CANDY CAIN KILLS | Brian McAuley
11.14.2023 | Shortwave Publishing
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Oh what fun it is to DIE! When Austin’s parents drag him and his little sister Fiona to a remote cottage for Christmas, he’s less than thrilled about the forced bonding exercise. But after learning that their holiday getaway was the site of a horrific crime, this family on the rocks will have to fight for their lives against a legendary killer… because Candy Cain is slashing through the snow with a very long naughty list.
Holiday horror slasher perfection! Candy Cain Kills has all the best elements of an old school horror movie: an isolated house in a small town, urban legend, and campy vibes.
Coming in around 150 pages, this is a fast-paced and action-packed story. Despite being so short, McAuley manages to form bonds between the reader and our main characters. Austin and Fiona are relatable and real from the start with glimpses into their social lives and family dynamic. McAuley also includes several secondary characters for the reader to get to know while rounding out the story.
The ending felt like there was room for a potential sequel and I would 100% be here for that!
I haven’t read McAuley’s debut, Curse of the Reaper, but I heard there are hints to that universe in this story, which means it’s an absolute must read now!
What Jess Reads 