, Annie heads off to North Carolina in her ancient Datsun, "Honey."

We meet a mountain community of characters, many from very old Appalachian families. The year the girls disappeared, the local toy factory closed down, so many in the town left or struggled to make a living. The local sheriff, uncle to Olivia, is not happy Annie is sticking her nose into this cold case. As she stirs the pot and uncovers the secrets of those closest to the disappearances, Annie is threatened and harassed. And she continues the hunt. So, this is one of those stories where the town itself is a character, the setting pretty, folklore about witches brings a tinge of fantasy to this exceptionally well written, well plotted novel full of great characters and a special setting. FABULOUS narration by Emily Pike Stewart made this especially enjoyable. Highly recommended.

I absolutely loved this novel!! As someone who is an NC native and who grew up not far from Western NC, I might be slightly biased about the setting, but I loved all of the cultural details that the author added. The plot was great and the pacing was just right. The storyline really kept me on my toes and even though there were a lot of characters, the author did a great job of differentiating them so I was never confused. I loved the folklore that was weaved throughout. Also, the narrator absolutely killed the accents! All in all, a really, really great read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an ALC.

I was very surprised by this book. It was atmospheric and is perfect for ushering in the autumn season. Grounded in reality but still some creepy vibes. I am pining now for the the Fall but I am also super happy I have never seen an Apple Head Doll in my life.

The Witch’s Orchard by Archer Sullivan is a compelling mix of mystery and Appalachian folklore. I listened to the audiobook, and the narration brought Annie Gore’s determination and the eerie, small-town atmosphere to life. The setting feels vivid—full of tension, local legends, and a haunting undercurrent that kept me engaged. The pacing balances atmosphere and suspense well, and the ending delivered a twist I didn’t see coming. A strong debut, and I’d gladly follow Annie’s next investigation.

I really enjoy most books set in Appalachia. This was no exception. Annie is a former military  investigator that has been hired by a young fellow whose sister has been missing for about 10 years,  apple head dolls were found in her place. There is a story told by locals about local witch that has a magical appple orchard. Filled with folklore and some great twists this fast paced mystery is sure to please.

Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the ALC. Emily Pike Stewart was an excellent narrator.

🎧 Book Review 🎧 Sociology 101 is where we learn that we all carry stereotypes and they’re not inherently bad. Sometimes those ideas instilled in us growing up keep us safe when we are in a situation where we need to be on high alert. But what we need to do is make ourselves aware of our preconceived notions and examine how we can tackle our biases to ensure we do not discrimination using false information. Appalachia is full of stereotypes that are harmful; but what lies beneath is a culture rich with strong family ties, faith, music, lore and a symbiotic connection to and love of the land.

Archer Sullivan dispels those negative cliches with a powerful story about the strength and resilience of a small community whose existence has been rocked by the unthinkable in the Blue Ridge region of this large mountainous chain. The Witch’s Orchard is a gripping psychological thriller that blends the folklore of the region with the intrigue and heartbreak of a decades old unsolved case of missing children. Archer Sullivan weaves it all together so beautifully in a tale that is hauntingly mesmerizing and brilliantly brought to life through the narration of Emily Pike Stewart.

🍏For my friends who love a strong female main character solving crime.

THE WITCH’S ORCHARD by Archer Sullivan (Emily Pike Stewart, Narrator)

🎧Thanks, @Macmillan.audio, for the audiobook review copy. #macaudio2025

So low on cash, she had to hock her watch, PI Annie Gore accepts a job in an Appalachian holler not unlike the one where she grew up. The case is long cold, but the older brother of a missing girl can’t rest until he gives one last try to find her. Annie starts turning over stones and asking the tough questions, stirring up decades of secrets and stories of witches.

It’s exciting enough when a book captures your heart and soul from the very first scene. But when that same book introduces you to three new and wonderful people that you want in your reading life, well, that’s just extra. Who are these three people? 1️⃣Author Archer Sullivan, who captured the feel of a remote Appalachian town struggling under the weight of three missing children amid centuries of superstition and folklore. 2️⃣Narrator Emily Pike Stewart, who delivered the story with Oscar-worthy acting chops. 3️⃣And last, but not least, the main character Annie Gore, a PI and former Air Force Special Investigator. Annie is humble, hard-working, and stubbornly dedicated to helping. She has enough flaws to make her fascinating, while still being smart and aware of those flaws to make you pull for her.

The publisher’s description makes this sound like the first in a series, and I hope that’s true. This was a #FiveSpongeAudiobook for me (A book so immersive you’re willing to clean to keep listening). Get a copy in your ears! (It published on 12 Aug 25.)

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced listener copy in exchange for my honest review.

This book was so dark and macabre, it drew me in from the first chapter. The characters are rich without much description. This book is giving off True Detective Season 1 vibes, which I loved! It was mysterious and spooky, with the case touching on local myths of witches. I found the game of distinguishing between fact and legend riveting.

There were quite a lot of characters, which was hard to keep track of at times.

The narrator was excellent. She really got into the emotions in some of the scenes and gave all the characters their own personality through her voice.

I’d give this a solid 3.5/5 stars. I liked how it was the perfect mix of mystery and fiction. You got to learn about the characters in this small mountain town, learn about the tragedy that struck them 10 years ago and how everyone handled it while also following our main character solving this decade old mystery that starts repeating itself. It really does show a good depiction of what grief can drive some people to do.

Former Air Force investigator Annie Gore is hired to solve a decade-old case involving three missing girls from a remote North Carolina town—only one of whom ever returned. As Annie digs into the past, she uncovers eerie legends, buried truths, and a community that would rather forget.

If you love mysteries with a touch of the supernatural, layered characters, and settings that feel alive with history, this one’s for you. It’s a slow burn with a satisfying payoff—and I’m already hoping Annie Gore returns in future books!

Thank you NetGalley, Macmillan Audio and Archer Sullivan for the ALC of this book.

This book checked off every mark for a good fall/spooky season book! Creepy witch stories, mystery, disappearances. So good!