AJ Humphreys delivers a chilling and exhilarating follow-up with Season of the Monster: Winter, a gripping continuation of the saga that began in Spring. Picking up six months after the disappearance of Jeannie Freeman, this installment plunges readers back into the heart of Rapid City's dark and sinister mystery.

The story picks up with Detective Dakota 'Dak' Johnson and Jeannie's mother, Ghini Freeman, still reeling from the aftermath of their previous encounter with the horrifying Vespids. As winter casts its icy grip over the Black Hills, the stakes have never been higher. Humphreys masterfully weaves a narrative where the elements themselves become a formidable adversary, adding to the tension and urgency of the plot.

The book excels in delivering non-stop action and suspense. The small band of survivors, including Ghini, is thrust into a desperate race against time as more children vanish, and the monstrous Vespid Queen's sinister plans begin to unfold. Humphreys crafts a vivid and immersive world, where the winter landscape not only intensifies the danger but also becomes a key element in the unfolding drama.
Humphreys’ portrayal of the Vespid Queen is nothing short of terrifying. Her machinations are intricate and malevolent, creating a sense of dread that fills the story. The ultimate showdown with the Queen is a thrilling crescendo of action and horror, keeping readers on the edge of their seats and racing through the pages.

What truly sets Winter apart is its ability to build on the established lore while deepening character development. Ghini Freeman's transformation from a grieving mother to a fierce protector is both compelling and inspiring. Her journey, along with the growing dynamics of the ragtag group of survivors, adds emotional depth to the relentless pace of the narrative.

Season of the Monster: Winter is a fantastic read for fans of horror and suspense. With its intense action, complex characters, and an ever-tightening grip of terror, AJ Humphreys proves once again that he knows how to deliver a spine-tingling tale that keeps readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter. If you thought you knew about monsters, this book will show you just how wrong you were.

This was a fun idea and an interesting story, but there was so much repetition and it felt so amateur. Monsters were trash talking, people kept sneering.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this