3.5 stars
This is a one of a kind book that I personally have not found anywhere else! It’s an interesting, and horrific retelling of Johnny Appleseed and Paul Bunyan, while also adding in Faustian and elements. You read this book in two POVs, John’s and Catalina and you follow them through both of their difficult journeys. There are elements of body horror, and graphic depictions of violence, death and deals with the devil in this case the “banker”.

I have a physical copy of this so I will update once I have read it, maybe soon (I really like the author as a person though she's very friendly)

This story adds a fresh voice to woodsy folkloric horror, making it a standout for YA readers. It evokes vibes reminiscent of *Over The Garden Wall*, featuring a poet’s journey through a creepy forest, guided by a bird, and including episodic encounters with unusual woodland inhabitants. The narrative revolves around themes of folklore, particularly centered on a simple apple, which Krause intricately connects to land, people, and American history.

The tale richly weaves together elements of American folklore, from Johnny Appleseed to indigenous history, and features a Mexican-American protagonist, adding layers of culture and family. The story's episodic structure and character archetypes parallel traditional folktales, making it feel like a modern fable.

While the storytelling is compelling, I wish it had a more poetic writing style, more adorned language and figurative expressions would elevate the narrative even further. Overall, it’s a well-crafted, interconnected exploration of folklore that many will enjoy.

This did not work for me. The writing is bland and unbelievable. I was bored from the start and it did not improve.

I did not finish this title as it was not for me. The writing was lovely though. I just did not like the setting or characters.

This gothic horror novel, based on the legend of the Man of Sap, follows the dual perspectives of Catalina and John. While Catalina strives to rescue her brother with Paul's help, Paul secretly aims to eliminate the Man of Sap. We also delve into John's past to understand how he became the Man of Sap and his desperate attempts to break the curse. The well-written narrative and engaging characters make this book a captivating read, especially the thrilling twists in the final chapters.

The best way I can think of to describe this book is Alice in Wonderland meets a dark version of American folklore. The retelling aspect of this book was brilliant. Krause did an amazing job taking the original Johnny Appleseed story and adapting to this gothic/horror retelling. The creativity she exhibited is remarkable.

That being said, this book solidified for me that I do not enjoy the gothic/horror genres. While it was beautifully written, I just didn't enjoy reading it. My only real complaint is that I feel like I was left with a lot of questions when it ended. Maybe this was intentional, but I still have so many questions about what happens next, and so I wish there had been an epilogue or something.

Overall, if you like American folklore and the gothic/horror genres, this is an excellent book.

If you like dark, horror leaning titles, this book is for you. The story combines folktales such as Paul Bunyan and Johnny Appleseed. It is a haunting tale that keeps you enthralled throughout.

Before the Devil Knows You're Here by Autumn Krause is a compelling YA dark folk horror that uniquely intertwines the legends of Johnny Appleseed and Paul Bunyan with the story of a Mexican-American poet on a quest to rescue her brother. The inventive twist on these classic tales is both imaginative and convincingly executed. I was particularly captivated by the eerie and gradual revelation of Johnny's backstory. Additionally, knowing that Catalina was inspired by the author’s own grandmother added a layer of authenticity to her character. The incorporation of Latin American surrealism throughout the narrative enhanced the story’s depth and richness.

Autumn Krause’s *Before the Devil Knows You’re Here* is a gripping and atmospheric novel that skillfully intertwines suspense with psychological depth. Krause’s evocative storytelling and intricate plot twists create a compelling narrative that keeps readers hooked. The novel’s dark themes and well-developed characters make it a standout in the thriller genre.

If you read the premise and curiosity got the best of you, welcome to the club. It’s something that happens to us quite often, a unique idea that grabs hold of us and lures us in with all its promise…..

What’s different in this instance is the fact that this story actually delivers. The unique seedling of a an idea (no pun intended) grew into a unique blend of surrealism, religious metaphors, and gothic horror,

The devil knows you’re here was an interesting and beautiful fantasy book. I was very engaged by the characters, but was confused by the plot.

I am passionate about books that are retellings and reimaginings of classic stories and tales from different cultures and "Before The Devil Knows You Are Here" does this in and incredible way. not only is the novel setting a creative new precedent for wat makes a good retelling, but by sprinkling in the darker aspects in the story it made for a fantastic, addicting, and more captivating read.

A really good horror book with a very atmospheric setting that definitely pushed his noble forward. I believe anyone who is into Gothic horror is going to enjoy this book.

Loved the writing style of this novel, so dreamy with a bit of dark whimsy, also deeply appreciated the way this novel talked about poetry *heart eyes*
Catalina gave me Katniss from The Hunger Games vibes and I love a strong female YA character - she was such an empowering and honest character.
The relationship between Paul and Catalina is so sweet, I loved the fumbling of getting to know each other and her discovering and realising her feelings despite her tough exterior.
With themes of found family, the power of words and triumphing over evil this book was very empowering while also allowing us into the dark side of these characters! It also gave a bit of Grumpy x Sunshine too which was super cute.
This book was super atmospheric, and although I didn't agree with all of the decisions Catalina made, I really enjoyed this novel.
3 stars!

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

- a stunning book filled with magic, treachery, and a whole lot of apples. this book will stick with you long after you turn the last page. Krause spins a wonderfully magical story filled with great sibling dynamics, compelling characters, and deep backstories. i recommend you read this book!

I love a good retelling and when you sprinkle in the darker context of this story it made for a fantastic read. This is a gothic American folk tale mixed with Latin American heritage - and the author nailed it. The familial story and supporting characters were enjoyable and added, rather than taking away from the story.

I really enjoyed this story. I loved the twit on Paul Bunyan and Johnny Appleseed. It was horrific and just so interesting. I also enjoyed the moral ilof the story and how our FMC was able to outsmart the devil. Just all around a fun and interesting read.

I wanted to enjoy this one a lot more than I did but I ended up not enjoying it overall. I liked the idea and overall premise but didn't like the overall story.

I can't believe that I had to put down this book and stop reading due to me being scared and hearing noises. I waited until the next day, in the daytime, and finished it because it pulls you right in and you have to know what happens.